The Sustainable City Dubai: A Complete Guide

The Sustainable City Dubai: A Complete Guide

Published Date

Published Date

December 19, 2024

December 19, 2024

Last Updated

Last Updated

August 15, 2025

August 15, 2025

The Sustainable City Dubai: A Complete Guide
The Sustainable City Dubai: A Complete Guide
The Sustainable City Dubai: A Complete Guide

The Sustainable City in Dubai is a compelling case study in modern urbanism. It's a living example of how environmental integrity and contemporary life coexist.

It’s not some far-off idea pulled from an architect’s sketchbook. It’s a real, lived-in place. A community built from scratch to produce its own energy, reuse water, and keep waste to a minimum.

At the centre of it all is the Sustainable City Park, a green corridor that offers more than shade and scenery. It anchors daily life around nature, shared space, and environmental responsibility.

As the first net-zero energy development in the Middle East, it's a symbol of how sustainability and comfort can coexist.

Overview

Overview of The Sustainable City: Development Details and Features

Feature

Details

Developer

Diamond Developers, in collaboration with Dubai Holding

Year Construction

2013

First Residents Moved In

2015

Year Completed

2017

Total Area

46 hectares (approximately 113 acres)

Location

Al Qudra Road, Dubailand, Dubai

Nearby Communities

Arabian Ranches II, Mudon, Damac Hills

Population

Approximately 3,000 residents

Housing

500 villas, 89 apartments

Commercial Areas

Five commercial clusters (The Sustainable Plaza)

The Sustainable City began as a collaboration between Diamond Developers and Dubai Holding. The partnership was driven by one idea: city-living that blends with the environment.

From the start, the focus was clear. The Sustainable City in Dubai would prioritize renewable energy and comfortable living that's light on the land.

This vision took shape in 2013. When 2015 came, residents started moving in, and the city was eventually finished back in 2017. Today, around 3,000 residents live across the project's 500 villas and 89 apartments.

The master plan of The Sustainable City Dubai shows residential clusters, a central park, biodomes, an equestrian centre, and commercial plazas interconnected by shaded walkways and solar-powered transport routes.

Located on Al Qudra Road in Dubailand and near Arabian Ranches II, Mudon, and Damac Hills, the 46-hectare layout is practical, scalable, and replicable.

Notably, it’s been named the GCC’s “happiest community,” reflecting that more than design, it's about lived experience. At its heart is the Sustainable City Park: a gathering space, ecological statement, and symbol of the city’s mission to reconnect people, place, and planet.

Location and Accessibility

The Sustainable City benefits from excellent connectivity to key Dubai landmarks, offering both tranquility and convenience. It is approximately 25 to 30 minutes from Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai International Airport, and Dubai Marina.

Additionally, The Sustainable City in Dubai is 10 to 15 minutes away from Dubai Motor City, Dubai Miracle Garden, and Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. 

It’s also close to the Arabian Ranches and the communities of Mudon, Layan, and Al Waha. The place is highly accessible, offering easy access to roads like the Al Qudra Road.

Facilities and Amenities of The Sustainable City

Gallery

Get a glimpse of what facilities and amenities The Sustainable City can offer.

In the Sustainable City, everyone, from locals to tourists, has access to all the contemporary comforts they may want. Eco-friendliness and functionality coexist in perfect harmony in every part of the city, from homes to public spaces. 

The amenities include:

  • Residential areas

  • Veterinary clinic

  • Educational and community facilities

  • The Sustainable Plaza

  • Fitness and wellness facilities

  • Clinics and Hospitals

  • Biodomes and community gardens

  • Equestria Centre

  • The Sustainable City Mosque

  • Transportation infrastructure

  • Supermarkets

  • Retail Choices

  • The Sustainable City Park

Residential Areas

Residential Areas

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

The Sustainable City Dubai is located within the freehold zone, about 18 miles from Central Dubai. The community itself spans 113 acres and is strategically divided into five residential clusters.

All these are connected by the Central Green Spine, the heart of the community. It features 11 biodomes for urban farming and areas where families can spend time with each other and their pets.

The Sustainable City offers a diverse range of eco-friendly housing options to suit various lifestyles, including:

  • Villas: Spacious, energy-efficient homes with solar panels, rooftop terraces, and private gardens.

  • Townhouses: Modern multi-level homes designed for family living, featuring smart home technologies and sustainable materials.

