Renting a Home: An Expat’s Guide in Dubai

With Dubai becoming a central economic hub, it’s not surprising many expats are moving into the city to settle down. In fact, statistics show that expats and migrant workers make up 92 percent of the city’s population.

The thing is, while some are set into living their days within the confines of this luxury city, not all have plans of staying long. Some even just stay for a year or two in Dubai until their contract expires. Instead of buying their own home, some settle for renting an apartment for the duration of their stay.

The Case of Rentals for Expats in Dubai

Expats moving in Dubai are often allocated a home by their employers, but some prefer to look for their own place to stay. When this happens, they are provided housing allowance by their employers. Expats have the option to stay in:

  • Villas – the most luxurious type of accommodation; often a separate housing unit with a garden
  • Townhomes – duplex or triplex type of homes that may or may not have a garden
  • Apartments – units in one housing complex; often devoid of gardens, but may have their own balcony

Apart from the type of housing unit, location is also a prime factor when it comes to renting. Some areas in Dubai are more expensive than others, especially for areas that are newly developed.

Rental Tips

When you’re renting a housing unit, it’s important that you weigh your options carefully. Here are some tips you need to keep in mind:

  1. Look at home listings. Search for information about potential rental units in online listings. Be sure to check for the rental amount, the security deposit, the available date and time for the unit’s viewing, availability or lack of furnishings, and other conditions that may affect your living experience.
  2. Shortlist a few home rental options. Write down the housing units or apartments that meet your requirement, and contact the property owner to express your interest in renting their place.
  3. View the unit. Make sure you inspect the unit before moving in. Note the minute details and take pictures if needed.
  4. If you’re interested in renting the unit, be ready with your offer. In some cases, the most common way is to have a bargain for the number of cheques, as some property owners are willing to lower the rental costs if you issue fewer cheques. Be sure you have a contract that includes the specifics of your lease.

It’s important to be prepared mentally, emotionally, and financially when renting a home in Dubai. If you follow these steps, you’re less likely to encounter any problem with your rental process.