Dubai is a city renowned for its unrivaled opulence and sheer luxury. It is probably the best city, with all the latest amenities, opportunities, and modern facilities. Multi-faceted properties adorn the beautiful city of Dubai. There are many reasonably priced properties to live at in this place.
So even if you are not willing to buy a property in a posh area, there is still a chance for you to live in such areas. For all the tenants who wish to rent a cheap yet glamorous apartment, here is a list of some most popular affordable areas to rent apartments in Dubai. The details of these areas have been summarized in the following way:
Table of Contents
1. International City
Nakheel Properties develop this area. It is one of the most amazing choices for those looking forward to renting cheap flats in Dubai.

This area is a fully-developed township. It is divided into 10 clusters. These clusters are equipped to offer the latest and modern-day facilities, such as schools, clinics, retail stores, shopping malls, and much more. This area consists of budget-friendly apartments. There are penthouses, apartments, and studios. Other configurations are also available, ranging from single to 3-bedroom units. The specifications of the areas have been given in the following way:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 30,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 49,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 80,000 yearly
2. Dubai South
Dubai South is yet another affordable area to rent a cheap apartment at. It is a beautiful community between Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai.

This area has attracted the maximum number of tenants from the city center. It is approachable and developed. The rental trends of this community have been able to reflect the rental demands. There are multiple apartments for singles, couples, and families for residential and commercial purposes. The rents are pretty affordable, and the details of the annual rent for different types of apartments have been given in the following way:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 34,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 47,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 67,000 yearly
3. Dubai Production City (IMPZ)
This area is also known as International Media Production Zone. It is an ideal place for all the tenants working in the city’s film and media production companies.

It is located on the outskirts of Dubai, just adjacent to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. It is one of the best rental apartments in Dubai. It has modern facilities like shopping centers, schools, museums, mosques, restaurants, fitness centers, swimming pools, and clubs. It offers 24*7 security and unlimited access to clean drinking water, electricity, and internet. It has emerged to be a top option for corporate employees. Tenants from banks and financial institutions can easily finance the rentals.
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 37,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 51,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 74,000 yearly
4. Al Warsan
It is a beautiful township developed near the International City. There are many cheap apartments available for rent at this place. It is subdivided into four sub-communities.

Each community offers multiple benefits and opportunities. This township is exclusively proximate to Warsan Lake and Desert Palm Dubai. It is important to note that the demand for apartments has increased in recent years. There are many skyscrapers in this area. It comprises studios, single units, and 2- and 4-bedroom apartments at very affordable pricing. The apartments are built with modern infrastructure. The details of the rentals for various types of apartments have been given in the following way:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 26,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 36,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 47,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 69,000 yearly
5. Liwan
If you are looking for a modern state-of-the-art township to live at that too at very affordable rents, then nothing can be better than Liwan.

This is one of the best low-cost communities in Dubai. It is situated between Al Ain Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. There are multiple options available for singles, couples, and small families. This locality has many modern facilities such as restaurants, shopping centers, swimming pools, wellness centers, supermarkets, and sports centers. It offers a comfortable lifestyle to all the tenants. The details of the rentals of various options have been given in the following way:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 30,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 33,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 47,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 67,000 yearly
6. Dubai Silicon Oasis
This is one of the best locations to reside for all the students, remote workers, and tech enthusiasts. This is referred to as the first smart township.

It is home to residential complexes, tech start-ups, and corporate offices. There are studios, apartments for couples and small families, office places, and penthouses. It offers a mix of leisure and fun activities to ensure the entertainment of the tenants. It allows the residents to visit the shopping center, Souq Extra. This is the best destination, providing BBQ spots, a roller skating area, and basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts. The details of the rentals are provided as under:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 32,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 49,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 68,000 yearly
7. Bur Dubai
If you are looking forward to experiencing the charm of old Dubai, then this is the area for you. This area brims with many top attractions of Dubai.

It is Dubai’s oldest neighborhood. It is home to souks, Al Fahidi Fort, and many other buildings. The rentals are extremely budget-friendly. It is very close to Dubai Creek and Textile Souk as well. Many food markets are located nearby, allowing the tenants to relish the authentic food of Dubai. Many Indians prefer to reside in this area. The details of the rentals have been provided as under:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 20,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 36,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 79,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 130,000 yearly
8. Discovery Gardens
This beautiful locality stretches near the Discovery Gardens’ Metro Station. It is an affordable housing township suitable for singles and couples.

