All About the Apartments for Rent in Dubai
Dubai has one of the most thriving job markets in the region, a comfortable lifestyle, and tax-free income, making it a hotspot for expats from all over the world.
As a global city and a major business hub of the Middle East, career opportunities are constantly on the rise, which attracts an influx of new residents all the time.
Not only that, but it’s also a major tourist hub with some of the most impressive attractions in the world, such as lofty shopping malls like the Dubai Mall and the tallest buildings like the Burj Khalifa.
As a result, there’s an increasing demand for rental properties in Dubai, especially for apartments, which are the most popular property type here.
Lifestyle in a Dubai Apartment for Rent
Living in an apartment in Dubai provides a more luxurious lifestyle than in many parts of the world. Most apartment buildings have a gym, swimming pool, 24/7 security, covered parking, kids’ play areas, and on-site maintenance.
Some are even more luxurious, providing sweeping sea views and panoramic vistas from skyscrapers. Moreover, services are generally easy to find, as there are supermarkets, clinics, and schools around most neighborhoods.
Public transportation is accessible with the Dubai Metro, which provides affordable and easy access to key neighborhoods and attractions. Luckily, there are plenty of apartments for rent in Dubai near the Metro.
Types of Flats for Rent in Dubai
There's a wide range of flats for rent in Dubai. Everything from studios to penthouses is available, with the most popular options being studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments. Units can be furnished or unfurnished and rented on a long- or short-term basis, and tenants can opt for affordable or luxury apartments for rent in Dubai.
- Studio apartments: The average size of a studio apartment here is 330 sq ft to 700 sq ft. These are the most affordable types of Dubai apartments for rent and are popular among bachelors.
- 1-bedroom apartments: A 1-bedroom flat in Dubai ranges from 750 sq ft to 1300 sq ft on average. These units are versatile and can suit an individual or a couple, depending on the size. Some come with 2 bathrooms and a balcony for those who need more space.
- 2-bedroom apartments: 2-bedroom apartments come at an average size of 1350 sq ft - 2000 sq ft. They’re ideal for small families.
- 3-bedroom apartments: 3-bedroom apartments in Dubai range from 1,400 sq ft to 2,400 sq ft, making them ideal for larger families.
- Fully furnished apartments: Fully furnished apartments include everything, like a sofa, a bed with a mattress, appliances, a dining table, and a dresser.
- Partly furnished apartments: a partly furnished apartment would have only appliances such as a fridge, washing machine, cooker, and oven. Some partly furnished apartments also have living room furniture.
- Unfurnished apartments: Unfurnished apartments have no furnishings at all except for kitchen cabinets and built-in wardrobes in most apartments.
The prices of these apartments for rent in Dubai differ from one area to another. This is based on many factors, such as location, facilities, and property size. Not only that, but the rental duration and amount of furnishing also impact the price of apartments.
What Does Chiller Free Mean in Dubai?
A chiller-free apartment in Dubai is an apartment where the tenant does not have to pay air conditioning bills, as the landlord handles them, so they only have to pay their electricity and water bills to DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority). This saves you the trouble of creating an account with the utility company and helps you cut costs when the AC bills increase in the summer.
Best Areas to Find Dubai Apartments for Rent
People looking for a flat to rent in Dubai have different preferences. Some want luxurious options while others prefer an affordable home. Other concerns include pet-friendliness, the number of bedrooms, the atmosphere, greenery, and access to transportation. So we’ve rounded up some of the most popular areas to rent a flat in Dubai, based on these factors.
Where to Find a Luxurious Flat for Rent in Dubai
If you’re looking for a swanky apartment for rent in Dubai, there are plenty of areas to choose from.
Downtown Dubai
Downtown Dubai is at the top of the list for those who want to be at the center of it all. Living here puts you in proximity to the hottest spots in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Opera. The average yearly rent for an apartment in Downtown Dubai is 281,000 AED.
DIFC
Next on the list is the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Home to ultra-modern architecture, acclaimed art galleries, and fine dining restaurants, this leading business hub will give you the luxurious lifestyle you dream of.
The apartments for rent in DIFC are known for their opulence and usually sit in high-rise towers. Some of the most popular towers in DIFC are Index Tower, Sky Gardens, and Liberty House. The average yearly rent here is 174,000 AED.
Dubai Marina
We can’t talk about luxurious areas in Dubai without mentioning Dubai Marina. A popular tourist destination, Dubai Marina is known for its lavish waterfront lifestyle, with imposing skyscrapers and yachts dotting the massive marina. Princess Tower, Marina Promenade, and Marina Gate are among the most popular towers here.
