Find accommodation in Dubai

Budget, neighborhood, renting or buying: the main factors to consider when looking for suitable accommodation for your move to the United Arab Emirates.

Are you moving to the United Arab Emirates in the coming months to develop your professional activity? Choosing a home is one of the main things to plan for.

In Dubai, costs can vary greatly depending on the location, the size of the property, and the amenities. It is therefore important to define your budget, identify neighborhoods that suit your lifestyle, and consider nearby schools, shops, and leisure facilities.

You can start your search on platforms such as Dubizzle or Bayut and rely on real estate professionals to better understand the local market.

The characteristics of Dubai's real estate market

A highly diverse range of products

Rent or purchase, apartment or villa: the selection is broad and the possibilities are numerous, depending on your budget and lifestyle.

Highly variable prices

Prices remain high in many neighborhoods, but depend heavily on the type of property, its location, and its amenities.

A more stable market

Dubai’s real estate market has changed considerably. Until 2008, prices were particularly high before experiencing a sharp decline. The market then went through several phases of fluctuation and stabilization.

New residential communities

Dubai continues to develop new residential areas offering luxury apartments as well as villas and more affordable housing.

Rental or purchase?

Buy in Dubai

If you are considering staying in the UAE for several years and have a comfortable budget, buying may be an option worth considering.

A real estate investment may also provide access to certain residence visas, depending on the property's total value.

Rent in Dubai

Renting may seem more economical than buying, but rent is not paid monthly: it is settled using several cheques. You therefore need to have a substantial amount of money available to rent a property in Dubai.

Costs vary considerably depending on the neighborhood. For example, a studio in the city center may rent for around €2,000 per month, while a villa in Palm Jumeirah can cost around €8,000 per month.

Which neighborhood should you choose for your accommodation?

Areas particularly popular with expatriates include Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Emirates Living, Downtown, and Arabian Ranches.

However, not all areas of Dubai allow foreigners to purchase property: this is notably the case in Umm Suqeim.

Your budget

Some neighborhoods are significantly more expensive than others. Therefore, budget remains the primary selection criterion.

Your environment

City center, close to the desert or the sea: the choice depends on your lifestyle and priorities.

The children’s schooling

If you have children, the proximity of an international or French school can strongly influence your choice of neighborhood.

Get support

To choose the right neighborhood and property, it is recommended to seek the guidance of a professional.

Merritt works with a real estate agency in Dubai and can connect clients with them according to their needs.