Arabian Ranches, Arabian Ranches 2 and Arabian Ranches 3: A Local’s Guide to Life in the Ranches
There’s something about the Ranches that just makes you slow down a little. Maybe it’s the way the streets curve gently past the parks and villas, or the fact that you can actually hear birds in the morning. Either way, this is one of those rare parts of Dubai where things feel calm. Well connected, yes, but still calm.
Let’s start with the original Arabian Ranches. This is the most established part of the three, and you can feel it. Mature trees, wide walking paths, and homes that have had time to settle in. People know their neighbours here. Communities like Al Reem, Saheel, Savannah, Mirador, and Hattan are some of the most loved, especially if you’re after larger gardens or a golf course view. There’s even a bit of architectural variety throughout, which is a nice touch.
And speaking of the golf course, Arabian Ranches is home to the Arabian Ranches Golf Club, which has its own charm. It’s a relaxed, desert-style course, not too fussy, and the Ranches Restaurant attached to it has become a bit of a weekend institution. Whether you play or not, the terrace is always worth a visit, especially around sunset.
Right next door, you’ve got Arabian Ranches 2. It’s newer, neater, and a little more modern in layout. Communities like Casa, Rasha, Yasmin, and Azalea all have their own feel, but they’re tied together by a central spine that leads you to The Ranches Souk. That’s the main retail hub here, and it’s surprisingly complete. There’s a Carrefour, cafes like Paul and Caribou Coffee, a Carluccio’s if you want a sit-down meal, and practical spots like a pharmacy, pet store, and even a Virgin Active gym. The whole setup feels walkable and easy.
Then you’ve got Arabian Ranches 3, the youngest sibling in the family. Still growing, still adding new pieces, but already showing lots of promise. The layout here is a bit more urban. Think wide boulevards, clusters of townhouses, and a strong focus on community parks and shared spaces. Communities like Joy, Ruba, Spring, and Sun are among the first to be handed over, and more are coming soon. It’s a great option for younger families or first-time buyers looking for that villa lifestyle without going too far out.
Now, let’s talk about the practical stuff. Schools are a big reason families move here, and you’ve got some solid options. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) is in Arabian Ranches 1 and is consistently ranked among the best in the city. There’s also Ranches Primary School, Blossom Nursery, and Smart Start Kindergarten nearby. If you live in Ranches 2 or 3, the drive is short, and morning traffic is manageable, especially with the new Hessa Street extension and improvements along Emirates Road and Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street.
Medical care is easy too. Aster Clinic and Mediclinic Arabian Ranches take care of day-to-day needs, and for more serious matters you’ve got Mediclinic Parkview Hospital just ten minutes away. Pharmacies are scattered throughout all three communities.
If you’re into fitness or wellness, you’ll find it here. There are gyms, yoga studios, and cycling tracks that loop through the neighbourhood. Plenty of people run early mornings through Alvorada’s tree-lined paths or bring the dogs out for a stroll near Rasha’s big park. No official dog parks yet, but you’ll see plenty of happy pups out and about.
Public transport is limited, so having a car is pretty essential. That said, the new road links are making commutes to Downtown, Business Bay, and Dubai Marina faster than ever. You can reach Mall of the Emirates in about 20 minutes if traffic is kind.
Speaking of malls, The Ranches Souk is the local go-to, but you’re also close to Cityland Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, and Mall of the Emirates for bigger shopping days. In Ranches 3, you’ll start to see more commercial options come up as the area matures — but for now, everything you need is just a few minutes away by car.
Restaurants? Try Carluccio’s for a relaxed Italian bite, or Chez Sushi if you’re feeling like something light. Maison Mathis at the golf club is a crowd favourite for brunches and catch-ups, and Louise Restaurant just opened near Ranches 3 with a lovely terrace. There’s also Le Marche café tucked inside Ranches 2 — a bit of a hidden gem if you ask around.
Image from https://carlucciosme.com/
If you're someone who likes being surrounded by greenery, prefers a more grounded pace of life, and still wants to be close enough to the city when needed, then one of the Ranches will probably feel just right.
Each phase has its own energy. Ranches 1 is more established and peaceful. Ranches 2 feels polished and organised. Ranches 3 is vibrant and on the rise. And in every version, you’ll find parks, paths, barbecues, fountains, tennis courts, and a lot of very friendly neighbours.