It has many modern amenities such as swimming pools, green gardens, tennis courts, supermarkets, and shopping centers. It is close to metro stations, bus stops, and even taxi stands. This township is just a stone’s throw away from Ibn Battuta Mall. This mall is known for providing a good range of shopping and dining options. The details of the rentals are provided as under:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 35,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 49,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 60,000 yearly
9. Dubai Sports City
This township harbors the biggest stadium in Dubai. This neighborhood is dedicated to different sporting centers and complexes. This township sprawls across a large area.

It has many latest amenities, including jogging tracks, cycling tracks, tennis courts, volleyball grounds, and cricket grounds. There are many indoor and outdoor shopping opportunities to entertain oneself. The residents can head towards Els Club Golf Course and even the Dome to enjoy the beautiful sunset of this area. The rentals are very affordable for couples and small families. The details of the same have been provided as under:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 35,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 49,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 80,000 yearly
10. Deira
This is yet another cheapest locality to rent apartments at. It is the oldest commercial center of Dubai. It suits all professionals working at DIFC, Dubai World Trade Center, Dubai Airport Free Zone, and Downtown Dubai.

This locality is very affordable and is equipped with all the modern-day amenities. There are many opportunities available in this area. The cost of the rentals has been given in the following way:
- Rentals for Studios: AED 25,000 yearly
- Rentals for 1 Bed unit: AED 45,000 yearly
- Rentals for 2 Bed Unit: AED 69,000 yearly
- Rentals for 3 Bed unit: AED 90,000 yearly
So, if you plan to rent an affordable apartment in Dubai, these are the best areas for you. These areas offer many latest amenities and modern-day facilities, making sustaining easy.
This is a classic opportunity to rejuvenate your living standards and experience the grandeur of Dubai. These areas are properly connected to different parts of the cities. It is very comfortable to reside here.
Also Read: Best Buildings To Rent Apartments In Business Bay Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum notice period to occupy an apartment in Dubai?
The minimum notice period to occupy an apartment in Dubai is 1 month. This is served by the tenant to the landlord in advance.
2. Should the rental agreement be stamped?
Yes, the rental agreement should be adequately stamped. This agreement is stamped on the adequate authorities.
3. What must be the important factors that should be considered before moving to an apartment?
The factors such as availability of basic necessities of electricity, water, internet and means of transportation including security and availability of recreational activities should be looked into. the budget and the ease of performance should be also considered.
4. What are the ways to find a property for rent in Dubai?
Brokers and other middlemen can be contacted to find the properties on rent. in addition, there are many online websites for this.
5. How many days are taken to finalize an agreement?
There are 5 days taken to finalize an agreement. This can be subject to further delay if the documents are not complete.
FAQs
Affordable Areas To Rent Apartments In Dubai 2023? ›
For rental villas, Deira ranks on top among the most affordable rents, with an average rent of AED114,175. It is followed by Jumeriah Village Triangle and Jumeirah Village Circle averaging AED149,598 and AED155,529, respectively, as the annual rent.
Will rents in Dubai go down 2023? ›According to CBRE's research, in the year through February 2023, average Dubai rents increased by 27.7%.
Which area is cheapest for rent in Dubai? ›Dubai Sports City
Like International City, however, this community is best for tenants with a car. Average rent for a one-bedroom flat in Dubai Sports City is less than AED 50,000 a year, which is a lot cheaper than JBR and Sheikh Zayed Road apartments.
- Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. ...
- Dubai Investment Park (DIP), Dubai. ...
- Sports City, Dubai. ...
- Al Furjan, Dubai. ...
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai. ...
- Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai. ...
- Downtown Dubai, Dubai. ...
- Dubai Marina, Dubai.
- Jumeirah Village. Jumeirah Village is among the most prominent neighbourhoods in New Dubai, known for its freehold affordable properties. ...
- International City. ...
- Dubai Sports City. ...
- Dubai Silicon Oasis. ...
- Jumeirah Lake Towers.
