What Is Dubai Marina Also Known As?

One of the most common alternative names for Dubai Marina is New Dubai. This term refers to the modern, high-rise, master-planned part of the city that developed after Old Dubai (areas like Deira and Bur Dubai). Dubai Marina became one of the first large-scale waterfront communities that represented the city’s futuristic growth in the 2000s. When people say “New Dubai,” they usually mean:

• Dubai Marina
• JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
• JLT (Jumeirah Lake Towers)
• Palm Jumeirah

Note: But Dubai Marina is often considered the heart of that transformation.

Dubai Marina is famous for being one of the largest man-made marina communities in the world. Developed by Emaar Properties, it was designed as a waterfront lifestyle destination. What makes it stand out?

• Over 200 residential towers
• Direct marina views
• Luxury yachts lining the water
• High-end restaurants and cafes
• Walking promenades

The skyline here feels very different from traditional Dubai neighborhoods. It’s vertical, energetic and cosmopolitan. Because of this, some people casually refer to it as:

• The Manhattan of Dubai
• Dubai’s Skyscraper District
• Waterfront Downtown

Note: These aren’t official names, but they reflect how people describe the area.

Another reason Dubai Marina has earned a strong identity is Dubai Marina Walk. This 7-kilometer promenade runs along the water and is filled with:

• Restaurants
• Coffee shops
• Boutiques
• Fitness studios

In the evenings, the entire stretch comes alive. Residents walk their dogs, tourists take yacht tours and cafes stay busy until late. Because of this vibrant atmosphere, some visitors describe Dubai Marina as:

• Dubai’s lifestyle capital
• The city’s most happening waterfront district

This is a common confusion. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is located right next to Dubai Marina. Many people mix the two because they are connected. However:

• Dubai Marina is built around the marina water canal.
• JBR is directly on the beach.

Remember: While they are separate communities, they function almost like one large entertainment zone.

The name “Marina” comes from the idea of a harbor or dock for yachts and boats. True to its name, the entire area was built around an artificial canal carved along a two-mile stretch of the Gulf shoreline. Construction began in the early 2000s and by the 2010s, Dubai Marina had become one of the most in-demand residential districts in the city. Today, it houses over 100,000 residents from different nationalities. It remains one of Dubai’s most searched locations for rental apartments, especially among young professionals and expats.

As of recent market trends:

• Dubai Marina continues to show strong rental demand.
• Studio apartments remain popular among single professionals.
• Luxury penthouses attract international investors.
• Short-term rentals perform well due to tourism.

Because of its metro connectivity, proximity to business hubs like Media City and Internet City and walking access to beaches, the area continues to stay relevant. In simple terms, Dubai Marina is not just a tourist hotspot, it’s a fully functional residential and investment destination.

To summarize clearly: Dubai Marina is commonly known as:

• New Dubai
• Dubai’s Skyscraper District
• The Manhattan of Dubai (informally)
• A premier waterfront lifestyle community

Note: Each name reflects a different side of its identity,  modern development, vertical skyline, waterfront luxury and global appeal.

Dubai Marina is more than just a neighborhood. It represents Dubai’s modern growth story. When people call it “New Dubai,” they’re talking about ambition, skyscrapers, waterfront living and global lifestyle all in one place. Whether you’re visiting for a yacht cruise, renting an apartment, or exploring investment options, Dubai Marina carries a brand identity that few other areas in the city can match. And that’s exactly why people keep searching: What is Dubai Marina also known as? Now you know, it’s not just a name. It’s a symbol of modern Dubai.