Dubai Luxury Apartments: Features, Locations, and More

From a humble desert town to the most dynamic city in the world, Dubai’s property market has been on quite a ride. It all started in 2,000 when the Dubai government allowed foreign ownership of property.

This caused a surge in construction that has made some of the world's most iconic residential and commercial projects.

The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the Burj Khalifa are just a few of the developments that have helped put Dubai on the international stage.

Although the market has seen its highs and lows, the real estate sector has evolved into a more mature and regulated industry.

This degree of transparency has more long-term investors looking to buy, rather than the buy-flip-buy style of speculation we saw at the start.

For apartments in Dubai, "luxury" is more than just high-quality finishes. It means having sweeping views of the sea or skyline, unrivaled amenities, concierge services, and state-of-the-art technology, in desirable locations.

Our guide will tell you everything you need to know about Dubai luxury apartments.

Signature Features of Dubai Luxury Apartments

Architectural Brilliance

Dubai’s luxury apartments have signature features that combine futuristic design with cultural flavour.

You will see buildings that appear to be from a sci-fi film with glass façades, interesting shapes, soaring heights, and glimpses of traditional Arabic pattern. It is a perfect balance of contemporary aspirational development and regional identity.

The inside is all about smart building technologies. This includes voice-activated lighting, climate systems that learn your preferences, and essentially providing secure systems (that provide both high-tech safety and total privacy).

Many of the developers are also focusing on sustainability, including eco-friendly materials, utility and energy-efficient systems, and green certifications for more environmentally-aware buyers.

Premium Interiors and Finishes

Luxury apartments in Dubai feature superior quality finishes that epitomise style, perfection, and personalisation.

We're referring to Italian marble imported for the apartment, custom cabinetry out of wood, designer light fixtures, and hand-crafted furniture. A decision is made on everything and space is planned out to express not only style, but comfort.

Exclusive Amenities

Dubai's luxury apartments will provide you with not only a place to live, but a lifestyle that feels like you are perpetually living in a 5-star hotel.

Go for a swim in the infinity pool that overlooks the skyline or sea, stroll through the peaceful rooftop garden, or invite friends over for a show in the private cinema.

Where things really step up is all the service. The in-house concierge teams perform any task you may need, whether it is getting a dinner reservation made or completing an errand at the last minute.

While some apartments charge a fee for their concierge service, the in-house concierge teams can be another perk or bonus.

You may even get a private chef, valet parking, or a deal in your building. The best thing is that anything you may need is only ever a phone call or an app away.

Security and Privacy

In the luxury apartment market in Dubai, security and privacy are not only an amenity, they are the foundation.

You can expect biometric access points, private lobbies and elevators to apartment units, and 24/7 CCTV monitoring. These are all intended to provide security without compromising comfort.

Many luxury buildings are more like vertical gated communities, with restricted floors, covered entrances, and lobby-only access for residents and their approved guests.

Most Popular Locations for Dubai Luxury Apartments

Downtown Dubai

There is no doubt that Downtown Dubai is the epicenter for luxury living in the city. With front-row seats to views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, it’s a natural choice for anyone who wants to stay right in the action.

Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is the intersection of beachfront luxury and exclusivity. Living in the heart of the palm means that you will wake up to ocean views, walk out on your private beach, and have access to some of Dubai's most exclusive resorts and fine dining.

Many residences within the palm will have their own marina access, making it a popular destination for yacht owners and those who want to feel like they're living in a resort. It is a self-contained luxury island, perfect if you're looking for “Dubai glam”.

Dubai Marina & JBR

Dubai Marina and JBR provide an exciting and glamorous lifestyle that is second to none. It's all about living by the waterfront and being socially involved.

These tall apartments have views over the marina, trendy beach clubs, docks filled with yachts, and a nightlife scene that keeps this area interesting at all times.

You'll also be within close walking distance to cafés, boutiques, and gyms located along the promenade. This will allow you to enjoy a unique mix of luxury and laid-back energy.

Business Bay & DIFC

Business Bay and DIFC are the best locations if you're a professional who wants to take advantage of a luxurious lifestyle located in the business community. With high-­rise apartments, you can be minutes from major corporate centers that surround you.

City living is mainly about location, living close to work, and living stylishly and comfortably. These apartments have fancy interiors, are within walking distance to the best places for dining, art galleries, exclusive lounges, and more!

Up-and-Coming Areas

Newly emerging districts like Dubai Creek Harbour, MBR City and Dubai Hills Estate are leading the way for the next wave of luxury living in the city.

Dubai Creek Harbour is pioneering a future-focused waterfront community, with an impressive 360-degree view of the new Dubai Creek Tower.

MBR City has large green areas with modern villas and sky-high apartments. Then there is Dubai Hills Estate, with a golf community, the best schools, parks, and a giant mall underway.

All of these emerging districts are attracting smart investors and families looking for lifetime value with access to upscale living.

Dubai Luxury Apartments: Lifestyle & Community

Residents and Demographics

The luxury apartment communities in Dubai attract a broad, yet clearly elite range of people. You'll find people from all corners of the globe, including celebrities looking for privacy and glamor, and global entrepreneurs.

People are often drawn here by Dubai’s tax-friendly jurisdictions, world-class amenities, and unlimited social activities. Whether it is networking over a round of golf, or attending a rooftop party that is invite-only, having a luxury apartment in Dubai is simply amazing!

Events and Networking

Life in a luxury apartment in Dubai doesn't stop at your apartment, it means becoming part of a community. This community means easily meeting neighbours at rooftop events, yacht parties, or specific events held by your apartment building.

Many developments hold art shows, cultural events, and speaker events where innovation and creativity are all brought together. It is a lifestyle where some of your neighbours could be your next business partner or your new favourite dinner guest!

Sustainability and Wellness Trends

In Dubai, wellness and sustainability are becoming bigger parts of luxury living. The abundance of luxury residential buildings are gorgeous, but what lies ahead architecturally will really make you think about the future.

Developers are getting very creative with eco-friendly materials, energy-saving systems, and global certifications for sustainability.

The newest wellness zones in Dubai have spa-like amenities, developed air purification systems, meditation rooms, fitness technology, smart gyms, and at-home diagnostics.

This holistic way of living embraces health, mindfulness, and modern luxury as part of a single living experience.

Dubai Luxury Apartments: FAQs

1. Can non-citizens buy luxury apartments in Dubai?

Yes, they can. Dubai has areas designated as freehold that will allow non-citizens to buy, own, and sell property outright. It's one of the reasons Dubai is attracting so many foreign investors.

2. What is the average price of luxury apartments in Dubai?

Prices depend on location, size, and amenities. You should expect to pay anything from AED 2 million to AED 100 million or more for the exclusive units in areas such as Palm Jumeirah or Burj Khalifa.

3. Do luxury apartments in Dubai have good rental yields?

Yes. Dubai is famous for having strong rental returns, especially from high-end locations. You'll usually witness yields from 5% to 8% annually. That is above many of the other luxury places in the world.

4. What amenities generally come with luxury apartment units?

Concierge service, private pools, wellness, valet parking, smart home technology, and world-class security are standard in luxury apartments. Most buildings now have lounges, cinemas, and rooftop terraces.

5. Are there property taxes or income taxes when investing in Dubai?

No. There is no property tax, capital gains, or income tax on rental income. This is another reason why owning luxury real estate is attractive for many people in Dubai.

6. How do I choose the right area to invest in?

It depends on what your objectives are. For lifestyle, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina are fantastic. For business and access, Downtown Dubai and DIFC are your best options. For long-term growth, you would do well in new areas such as Dubai Hills Estate or Creek Harbour.