There are plenty of apartments for rent in Dubai Marina to explore, from studios to penthouses, with average yearly rentals of 165,000 AED.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai’s most iconic destinations, offering resort-style living with stunning sea views and private beach access. Many expats and professionals choose to rent apartments in popular towers here, like Shoreline apartments, Tiara Residences, and The Palm Tower, to enjoy an exclusive coastal lifestyle close to top attractions. Average yearly rentals range from 85,000 AED and typically reach around 340,000 AED.
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
JBR is a vibrant beachfront community known for its upscale towers, stylish cafes, and family-friendly environment. Those looking for a luxurious Dubai apartment for rent with direct beach access often find JBR ideal.
Potential tenants can choose from a wide selection of rental apartments, from modern studios to spacious penthouses in apartment complexes such as Rimal, Murjan, and Sadaf. The yearly rent here is 251,000 AED on average.
Bluewaters Island
Bluewaters Island combines luxury with modern waterfront living, featuring premium apartments for rent in Dubai with panoramic views of the sea and Ain Dubai. Bluewaters Residences is the most popular apartment complex here.
This coveted area is perfect for those who want to rent an apartment in Dubai within an elegant, walkable environment filled with fine dining and boutique shopping. True to its upscale status, the average yearly rent for an apartment in Bluewaters is 486,000 AED.
City Walk
City Walk offers urban elegance in the heart of the city, with contemporary buildings, designer outlets, and tree-lined boulevards. This district is a prime spot for anyone looking for Dubai apartments for rent that blends modern design with a strong community vibe.
With a variety of apartments in low-rise buildings such as City Walk Residences and Central Park at City Walk, this community is perfect for those who value both style and convenience. The average yearly rent here is 279,000 AED.
Where to Find an Affordable Apartment for Rent in Dubai
Just like there are plenty of costly flats for rent in Dubai, there’s also no shortage of budget-friendly ones. Some of the popular areas to find an affordable apartment for rent in Dubai are:
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Another great option is Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). This quiet community is tucked away from the bustle of Dubai and features a serene, holistic lifestyle. The apartments for rent in Dubai Silicon Oasis are quite affordable and have all the amenities you need to live comfortably. Popular towers in DSO include Silicon Gates, Palace Towers, and Arabian Gate. Yearly rentals here are around 68,000 AED on average.
International City
One of the most affordable areas in Dubai, International City is uniquely themed after different countries like Spain, Greece, China, and France, and lies next to the lively Dragon Mart shopping center. The apartments for rent in International City mostly come in studio, 1, and 2-bedroom variations, with some 3-bedroom apartments available. The average yearly rent here is 45,000 AED, though there are properties as low as 28,000 AED.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
JVC is one of the most popular areas to rent flats in Dubai. This is because it combines luxury with affordability, as it has elegant buildings with facilities like gyms and pools while still providing reasonably priced apartments.
Plus, it’s a pet-friendly and family-friendly area that’s rich in amenities, so you’ll always have everything you need around the corner. There are all kinds of apartments for rent in JVC, from studios up to 4-bedroom units. Popular towers in JVC include Bloom Towers, Palazzo Heights, Serenity Lakes with average yearly rents of 40,000 AED.
Plenty of other areas provide affordable flats for rent in Dubai, such as Town Square, Dubai Sports City, and Dubai Production City (IMPZ).
How to Rent an Apartment in Dubai: The Process
1- Choose a Neighborhood and Apartment Type
Consider which neighborhood suits you best based on location, affordability, and lifestyle. Then, decide on a type of apartment according to your budget and living situation (i.e. single, couple, family), you’ll find all kinds of apartments for rent in Dubai, from studios and 1-bedroom apartments to 5-bedroom units, duplexes, and penthouses.
If you’re struggling to decide, let DataGuru be your home search partner. Discover property prices throughout the city and learn about all of the communities in Dubai to find a place that feels like home.
2- Decide Between Long- or Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals
Short-term rentals in Dubai range from monthly and weekly to daily rentals and are often fully furnished and include all utility bills. These are ideal for people staying in Dubai temporarily or who are still exploring neighborhoods so they can move out easily. Short-term rentals tend to be more expensive than long-term ones, but they compensate with convenience.
Long-term rentals
Long-term rentals, on the other hand, require a bigger commitment, as they usually have a yearly contract that can be paid either in one cheque in advance or multiple cheques. Most people opt for multiple cheques since they ease the financial burden of paying a whole year’s rent in advance.
