International City
Budget apartments in country themed clusters.
Living in International City
International City is a large Nakheel community on the eastern side of Dubai, off the Dubai Al Ain Road and Emirates Road. Its low rise buildings are arranged in clusters styled after different countries, including China, England, France, Italy, Greece, Morocco, Persia, Russia and Spain.
It is one of the most affordable places to live in Dubai, popular with single professionals, small families and people starting out in the city. Dragon Mart, one of the largest trading malls in the region, sits on the edge of the community, and newer phases have added more modern buildings and green spaces.
Each cluster has its own shops and supermarkets.
Property types
Mostly studios and one bedroom apartments, with some two bedroom units in the newer phases.
Best for
Renters on a tight budget, and investors chasing high yields at a low entry price.
Prices and rents in 2026
Typical ranges for 2026, based on Dubai Land Department transactions and listing reports. Newer phases sell and rent for more than the original clusters.
Studio
Around AED 300,000 to 450,000 to buy
AED 30,000 to 40,000 a year to rent
One bedroom
Around AED 500,000 to 700,000 to buy
AED 42,000 to 55,000 a year to rent
Two bedrooms
Around AED 750,000 to 1 million to buy
AED 60,000 to 75,000 a year to rent
For investors
International City has some of the highest gross yields in Dubai, often 8% to 9%, thanks to very low entry prices and constant demand from budget renters.
Net returns are lower once you account for maintenance and vacancy, and resale growth has been slower than in prime areas. The new Blue Line metro, now being built with stations planned in the community, could improve access when it opens. We help you pick a cluster and building with good management.
For families
Some families live here for the low rents, mostly in the newer phases with larger units. Schools are mainly outside the community in Mirdif, Al Warqa and Dubai Silicon Oasis. There are parks and play areas in parts of the community.
Getting around
International City has quick access to the Dubai Al Ain Road and Emirates Road. Dubai International Airport is about 15 minutes away, Downtown Dubai about 20 minutes and Dubai Marina about 35 to 40 minutes. Buses run to the nearest metro stations today, and the Blue Line under construction is planned to stop here.
Nearby
Dragon Mart and its many shops and restaurants are on the doorstep, along with supermarkets and clinics in each cluster. Dubai Silicon Oasis, Mirdif and Al Warqa are nearby. Dubai Silicon Oasis offers newer apartments a few minutes away.
What people like
- Some of the lowest rents in Dubai
- High gross yields
- Dragon Mart next door
- Close to the airport
What to watch
- Older buildings in the first phases
- Busy streets and parking pressure
- Slower price growth than prime areas
- Far from the beach
Common questions
How much is rent in International City?
In 2026 a studio is around AED 30,000 to 40,000 a year, and a one bedroom around AED 42,000 to 55,000.
Is International City a good investment?
It has high gross yields of around 8% to 9%. Net returns and price growth are lower, so choose the building carefully.
Will there be a metro in International City?
Yes. The Blue Line now under construction is planned to have stations in the community.
Who developed International City?
International City was developed by Nakheel.
Can foreigners buy in International City?
Yes. International City is a freehold area open to buyers of any nationality.
Similar communities
This guide gives general information, last reviewed in October 2026. Prices, availability and project details change, so ask an advisor for current figures before making a decision. Photo by Bin Al Stroker on Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY 3.0.