Contents
- 1 What are apartment amenities?
- 2 Amenities to look for when renting an apartment:
- 3 Pet friendliness
- 4 Outdoor area
- 5 Safety features
- 6 Smart home features
- 7 Air conditioning and heating
- 8 In-unit washer and dryer
- 9 Parking facilities
- 10 Tech-friendly amenities
- 11 Modernized kitchen
- 12 Wellness features
- 13 Other important considerations:
- 14 Size of the apartment
- 15 View
- 16 Are apartment amenities free?
- 17 The bottom line
Renting an apartment in Dubai can be daunting for newcomers, especially if they are unfamiliar with the key factors to consider before signing a lease agreement. Many expatriates have faced challenges relocating to the UAE simply because they were unaware of essential rental guidelines that most Dubai residents know.
This blog post outlines the critical considerations and amenities to look for when renting an apartment in Dubai. Apartment amenities can significantly influence a tenant’s decision. For instance, would you rent a beautiful boho brick apartment in Dubai if it lacked essential safety features? Ideally, the answer would be a resounding “No,” as safety is a fundamental requirement for any renter.
Let’s explore the various types of apartment amenities, including those that are essential, those that come included in your rent, and those that may be particularly appealing. As a new tenant, we aim to guide you in making informed decisions, ensuring that the process is simpler than it seems.
What are apartment amenities?
Apartment amenities refer to the additional features or services that an apartment complex offers its residents. These may include fitness centers, swimming pools, parking garages, laundry facilities, playgrounds, and dog parks. Amenities are often a key factor for prospective tenants when deciding to sign or renew a lease, and they help differentiate one apartment complex from another, often allowing owners and property managers to charge higher rents. However, it is important to note that not all amenities hold the same value for tenants. When deciding which amenities to include in a multifamily property, it is crucial to consider the preferences, habits, and demographics of your target market. Amenities that enhance resident satisfaction are vital for attracting and retaining tenants.
Amenities to look for when renting an apartment:
Here are some common amenities to consider when renting an apartment in the UAE:
Pet friendliness
If you have or plan to have a pet, you will need an apartment that allows pets. However, pet-friendly apartments often come with additional costs, such as pet deposits and monthly pet rent. Additionally, there may be a higher risk of losing your security deposit due to potential damage caused by pets. Many tenants who initially choose non-pet-friendly apartments later regret it when they decide to get a pet. If you think there is a possibility you will want a pet in the future, it is best to choose a pet-friendly apartment from the start.
Outdoor area
With remote work becoming more common, many people are spending more time at home. As a result, outdoor spaces have become highly desirable for apartment dwellers who want to enjoy fresh air and relaxation. Private patios or balconies are often sought after, but shared outdoor areas can also be a valuable amenity.
Safety features
While no apartment complex can guarantee complete safety from crime, certain security measures can help deter potential issues. Before renting an apartment, ask about safety features such as deadbolt locks, adequate lighting, and whether locks are changed when a tenant moves out. Ensuring you feel secure in your new home is essential.
Smart home features
Modern amenities like smart locks and thermostats can add convenience to apartment living. Smart locks, for example, allow you to provide access to guests or service providers without needing to be home, and thermostats can be controlled remotely, saving energy and providing comfort.
Air conditioning and heating
In Dubai’s hot climate, having a fully functional HVAC system is a must. Fans may not be sufficient in extreme heat, and adequate heating can also be important during cooler months.
In-unit washer and dryer
Having a washer and dryer within the unit can save tenants significant time and effort. It is always more convenient to have laundry facilities in your apartment than to carry clothes to a communal laundry room or laundromat.
Parking facilities
Parking availability is another key consideration. In Dubai’s suburban areas, a parking ratio of 1.25 to 1.5 spaces per apartment is ideal, while more urban areas may have less parking.
Related: Buying vs. Renting an apartment in Dubai (what’s the best option for expats)
Tech-friendly amenities
Many young tenants in upscale apartment buildings may overlook maintenance fees associated with tech-friendly amenities. It is important to inquire about any additional costs for amenities like WiFi, USB ports, online rent payment options, and leasing.
Modernized kitchen
A modernized kitchen can range from a complete renovation to simple updates like a new faucet. If you are a home cook or enjoy spending time in the kitchen, clarify what the term means in a particular listing to determine if the additional costs are worthwhile.
Wellness features
As more people spend time at home, apartment buildings are incorporating amenities that promote wellness, such as community gathering spaces, fitness centers, smoke-free environments, noise-canceling features, pet-friendly spaces, and green outdoor areas.
Other important considerations:
When renting an apartment, consider factors such as whether you can rent without residency, whether you can customize the apartment, and what the ideal size is for your family. Two particularly important considerations are:
Size of the apartment
Understanding the apartment’s size in terms of square footage can help you compare the price per square foot with similar properties in the area, ensuring you are getting good value for money.
View
Consider what kind of view the apartment offers. Some may overlook a main boulevard, while others face a parking lot. If having a nice view is important to you, make sure to check it out in person, as better views often come at a higher cost.
Are apartment amenities free?
Some buildings include amenities in the rent, while others charge separate amenity fees, which can be monthly, annual, or a one-time flat fee. If a building does not charge an amenity fee, the rent may be slightly higher. It is important to keep these costs in mind when comparing rental options.
The bottom line
If you are renting with your family, particularly if you have school-aged children, consider choosing a location close to grocery stores, parks, playgrounds, and other essential services. This ensures a shorter commute for your children and a more convenient lifestyle for the whole family. Dubai offers a range of pet and family-friendly communities to suit different needs and preferences.
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