Depending on the landlord, you could split your rent into 2, 4, or 6 post-dated cheques annually, which you submit on the day you receive the property. Usually, the fewer the cheques, the cheaper the rent overall. However, you could negotiate for a better price or payment plan with more cheques.
People staying in Dubai for a long time and want to feel at home usually go for long-term rentals.
3- Find a Property
Once you’ve decided on the apartment type, neighborhood, and rental duration, search for an apartment to rent in Dubai using Property Finder. You can filter by price, number of bedrooms, amenities, and so much more. Shortlist your favorite properties to easily return to them.
4- Contact an Agent & Schedule a Viewing
When you see a property you like, contact the real estate agent who posted the listing to schedule a viewing and proceed further. Make sure to ask them how many rental cheques are required if you’re choosing a yearly rental.
5- Prepare Your Documents
In order to rent in Dubai, you need to have these documents ready: a copy of your Emirates ID (front and back), a passport copy, a residence visa copy, and a checkbook.
6- Align on Rental Terms
Before agreeing on a rental rate, research the average rental prices in the area and read the Price Insights table under each listing on Property Finder to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. If you find that your agent is charging much higher than average, you’d be armed with the data to negotiate for a lower rent.
Once you’ve agreed on the rental price with the agent or landlord, align on the number of cheques needed annually if you’re choosing a long-term rental.
You also need to agree on the contract duration and start date, as well as the security deposit. If you have pets, ask the landlord or agent if they’re allowed.
7- Pay the Security Deposit to Reserve the Property
The security deposit is a refundable payment made to the landlord to ensure that the property remains in good condition. The security deposit is usually 5% of the annual rental for an unfurnished apartment and 10% for a furnished apartment. It must be returned to the tenant partially or fully upon evacuation.
8- Sign the Tenancy Contract
Now the tenant and landlord should sign the tenancy contract, which must comply with Dubai’s tenancy laws. At this stage, you should hand in the cheques and the agency fees. Both the tenant and landlord will receive copies of the tenancy agreement.
9- Register on Ejari
Ejari is a registration system developed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to protect the rights of tenants and landlords and authenticate tenancy contracts according to the law. Registering on Ejari is mandatory and requires the following documents: original tenancy contract, title deed, passport copies of the tenant and landlord, and an Emirates ID copy.
10- Connect DEWA
In order to connect water and electricity to your property, you need to submit the following documents to DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority): a copy of the signed tenancy contract, a filled DEWA application form, passport copies of the landlord and tenant with valid visas, and a proof of ownership or a sales agreement copy.
Upfront fees to consider
Renting an apartment in Dubai comes with initial fees that you need to account for, mainly:
- Security deposit: 5% of the yearly rental for an unfurnished apartment and 10% for a furnished apartment.
- Real estate agency fees: usually around 5% of the first annual rent, and it could be more.
- Housing Fee (Dubai Municipality Fee): 5% of the annual rent paid in 12 months as a part of the DEWA bill.
- Ejari: Ejari fees differ depending on whether you pay them online or offline. If offline at the trustees center, then you’ll pay around 220 AED with VAT.
- DEWA: AED 2000 security deposit for an apartment, activation charges: AED 130 for small meters, and AED 330 for large meters.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Flat in Dubai?
Studio Apartment Prices
Rental costs in Dubai vary greatly depending on the neighborhood and property size. For instance, the average yearly rent for a studio in International City is AED 36,000. Meanwhile, a studio for rent in JVC has a yearly rent of 57,000 AED on average.
1-Bedroom Apartment Prices
The yearly rent for a 1-bedroom flat in Dubai could range anywhere from AED 30,000, such as in Deira, to over 100,000 AED in premium neighborhoods like Downtown Dubai. For instance, a 1 bedroom apartment for rent in Dubai Marina would cost an average of AED 112,000 yearly, and a 1-bedroom apartment for rent in Downtown Dubai has an average of AED 154,000 yearly.
2 to 4-Bedroom Apartment Prices
If you’re looking for a bigger apartment in other areas, then the average price of a 2 BHK for rent in Dubai is AED 189,000 yearly. A 3-bedroom apartment stands at a yearly average of AED 302,000, while a 4-bedroom apartment would cost approximately AED 100,000 to AED 783,000.
With that in mind, you can easily find prices that go above or below average, depending on where you choose to live.
How Much of Your Salary Should Go to Rent in Dubai?
