Corporate housing has become a popular solution for business travelers, expats, and those relocating, offering a convenient and comfortable base during temporary assignments.

Are you also looking to relocate your business to Dubai or perhaps you already have your business here but looking for accommodation to move your employees and end up wondering how much would the rent in Dubai cost you.

Let’s talk about how much corporate housing can cost you in Dubai:

Location

• Central locations: Prime areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) command the highest rents due to accessibility and proximity to business hubs.
  
• Peripheral locations: Areas slightly further from the city center offer more affordable options while still maintaining good connectivity.
  

In locations like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) you can expect the rent to be:

• Studio/1-Bedroom: AED 8,000 – AED 15,000+ per month
• 2-Bedroom: AED 8,000 – AED 35,000+ per month

And for locations like JLT, Sports city and Business Bay rents can range from:

• Studio/1-Bedroom: AED 3,500 – AED 12,500 per month
• 2-Bedroom: AED 6,000 – AED 25,000 per month

H3 Lease Duration

Short-term Rentals

• 1-3 Months: Expect to pay the highest rates, sometimes calculated on a nightly or weekly basis. These rentals cater to those needing flexibility and shorter commitments.
  • Example: A studio apartment priced at AED 7,000 per month for a long-term lease might cost AED 250 – AED 350+ per night for a short-term rental.
• 4-6-12Months: Prices will likely be lower than ultra-short stays, but you might still pay a premium compared to an annual lease.

Long-term Rentals

• 12+ Months: This is where you can potentially secure the best rates. Landlords often offer discounts to incentivize longer leases and guaranteed occupancy.
  • Example: A 1-bedroom apartment with a listed monthly rent of AED 12,000 might be offered at AED 9,000 or even AED 8,000 per month for a 12-month lease.

Example Calculation

Let’s assume an apartment’s monthly rent is AED 12,000:

• 3-Month Stay (short-term): You could end up paying approximately 15-25% more overall compared to a longer lease.
• 6-Month Stay: You might get a 5-10% discount on the monthly rate.
• 12-Month Stay: Potential for a 10-15%+ discount on the monthly rate.

Season

Peak Season (November – March)

• The sweet spot: Dubai’s weather is pleasant, major events take place (Dubai Shopping Festival,GITEX, COP28, Expo etc.), and there’s a huge influx of tourists and business travelers.
• Expect higher prices: Demand surges, so landlords and providers tend to increase rental rates.
  • Example: A 2-bedroom apartment that might cost AED 12,000 per month in the off-season could be priced at AED 15,000 – AED 18,000+ during peak season. That’s a potential increase of 25% or more!

Off-Season (April – October)

• The heat is on: Temperatures soar in Dubai during summer months, leading to reduced tourist and business travel.
• Potential for deals: Landlords are more likely to offer discounts or negotiate lower rents to attract tenants during this period.
  • Example: That same 2-bedroom apartment priced at AED 15,000 in peak season might be offered at AED 10,000 – AED 13,000 during the off-season, representing a potential saving of 15-30%.

Important Notes:

• Rental price fluctuations during peak and off-seasons can vary depending on the specific property and location.
• Major events happening even during off-season can temporarily drive prices upwards.

Tips for Finding the Best Value Corporate Housing in Dubai

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons.
• Consider Using HomeTherapy.ae , we have pre-negotiated vendors to be able to provide you with the best deals possible for rentals and furnishings. We’ll source the ideal apartment at the best price and if possible with rent free period based on your needs, and handle all the logistics, so you can focus on your work and settling in. Move into a fully-furnished apartment with utilities and maintenance support already arranged. What’s more, you can even personalize your home furnishings with us
• Be Flexible on Location: Slightly less central areas can be significantly cheaper.