  • Apartments: Contemporary living spaces with open layouts, energy-saving features, and access to community amenities.

Residents and visitors also benefit from nearby recreational facilities, including The Sustainable City Parks. Visitors of the holiday homes often end up becoming long-term residents, drawn by the balance of comfort and sustainability.

The Sustainable City Dubai offers a variety of rental options, with villas being the more popular choice. They typically have 3 to 4-bedroom villas that span 3,400 and 5,600 sq ft, respectively. Rental prices often start at AED 270,000 per annum.

Potential buyers will also find well-designed homes outfitted for long-term residence. This includes layouts with 3 to 5 bedrooms, depending on your choice.

These are fully equipped with kitchens, private gardens, swimming pools, and plenty of areas for natural light. Prices for homes within The Sustainable City in Dubai start at AED 3.8 million.

Veterinary Clinic

Within The Sustainable City Dubai community, we have partnered with Star Veterinary Clinic. Our partner reflects the same values we do, as well as those of the community. This clinic offers:

  • Routine care to advanced treatments specialized for your pets

  • State-of-the-art medical technology for accurate diagnosis

  • A team of veterinarians delivering care with expertise and compassion

  • Easy access for pet owners within the community

Pets here enjoy more than excellent medical care. The Sustainable City Park features dedicated dog-friendly zones where your best friends can hang out with you. 

Educational and Community Facilities

Educational and Community Facilities

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

Education lies at the heart of The Sustainable City’s vision. Within this community, diverse institutions work together to bring that vision to life. 

The Sustainable City hosts a range of institutions focused on education and inclusion:

  • Fairgreen International School: a net-zero energy campus with hands-on sustainability learning

  • Sanad Village: provides therapy and support for individuals with autism

  • SEE Institute: a research hub driving clean energy innovation

But education here doesn’t stop inside buildings. The Sustainable City Park hosts workshops, talks, and events that inspire residents to embrace greener lifestyles. These gatherings nurture a genuine sense of community and shared responsibility for the environment. 

Through these efforts, the city instills its values early. They teach children about renewable energy, water conservation, and everyday eco-friendly habits in ways that truly resonate.

The Sustainable Plaza

The Sustainable City in Dubai also has dedicated spaces for social gatherings and commercial uses. This lively area has stores, cafés, and restaurants that align with the city’s eco-friendly principles.

What makes "The Sustainable Plaza" stand out is its little details. Shading comforts visitors, while seating areas have plants to give them a lush green design. The plaza also has fruit trees, which the community regularly takes care of.

The plaza also uses cooling towers to help provide a more comfortable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. A sunken square centers the entire plaza with a beautiful water feature.

Fitness and Wellness Facilities

Fitness and Wellness Facilities

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

The Sustainable City encourages people to live healthy lives through its nature-focused layout. All the swimming pools, gyms, and sports facilities are open to all residents. Plus, they’re powered by clean energy. 

Just a few walks in and you’ll be able to play a few rounds of basketball with your friends. 

Residents also use Sustainable City Park’s walking trails and open spaces for yoga, jogging, biking, and group exercise. Outdoor yoga and workout areas are set in green spaces for a peaceful workplace.

Clinics and Hospitals

When it comes to healthcare, the essentials are thoughtfully covered. Inside The Sustainable Plaza, residents can find the Miami Autism Rehabilitation Center and The Chiron Clinic.

They bring a more complete, integrative approach to care. For emergencies, institutions such as the Aster Medical Center and Aster Clinic are close by. For some broader medical needs, residents can also visit hospitals outside the community, such as Emirates Hospital and Medcare.

Biodomes and Community Gardens

The Sustainable City has 11 biodomes, each filled with fresh, organic produce grown right in the neighborhood. This means residents can enjoy a farm-to-table lifestyle without leaving home. 

Residents are also welcome to join in community gardening programs, boosting cooperation.

At the heart of it all is The Sustainable City Park, a long, green stretch that ties everything together. The park holds the biodomes, but it also works as a shared backyard for friends, families, pets, and a quieter kind of togetherness.

Equestrian Centre

Equestrian Centre

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

To level up the experience, The Sustainable City also has its own center for equestrians. The Sustainable City Equestrian Club is the place to learn everything about horse riding and care. Set upon a massive plot of land, the Equestrian Centre has a range of facilities.

