Starting a business in Dubai has its fair share of challenges — the most common one is finding an office space. From the location to amenities, your office space should check all the right boxes. To help you with your choice, we have compiled a list of questions you should ask when renting office space in Dubai.
Choosing an office space entirely depends on your business needs, budget and personal preferences. Asking the right questions can save you from wrong decisions and costly mistakes. Scroll down to learn more.
- Questions to Ask Yourself Before Renting an Office Space
- Questions to Ask the Property Owner Before Renting an Office Space
- FAQs
Checklist of Questions to Ask Yourself Before Renting Office Space
Are you looking for office space in Dubai for rent but have no clue where to start? Whether you are just starting or expanding your business, we have made the choice easier. We have prepared a list of questions to ask when renting an office space in Dubai. Here’s what you should ask yourself:
1. What Is Your Rental Budget?
Start by deciding on a rental budget for your office space. Ask yourself how much annual rent you can afford and how much you can spend on maintenance and utility costs. Knowing your budget beforehand avoids future trouble, such as unpaid rent.
The best part about Dubai is that you can find office spaces for varying budgets. If you have a low budget, you can go with a well-furnished office in a decent location. Those with high budgets can consider upscale areas.
Moreover, include the rent increases in your budget to avoid future inconveniences. Use the RERA Rental Increase Calculator to determine potential rent increases.
2. What Is the Best Type of Office Space for Your Business?
Knowing the size and type of commercial space is one of the important questions to ask when renting an office. Consider your current needs and future growth prospects.
If you’re just starting, you won’t need a big space. However, businesses with a full-fledged team need a well-developed space with state-of-the-art amenities.
3. What Is the Right Location for Your Business?
The right location adds value to your business and drives more clients to your location. For instance, your office space should be near public transport networks, main roads, cafes, and banks.
4. What Are the Legal Requirements?
Knowing the legal requirements for renting an office space is also a prerequisite. For instance, getting a trade licence in Dubai is one of the primary requirements for renting office spaces in the city. This helps narrow down the locations where you can set up your business.
Freezone licences allow you to establish your business in Dubai free zones. On the other hand, you need an LLC license to set up your company on the mainland.
Essential Questions to Ask the Property Owner Before Renting an Office Space
Here is the checklist of questions to ask the landlord before signing a commercial lease:
1. What Amenities Do You Get With Office Space?
In addition to office size and location, the availability of amenities like parking spaces and IT support services is equally important. From high-speed internet connection and comfortable furniture to meeting rooms and cutting-edge technology, here are the must-have amenities:
- Meeting rooms
- Video conferencing facilities
- Break areas and playrooms
- Parking spaces
- Cafeteria
2. What Is the Total Cost of an Office Space?
Learn about the total visible and hidden costs of renting an office space. This includes annual rent, utilities, maintenance, parking and security fees. Knowing these costs beforehand helps you plan accordingly and avoid any surprises later on.
3. How Long Is the Lease Duration and What Is the Renewal Policy?
Understanding lease duration, renewal, and exit policies helps you make the right decision. Where long-term leases bring stability, they can also bind you to a specific space. On the contrary, short-term leases without flexible renewals can be an issue for businesses.
4. Are There Any Restrictions on Office Working Hours?
Some commercial buildings have restrictions on working hours, which may not be suitable for businesses that operate 24/7. Asking this beforehand helps you choose the office space that ideally matches your business needs.
5. What Are the Security Protocols in the Building?
When renting an office space, consider security protocols like 24/7 CCTV monitoring, security personnel and smart features. While security features are crucial for a business, it is equally important that they don’t affect working conditions.
6. What Is the Maintenance Policy?
Understanding the maintenance policy is the next important question to ask when renting an office space. Know who is responsible for maintenance tasks between a landlord and a tenant. This saves you from surprise costs in the future.
7. Is Office Space Scalable?
Lastly, consider the scalability of an office space. Determine your projected future growth and the requirement for office space expansion. Then ask the owner if the space is flexible enough for expansion.
FAQs
Some common commercial property types in Dubai include shops, office spaces, buildings, land and showrooms.
Some of the best areas for buying commercial properties in Dubai include Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers and Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Yes, Ejari registration is mandatory for commercial properties in Dubai. While the documents may vary, the registration process is the same.
These were the questions to ask when renting an office space in Dubai. Asking these questions helps you choose the right space. Remember, an office space is more than a business location — it is the foundation for business success, productivity and professional image.
If you have decided to explore office spaces, browse the commercial properties for rent in Dubai.
