Al Barari.
Al Barari is an eco-conscious luxury community known for its lush greenery, themed gardens, and palatial villas. Tucked away in Dubailand, it offers an exclusive nature-filled lifestyle rarely found in Dubai's desert environment.
Al Barari (meaning 'wilderness' in Arabic) spans 18 million sqft of lavish landscape and themed gardens. It features just a few hundred villas, making it one of the lowest density communities in Dubai. The villas, such as The Residences (initial phase) and later sub-communities like The Reserve and The Nest, are large (5-7 bedrooms) with private pools and gardens. 80% of the area is dedicated to green space, including botanical gardens, lakes, and streams. Al Barari also offers high-end apartments (Seventh Heaven, Ashjar) which maintain the botanical theme. Amenities include The Farm (a famous organic restaurant and wellness center), a spa, and a community clubhouse with a gym and pool. Living in Al Barari is akin to living in a rainforest oasis – temperatures inside the community can be a bit cooler due to the dense vegetation. It attracts high-net-worth individuals and nature lovers who value privacy and peace. Its location is relatively farther out (near Global Village), but the community is self-contained and secure, with easy highway access to city conveniences when needed.
Investment Overview
Residential Properties
Average PriceAED 1,500 per sq ft
Price RangeAED 8M - 40M
Annual Growth3.8%
Rental Yield4-6%
Commercial Properties
Average PriceLimited commercial options
Price RangeLimited availability
Annual Growth3.0%
Rental YieldN/A
Market Insights
- •Niche luxury market: Al Barari villa prices saw strong growth (15%+) in 2023 as post-pandemic buyers sought larger, greener spaces; demand slightly cooled in 2024 but prices remained high.
- •Average prices are around AED 900-1100 per sqft for villas, depending on age and upgrade; Ranches 1 (older) vs Ranches 2 (newer) show slight price differences.
- •Rental yields ~4-5% reflect the end-user nature (many owner-occupiers); properties here are longer-term holds with stable appreciation rather than quick flips.
Short-Term ROI
3-4%
Annual Return
Long-Term ROI
5-7%
Annual Return
Location & Access
Dubailand, off Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, near Global Village, about 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai (with good traffic).
Al Barari is accessed via the Emirates Road (E311) and is close to the junction with Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66). Driving to key areas: 20-25 minutes to Business Bay/Downtown, 15 minutes to Dubai Hills/Barsha, and 20 minutes to DXB Airport (via Academic City road). No public transport serves inside Al Barari due to its exclusive nature; residents rely on cars or chauffeured services. The community's seclusion is part of its charm, though upcoming nearby developments (like Cityland Mall) will add convenience. The surrounding area is still developing, but main highways provide straightforward routes to city centers.
Transportation
Car required. Al Barari has internal roads connecting each villa cluster, but no buses or metro. It's a 5-min drive to the nearest grocery outside the gate and about 10-min to Academic City or Arabian Ranches for other amenities. Most homes have multiple car garages. Cycling and walking inside the community is encouraged given the scenic trails.
Key Attractions
The Farm Restaurant
An award-winning restaurant set amid Al Barari's greenery, known for its organic menu and tranquil water features; a destination for wellness and gourmet dining.
Botanical Gardens & Lakes
Interconnected themed gardens (over 500 plant species) and flowing waterways throughout Al Barari, making it a living botanical museum and a serene environment for residents.
Heart & Soul Spa
A luxury day spa within Al Barari offering holistic treatments and wellness programs, complementing the community's emphasis on nature and health.
Theme Gardens (e.g., Balinese Garden)
Al Barari contains various distinct gardens (like a Balinese-themed one with tropical plants and structures) accessible to residents, each providing a unique atmosphere and retreat.
Community & Lifestyle
Secluded and nature-centric. Residents of Al Barari lead a tranquil life, waking up to birdsong instead of traffic. Days might include gardening, spa visits, or fitness in the lush environment. Social life often centers around intimate community gatherings or wellness workshops rather than nightlife. It's a retreat from the city, so those who live here typically appreciate solitude and the outdoors. Children have space to play freely in secure environs. In short, it's a sanctuary for the soul in the midst of the desert.
Popular For
- Lush greenery and gardens
- Mega-sized luxury villas
- Privacy and exclusivity
- Wellness and organic lifestyle
Community Features
- Very low-density housing
- 24/7 gated security and privacy
- Community events like farmers markets, yoga in the park
- Strict design guidelines to maintain aesthetics
Investment Tips
Resale can take time given niche buyer pool – staging the home (showcasing gardens and unique features) can help appeal to lifestyle buyers.
Some older Phase 1 villas might be value buys if willing to renovate (modernize interiors) – they offer larger plots than newer ones.
Consider service charges: maintaining extensive landscaping and facilities is costly, reflected in community fees. Ensure to factor these into ownership costs.
Neighborhood Guide
Al Barari is as close to nature as one can live in Dubai. Choose this community if you value greenery and serenity over convenience and city lights. It's a place to disconnect and recharge – a weekend at home here feels like a getaway to a tropical resort. The trade-off is distance, but for its residents, the oasis-like setting is worth every extra minute spent on the road. Al Barari is where you truly go home to nature.