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Mirdif: A serene desert to a buzzing suburb

Mirdif, is a unique area in the emirate, where residents and tourists can find everything they need in one place.

Taking winter walks and making memories with close friends and family are enough to make a place memorable. And, when you get all you need in  one place, it ensures a good living. That makes Mirdif a unique place in Dubai.
Located 20 minutes away from Sharjah and adjacent to Dubai International Airport, Mirdif has been considered convenient for residents and visitors alike, given its shopping, education and entertainment facilities that cater to varied interests. The residents enjoy comfortable apartments and villas that are quite affordable, and the buzzing urban area is now a popular destination for the local and expat population.
Youngsters and sports enthusiasts are often seen at Uptown Mirdif that has its own gym, pet stores, Spinneys supermarkets, food court and an array of shops and cafés that offer a variety of healthy options. Several nearby schools remove the transport burden for many students residing in the area. A main attraction for families and youngsters is City Centre Mirdif, known for its theatres, variety of stores, indoor sky-diving and food outlets.
Spring and winter seasons see families and sports enthusiasts visiting Mushrif Park that is highly accessible from almost anywhere in the community. Bordering Al Warqa'a from the South, Mirdif has also been a great spot for those looking for a barbecue night out in the nearby desert.
Witnessing the area in continuous growth with new real estate projects that keep springing up, residents recall the past serenity of the area that's now buzzing nonstop with activities.
Emirati Abdullah Bastaki, 25, lived in Mirdif for 14 years before moving out in 2007. A current regular Mirdif visitor, he said he remembers the desert that once made up most of Mirdif.
"Back then, the place was a little isolated, so the calmness at night had its own charm." Bastaki's favourite part about living in Mirdif was taking a 30-minute walk from his house to Uptown Mirdif on a breezy winter night.
Mirdif resident for the past six years, Sabri Al Otaibi, 24, said being a spot that is close to locations across Dubai makes Mirdif a convenient place to live in. "Mirdif is close to Old and New Dubai. I can easily enjoy the heritage sites in Deira, before visiting Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai," said Al Otaibi, who stays in a compound opposite to Uptown Mirdif. He added that having all the basic needs around the area makes it difficult to consider moving anywhere else.
"I enjoy my late night karak/cafeteria nights with my friends. It gives a homey feeling to find things to do in the area. New restaurants, cafes and areas opened along the years have  made Mirdif livelier," he said.
Amir Al Maaz, 23, said the opening of more cafeterias and restaurants provides more options for youngsters residing or visiting the area. A highlight for him, he noted, is Mushrif Park that brings all the community together. "All the facilities in the park are free and neighbours are friendly. It gives us all a chance to get together," said Al Maaz.
If he ever moved out of Mirdif, he said he will always remember the shisha nights and Shishakana in Uptown Mirdif and Golden Light restaurant that has one of the best "Hassan Matar" sandwiches in Dubai. With all these perks, the decision of moving out can't be further away, noted Al Maaz.  
Must know
1-It includes the coolest shopping mall
Known for its unique shopping experience in Dubai, City Centre Mirdif is known for its 430 stores, entertainment areas, theatres, indoor sky-diving and food outlets, which makes it a favourite among families and visitors alike.
2-Best coffee shops are hot meeting points
Uptown Mirdif is a main spot for youngsters residing in or visiting Mirdif to hang out with friends for shisha nights and dinners. Known for its cozy atmosphere, Uptown Mirdif fits families, sports junkies and shisha smokers looking to have a good time.
3-It's close to the desert
Desert-goers residing in Mirdif can pack their equipment any day, turn on their 4x4s and head to Al Warqa'a desert in the south. Mirdif is also the nearest outing area for people to spend some time resting after a wild desert outing on a winter night.
4-Stress-relieving park that gets community closer
Mirdif is home to Mushrif Park that offers basketball, volleyball and tennis court besides a 300-metre walking track and training equipment. The public park is a great place for sports enthusiasts to catch up on their fitness routine and for children to play outdoors.
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com