Should you rent a studio or a 1-bed apartment in Dubai?
Deciding where to live is a tricky task after moving to Dubai. This can be a tough choice given the large number of popular residential communities and the diverse portfolio of rental properties available. If you are moving to the city alone or with your significant other, you can rent a studio or 1-bed apartment in Dubai. However, there are things to remember when going for either bed type.
SHOULD I RENT A STUDIO OR 1-BED APARTMENT IN DUBAI?
Considering the sheer abundance of apartments for rent in Dubai, you won’t be disappointed. You can easily find apartments in various configurations, from small, compact studio flats to larger 4-bed units.
Coming to our discussion, there isn’t a huge difference between a studio apartment and 1 BHK in Dubai. However, there are certainly some key aspects you must consider.
Here’s a look at the important factors you must evaluate before choosing to rent a studio or a rental 1 bedroom flat in Dubai.
COMPARING COVERED AREA OR SQUARE FOOTAGE TO RENT A STUDIO OR 1-BED APARTMENT IN DUBAI
This is the most obvious difference between the two popular apartment types. While square footage for studios and 1-bed units might vary depending on the building and neighbourhood, one thing is certain. 1-bedroom apartments are generally larger than studio units. For instance, you can find a studio apartment in Dubai ranging from 300 sq. ft. to 700 sq. ft., whereas a 1-BHK in Dubai spans 600 sq. ft. to 1,200 sq. ft.
When browsing apartments, ask yourself how much space you need. You need to be sure about this when deciding on renting studio apartments vs 1 bedrooms in Dubai.
Will all your things fit in a studio apartment, or would a 1-bed unit be more suited to your needs? If you don’t want to spend a lot of money upfront, put a few items away by hiring one of the popular storage companies in Dubai. You can then opt for a smaller, cheaper apartment.
LIFESTYLE
Your desired lifestyle is another critical factor that decides whether you rent a studio or 1 bedroom apartment. Do you often invite friends or family over? Are you the one hosting parties during the holidays? If you host guests frequently, a larger 1-bed flat seems a better option. If not, studios for rent in Dubai may be feasible.
PRIVACY
Another deciding factor is the number of family members. Even with a small family, there can be challenges with combined space. For example, do you need a personal space to work without disturbance? A studio flat doesn’t allow that privacy. Having a rental 1-bed flat in Dubai means you won’t be accompanied by an adult or a child in the room you’re working in.
THE BUILDING VS THE APARTMENT TRADE-OFF
Another trade-off people have to make is their preference for the apartment vs the building. You may love the layout or the look of a certain apartment, but the building’s overall vibe isn’t really to your liking. Or on the flip side, you might get a small studio flat, but the tower’s location would significantly reduce your daily commute time.
Sometimes, you might find an impressive studio flat in a brand new building, but you will likely get a 1-bed flat elsewhere for a similar price point. In this case, you are better positioned to decide what’s of greater significance to you. These are the kind of choices you have to make when considering a studio or 1 bedroom for rent in Dubai.
YOUR FUTURE PLANS
Do you want to stay in the same apartment in the long run and start a family, or is it just a temporary arrangement? Will a job change in the near future impact your commuting time? You have to consider these questions when renting a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. If it’s short-term, you may focus on your immediate needs. While if you have long-term goals, you have to weigh your current needs with your future plans.
Often people prefer to move from a studio to a 1-bed apartment or vice versa in the same building. You can compare the difference between a studio apartment and 1 bhk in the building in terms of size, pricing and other factors before making the final call.
MAINTENANCE
This is another vital factor to remember when considering a studio or 1 bedroom for rent in Dubai. The money and time required for a studio’s maintenance and upkeep will be less than a 1-bed apartment. When looking at studio vs 1-bedroom apartments, you have to factor in the monthly maintenance cost involved. Plus, it requires time and effort to clean the premises too. Would you hire a maid or do it yourself? The lesser the space, the easier it is to clean up.
TOP AREAS TO RENT STUDIOS IN DUBAI
Price and location are always key reasons behind any property-related decision. Here’s a breakdown of the average rents for studio flats in five popular locations.
Area | Average Rent |
|---|---|
Area Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | Average Rent AED 42,000 |
Area Deira | Average Rent AED 30,000 |
Area International City | Average Rent AED 24,000 |
Area Bur Dubai | Average Rent AED 37,000 |
Area Business Bay | Average Rent AED 66,000 |
JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE (JVC)
The scenic community of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), which features several low to mid-rise apartment buildings, is at the top of our list.
JVC is a growing residential hub near other main areas of the emirate. There are many parks in the area, which make it ideal for people who prefer the outdoors.
- The average rent for a studio in JVC is AED 42k.
Before making the final decision, read more about the pros and cons of living in JVC.
DEIRA
Another popular area amongst people looking for an affordable studio or 1-bed apartment in Dubai is Deira. It is a well-established commercial hub in old Dubai, located along the banks of Dubai Creek.
