Al Merkadh is a thoughtfully planned neighbourhood nestled within Mohammed bin Rashid City (MBR City), spanning approximately 10 km² just south of Downtown Dubai. Bordering the iconic Crystal Lagoon and District One, it features spacious landscaped streets, water-themed green corridors, and proximity to key attractions like Meydan Racecourse and golf facilities. Designed for tranquillity, Al Merkadh integrates parks, pedestrian paths, and community gardens into its layout. Its location ensures both peaceful surroundings and easy access to major road arteries like Sheikh Zayed Road, making it well-connected without sacrificing the sense of serene retreat.
Key Features of Al Merkadh
- Set within the master-planned MBR City near District One and the Crystal Lagoon
- Covers about 10 km² with expansive green space and low-density zoning
- Community centred around the 7 km man-made Crystal Lagoon and golf greens
- Water features, garden boulevards, and public seating are integrated across the neighbourhood
- Nearby amenities include the District One promenade, Meydan Hotel, and a proposed Sobha Mall
- Swift road access to Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Internal shuttle services and planning for future public transport links
- A combination of open-air recreation, lakeside walking paths, and wellness infrastructure
- Quiet ambience amidst Dubai’s evolving urban framework
- Future expansions include landscaped connectors and neighbourhood leisure hubs
Who Would Enjoy the Al Merkadh Area?
- Families & Long-Term Residents: The presence of parks, pathways, and calm neighbourhood streets supports settled, family-oriented living.
- Wellness & Outdoor Enthusiasts: Access to lagoon walking trails, golf greenery, and water-lined boulevards appeals to those prioritising fresh air and open space.
- Professionals Near Business Centres: Easy connections to Meydan, Downtown, and Dubai Financial District suit commuting routines.
- Golf & Leisure Lovers: Proximity to the Meydan Golf Course and waterfront recreation make it attractive for active lifestyles.
- Serenity Seekers: Quiet streets and abundant green space offer a peaceful alternative within a master-planned city setting.
Detailed Features of Al Merkadh
Nearby Hospitality & Leisure in Al Merkadh
- Meydan Hotel & Racing Club: Iconic venue for events and leisure, situated steps away from Al Merkadh.
- Boutique Retreats: Private guesthouses and serviced apartments scattered along the adjacent boulevard.
Retail & Nearby Facilities in Al Merkadh
- District One Promenade: A pedestrian-friendly stretch offering cafés, restaurants, and retail along the lagoon edge.
- Sobha Mall (planned): Set to feature retail, dining, and community services within MBR City.
- Additional leisure and hospitality venues at Meydan Grandstand and nearby precincts.
Parks & Recreation Spaces in Al Merkadh
- Crystal Lagoon: Designed for soft water sports, strolling, and waterfront relaxation.
- Meydan Golf & Green Areas: Lush fairways, jogging tracks, and landscaped grounds are accessible to residents.
- Multiple secluded garden spaces and tree-lined boulevards for walking and social gatherings.
Things to Do in Al Merkadh
- Attend racing or charity events at Meydan Racecourse.
- Paddleboard, jog, or relax alongside the Crystal Lagoon shoreline.
- Stroll landscaped paths linking neighbourhood clusters.
- Drop into leisure cafés emerging around the District One and Meydan districts.
Accessibility & Transport in Al Merkadh
Metro & Roads in Al Merkadh
- Nearest Metro Stations: Business Bay or Downtown via Sheikh Zayed Road (~5–7 km away).
- Smooth access to major routes like Al Khail Road and Dubai–Al Ain Road.
- Planned an internal shuttle network to improve connectivity within MBR City.
Public Transport & Links in Al Merkadh
- RTA buses and private shuttles link Al Merkadh to metro hubs and surrounding districts.
- Existing pathways make walking or cycling to adjacent neighbourhoods convenient.
Key Landmarks Nearby Al Merkadh
- Crystal Lagoon and District One: bordering proximity
- Meydan Racecourse & Golf: immediately adjacent
- Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall): ~10–15 min away
- Ras Al Khor Sanctuary: ~8 min drive
- Dubai Airport: ~15–20 min by road
Education Near Al Merkadh Area
Nurseries & Schools in Al Merkadh
- Nurseries located in nearby District One and Sobha Hartland.
- Schools such as Hartland International and North London Collegiate are situated approximately 2 km away.
Universities & Training in Al Merkadh
- Higher education hubs such as Dubai Knowledge Park and Academic City are within a short drive.
Healthcare Facilities in Al Merkadh Area
- Nearby clinics and healthcare services are available in District One and Sobha Hartland.
- Major hospitals, including Mediclinic City, Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, and Kings College Hospital, are reachable within 10–15 minutes.
Future Plans for Al Merkadh Area
Al Merkadh is undergoing phased completion with upcoming additions including landscaped corridors, pedestrian bridges linking to District One, and retail spaces along planned neighbourhood pockets. Road improvements along Meydan Boulevard are enhancing traffic flow and access. Future shuttle services are expected to connect Al Merkadh to local metro stations and broader MBR City. Community enhancements include public seating, lighting upgrades, and shaded walkway zones. A compact hub built around the Sobha Mall will serve future retail and community needs. These enhancements aim to deliver a cohesive neighbourhood where green spaces, perched waterfront access, and urban mobility blend smoothly together.
Al Merkadh offers a calm and well-structured lifestyle within the larger context of Mohammed bin Rashid City. With landscaped layouts, waterfront recreation, golf proximity, and connectivity to major city hubs, it appeals to residents who want serene surroundings without giving up access to Dubai’s broader urban fabric.
