Statistics show that the total expat population in the UAE in 2021 was 8.84 million, which accounts for approximately 89% of the country’s population. In contrast, Emiratis or UAE nationals only make up 11% or 1.15 million of the total population in their own nation.
Dubai carries the bulk of this figure, with 3.42 million – around 46% - expats calling the emirate home. These figures are astounding and reflect just how popular the famous city is with foreign nationals.
However, these expats are known to come and go quite quickly. Most immigrants only tend to stay in Dubai for a relatively short period of time – usually the length of their UAE Residence Visa, which are issued for 1, 2 or 3 years and can be renewed.
As a result, you have many people seeking a place to stay in the short-term with no solid plan for making the UAE their permanent home. As such, you’ll find that more and more people are opting to stay in short-serviced accommodation rather than commit to a private annual rental, especially in Dubai. Read on to learn why.
Lower costs
When compared to a long-term rental, short-term accommodation is the more cost-effective option. This is because landlords renting privately have the freedom to raise your rent at will, while a fixed-term tenancy may protect you against unwanted inflation.
Furthermore, the longer you stay at a serviced apartment, the less you’ll pay, as these types of accommodations offer flexible rates, while private rentals won’t budge from their set cost.
Lastly, there are no extra fees associated with short-term accommodation, as the rental price includes all utility and overhead costs. And you won’t need to spend extra money on furnishing the space as your apartment will come fully furnished and fully equipped.
Flexibility
If you aren’t planning to live in Dubai permanently, you’ll only have a set amount of time to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer. Why spend your time tied down to one fixed location when you can hop from one luxury space to the next and fully immerse yourself crown jewel of the UAE.
Serviced accommodation is commitment- and hassle-free, and provides the flexibility to relocate comfortably, without fear of penalties or violating a contract agreement. Not to mention that moving out will also be easy, as you’ll be leaving one fully-furnished space for another.
With long-term rentals, on the other hand, you’ll need to commit to staying in the space for six months or a year at least, and if you decide a month or two in that you’d rather live somewhere else, you’ll find it difficult to do so.
Location, location, location
There are so many wonderful, vibrant neighbourhoods and districts in Dubai that it can be difficult to choose just one place to stay for the duration of your visit. With serviced apartments, you won’t need to stick to one location and can choose from a multitude of luxury, comfortable and convenient spaces dotted around the city.
Where private rentals in more affluent areas around Dubai would cost a small fortune to rent, serviced accommodations in these same areas are set at much more affordable prices and are readily available whenever you need to move in.
Facilities and amenities
One of the best parts about serviced apartments is that they seamlessly blend luxury hotel living with the comforts of home. Not only will you enjoy good quality appliances, private space and a warm, homely feeling during your stay, but you’ll also have access to the building’s facilities and amenities, which often include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, free WiFi, spa and more.
When staying in a private rental, on the other hand, you’ll only have access to the space you’re renting and not much else – meaning that serviced apartments offer better value for money.
Ready to move in
For the most part, when you sign a contract for a long-term private rental, you won’t get to move in straight away. A lot of the time, you’ll need to wait a few weeks or even months before you get access to the space. And once you do, you’ll still have to furnish it with all the necessities, such as a bed and furniture, before you can actually live in your new home.
Serviced apartments, however, are available to move into straight away and come fully furnished with all the modern comforts you could need and much more.
Commitment-free
Lastly, serviced accommodation demands less of a commitment than a long-term private rental. The latter usually requires a contractual obligation of no less than 6 months, but more often than not, the rental duration is for 1 to 3 years.
If you’re not planning to stay in Dubai very long, this can be a major hindrance. It won’t be worth the time or expense to rent a place for longer than you’ll be in the country – which is why service apartments are the perfect alternative.
These accommodation types are flexible in their agreements and can be rented out for any short-term period, whether it be 2 months or a year.
So, which is better?
In the end, it all comes down to personal preference, but when you compare the two types of rental accommodations side-by-side, you’ll find that short-term serviced accommodation tends to provide better value for money when looking for a rental property.
If you plan to visit Dubai for 30 nights or longer, then you’ll need a place to stay. Lucky for you, you’ve come to the right place!
Thirty Sleeps Sleeper Partners offer affordable and commitment-free short-term stays when you book for 30 days or more. There are no rental contracts, no additional expenses and no hidden fees. All you need to do is pay one all-inclusive fee and enjoy all the perks of a fully serviced and equipped luxury accommodation.
Visit Thirty Sleeps today and find the perfect short-term rental accommodation for you.