“The average annual apartment and villa asking rents reached Dh99,737 and Dh295,436, respectively, as of February 2023. The highest rental rates for both apartments and villas have been seen in Palm Jumeirah, with average annual rents reaching Dh260,467 and Dh1,017,614, respectively,” according to the report.
Is 2023 a good time to buy property in Dubai? ›Future Growth Potential
The Dubai real estate market is steadily increasing and is predicted to increase by 46% in 2023. According to the Realiste AI data reports, It is predicted that the cost of real estate in this city will rise by 29% in 2023.
For rental villas, Deira ranks on top among the most affordable rents, with an average rent of AED114,175. It is followed by Jumeriah Village Triangle and Jumeirah Village Circle averaging AED149,598 and AED155,529, respectively, as the annual rent.
How to live cheaply in Dubai? ›- LOOK FOR AN AFFORDABLE NEIGHBOURHOOD. ...
- SHARE AN APARTMENT LEGALLY. ...
- LIVE CLOSE TO YOUR WORKPLACE / CHILDREN'S SCHOOL. ...
- USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN DUBAI. ...
- USE ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO AVOID ROAD TOLLS. ...
- SHOP AT AFFORDABLE SUPERMARKETS. ...
- BUY LOCAL. ...
- LOOK FOR FREE OR BUDGET-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI.
A one-bedroom apartment in Old Dubai can range from $885 to $1,175 per month ($10,620 to $14,100 per year) on average. A three-bedroom apartment can range from $1,800 to $2,300 per month ($21,320 to $27,560 per year) on average.
What is normal rent in Dubai? ›
The average price to rent a Single Room Flat in Dubai is Rs. 66,220. Know more.
What is average rent in Dubai? ›Type of Apartment | Cost of rent per month |
---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | AED 5,141.89 (USD 1 399.92) |
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | AED 3,281.72 (USD 893.47) |
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | AED 9,766.53 (USD 2 659.01) |
While the table above estimates the median cost of living, the minimum cost of living for a single person in Dubai would be around AED 6,000 per month to account for any unexpected expenses. This article should help give you an idea of the minimum salary needed to live in Dubai.
Is 5000 dollars enough to live in Dubai? ›However, if you choose to live alone in an inexpensive area, don't eat out too often, and maintain ordinary spending habits, you can live a very comfortable life with AED 5000-8000 (USD 1,360 - 2,180) per month including rent.
How much does it cost to live in Dubai in American dollars? ›Family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,519.7$ (12,924.7AED) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,018.2$ (3,739.0AED) without rent. Dubai is 35.1% less expensive than New York (without rent). Rent in Dubai is, on average, 51.3% lower than in New York.
Is it cheaper to live in Dubai or USA? ›United Arab Emirates vs United States - Cost of Living Comparison. The average cost of living in the United Arab Emirates ($1498) is 32% less expensive than in the United States ($2213). the United Arab Emirates ranked 28th vs 5th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.
What is the best time of year to rent in Dubai? ›Summer is the best time for renters to lease apartments in Dubai, according to real estate agents. “It is a good time as you can find good bargains.
How much is apartment rent in Dubai in dollars? ›Renting in Dubai | Average monthly cost |
---|---|
1 bedroom apartment (elite expat communities) | AED 7500 (2040 USD) |
2 bedroom apartment (city center) | AED 18,500 (5040 USD) |
3 bedroom apartment (elite expat communities) | AED 30,000 (8170 USD) |
To live comfortably in Dubai, you should expect a salary of at least 10,000 to 15,000 AED. This should allow you to cover your rent and bills and have enough disposable income to enjoy Dubai to the fullest.
Why are houses in Dubai so cheap? ›The tax-free environment is one of the most important elements contributing to the reduced prices of Dubai residences. The absence of personal income and capital gains taxes in the UAE makes it an appealing destination for investors and expats.
How many years can you own a house in Dubai? ›
This means that expats and foreign buyers (who don't live in the UAE) may acquire freehold ownership rights without leasehold rights, usufruct rights and restrictions for up to 99 years. Remember that: The Dubai Land Department issues title deeds. There is no age limit to property ownership.
Is Dubai in a property bubble? ›It could grow by more than 7% in 2023, which is lower than 12.4% shown in 2022 but still times higher than that in other international housing markets. The growth of Dubai's real estate market as a whole is slowing down in exactly the same way as all other world markets are slowing down.
