The Pros and Cons of Living in Dubai Silicon Oasis

Dubai Silicon Oasis, also known as DSO, was conceived to be a global hub for businesses, technology, knowledge, and innovation. This area, dubbed “a 15-minute city”, spans over seven sq. km and hosts 90,000+ residents and entrepreneurs. It is the number one global zone for SMEs and R&D as ranked by the Financial Times. As its name suggests, this city is a haven for businesses of all types, namely start-ups, scale-ups, small and medium enterprises, and multinationals.

This community, where the business and the residential aspects coexist beautifully, is popular among expats and nationals who work in technological fields. It provides all the elements of success they might be looking for. However, as is the case for all areas, there are some downfalls to consider. So if you are envisioning living in Dubai Silicon Oasis, we’ve gathered all the pros and cons of the area in one article to help you make the decision.

Advantages of Living in Dubai Silicon Oasis

There are many advantages to living in Dubai Silicon Oasis, a strategically located community. This modern and high-tech city promises a futuristic lifestyle that caters to the needs of the tech-savvy. Housing options are varied and suitable for all, with nearby amenities.

Technological Hub

Dubai Silicon Oasis is home to some of the world’s top tech companies. These include HP, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, Siemens, SAP, Dell, Cisco, Intel, Qualcomm, Broadcom, Nvidia, ARM, and others.

Aside from these household names, many start-ups and scale-ups set up shop in Dubai Silicon Oasis to benefit from its mentorship programs, network-building opportunities, accelerators, and incubators. Additionally, DSO is a free-trade zone, so businesses enjoy tax exemptions and 100% ownership. Consequently, many companies look for offices for rent in DSO. The infrastructure within Dubai Silicon Oasis has also been designed to meet the fast-paced companies it hosts.

READ MORE: Top 10 MNC Companies in Dubai

Affordable Housing

This criterion might be one of the more attractive aspects of Dubai Silicon Oasis living. When it comes to housing, DSO offers many affordable options compared to other areas around Dubai. You can live in a cozy studio alone or with your spouse for an average rent of AED 41,000. Alternatively, you can rent a 3-bedroom apartment with your entire family for an average of AED 115,000. Those who wish to enjoy better privacy can choose a villa in the Summer Villas Community or the Cedre Villas Community.

Silicon Oasis is mainly a leasehold area, so property sale is on a leasehold basis with a lease term of 99 years. Cedre Villas is the only exception; it offers freehold properties if you wish to buy an apartment in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The average cost of a studio apartment for sale in DSO is AED 410,000 while a 1-bedroom apartment costs AED 606,000. 

Proximity to Amenities

One of the perks of living in Dubai Silicon Oasis is the availability of all the amenities you need just around the corner. From supermarkets to beauty salons, medical clinics, restaurants, cafes, schools, universities, and others; you’ll never need to commute far.

For example, Dragon Mart is only 10 to 15 minutes away. As for education, you can choose among GEMS Wellington Academy, The Indian International School, GEMS Modern Academy, Repton School Dubai, and Kings School Nad Al Sheba; all close by. Many higher education institutions exist around DSO, such as Heriot-Watt University Dubai and Manipal University Dubai.

CHECK OUT: 1 Bedroom Apartments for Sale in Dubai Silicon Oasis

Strategic Location

Located between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Dubai Al Ain Road; Dubai Silicon Oasis enjoys great connectivity to the UAE. The development is also close to Dubai International Airport (15 minutes away during off-peak hours) and Dubai Mall (20 minutes away).

Most of the residential sections of the Dubai Silicon Oasis lie on the outskirts of Dubai; which makes it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the calm, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Disadvantages of Living in Dubai Silicon Oasis

Now that we’ve covered the pros of Dubai Silicon Oasis living, let’s dive into the cons. This technological hub comes with its challenges which you should consider before making the move. 

Ongoing construction

Many projects and parts of this community are still under construction including Arabian Gate, Binghatti Stars, and Silicon Park. Those considering making this neighborhood their home should be ready for noise, dust, pollution, and constant construction work. So, in short, if nearby construction work is a nuisance for you, you might want to reconsider living in Dubai Silicon Oasis for now. 

Lack of Public Transportation 

While this community enjoys a great network of roads that ensure you can easily navigate the city; you will need to do so in your car. One of the downfalls of Dubai Silicon Oasis is the lack of Metro within the project. To reach the nearest, which is the Centerpoint Metro station, you’ll need to drive for 20 minutes. This same station can be accessible by bus; however, it will take you 35 minutes. To reach the stations in Business Bay or International City, you’d also need around 35 minutes. This might inconvenience those seeking to rely on public transportation to commute around the city. A Dubai Metro Blue Line is expected to become operational in Silicon Oasis by 2029.  

Traffic congestion

Getting in and out of Dubai Silicon Oasis might prove challenging, especially around peak hours. The highways surrounding its entrances and exits get congested. This will require you to account for this heavy traffic on your daily commute to avoid delays. You might also want to consider this factor when weighing the possibility of making DSO your home in Dubai.

Comparison of Silicon Oasis with Other Communities Nearby

The Silicon Oasis in Dubai is surrounded by major developments such as Dubailand, Meydan South Villas, Nad Al Sheba 4, Liwan, and International City. When compared to these communities, the Silicon Oasis will stand out for its technological edge and its business-friendly facilitations. Other communities might have an edge when it comes to being completed. They are better suited for families looking for a calmer, less noisy environment.

