Renting an Apartment in Dubai
Finding an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions new expats face when moving to Dubai.
Written by Vincent — MovingToDubai.org
Dubai resident since 2026 · Editorial review: 9 August 2026
Content type: Firsthand rental experience + practical planning estimates
While many newcomers focus only on the advertised rent, the reality is that several additional costs must be considered before receiving the keys.
Based on my own experience renting a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai Hills, this guide explains what expats should realistically budget when renting an apartment in Dubai.
My actual 2026 rental: AED 110,000 per year for a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai Hills, paid in two AED 55,000 cheques. The security deposit was AED 5,500, the agency fee AED 5,775 including VAT, the agency admin charge AED 300 and Ejari AED 350. Those figures are why I recommend budgeting the complete move-in cash requirement rather than looking only at annual rent.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent an Apartment in Dubai?
Rental prices vary significantly depending on location.
Typical annual rents for a one-bedroom apartment are:
| Area | Typical Annual Rent |
|---|---|
| JVC | 60,000 – 90,000 AED |
| Dubai Hills | 90,000 – 130,000 AED |
| Dubai Marina | 100,000 – 160,000 AED |
| Downtown Dubai | 120,000 – 200,000+ AED |
Location remains the biggest factor affecting rent.
Security Deposit
Most landlords require a security deposit.
For unfurnished apartments, expect approximately:
5% of annual rent
Example:
| Annual Rent | Security Deposit |
|---|---|
| 110,000 AED | 5,500 AED |
Agency Fees
If an agent is involved, expect:
5% of annual rent
plus administrative charges.
In my case, the total agency-related costs exceeded 6,000 AED.
Ejari Registration
Every rental contract in Dubai must be registered through Ejari.
Typical cost:
200–400 AED
depending on where the registration is completed.
Utility Setup Costs
Many newcomers forget that utilities also require planning.
Typical monthly costs:
| Service | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| DEWA | 400-700 AED |
| Internet | 200-400 AED |
These costs depend on apartment size and usage.
Furnishing Costs
Many apartments are rented unfurnished.
A realistic furnishing budget is often:
15,000-25,000 AED
for a comfortable one-bedroom apartment.
You can read my complete furnishing guide for a more detailed breakdown.
My Experience Renting in Dubai Hills
I chose Dubai Hills because it offered a balance between quality of life, green spaces and accessibility.
Some of the things I enjoy most include:
- Dubai Hills Park
- Walkability
- Modern buildings
- Dubai Hills Mall
- Limited traffic
- Good running routes
The main downside is that some areas remain under development, meaning occasional construction activity.
Overall, I would choose Dubai Hills again if I were moving to Dubai today.
Common Mistakes When Renting an Apartment in Dubai
Looking Only at Rent
Rent is only one component of the total cost.
Ignoring Setup Costs
Deposits, utilities and furniture can add tens of thousands of dirhams.
Choosing the Wrong Area
The cheapest apartment is not always the best value if it creates long commutes.
Related Dubai Guides
- Cost of Living in Dubai Hills (2026)
- How Much Does It Cost to Furnish a 1-Bedroom Apartment in Dubai?
- Buying a Used Car in Dubai: My Toyota Yaris Experience
- Opening a Bank Account in Dubai
- Bringing a Dog to Dubai
FAQ
Is rent paid monthly in Dubai?
Many landlords request payment using one, two or four cheques per year.
What is the security deposit for an apartment in Dubai?
Most landlords require approximately 5% of annual rent for unfurnished apartments.
What additional costs should expats expect?
Security deposit, agency fees, Ejari registration, utilities and furniture are the most common additional expenses.
Is Dubai Hills a good area for expats?
Dubai Hills is popular among expats thanks to its modern buildings, park, mall and overall quality of life.
Planning Your Move to Dubai?
I created the Complete Dubai Relocation Toolkit 2026 based on my personal experience moving to Dubai.
The guide covers:
- Housing
- Banking
- Transportation
- Cost of living
- Utilities
- Administrative procedures
👉 Get the Complete Dubai Relocation Toolkit 2026 — English + French
Continue Your Relocation Plan
Update History
16 August 2026: Added the exact firsthand Dubai Hills lease, cheque, deposit, agency and Ejari figures to strengthen the real move-in cost example.
9 August 2026: Corrected the heading hierarchy, improved image descriptions and added a practical post-signing sequence.