Is this Dubai's most happening community?

Jumeirah Lake Towers is turning into a hub of activity, with a wealth of options when it comes to food, fitness or fashion

There's a lot that comes into consideration when one is looking for a new place to move into. And, while factors like price points and schools are usually on top of the list, it's also about the details. Is the neighbourhood family- friendly? Is it also pet-friendly? Does it have restaurants that cater to your dietary needs? Does it make you feel safe? Well, Jumeirah Lake Towers happens to ticks all these boxes and more and more UAE residents are shifting here thanks to what it has to offer.

"I used to live in Dubai Marina, but my wife used to go to a gym in JLT, and she was obsessed with the place," laughs Sherif Zaki, a PR director. "She had been trying to convince me to move for two years before we eventually moved. Now, I really regret not listening to her earlier."

Some of the factors that inspired the shift was the greenery, ease of commuting and variety of restaurants ('we never get tired of trying a new restaurant'). Of course, there's also the abundance of gyms, with Sherif now going to one JLT gym while his wife opts for another. "It's also possibly the best place in Dubai to just go for a run and never get bored," says Sherif.

The couple recently had their first child, and it inspired them to shift to a bigger apartment - within JLT, of course! "We are sure he's going to love it too once he gets old and starts running in those parks," says Sherif

It's this same family-friendly spirit that encouraged Jyoti Karmali, partner, Modista, to have her latest pop-up event within JLT. The Festive Galleria Pop-Up event by Modista took place on September 24, giving all those who stopped by an opportunity to look for home décor or ethnic wear for occasions such as Diwali. "There are a lot of people who have young kids or are working, and cannot spare the time to come to big exhibitions in five-star hotels," she explains. "So, the idea was, if they can't come to us, let's make it more accessible by going to them."

MEET THE RESIDENTS: (From left to right) Jyoti Karmali, Sherif Zaki and Paola Badia
Having worked in JLT for years, Jyoti is undoubtedly familiar with the location, and has seen its evolution. "When I had my office there years ago, it was deserted. But the transformation has indeed been mind-boggling. Today, you can confidently say that the place is self-sufficient."

It's not just families that prefer to love here - pet owners have plenty of incentive to shift here as well. When Paola Badia, who hails from the Dominican Republic, was looking for a place that would be a good fit for her and her dog, JLT was a natural choice for multiple reasons. "There are so many restaurants within the community that allow you to bring your pets, lots of green areas to walk your dog and plenty of pet grooming or pet-sitting services," she says. "It's just so convenient. I think it might be the most dog-friendly community in Dubai."

Having shifted to JLT a few years ago, Paola claims that JLT is now seen as a trendy, buzzing location for hip, young people, couples and families, and caters to all nationalities. So, no plans to shift out anytime soon, right?

"Nope," she says. "I think I'm going to stay here for a while."
janice@khaleejtimes.com