What is International City?
International City is a Nakheel community that offers an affordable living experience in a friendly neighbourhood. It welcomes everyone, from new Dubai residents looking for affordable homes, to families wishing for a relaxing change from the usual city living.
Where is International City?
International City is located in the Al Warsan area of Dubai 12 kilometres from Dubai International Airport at the intersection of Al Aweer Road, Academic Road and Emirates Road. With easy access to Sheikh Zayed Highway and Deira, residents can enjoy less time in traffic, and more time with friends.
What sets International City apart?
International City’s uniqueness lies in the different national themes found within the residential district. The idea behind this pre-designed complex which contains commercial, retail and residential units is to offer visitors a chance to enjoy the diversity of cultural and architectural specialties from different parts of the world.
Why was International City conceived?
International City was developed to cater to a range of increasing needs brought on by Dubai's rapid progress. By establishing residential, retail and commercial areas in one development, International City offers Dubai residents a community that provides all the necessities of daily living. Of particular consideration was the need to provide new Dubai residents affordable yet comfortable housing through spacious studio, one and two bedroom apartments.
How long did International City take to complete?
International City was launched in July 2002, with the groundbreaking ceremony held in February 2003. The first building at International City was completed in July 2004; by September that year, the first inhabitants had moved in. International City was completed in 2007.
What makes International City a city?
With a combination of residential areas, commercial outlets and community services and facilities, International City is indeed a city in its own right. Set in an approximately 800-hectare development, International City has a total of 29,101 units, including 23,847 studio, one and two- bedroom apartments, and 5,254 retail shops. The residential area will host commercial shops, restaurants, medical centres, post office, police station, two civil defence units and transportation services in order to provide high standards of living to residents. To complete the city experience, International City will house entertainment facilities and outdoor theatres.
Are there different zones or areas in International City?
International City is divided into five main districts: Residential District, Central District, Dragon Mart Complex, Lake District and The Forbidden City.
What is the Residential District?
Set in 300 hectares of land, the Residential District is designed in distinct architectural styles from various countries around the world. It is made up of nine precincts: China, England, France, Greece, Italy, Morocco, Persia, Russia, Spain and the Emirates. The Residential District is now home to a population of 65,000 people from over 60 countries.
Residential units are comprised of studio, one and two bedroom apartments. Some of the residential blocks will also host a variety of retail outlets at their base for the benefit of the residents. The France Precinct for example, will have 1,534 apartments, 1,780 studio flats and 1,064 retail outlets, while the Greece Precinct will have 780 apartments, 952 studio flats and 441 retail outlets.What is the Central District?
Spread over 21 hectares, this district serves as the nerve center of the project, with state of the art infrastructure and services for commercial activity. The Central District comprises of 34 plots, where investors can develop their own projects in line with International City themes and aesthetics. All 10 storey towers in the Central District will house retail outlets on the ground floor and each tower will have basement parking for 130 vehicles. The key feature of the Central District will be a 30-to 40-floor tower covering 50,000 square metres. This tower will house a shopping mall at its base.
What is Lake District?
Lake District is being developed around Al Warsan Lake. Discovered by birdwatchers in 1998, Al Warsan is now sanctuary to over 185 species of native birds. Set on the banks of Al Warsan Lake, Lake District is a picturesque and thoughtfully planned residential community that will feature 5 building clusters, with every unit guaranteed breathtaking lake views.
What is Dragon Mart Complex?
Spread over an area of 150,000 square metres and is supplemented by 30,000 square metres of warehouses, the Dragon Mart Complex is considered the largest trading hub for Chinese products outside mainland China. It serves as a permanent exhibition and commercial venue for over 3,000 Chinese companies to display and sell their wares that practically include every conceivable retail product for both businesses and ordinary consumers.
What is the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is a 240,000-square metre development that will host a variety of entertainment facilities, in addition to retail and restaurant developments and public squares. More details will be revealed soon.



