It is bordered by Ghim Moh to the north, Kent Ridge to the south and southeast, one-north and Queenstown to the east, Commonwealth and Holland Village to the northeast Clementi to the west and West Coast to the southwest.

The name "Dover" is from the Celtic word meaning "The Waters", alluding to the English Channel.

[citation needed] There are two Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations which are in proximity to Dover.

The former is located next to Singapore Polytechnic, whilst the latter at the intersection of North Buona Vista Road and Commonwealth Avenue.

Alternately, one-north MRT station is within walking distance of the eastern end of Dover, although not being located in it.