Al Jaddaf is a neighbourhood in the western part of Dubai, located on the banks of Dubai Creek. The name ‘Al Jaddaf’ translates from Arabic as ‘rower’, reflecting the neighbourhood's historical association with shipbuilding. Wooden dhow boats were traditionally built here, and to this day there are still shipyards where traditional boats continue to be serviced. The area has historically played an important role in the Emirate's maritime sector, providing the city with wooden vessels used for fishing, transporting goods and travelling around the Arabian Gulf.
In the 20th century, Al Jaddaf remained a predominantly industrial area. But even then, residential neighbourhoods were beginning to appear here. Over time, the area's role as a shipbuilding centre began to diminish. It began to transform into a residential and cultural centre, while retaining a connection to the city's maritime history.
Located between Dubai Creek and Zabeel, Al Jaddaf is well connected to other areas of the city. The neighbourhood is bordered by Oud Metha, Dubai Healthcare City and Downtown Dubai. The major thoroughfares Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Khail Road pass close by. It is just 10-15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport. The neighbourhood is served by two metro stations, Al Jaddaf and Creek, which are part of the Dubai Metro Green Line. In addition, the traditional abra (wooden boats) plying the Dubai Creek provide a unique form of water transport.
One of the main advantages of Al Jaddaf is its infrastructure. The development of the neighbourhood was carefully managed by Dubai Holding.
There are schools such as Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai, Gems Winchester School and Dubai English Speaking School. Nursery schools such as Chubby Cheeks Nursery Jaddaf Garhoud are available for families with children. The area also provides hospitals and clinics, including Latifa Women and Children Hospital and Clemenceau Medical Centre Hospital.
Shopping can be done at Dubai Festival City Mall. It offers a variety of trendy boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues. Popular dining options include the waterfront restaurants Cielo Sky Lounge and Boardwalk with scenic views of Dubai Creek. Fans of Indian cuisine can visit Soul Sante Café or Bombay Urban Café. Those who prefer European cuisine will enjoy El Greco or Mazaher. Al Jaddaf is also home to the popular Starbucks chain.
There are several popular hotels located at Al Jaddaf area that are favoured by tourists. Palazzo Versace Dubai offers exclusive rooms, restaurants and facilities. Marriott Al Jaddaf offers spacious suites, several restaurants, a fitness centre and a swimming pool with city views. Reflections Hotel offers affordable rooms, Arabian Park Hotel is known for its high level of service
The neighbourhood is known for its sports facilities such as Zabeel Stadium and Al Wasl Football Club. One of the popular sports clubs is Fitness First Al Jaddaf. It has a gym with modern equipment, group classes and personal training. Also in the area is Max Gym, which provides services for personal training programmes and has a crossfit area.
Another important attraction is Dubai Culture Village (Jaddaf Waterfront). This project focuses on the development of culture and arts in Dubai and includes various art galleries, theatres and educational centres. And the Jameel Arts Centre regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events. At Al Jaddaf, you can still visit The Greenhouse art complex. It often hosts masterclasses, lectures and meetings with renowned artists and designers. There are several cafes and boutiques within the complex.
For those interested in the history of shipbuilding, a visit to Al Jaddaf Shipyards is recommended. Here you can see traditional Arabian dhow boats, which continue to be built according to ancient technologies.
The nearby Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the area's main natural attractions. Here you can observe flamingos and other bird species in their natural habitat.
Properties at Al Jaddaf are mostly apartments in high-rise residential complexes. Villas at Al Jaddaf, although rarer, are available for those looking for spacious accommodation.
One notable project is Val by Kasco. This 18-storey building features modern architecture and thoughtful interior design. The developer offers studios and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. The development is equipped with amenities including a swimming pool, gym and recreational area.
Adeba by Azizi Developments is another popular property at Al Jaddaf. It includes studios, apartments with 1-3 bedrooms. The complex features swimming pools, a fitness centre and landscaped communal spaces.
Binghatti Ivory features studios and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. The building features a unique architectural style that emphasises the Binghatti brand aesthetic. The interiors use high quality materials and innovative solutions. The developer has provided its residents with amenities like a swimming pool, gym, 24-hour security and many more.
Binghatti Ghost is another property project at Al Jaddaf by Binghatti Developers. The complex offers spacious apartments with smart layouts. The building provides amenities such as a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, a fitness centre and various recreational facilities.
Ellington Art Bay includes studios and apartments at Al Jaddaf with 1-3 bedrooms. The interiors of the residential units utilise contemporary art and design elements.
The economic attractiveness of property at Al Jaddaf is due to its strategic location, developed infrastructure and high rental demand. Apartments at Al Jaddaf typically offer yields between 5.6% and 6.7% per annum, depending on the specific project and type of property. Average rental rates vary depending on the size and location of the units.
Al Jaddaf seamlessly combines cultural heritage and modern amenities. Developed infrastructure, transport accessibility and a variety of residential properties provide comfort and a high standard of living. The area continues to attract the attention of investors and property buyers in Dubai due to its constant development and new projects.
Al Jaddaf