You would appreciate the charm of old Dubai while living in this area, with iconic spots like the Heritage House, Al Ahmadiya School and Al Ghurair Centre nearby.
- You can rent a studio in Deira for AED 30k, on average.
INTERNATIONAL CITY
Next up on our list is International City, a neighbourhood best known for its country-themed clusters and low/mid-rise apartment buildings. It is preferred by people looking for affordable accommodation.
You will find a wide range of studio and 1-bedroom apartments in this self-contained community, besides amenities such as restaurants and supermarkets.
- To rent a studio in International City, you can expect to pay AED 24k, on average.
BUR DUBAI
Bur Dubai is one of the oldest and largest residential districts in Dubai. The area combines the modernity of new Dubai with heritage and tradition. Dubai Frame and Meena Bazar are major attractions in Bur Dubai.
Bur Dubai metro stations are served by the Red and Green lines. So, if you regularly travel by Dubai Metro, Bur Dubai could be a good place to live.
- On average, you will have to pay AED 37k to rent a studio in Bur Dubai.
BUSINESS BAY
Concluding our list of top places to look for a 1 bedroom apartment for rent in Dubai is Business Bay. A leading commercial hub, it is an ideal locality for someone who is employed or is running a business in the city centre. The area offers a unique and happening lifestyle. Being a high-end locality, the rents here are on a higher side.
- To rent a studio in Business Bay, you will pay AED 66k, on average.
TOP AREAS TO RENT 1-BED APARTMENTS IN DUBAI
Can’t decide whether to rent a studio or 1-bed apartment in Dubai? Here’s an overview of the most popular areas to rent 1-bedroom apartments in Dubai with the average prices.
Area | Average Rent |
|---|---|
Area Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | Average Rent AED 61,000 |
Area Al Nahda (Dubai) | Average Rent AED 36,000 |
Area Dubai Marina | Average Rent AED 102,000 |
Area Bur Dubai | Average Rent AED 56,000 |
Area Business Bay | Average Rent AED 89,000 |
JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE (JVC)
Whether you are looking to rent a studio or 1-bed apartment in Dubai, JVC tops the popularity charts. As discussed earlier, many factors are behind the popularity of this neighbourhood. From properties and lifestyles to average rents and amenities on offer, it’s a wonderful place to live in.
- The average rent for a 1-bed flat in JVC is AED 61k.
AL NAHDA
Next up on our list of the best places to rent 1-bed apartments in Dubai is Al Nahda. Located on the Sharjah-Dubai border, it is one of the most popular places for people who live in Sharjah and work in Dubai. The presence of metro stations in the area is also a big plus.
You can find spacious apartments at a reasonable rate. Looking to rent a 1-bed apartment in Al Nahda Dubai?
- You can expect to pay AED 36k, on average.
DUBAI MARINA
Even if you have moved to Dubai recently, you will know the centre of attraction – the bustling Dubai Marina. It is one of the most popular areas to live in Dubai. So, whether you rent a studio or 1 bedroom apartment, expect state-of-the-art facilities and luxury amenities.
Buildings in Dubai Marina are known for their waterfront views. You can find the best restaurants, supermarkets, cafes, bars and shopping malls within proximity.
- The average rent for a 1-bed flat in Dubai Marina is AED 102k.
BUR DUBAI
Bur Dubai’s popularity doesn’t diminish among those looking to rent 1-bed apartments either. Comparatively lower rents and the availability of various properties and amenities are reasons why interest in these properties remains high.
- On average, you will have to pay AED 56k to rent a 1-bedroom apartment in Bur Dubai.
BUSINESS BAY
Whether you are looking for a studio or one bedroom apartment for rent in Dubai, Business Bay offers multiple choices. The lifestyle on offer, the amenities within the apartments and in the community and the location makes it an ideal area.
- The average rent for a 1-bed flat in Business Bay is AED 89k.
FAQS ABOUT WHERE TO RENT A STUDIO OR 1-BED APARTMENT IN DUBAI
WHICH ARE THE BEST AREAS TO RENT APARTMENTS IN DUBAI FOR BACHELORS?
Check out our list of the best areas to rent flats in Dubai for a bachelor. While almost all localities are welcoming, some stand out due to the lifestyle they offer.
WHICH ARE THE BEST AREAS TO LIVE IN DUBAI FOR FAMILIES?
Planning to move to Dubai with your family? Here is a list of the top areas to live in Dubai for families.
This concludes our blog comparing the difference between a studio apartment and 1 bhk. You can also look for areas with affordable studio apartments in Dubai.
- 1 BED
- |
- 1 BATH
- |
- 708 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 707 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 914 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 863 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 894 SQFT
- 2 BEDS
- |
- 3 BATHS
- |
- 1533 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 890 SQFT
Whether you rent a studio or 1-bed apartment in Dubai, there shall be some advantages and challenges. Analyse your situation and identify which way forward is the best for you. The difference between studios and 1-bedroom apartments may not seem very large, but it is essential to fully understand what you are opting for.
The good thing about renting is that it is a short-term commitment, and you can relocate if things don’t go as planned.
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