Your Guide to Finding a Furnished Studio for Rent in Dubai
Dubai is a global destination where business meets luxury living. The city's stunning skyline, home to icons like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, attracts young professionals, students, and expats seeking ready-to-move-in homes. A furnished studio apartment for rent in Dubai offers the perfect solution for those wanting to skip the hassle of buying furniture or coordinating deliveries.
These compact homes come ready with everything you need, from sleek furniture to modern appliances. You'll find them in neighborhoods ranging from the buzzing streets of Downtown to the peaceful waterfront at Jumeirah Beach Residence. Whether you're relocating for work or starting your Dubai adventure, a furnished studio in Dubai puts you right in the middle of the city's dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.
Why Rent a Furnished Studio Apartment in Dubai?
Ready to Move In
You can unpack your suitcase and start living immediately. These units come with all the basics already in place, saving you weeks of furniture shopping and setup.
Flexible Living Options
Short-term and long-term leases give you the freedom to test different neighborhoods before committing. You're not locked into one area for years.
Full Access to Building Amenities
Most towers include swimming pools, gyms, and 24/7 security as standard. You get the perks without paying separately for gym memberships or pool access.
Lower Initial Costs
While monthly rent may be higher than unfurnished units, you avoid the upfront expense of buying furniture, which can easily cost tens of thousands of dirhams.
Best Areas to Rent Furnished Studio Apartments in Dubai
Budget-Friendly Communities
Who typically rents here: Young professionals and students on tight budgets, usually staying 6-12 months, spending between AED 34,000 and AED 70,000 annually.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Furnished studio apartments in JVC have an average yearly rent of AED 65,000/year and measure 430 sq ft on average. This peaceful area sits between major highways, making it easy to reach other parts of Dubai. Parks dot the landscape, and the community feels more relaxed than central districts. Popular towers include Ghalia Tower and Luma 22. Perfect for those who want quiet evenings without sacrificing city access.
Arjan
Furnished studios in Arjan cover approximately 400 sq ft and have an average yearly rental of AED 59,000/year. Located near Dubai Miracle Garden, this mixed-use community offers lower rents while staying close to Umm Suqeim Road. Buildings like Oxford Gardens and Skyz by Danube attract tenants who prioritize savings over being in the thick of things.
Al Furjan
Yearly rents for furnished studio apartments in Al Furjan average AED 59,000/year. Units cover 400 sq ft on average. This developing area provides good value with pet-friendly buildings and decent road connections. Prime Residency 3 and Azizi Plaza are among the well-known options here.
Premium Urban and Waterfront
Who typically rents here: Corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, and lifestyle-focused tenants, with budgets from AED 65,000 to AED 112,000 per year.
Business Bay
The average yearly rental for a furnished studio apartment in Business Bay is AED 88,000/year, and units measure approximately 470 sq ft. Minutes from Downtown Dubai and DIFC, this high-energy district puts you steps from work. The Dubai Canal runs through the area, and many towers offer Burj Khalifa views. Damac Maison Prive and Capital Bay are popular choices for those who value convenience and proximity to business hubs.
Dubai Marina
The average size of a furnished studio in Dubai Marina is 500 sq ft, and the average price is AED 112,000 per year. This walkable waterfront community buzzes with energy. High-rises line the marina, and you can stroll to JBR Beach, Dubai Marina Mall, or dozens of restaurants. Sparkle Towers and Marina Gate offer metro and tram access, making car ownership optional. Ideal for those who want a vibrant social scene.
Meydan
The average annual rent for a furnished studio in Meydan is over AED 90,000 for a property with an average size of 450 sq ft. Known for the Azizi Riviera development, this area brings French-Mediterranean design to Dubai. Lagoon views and modern facilities attract those seeking something different from the typical Dubai tower experience. Perfect for remote workers and lifestyle enthusiasts.
Amenities and Lifestyle in Dubai
When you opt for a furnished studio for rent in Dubai, you're not just getting a home, you're accessing a full lifestyle infrastructure. Most furnished studio apartments in Dubai are located in areas with parks and beach access. JVC features numerous green spaces for weekend picnics, while Dubai Marina and JBR are steps from the waterfront. Many buildings welcome pets, particularly in Business Bay and Al Furjan.
Schools
- GEMS World Academy (IB curriculum)
- Dubai British School (British curriculum)
- American School of Dubai (American curriculum)
Nurseries
- Ladybird Nursery
- Kids Island Nursery
- Raffles Early Childhood Centre
Shopping
- Dubai Mall (Downtown)
- Marina Mall (Dubai Marina)
- Circle Mall (JVC)
Fitness
- Fitness First (multiple locations)
- Warehouse Gym (multiple locations)
- Community gyms in most residential towers
Healthcare
- Mediclinic City Hospital
- Saudi German Hospital
- Aster Clinic (various neighborhoods)
Supermarkets
- Carrefour
- Spinneys
- Choithrams
Location and Transportation
Dubai's road network makes most areas accessible within 20-30 minutes by car. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Al Khail Road serve as major arteries, connecting communities like JVC and Arjan to the rest of the city.
The Red Line Metro runs through Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and connects to Al Furjan, cutting commute times to major business hubs. The Dubai Tram extends along JBR, linking to the metro system. If you drive, covered parking comes standard in most buildings.
From Dubai Marina, you can reach Downtown Dubai in 15 minutes, while JVC sits roughly 20 minutes from both Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Internet City. Business Bay offers perhaps the best connectivity, sitting at the intersection of Sheikh Zayed Road and the Dubai Canal.
Pros and Cons of Renting a Furnished Studio in Dubai
Pros
- No furniture shopping or moving trucks needed
- Test different neighborhoods with flexible lease terms
- Building amenities included (pools, gyms, security)
- Some buildings offer bills-included packages
- Quick move-in process for international relocations
Cons
- Higher annual rent compared to unfurnished alternatives
- Limited personalization of decor and layout
- Furniture style may not match your taste
- Less storage space than larger units
FAQs About Furnished Studio Apartments for Rent in Dubai
What's the average rent for a furnished studio in Dubai?
New contracts average around AED 50,590 per year, though this varies widely by location. Budget areas start at AED 34,000, while premium waterfront locations can exceed AED 112,000.
Which areas have the most affordable options?
International City Phase 2, Al Warsan, and Al Khail Gate typically offer the lowest rates, ranging from AED 34,000 to AED 39,000 annually.
Are utilities included in the rent?
Not usually. Some serviced residences or specific towers in Dubai Marina offer bills-included packages, but standard residential rentals require separate utility payments. Always confirm with the landlord.
Can I rent a furnished studio in Dubai on a monthly basis?
Yes. Monthly rates typically start at AED 3,300 and can go up to AED 11,000 depending on location and amenities. Daily rates average AED 510 for very short stays.
What amenities come with a furnished studio for rent in Dubai?
Expect covered parking, swimming pools, gyms, built-in wardrobes, and central air conditioning as standard. Higher-end buildings may include concierge services, spas, and children's play areas.
How much more do furnished units cost versus unfurnished?
Furnished studios typically command a 15-25% premium over unfurnished units in the same building, reflecting the value of included furniture and appliances.
Is a furnished studio apartment for rent in Dubai suitable for families?
While possible for couples or small families, most tenants are single professionals or students. Families often prefer one-bedroom or larger units for more space and privacy.