Where is the cheapest place to live in 2023? ›Mississippi. Coming in as the cheapest state to live in in the United States is Mississippi with a cost of living index score of 83.3. It also has the lowest average housing costs in the nation at 33.7% below the national average.
Which place in Dubai is best for rental income? ›Dubai Marina and International City are among the top areas to watch for investors who are looking to earn the most on rental homes in the UAE.
How much money is required to live a luxurious life in Dubai? ›...
1. Owning Real Estate.
Area | Price |
---|---|
Downtown Dubai | $270 thousand – $24,5 million |
Dubai Marina | $163 thousand – $13,6 million |
Jumeirah Beach Residence | $270 thousand – $9,5 million |
Jumeirah Lake Towers | $95 thousand – $10,9 million |
When moving to Dubai from the US you would have to obtain an UAE visa to live in the city of Dubai. However, it is fairly simple to apply for one and you can check out which type of visa you will need by visiting the UAE immigration website.
Can you pay rent monthly in Dubai? ›Even though it's not very common, you can find rental properties in Dubai with monthly payment plans. Paying rent in Dubai every month may bring you convenience, but at the same time, they come at a premium.
Which area in Dubai is best to live? ›- Bluewaters. Bluewaters Residences by Meraas is haven for residents and is one of the most-sought out destinations in Dubai. ...
- Madinat Jumeirah Living. ...
- Port De La Mer. ...
- Emaar Beachfront. ...
- Emaar South. ...
- Downtown Dubai. ...
- Dubai Marina. ...
- Arabian Ranches.
As of now, the UAE does not have a national minimum salary or wage since the country's labor law does not specify any minimum salary requirements. However, it is mandated that employees' salaries and wages should cover their basic needs.
How much does a small apartment cost in Dubai? ›The average apartment price in Dubai in UAE dirhams
For a studio apartment, the typical rent in the United Arab Emirates is between 30,000 and 50,000 AED (8,100 and 13,600 USD) a year. Apartments with one or two bedrooms cost between 70,000 and 100,000 AED (19,000–27,220 USD).
Can you rent an apartment in Dubai without residency? ›
In order to rent an apartment or a villa in the Emirate of Dubai, you must generally be the holder of a valid residence visa and a valid Emirates ID card. Exceptions can occur when hotel apartments or holiday homes are rented. When renting such premises, aforementioned documents are usually not mandatory.
Can I negotiate rent in Dubai? ›“If you have the opportunity and the cash flow to pay your rent in fewer cheques, you can negotiate a better price. Also, it helps if you have a family and have been a UAE resident for a long time because the landlord will know you are reliable,” Mr Russell says.
How to get an apartment in Dubai? ›- Search online.
- Visit the Property.
- Make an offer.
- Reserve the property.
- Sign the agreement.
- Things to consider.
- Ejari Registration.
- DEWA.
Dubai has a good average salary range, extending from a monthly salary of 4,810 AED (1,310 USD) to 99,000 AED (26,956 USD) per month. The average salary range only considers salaries that fall between the average minimum salary and the average maximum salary in Dubai.
Is Dubai tax free? ›Absence of taxation
There is currently no personal income tax in the United Arab Emirates. As such, there are no individual tax registration or reporting obligations.
Getting a job in Dubai is more challenging than securing the same in any other part of the world. That is the reason why you must be extremely careful about how you form your resume or CV when applying for a job in Dubai.
How to get job in Dubai easily? ›- Don't over apply.
- Apply at the right time of year.
- Find the best Dubai job vacancies.
- Partner with a top Dubai recruiter.
- Use Dubai job boards.
- Adapt your Dubai CV for every application.
- Optimise your LinkedIn profile for Dubai.
Living Expenses in the UAE
The average cost of living for family of four is about about 12,000 AED per month (3,000 USD). Without rent, this includes items such as groceries, transport, leisure activity, and eating out at restaurants. A single person can expect to pay about 3,000 AED (800 USD).
Dubai drinking laws
Alcohol can only be consumed in private (such as your own home or hotel) or in licensed public places.
...
United Arab Emirates Gasoline prices, 15-May-2023.
United Arab Emirates Gasoline prices | Litre | Gallon |
---|---|---|
AED | 3.050 | 11.546 |
USD | 0.831 | 3.146 |
EUR | 0.765 | 2.896 |
What is the cost of living in Dubai 2023? ›
But the trend changed in 2023 with the average cost of living increasing from AED 3,435.71 to AED 3,477.89 for a single person and AED 11,863.31 to AED 11,958.62 for a family of four.
Is it worth it to live in Dubai? ›The tax-free salaries in Dubai make it one of the best places to build one's future. For most expats who come to Dubai looking for greater opportunities, tax-free income can mean a higher income and greater wealth, presenting a compelling reason to move to Dubai.
