If you’re searching for a traditional postal code list for Dubai, you may find the answer surprising: Dubai does not use a conventional postal code system like those in the US or UK.
Instead, the Emirate employs a modern and highly efficient digital addressing system. This guide will clarify how addressing works in Dubai, provide the generic “postal code” used for PO Boxes, and introduce you to the official Makani number system.
What is Dubai’s Postal Code?
For general mail delivery and online forms that require a postal code, you can typically use:
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00000 (five zeros)
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Dubai (as the city)
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United Arab Emirates
However, this is a generic placeholder. The true backbone of Dubai’s addressing is the PO Box system for formal mail and the Makani number for precise location finding.
Understanding Dubai’s Addressing System
Dubai’s system is built on two pillars:
1. PO Boxes (The Standard for Formal Mail)
Almost all businesses and residential buildings in Dubai have a dedicated PO Box. All formal mail, including government correspondence and bank statements, is sent to these boxes located at central post offices.
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Example Address:
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John Smith
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Company Name
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PO Box 12345
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Dubai, UAE
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2. The Makani Number (The Digital Physical Address)
The Makani (“my location” in Arabic) is a unique 10-digit number assigned to every building entrance, villa, and even specific commercial units in Dubai. It is an official GIS-based system managed by the Dubai Municipality, designed for precise location pinning, especially for emergency services and deliveries.
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What it looks like: A 10-digit code (e.g., 12345 67890).
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How to use it: Enter the code into the official Makani app or website, and it will show the exact location on a map. Many delivery and ride-hailing apps (like Careem) are also integrated with the Makani system.
How to Find a Specific Address in Dubai
Since there are no traditional postal codes, use this practical approach:
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For Sending Mail: Always use the recipient’s PO Box number. This is the most reliable method.
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For Deliveries or Visits: Request the Makani number or use well-known landmarks.
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Example: “The villa behind the Mall of the Emirates, Makani: 12345 67890.”
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Landmark-based addressing is still very common (e.g., “Villa 15, Street 12a, Al Barsha 1, near Mall of the Emirates”).
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What postal code should I use for Dubai in online forms?
If a form forces you to enter a postal code, the most widely accepted generic code is 00000. You can also try DXB (the airport code), but 00000 has the highest success rate.
2. Is there a list of postal codes for different areas like Dubai Marina or Jumeirah?
No. Areas like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, and Downtown Dubai do not have their own unique postal codes. The entire city uses the generic code 00000 alongside the PO Box and Makani systems.
3. How can I find my Makani number?
You can find it by:
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Downloading the official Makani.app from your phone’s store.
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Visiting the Makani website.
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Checking the physical plaque, which is often installed on the outside of buildings.
4. Is the Makani number the same as a postal code?
No. A Makani number is a geo-coordinate identifier, not a mailing code. It is used for mapping and navigation, not for sorting mail. For mail, you must use the PO Box.
5. What about other emirates like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah?
Like Dubai, other emirates in the UAE also rely heavily on the PO Box system and do not use a nationwide postal code system.
Conclusion
In summary, while you won’t find a traditional Dubai postal code list, the Emirate’s addressing is highly efficient through its dual-system approach. Remember these key takeaways:
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For mailing addresses, always use the recipient’s PO Box.
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For online forms, use the generic postal code 00000.
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For precise location finding (deliveries, visits, emergencies), use the unique 10-digit Makani number.
This system ensures that despite the absence of conventional postal codes, mail and services in Dubai are delivered with remarkable accuracy and speed.