Mirdif, United Arab Emirates

60,288 residents crammed into a relatively small area - that's the reality of life in Mirdif. The city is dominated by villa developments and single-family homes, with a smattering of schools, mosques, and the massive Mirdif City Centre mall. But don't expect much open space or greenery - Mirdif borders the airport and is adjacent to the busy Rashidiya Metro station, so the constant hum of traffic is inescapable. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the gated Uptown Mirdif development cut off from the rest of the area. Overall, Mirdif is best suited for families seeking a quiet, self-contained community, but the lack of breathing room and endless red tape may wear on some expats over time.