You should spend no more than 30% of your salary on rent.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Flat Rentals in Dubai
There are benefits to both short- and long-term rentals, and in order to decide, you have to account for multiple factors such as finances, flexibility, and the duration of your stay.
Benefits of Short-Term Dubai Apartments for Rent
Convenience
There are many benefits to short-term rentals in Dubai. One of the most obvious is convenience. With a furnished apartment for rent in Dubai, there is no need to worry about buying or shipping furniture. This can be a huge benefit for those who are moving to Dubai on a short-term basis, whether for work or leisure.
Affordability
Short-term rentals may be more expensive than long-term rentals if you're comparing the same property. This is because short-term rentals are priced on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. However, if you're staying temporarily, short-term rentals can be cheaper than hotels.
Prime Locations
Short-term flats for rent in Dubai also tend to be centrally located, giving you easy access to all that the city has to offer. Whether you want to be close to the action of Downtown Dubai or the quieter beachside neighborhoods, you'll find plenty of areas to choose from.
To sum up, a short-term apartment for rent in Dubai provides more privacy and space than staying in a hotel room would. If you’re traveling with family or friends, having your own kitchen, living room, and bedroom can make for a much more enjoyable experience than being cramped up in one hotel room together.
Fortunately, it’s very easy to rent a house in Dubai, regardless of the length of your stay and the number of people you’re with.
Benefits of Long-Term Dubai Apartments for Rent
Many people choose to rent flats in Dubai for the long term for several reasons. Chief among them are cost and stability.
Long-term rentals are usually cheaper than hotels or short-term rentals. They also provide stability since most rental contracts are annual. You can settle into a place if you’re planning to stay in Dubai for at least a year, so you don’t have to worry about constantly moving houses.
Comfort and Routine
Choosing a long-term apartment for rent in Dubai allows residents to enjoy a consistent living environment, ideal for professionals, families, or anyone looking to establish roots in the city. With a stable lease, tenants can personalize their living space and build a comfortable routine. This is especially appealing in a fast-paced city like Dubai, where convenience and peace of mind are valued.
More Options
Another advantage is the wide selection of Dubai apartments for rent available on a yearly basis. From budget-friendly flats to luxurious furnished units, the long-term rental market offers plenty of options across various neighborhoods.
More Value
Additionally, those who rent an apartment in Dubai for the long term often benefit from lower monthly rates. Overall, a long-term rental apartment provides a more affordable and comfortable solution for those planning to stay in the city beyond just a few months.
Where to Find New Apartments for Rent in Dubai?
Many new projects were completed in 2024 and 2025, offering brand-new apartments for rent in Dubai across multiple areas.
- Arjan: Beverly Boulevard, Legacy by Sunrise and Welcome Residency were delivered in 2024.
- Meydan: Azizi Riviera, Azizi Greenfield, and Azizi Gardens were completed in 2024, and the 100 was completed in 2025.
- Jumeirah Village Circle: Binghatti Dusk and Dawn by Binghatti were completed in 2024, while Alef Noon Residence was completed in 2025.
- Business Bay: Canal Bay, Terraces Marasi, and Trillionaire Residences were all delivered in 2024, offering upscale Dubai apartments for rent.
- Dubai Creek Harbour: Creek Beach Grove and Island Park Phase 2 were delivered in 2025, and Palace Residences was delivered in 2024.
Can a Foreigner Rent an Apartment in Dubai?
Absolutely! Most of Dubai’s population are expats, so they can easily rent an apartment in the emirate. However, a foreigner looking for an apartment for rent in Dubai should be aware that they have to pay a housing fee to the Dubai Municipality, which consists of 5% of the annual rental value. The housing fee is added to the monthly DEWA bill.
Can you Rent an Apartment in Dubai without an Emirates ID?
No, you need an Emirates ID to rent an apartment in Dubai since it's proof of your residency in the UAE. Moreover, an Emirates ID is required for multiple processes involved in renting an apartment, such as registering for Ejari and connecting DEWA.
How Much Can a Landlord Increase Rent by in Dubai?
RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) updated its Rental Index in March 2025, which limits the annual rental increase based on the current rent’s percentage below the market value.
- No increase: if the current rent is less than 10% of the market value.
- 5% increase: if the current rent is 11% - 20% below the market value.
- 10% increase: if the current rent is 21% - 30% below the market value.
- 15% increase: if the current rent is 31- 40% below the market value.
- 20% increase: if the rent is over 40% less than the market value.
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