Looking for a way to cut costs in 2024? Moving to a more affordable area could do the trick, and knowing some of the most expensive and cheapest areas to rent in Dubai is a great start.
According to a report by Espace Real Estate, fewer rental contracts were signed in 2023 and renewals were down, particularly in the more popular areas in Dubai.
The report revealed that out of 30 rental areas included in the report, rental prices have increased in 29 out of the 30 communities.
For instance, Jumeirah Golf Estates increased by 90 percent, followed by Jumeirah Islands by 45 percent, Emirates Hills by 44 percent, Bluewaters Island by 74 percent and Palm Jumeirah, which was up 21 percent.
Don’t fret, though. Knowing the best areas that offer cheap rent in Dubai can help you save money.
Here are some affordable areas to live in, along with what we like most about them.
Bur Dubai
Found on the west side of Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai is one of Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods and home to plenty of top attractions.
If you’d prefer an area that has the charm of old Dubai, you’re in luck. This bustling neighbourhood is home to souks, the city’s oldest building, Al Fahidi Fort and more. Of course, the biggest perk is the rental prices are easy on your pocket, too.
Top attractions: You’ll want to be a tourist in your own area in Bur Dubai as here you’ll find the Dubai Frame, where you can get a peak of old and new Dubai, Dubai Creek where you can take an abra ride on the cheap, the Textile Souk and Meena Bazaar, where foodies can get their fix of authentic Indian cuisine.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent ranges from Dhs35,000-Dhs59,000 (studio apartment) and Dhs55,000-95,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
Discovery Gardens
If you’ve looked out of the windows while taking the metro, you’re sure to have seen the colourful stretch of Discovery Gardens’ apartment buildings.
This affordable neighbourhood is the ultimate family hub complete with swimming pools, plenty of green walkways, parks, tennis courts and a range of supermarkets. It’s also close to the Gardens metro station and bus stops.
Top attractions: Avid shoppers, you’re in luck. Discovery Gardens is just a stone’s throw away from Ibn Battuta Mall, which has a range of top shopping and dining offerings.
Like to bowl? Gather the gang and head on over to Switch Bowling and for an epic drone show, you can enjoy a light show at PPS Aviation.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent ranges from Dhs42,000-Dhs50,000 (studio apartment) and Dhs58,000-Dhs80,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
Another family-friendly community with lush greenery and convenient amenities, Dubai Investment Park is one of the most affordable communities to rent. Kids are well-catered for in DIP with a range of schools such as Nibras International School, Kinderville Nursery and more. There are also plenty of hospitals, supermarkets and restaurants nearby.
Top attractions: Fitness enthusiasts will have a variety of options to get a workout in, including Aspire Gymnastics Club, Al Tawash Gym, Hybrid Gym and Fly High Fitness. Families can enjoy leisurely walks or picnics at the numerous landscaped garden areas, too.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent range is Dhs32,000-42,000 and Dhs53,000-60,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
Dubai Silicon Oasis
Calling all students, remote workers and tech enthusiasts. Silicon Oasis is Dubai’s first smart city, best known for its technology park which is home to many tech start-ups and other up-and-coming businesses.
It offers the perfect mix of work and leisure features, with something for everyone, including apartments, office buildings, restaurants, jogging paths and outdoor sports courts.
Top attractions: Like to shop? You can have an experience like no other at Souq Extra, a shopping plaza which is packed with a range of stores, restaurants and more.
If you’re looking for a one-stop family destination, Silicon Park will tick all your boxes with BBQ spots, a roller skating area, and basketball, tennis, volleyball and football courts.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent ranges from Dhs35,000-Dhs65,000 (studios) and Dhs47,000-75,000 (one-bedroom apartments).
Dubai Sports City
This wallet-friendly district is the ideal spot for sports fanatics and those who are active. This lively community is decked out with everything you could need, from swimming pools to gyms and more.
That’s not all, it also boasts an indoor and outdoor sporting arena where you can catch a range of sporting events.
Top attractions: Cricket lovers, get excited because the highlight of Dubai Sports City is the Dubai International Cricket Stadium where tournaments, concerts and other shows are regularly hosted.
You can also head to the Els Club Golf Course or The Dome for fresh air and fun with the whole family.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent ranges from Dh36,000-Dhs72,000 (studio apartment) and Dhs50,000-Dhs90,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
Top tip: It’s important to note that unfurnished apartments are far more affordable than furnished apartments in all rental areas in Dubai.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
If you’re looking for a family-friendly community that’s peaceful with top amenities, Jumeirah Village Circle is ideal. There are plenty of parks to frolic in and plenty of nature, making the community perfect for strolls. With schools, pharmacies and more nearby, it’s ultra-convenient, too.
Top attractions: Avid shoppers can stock up on their favourite trinkets at Circle Mall and beachgoers can catch a tan at Sunset Beach, while Dubai Miracle Garden is just 10 minutes away
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent range is Dhs36,000-Dhs60,000 (studio) and Dhs46,000-Dhs100,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
International City
This community, inspired by Dubai’s global culture, is best known for its residential clusters named after different countries.
Whether you choose to move to Persia, Greece, Spain, Morocco, England, France, Italy, Russia, China or the Emirates cluster, you can expect an unbeatable homely atmosphere with over 500 affordable apartments to choose from.
Top attractions: The best part about International City is that it’s home to Dragon Mart 1 and 2, the largest hub for Chinese goods where you can snag the best budget deals, sample delicious dishes at an array of restaurants and head to the cinema for a new flick.
If the great outdoors is more your thing, Al Warsan Lake is perfect for getting some steps in.
Average rent per year: According to Property Finder, the average rent range is Dhs25,000-Dhs46,000 (studios) and Dhs33,000-Dhs55,000 (one-bedroom apartment).
*All rental estimates are accurate as of June 19, 2024.
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