Dubai neighbourhood guide
Staying in Business Bay
A modern district of towers along the Dubai Water Canal, right beside Downtown — popular for business trips and for visitors who want a central base that's slightly calmer.
- Best for
- Business trips, close to Downtown
- Watch out for
- Fewer beach or resort options
Business Bay is a modern district of offices, hotels and apartments next to Downtown Dubai, set along the Dubai Water Canal. It has grown into a popular alternative base for visitors who want to be central.
What it's like
The area is mostly high-rise and contemporary, with a waterfront walk along the canal and a growing number of restaurants. It is busy on weekdays with business travellers and quieter than Downtown in the evenings.
Who it suits
- Business travellers who need to be close to offices and meetings
- Visitors who want Downtown's sights nearby, often with more choice of hotel
- Longer stays, with plenty of serviced apartments
Drawbacks
Business Bay has no beach, and parts of it are still under development, so some streets can feel quiet or unfinished. It has less character than Old Dubai and less atmosphere than the Marina.
Consider instead
If you want to be in the middle of the sights, choose Downtown Dubai. For a waterfront holiday feel, try Dubai Marina.