The center houses four riding schools, a cozy viewing area, and a 4 km hacking tract. They have around 45 horses, each with its own unique abilities. 

The Sustainable City Mosque

The mosque in The Sustainable City is a quiet statement of how tradition and sustainability can meet. Built to welcome up to 700 worshippers, the space is designed with care and efficiency. 

It uses advanced insulation, LED lighting, and cooling systems, significantly reducing energy and water consumption. The result is a structure that respects spiritual and environmental values without compromise.

Transportation Infrastructure

Transportation Infrastructure

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

Transportation in The Sustainable City sports one of the most innovative features of the area. Electric buggies are available for residents to move around the community. If you want to take a walk, you can do so with shaded areas to keep you cool.

Cycling feels like second nature here. The tracks are wide, shaded in places, and they weave through all parts of the city like school runs, grocery trips, or just a quick ride to the park. If you drive an electric vehicle, you’ll spot charging stations scattered throughout. 

Public Transportation and Parking

Now, how about public transportation? Well, The Sustainable City in Dubai offers direct access to several bus lines. Right from the main stop, residents can stay connected to Dubai’s key areas and locations. 

Metro users can reach the nearest station, which is situated along the Red Line. It can also be reached in roughly 15 to 20 minutes by car. This ensures that commuting into the city for work or leisure remains a viable and relatively quick option.

Each villa includes two private parking bays shaded by solar panels. This acts as a shade as well as a way to help power the city. Additional communal parking areas are available near the solar carports. These are typically less than 85 meters from any home.

Supermarkets

For residents of The Sustainable City, everyday essentials are easily within reach. A Zoom Supermarket is located inside the community, offering a convenient spot for groceries and household items.

Those looking for more variety will find additional options nearby. Arabian Ranches Souk features a Carrefour Market, while Geant Express operates in the neighbouring Mudon community. Other accessible supermarkets include Choithrams and another Geant Express in Layan.

True to its environmental values, the city also encourages residents to grow their own produce. Urban farming plots and community gardens make it easy to harvest vegetables. Plus, they’re just a few steps from each home, supporting a healthier and more sustainable way of life.

Retail Choices

Retail therapy in The Sustainable City starts at The Sustainable Plaza, the community’s walkable retail hub. Its mix of shops, cafés, and services provides everyday convenience, all aligned with eco-conscious values.

For a broader shopping experience, residents are:

  • 15 minutes from the nature-inspired Cityland Mall

  • 19 minutes from Dubai Outlet Mall, home to over 1,200 premium brands at discounted rates

  • 25 minutes from both Dubai Marina Mall and Mall of the Emirates, two of the city’s iconic retail destinations

For those who prefer shopping with a cultural twist, Global Village is another nearby option. This seasonal destination hosts hundreds of retail outlets, cinemas, and restaurants in a vibrant, multicultural setting.

The Sustainable City Park

The Sustainable City Park

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

Tucked behind The Sustainable Plaza and not far from the lake, there’s a quiet corner for dogs. This placement helps residents and visitors access a variety of dog-friendly restaurants.

The Sustainable City Park is fenced off, about a thousand square metres in size, and open from 6 AM to 10 PM. At any time, you might find up to two dozen dogs chasing each other through the grass while their owners sit nearby. 

The benches are shaded, the mood is relaxed, and when playtime winds down, the cafés nearby welcome pets too. You’ll often see people heading straight from the dog park to the plaza without skipping a beat.

Awards & Recognitions

The Sustainable City has garnered several prestigious accolades, underscoring its commitment to sustainable urban development and community well-being:

Award

Description

Best Sustainable Residential Development

This recognition was awarded at the International Property Awards 2024 in London. It recognizes The Sustainable City’s excellence in sustainable residential design and development. 

Developer of the Year

Diamond Developers was recognized in the MENA Green Building Awards in 2020 as the best developer of the year. 

Customer Happiness & Customer Experience Initiative

At the Gulf Real Estate Awards 2022, The Sustainable City secured gold awards for customer happiness and experience. 

Green Building of the Year

In 2016, the Emirates Green Building Council recognized The Sustainable City for its outstanding contributions to sustainable construction practices.

