Becoming a new resident of the city or relocating to Dubai is increasingly becoming an appealing proposition. Global corporates and families are often drawn to Dubai’s zero income tax rules (for higher savings), business-friendly environment with 100% foreign ownership in free zones and long-term visas. Then there is the low crime rate and top-class infrastructure, along with year-round sunshine, which is often a big deal for global expats.
Interestingly, more than 80% of Dubai’s population comprises newcomers and expatriates, which means finding welcoming and multicultural communities is not hard. English is widely spoken throughout the city, while the strategic location between Europe, Africa and Asia is another advantage. For someone relocating to the city, there is often a question that crops up- should one choose fully equipped apartments in Dubai or buy furniture instead to set up a home? Let us look at these aspects in more detail below.
Furnished Apartments Or Unfurnished Rental Setup: Which One Costs You Less?
Renting a furnished apartment in Dubai is a preferred option for many travellers and relocators. However, is it a better option as compared to buying furniture and setting up an unfurnished rental? Here are some key factors worth noting in this regard.
- Rent Premium: Furnished apartments usually come with a 15-40% higher annual rent, depending on the location (more in premium areas like Business Bay, Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina).
- Security Deposits: Unfurnished rentals often require deposits of 5% of the annual rent, while it can go up to 10% for furnished rentals.
Yet, the key difference here is that long or short-term furnished apartments in Dubai come with everything included, ranging from furniture and appliances to utilities and other perks. Nothing of this sort is to be expected in unfurnished apartments. That’s where the comparison gets interesting.
Average Costs of Furniture and Setup in Unfurnished Apartments
- Studio units: AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 (basic setup).
- 1 bedroom unit: AED 15,000 to AED 35,000.
- 2 bedroom unit: AED 25,000 to AED 55,000.
- Delivery and Moving Costs: Assembly and local relocation will need at least AED 500 to AED 2,500 or more.
- Utility Deposits: Connecting DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) will need a deposit (refundable) of about AED 2,000, plus the connection fees.
*You will have to separately setup and pay for high-speed internet. Housekeeping/cleaning and laundry will be two other costs to cover on a regular basis.
Which One to Choose?
Moving into fully equipped apartments in Dubai is incredibly convenient; you can say goodbye to the huge initial setup costs and hassles. Most apartments offer all-inclusive rates covering housekeeping, utilities and Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy hotel-style perks like housekeeping, concierges, on-site pool/gym access and so on (not always possible at unfurnished rentals). Most units have flexible leases for maximum convenience (another plus point), while offering discounts for extended stays.
Furnished apartments are thus ideal for periods of 12-18 months or slightly more, where you want no delays and zero moving friction. Unfurnished apartments only work if you want a multi-year and long-term leases, want to customise your interiors and desire lower recurring rental costs over 3-4 years. However, you will have to bear the initial costs and hassles in this case. It also works if you already have existing furniture that you will ship to Dubai in any case.
Which is the Best Neighbourhood for Long-Term Dubai Stays?
Be it a furnished or unfurnished rental, choosing the right neighbourhood is important before moving to Dubai. Here are some of the top suggestions worth considering:
1. Dubai Marina
A vibrant waterfront neighbourhood, it offers access to a popular yacht club, canal and majestic residential skyscrapers. You can stay connected through the Dubai tram and metro networks with direct access to Sheikh Zayed Road. Some of the nearby business hubs include the Dubai Media City, Internet City and Jebel Ali.
Neighbourhood amenities are top-notch, including the Dubai Marina Mall, supermarkets like Waitrose and Spinneys, fitness clubs, clinics and fine-dining restaurants. The JBR Walk and Marina Beach are key attractions in the vicinity, along with Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai.
Ideal For: Couples, young professionals and active single travellers who want a walkable lifestyle on the waterfront.
2. Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
JLT is a residential neighbourhood with several high-rise towers and picturesque artificial lakes. It is also home to several parks and offers a more affordable yet community-oriented environment. There are two metro stations accessible from here (DMCC and Sobha Realty) and the Sheikh Zayed Road is also a short distance away.
Nearby business hubs include Dubai Media City, Jebel Ali and the JLT commercial zone. Some of the local amenities include pet-friendly parks, grocery stores, community retail stores and independent cafes. Nearby tourist landmarks also include the Dubai Marina and JBR Beach.
Ideal For: Young families, digital nomads and professionals seeking higher value and a neighbourhood-focused environment.
3. Downtown Dubai
Downtown Dubai is the contemporary heart of the Emirate, known for its stunning architecture, awe-inspiring buildings and luxurious accommodation options. The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station ensures seamless connectivity for residents here. Nearby business hubs include Business Bay and the DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre).
Local amenities include well-known restaurants, luxury retail stores, healthcare clinics and supermarkets. Some of the nearby tourist landmarks include the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera and Dubai Fountain.
Ideal For: Corporate travellers, urban dwellers and affluent professionals who wish to stay in a central location.
4. Business Bay
Business Bay is a rapidly growing and dynamic residential cum commercial locality that is just next to Downtown. You will discover several high-rise buildings here along the Dubai Water Canal extension. The Business Bay metro station is nearby, while the Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road are both accessible too.
Some of the business hubs nearby include the local offices and DIFC, while nearby tourist landmarks include those in Downtown (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, etc.). Neighbourhood amenities include promenade walking paths, grocery stores, casual restaurants, co-working spaces and pharmacies.
Ideal For: Business travellers, corporates and young couples who want quicker commutes to the financial district.
Conclusion
For a hassle-free move to Dubai, fully equipped apartments in Dubai may be a better choice, while they help avoid the sizeable setup costs of their unfurnished counterparts. While the initial upfront rental and deposit may seem higher, they include utilities and other essentials. It ultimately works out to be cost-effective in the long run. Unfurnished rentals are more suitable in case you want total control and customisation or wish to bring your own furniture with you.