On an affordability scale, housing in the Silicon Oasis is more affordable than neighboring communities. However, just like all other communities in Dubai; the cost of living remains high.

Conclusion

Dubai Silicon Oasis is a haven for businesses; it boasts all the necessary factors businesses of all sizes need to succeed. Housing options are affordable and varied; with great amenities nearby. The future holds great things for this area, as new projects undergo construction. On the negative side, while DSO enjoys a prime location in Dubai, it lacks public transport options and traffic congestion presents a challenge for its inhabitants.

Now that we’ve laid out all the facts for you, you can make a decision knowing what living in Dubai Silicon Oasis is truly like.

FAQs About the Location and Lifestyle of Dubai Silicon Oasis 

1. Is there a metro station near Dubai Silicon Oasis?

The nearest Metro station to Dubai Silicon Oasis is the Centerpoint Metro Station, which is 20 minutes away by car and 35 minutes by bus. There are no Metro stations within the area; however, a Dubai Metro Blue Line is expected to become operational by 2029.

2. Which are the popular buildings to rent apartments in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

The most popular buildings to rent apartments in DSO are Silicon Gates, Axis Residences, Binghatti Point, Binghatti Apartments, and La Vista Residence. 

3. What are some of the best things to do in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

If you are looking for activities in Dubai Silicon Oasis, we propose: 

• Adventure Zone which offers a wide range of fun activities for kids in building B6 

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• Indoor Karting in Building B4 

• Lazer Tag Zone at Building A12

The community boasts its own mall, the Silicon Central Mall. There you can satisfy your love for shopping at more than 50 outlets. You can also watch the most recent blockbusters at their movie theater, or take your kids to play in their park and VR Arcade. These activities are all on the second floor of the mall.

To satisfy your food cravings, you can head to the first floor where a panoply of restaurants offer dishes from many cuisines around the world. From Lebanese food at Asli Beirut, to Italian at Piazza Sabbioni, Asian food at WeAsian Food Hall, and much more. You can also find many coffee shops (Starbucks, illy Caffe, Costa Coffee, Bhukkad Cafe) and ice cream parlors (Häagen Dazs and Softly Ice Cream Shop).

The Dubai Silicon Oasis doesn’t lack restaurants from local flavors to international names; as well as supermarkets and shopping outlets.

4. Is Silicon Oasis a good place to live?

Depending on preference and needs, Silicon Oasis can be a great place to live, especially if you work in the technological field and are looking for a community that fosters your business ambitions. The community offers great residential options with many amenities nearby.

5. What are the benefits of living in Silicon Oasis Dubai?

Many are the benefits that Silicon Oasis Dubai offers its residents. These include:

• A strategic location between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Dubai Al Ain Road

• Top-notch infrastructure including high-speed internet and advanced telecom

• Proximity to restaurants, cafes, schools, universities, and other amenities.

• Varied and affordable housing options

• Family-friendly community

• Governmental facilitations for businesses

• Pet-friendly community

6. What are the amenities in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

Dubai Silicon Oasis does not lack in amenities. Here are lists of supermarkets, schools, hospitals, and nurseries near Dubai Silicon Oasis.

• Supermarkets: Spinneys, an outlet of Choithrams, Spring Green Park Supermarket, Al Maya Supermarket, Carrefour Market, Good Market, Green Belt Supermarket, Plus Point Supermarket, Al Madina Mart, an outlet of West Zone Supermarket, Grandiose, VIVA, and Lulu in Silicon Mall.

• Schools: GEMS Wellington Academy (UK and IB curriculum), Vernus International School (American curriculum), and The Indian International School (Indian curriculum)

• Hospitals and clinics: Red Carpet Clinic, HealthHub Clinic, Medi Family Poly Clinic,  Cosmo Secrets Medical Centre, and Axon Clinics and Pharmacies.

• Nurseries: Emirates British Nursery, British Orchard Nursery, and Orange Seeds Nursery.

ALSO READ: Best Indian Schools in Dubai

7. Is it worth investing in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

Yes, it’s a good idea to invest in Dubai Silicon Oasis. This area has a bright future, and many promising projects are still under construction. By 2029, the community will have a Dubai Metro Blue Line, connecting it to the emirate of Dubai. Businesses will always covet a spot in DSO; so will individuals and families who wish to work there. In terms of ROI, Studios promise the highest return at 9.89%, followed by 1-bedroom apartments at 8.81%. Villas have a lower ROI, ranging between 4.96% and 5.24% based on the number of bedrooms.

ALSO READ: 1 Bedroom Apartments for Rent in Dubai Silicon Oasis

8. What is the cost of living in Silicon Oasis?

Renting a studio in DSO is about AED 41,000 and the cost of utilities is around AED 500 per month. Groceries for a family of four amount to around AED 2,500 per month. If you prefer to eat out at a mid-range restaurant, you’ll need to allocate AED 100 per person.

9. What are the transportation options available in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

Commuting to and from Dubai Silicon Oasis is mainly by car given the lack of public transportation within the development. The area is well-surrounded by a network of roads that links it to the entire city. There are three bus stations within DSO: Dubai Silicon Oasis Bus Station, DSO Operation Center 1, and DSO Oasis North Park 1.  You can reach the community on buses 365, X25, 366.