At Allocation Assist, many doctors and other healthcare professionals have asked about renting or buying accommodation in Dubai.
Most people relocating to the UAE start off renting. Buying a property is a big decision that needs careful consideration.
Factors to consider:
- How long you plan to stay in the UAE
- Your long-term job security
- Your financial situation
- State of the housing market
- Planned investments in your home country
- How you value stability vs flexibility to move
How is the housing market in Dubai in 2023?
The UAE has recovered well following the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy, including the housing market, is growing rapidly. Residential real estate in Dubai witnessed very strong growth in 2022. According to Savills, increasing demand for both rental and purchase of residential properties is pushing prices and rents up. The rate and timeline for price increases has varied across micro-markets, with prime/luxury developments across established locations with limited supply witnessing the highest increase in values.
(https://pdf.euro.savills.co.uk/uae/dubai/uae-2023-en-0703-yu—optimized.pdf)
Deloitte (Middle East Real Estate Predictions 2023 – Dubai) reports that Dubai has established its status as a safe haven for investors in the face of global economic uncertainty. Residential property prices increased by 12% and rents by 19% on average 12% between Q3 2021 and Q3 2022.
The UAE economy is predicted to keep growing over the short to medium term. However, it is always important to check the current condition of the market with a financial advisor before investing.
To Rent or to Buy?
Renting may be preferable if:
- You are not sure how long you plan to stay in the UAE
- You plan to stay for less than 5 years before relocating
- You lack the necessary funds or deposit to secure a mortgage
- You prefer the flexibility to move easily
- You prefer to invest in your home country
Buying may be preferable if:
- You plan to stay more than 5 years in the UAE
- You have a stable employment contract and good job security
- You have sufficient savings for a deposit and other up-front costs (taxes, fees, maintenance etc.)
- You are looking to make a financial investment
- You prefer the stability and comfort of owning your own home
You may find this calculator from propertyfinder.ae useful: Rent vs buy calculator – Dubai
Buying a property is a big financial decision, wherever you are in the world. It is essential to take expert financial and legal advice from before investing.
Whether you choose to buy or rent, Dubai has a very diverse range of properties of all types and for all budgets.