Sustainability Practices 

Sustainable Efforts in The Sustainable City

Photo courtesy of thesustainablecity.com

While sustainability is seen in the name, it mostly comes from the city’s core values. Designed as a model for future cities desiring sustainability, the community becomes a pioneer in future living. Here’s how The Sustainable City in Dubai shows its commitment: 

  • Renewable Energy

Solar panels on rooftops, carports, and community buildings generate more electricity than the city consumes, achieving net-zero energy status. Homes have insulated walls to reduce energy use and lower bills.

  • Water Conservation

Advanced greywater recycling treats water from sinks and showers for irrigation use. Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store water, complemented by efficient watering tools that minimise wastage.

  • Waste Management

Waste is carefully segregated for recycling. Organic waste is composted, producing nutrient-rich soil used in the city’s biodomes and gardens, creating a circular, zero-waste system.

  • Sustainable Transportation

Walking and cycling paths are shaded and integrated throughout the community. Electric buggies provide clean transport, while EV charging stations encourage the use of electric vehicles.

  • Green Landscaping and Biodiversity

Native, drought-resistant plants reduce water consumption and provide habitats for local wildlife. Dedicated dog parks and open spaces ensure that pets and residents enjoy nature together.

Final Thoughts

Dubai's Sustainable City community offers a glimpse into the future of urban living, where sustainability, innovation, and comfort are not mutually exclusive.

Residents enjoy reduced energy costs, clean mobility, abundant green space, and a strong sense of community. It's a place where families, individuals, and pets can thrive comfortably and consciously in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Sustainable City in Dubai?

The Sustainable City in Dubai is a fully integrated, eco-friendly residential community designed to produce its own energy, recycle water, and minimise waste. It’s located in Dubailand and developed by Diamond Developers.

What is The Sustainable City in Dubai?

The Sustainable City in Dubai is a fully integrated, eco-friendly residential community designed to produce its own energy, recycle water, and minimise waste. It’s located in Dubailand and developed by Diamond Developers.

What is The Sustainable City in Dubai?

The Sustainable City in Dubai is a fully integrated, eco-friendly residential community designed to produce its own energy, recycle water, and minimise waste. It’s located in Dubailand and developed by Diamond Developers.

Is The Sustainable City Dubai a good place to live?

Yes, The Sustainable City is considered one of the best places to live in Dubai for families and eco-conscious individuals. It offers green living, low utility costs, and modern amenities in a peaceful environment.

Is The Sustainable City Dubai a good place to live?

Yes, The Sustainable City is considered one of the best places to live in Dubai for families and eco-conscious individuals. It offers green living, low utility costs, and modern amenities in a peaceful environment.

Is The Sustainable City Dubai a good place to live?

Yes, The Sustainable City is considered one of the best places to live in Dubai for families and eco-conscious individuals. It offers green living, low utility costs, and modern amenities in a peaceful environment.

How much does it cost to rent in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Rental prices in The Sustainable City start from around AED 270,000 annually for a 3-bedroom villa and AED 300,000 for a 4-bedroom villa.

How much does it cost to rent in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Rental prices in The Sustainable City start from around AED 270,000 annually for a 3-bedroom villa and AED 300,000 for a 4-bedroom villa.

How much does it cost to rent in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Rental prices in The Sustainable City start from around AED 270,000 annually for a 3-bedroom villa and AED 300,000 for a 4-bedroom villa.

Are there schools in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Yes, The Sustainable City has schools like Fairgreen International School and institutions like Sanad Village and the SEE Institute that focus on sustainability and inclusive education.

Are there schools in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Yes, The Sustainable City has schools like Fairgreen International School and institutions like Sanad Village and the SEE Institute that focus on sustainability and inclusive education.

Are there schools in The Sustainable City Dubai?

Yes, The Sustainable City has schools like Fairgreen International School and institutions like Sanad Village and the SEE Institute that focus on sustainability and inclusive education.

What amenities are available in The Sustainable City?

The community features villas, apartments, a central park, an equestrian club, a retail plaza, gyms, pools, mosques, clinics, biodomes, cycling tracks, and electric transport options.

What amenities are available in The Sustainable City?

The community features villas, apartments, a central park, an equestrian club, a retail plaza, gyms, pools, mosques, clinics, biodomes, cycling tracks, and electric transport options.

What amenities are available in The Sustainable City?

The community features villas, apartments, a central park, an equestrian club, a retail plaza, gyms, pools, mosques, clinics, biodomes, cycling tracks, and electric transport options.

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