How much are groceries in Dubai? ›For groceries, the monthly bill averages around AED 2,200 for a family of four. Shopping at premium retailers can bring up the monthly cost for groceries in Dubai to around AED 3,000 or more.
Does American money go far in Dubai? ›In Dubai Dhiram or DH or Dhs is the official currency. However US Dollar is accepted in most of its places. The exchange rate is 3.67 Dirham for 1 dollar.
Do US citizens need a visa for Dubai? ›Visa Requirements for US Citizens (Tourist Passport) to visit the UAE: No visas are required for American citizens (holder of regular passports) before arrival in the UAE, including US Citizens with visas or entry stamps from other countries in their passports.
Is it cheap for Americans to visit Dubai? ›I'd say that the average cost of a trip to Dubai, for a week, per person, in 2023, ranges between £650 – 970 (US$795 – 1,186) for budget travellers. For a mid-range budget, expect to spend around £1,300 – 1,950 (US$1,590 – 2,385), and for a luxury holiday anything from £3,800 (US$4,650) upwards.
Is California or Dubai more expensive? ›Cost of living in Los Angeles, California (United States) is 42% more expensive than in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) How much money will you need in Los Angeles, California? Find out with your own Salary Calculation. This comparison is based on abundant and consistent data.
Is it cheaper to live in California or Dubai? ›Cost of Living Comparison Between Dubai and Los Angeles, CA
You would need around 25,831.7AED (7,034.6$) in Los Angeles, CA to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with 19,000.0AED in Dubai (assuming you rent in both cities).
If you don't have a job prior to entering, the long-term multiple visit visas will allow you to stay in the country for 90 days with the possibility of reapplying after the time has expired. If you do have an employer set up, they'll typically handle all of the paperwork for your work permit and visa.
Will Dubai rent decrease? ›Real estate in Dubai saw a bumper year in 2022 with record-breaking transactions and soaring property prices – and the trend is expected to continue in 2023, according to a new report, spelling good news for landlords but more rental woes for tenants.
Will rents drop in Dubai? ›
Dubai's residential rents are set to ease or even decline this year after surging to record levels in 2022 on the back of robust demand and limited supply, according to new research.
Is the cost of living increase in Dubai 2023? ›It decreased to around 89% for single and 32% for a family of four. But the trend changed in 2023 with the average cost of living increasing from AED 3,435.71 to AED 3,477.89 for a single person and AED 11,863.31 to AED 11,958.62 for a family of four.
What is the real estate trend in Dubai 2023? ›The surge in demand has led to an increase in the cost of living, with average residential prices in Dubai increasing by 12.8% in the year through March 2023. Average apartment prices have increased by 12.4%, while average villa prices have increased by 14.8% over the same period.
Which month is best to rent an apartment in Dubai? ›Summer is the best time for renters to lease apartments in Dubai, according to real estate agents. “It is a good time as you can find good bargains.
Can you negotiate rent in Dubai? ›“If you have the opportunity and the cash flow to pay your rent in fewer cheques, you can negotiate a better price. Also, it helps if you have a family and have been a UAE resident for a long time because the landlord will know you are reliable,” Mr Russell says.
What is the rent forecast for Dubai? ›Dubai property rents
According to Realiste investors can expect an annual rental yield of up to 7.6 per cent, resulting in a potential return of AED62,700 per year.
However, if you choose to live alone in an inexpensive area, don't eat out too often, and maintain ordinary spending habits, you can live a very comfortable life with AED 5000-8000 (USD 1,360 - 2,180) per month including rent.
How much money do I need to move to Dubai? ›2021 | 2022 | |
---|---|---|
Single Person | AED 3,435.71 (USD 935.35) | AED 3,477.89 (USD 946,88) |
Family of Four | AED 11,863.31 (USD 3 229.69) | AED 11,958.62 (USD 3 255.83) |
The Scenario of Dubai Mortgage Rates in 2023
As of January-February 2022, mortgage rates were recorded at approximately 2.99 percent, which is a significant deviation from the current rates that hover between 5.75-6 percent.
The city has already endured two real-estate crashes this century: an abrupt one during the financial crisis in 2008, when property values fell by half, and a slower one from 2014 to 2020, when they slid by 35%. Buyers are still piling in, but some rental rates may be peaking.