Naif

Naif is a locality within the Deira district of Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The main streets that define its boundaries are Naif Street, Omar Bin Al Khattab Road (D88), Al Maktoum Hospital Road, and Al Sabkha Road.

Surrounding areas are:

• Al Murar (to the north).
• Al Muteena (to the east).
• Al Rigga (to the south).
• Al Sabkha (to the west).

The Naif community mainly comprises older mid-rise buildings, including apartment buildings, commercial buildings, and hotels.

According to the 2021 Dubai Population Bulletin, Naif has a population of 53,075. This figure represents 1.53% of the total population of Dubai. It is one of the most densely populated areas of the city.

Transport – Metro Stations, Buses and Bus Stations

Naif is well-served by Dubai’s extensive transportation network.

Baniyas Square Metro Station lies at the southern edge of the district. It is on the Green Line. Trains on the Green Line go to destinations such as Al Qusais, Bur Dubai, and Al Jaddaf.

Union Metro Station is in neighbouring Al Rigga. It is a transfer station on both the Red Line and the Green Line. Red Line trains directly connect to destinations such as Dubai International Airport, City Centre Deira, Bur Dubai, Dubai World Trade Centre, DIFC, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Lakes Towers.

Naif Street is a busy bus route with several bus stops (e.g. Naif Intersection). Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) buses travelling along this road include:

• C01 – This route connects Satwa Bus Station to Dubai International Airport, providing a direct link to one of the busiest airports in the world.
• 10 – Gold Souq Bus Station to Al Quoz. Gold Souq Bus Station is adjacent to Gold Souq Metro Station.
• 13 – Gold Souq Bus Station to Muhaisnah. 
• 27 – Gold Souq Bus Station to Dubai Mall. Stops include Naif, Union Metro Station, Deira City Centre Metro Station, Al Jafiliya Bus Station, and DIFC.

Union and Al Sabkha bus stations are just outside the district but within walking distance, offering additional options for bus travel.

The Dubai Creek is just a few hundred yards south of Naif. Boats depart from Al Sabkha Marine Transport Station, providing a scenic and leisurely way to reach destinations in Bur Dubai.

For those who prefer a more private mode of transportation, taxis are readily available throughout Naif. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem also operate in the area, offering a convenient and often quicker way to get around.

Naif is a compact area, and many places are easily accessible by foot. Cycling is also an option for shorter distances, although it’s essential to be cautious due to the area’s busy traffic.

While public transport is abundant, those who prefer driving should know that parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. 

Shops, Markets, and Shopping Malls

Naif Street (aka Naif Road) is the busiest thoroughfare in the district. It has hundreds of businesses, including grocery stores, clothes stores, electronic shops, currency exchanges, cafes, and restaurants.

Naif Souk is a bustling traditional market managed by Dubai Municipality. It features hundreds of small shops selling textiles, abayas, electronics, cosmetics, and more. Locals frequent the market, but it is also one of the best places to buy souvenirs. Bargaining is necessary for the best prices.

Located just a short distance from Naif, Al Ghurair Centre is one of the oldest shopping malls in Dubai. The mall features over 300 retail outlets, offering various products from fashion and electronics to home goods and cosmetics. Brands range from high-end international names to local favourites.

Al Ghurair Centre is not just about shopping; it offers many dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food, international cuisine, or local Emirati dishes, the mall’s food court and standalone restaurants have something for everyone.

The mall also features a cinema, providing a perfect end to a shopping day. With multiple screens and the latest releases, it’s a popular entertainment option for Naif residents.

Attractions and Things to Do

While Naif is primarily a commercial and residential district, it does offer a few attractions and places to visit.

Naif Park is a small public park located at the district’s northern end. It’s a family-only space, providing a quiet escape from the bustling streets of Naif. The park features basic amenities like benches and a walking path.

Parks in neighbouring areas include Al Muteena Park in Al Muteena.

The Naif Museum, situated within the Naif Police Station, offers an insightful look into the history and development of the Dubai Police Force. It’s a small museum packed with interesting artefacts and information panels.

Al Mamzar Beach Park is just a short drive away. It’s a perfect spot for a day out, offering sandy beaches, picnic areas, and water sports activities.

If you’re a movie buff, the closest cinema is at Al Ghurair Centre. It features the latest releases in a comfortable and modern setting.

Hotels

Hotels and places to stay in and around this area include:

Property and Real Estate

Naif is one of the oldest localities in Dubai, known for its bustling marketplace and commercial activities. It offers a range of affordable rental options, making it a popular choice among single expatriates and those looking for budget-friendly living spaces. The area primarily features studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.

The residential buildings in Naif are mostly mid-rise structures that offer basic amenities. These buildings often have retail spaces on the ground floor, adding to the convenience of residents. 

One of the key attractions of living in Naif is its affordability. Unlike many other localities in Dubai, Naif offers some of the most budget-friendly rental options. The area is particularly appealing to newcomers in the city or those who prefer to allocate their budget to other aspects of life.

While Naif may not offer the luxurious amenities found in more upscale neighbourhoods, it does provide essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies, and eateries within walking distance.

Potential residents should know that Naif can get quite noisy and congested. This is something to consider if you prefer a quieter living environment.

As one of the older areas in Dubai, Naif has seen less modern development than other parts of the city. 

Schools

Naif is not traditionally known as family-centric, primarily due to its bustling commercial activities and high-density living conditions. Much of the community in Naif are single, male, expatriate workers.

As such, the locality itself lacks educational institutions within its boundaries. However, its strategic location and excellent public transport links make it convenient for residents to access a variety of schools in other parts of Dubai.

Healthcare

While Naif itself doesn’t have any hospitals within its boundaries, it is well-served by healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for emergency services, specialised medical care, or routine check-ups, various options are available within a short distance.

The closest major healthcare facility is Dubai Hospital, located in Al Baraha, Deira. This public hospital is operated by the Dubai Health Authority and offers a comprehensive range of medical services. 

Several clinics and pharmacies are scattered throughout Naif and surrounding areas for less urgent medical needs. These clinics often offer general practice services, minor emergency care, and sometimes specialised services like dentistry and optometry.

It’s worth noting that healthcare in Dubai can be expensive without adequate insurance coverage. Most residents opt for a health insurance plan that provides a good balance of coverage and affordability. Many employers also offer health insurance as part of their employment package, which can extend to family members.

Mosques

Naif is home to a sizeable Muslim population, and as such, it features several mosques that serve as centres for religious and spiritual activities. These mosques are not just places of worship but also community centres hosting various events and educational programs.

Popular mosques serving Muslims living in Naif include:

• Nasser Abdulla Hussain Mosque
• Muhammed Bin Madiyyeh Mosque

Map of Naif Dubai

Tourist attractions, transport links, hotels and other places of interest covered in this area guide are shown on the map below. Click on any point for additional information.