Long-stay travellers are drawn to Dubai for several reasons, ranging from the city’s top-class infrastructure to flexible visa options, excellent safety levels and top-tier attractions. Digital nomadism, remote work, relocations and bleisure (business + leisure) have increased demand for long-term stays (30+ days) in Dubai. This is where extended stay apartments in Dubai and other tailored accommodation solutions are also gaining traction in recent times.
However, to ensure a hassle-free 30+ day stay in the Emirate of Dubai, it is important to consider a few vital aspects before booking. Let us analyse them in more detail below.
Main Drivers of Longer Stays in Dubai
There are several growth drivers behind the increasing preference for longer stays in Dubai. Some of them include:
- Visa flexibility: The introduction of remote work, digital nomad and 5-year multi-entry tourist visas has made long-term visits simpler for travellers.
- Great hospitality: Dubai offers access to a flourishing hospitality market with flexible accommodation options, competitive rates and convenient booking terms.
- Remote work culture: Cutting-edge digital infrastructure and co-working spaces enable professionals to work smoothly while living in Dubai.
- Higher safety and livability: World-class safety standards and public infrastructure enhance day-to-day comfort. Theme parks, attractions, community living and amenities also cater to families looking for multi-week stays.
Let us now look at the key things to consider before booking.
Choosing Accommodation Wisely for 30+ Days in Dubai
Wait before booking that hotel in Dubai for a longer trip to the city. For a 30+ day stay in the Emirate, avoid standard annual leases which require complicated utility installations (DEWA) and costly deposits. Here are some of the considerations in this regard.
- Hidden fees & taxes: Check if the municipal taxes, tourism dirham fees and cleaning fees are bundled into the quoted monthly rates.
- Commute & location: Choose localities synced with your daily lifestyle routines. Dubai Marina is ideal for nightlife, while Business Bay is tailored for corporates. Areas like Al Barsha offer metro access with co-working spaces.
- Connectivity options: Ensure that high-speed Wi-Fi is guaranteed with the accommodation if you work remotely.
- Cancellation & extension flexibility: Confirm whether the property offers lease extensions in case you need to stretch your stay.
Why Extended Stay Apartments in Dubai Work Best
Extended stay apartments are often ideal options to stay for 30+ days in Dubai. For starters, they come with all-inclusive rates (electricity, water, cooling, internet and housekeeping) for higher savings. The nightly rates may be lower, particularly with extended stay discounts or packages.
They are move-in ready with full furnishings, kitchens, appliances, laundry setups, linen and more. Most properties also offer to shared amenities, such as fitness centres, pools and meeting rooms, along with concierge/reception desks. Cooking meals and accessing in-unit laundry also ensures higher savings, while flexible lease terms are another benefit.
What to Look for While Booking Extended Stay Apartments in Dubai
These are some of the things to check before booking your extended stay apartment in Dubai.
- Configuration: Ensure you’re booking the right configuration, whether it is furnished studio apartments in Dubai (for solo travellers) or one, two and three bedroom units.
- Lease inclusions/exclusions: Look for the rate inclusions, housekeeping frequency, maintenance terms, deposits if any and other provisions.
- Locality and property: Read property reviews carefully before booking and compare multiple properties based on rates, locations and amenities. Try to learn about the noise levels in the area, how close it is to the nearest metro station and whether there are shared on-site amenities.
- Verified listings: Always book from a reliable provider/brand and ensure that you are booking a verified listing.
- Long-stay discounts: Enquire about special packages or discounts for long-term stays (30+ days) that may help you save money.
Visas, Travel and Local Amenities: What to Know
Here are some other key aspects worth noting while planning to stay in Dubai for a longer duration.
- Visa extensions: Standard 30-day tourist visas will need extensions/renewable through the GDRFA app or UAE ICP Portal before they expire.
- Local laws: Look up the rules on public behaviour, dressing modestly in non-beach zones and limits on public displays of affection. Never take any photographs of people, Government buildings and military sites without consent. Intoxication in public spaces and drug-linked offenses have severe consequences, along with aggressive behaviour, criticising the Government and swearing.
- Public transit card: Buy the monthly Nol card for easy Dubai metro, bus and marine travel.
- Getting around: Download the Careem app for local travel or use RTA taxis. Remember that Dubai is not ideal for longer walks, particularly in the warmer months.
- Groceries & delivery: You can use Talabat or Instashop for easy delivery of meals and groceries.
- Dining out: Eating in older localities like Karama or Deira is often more cost-effective. Booking an apartment with a kitchen helps you save on the costs of daily dine-outs.
- Connectivity: Confirm that your accommodation offers high-speed Wi-Fi, while getting a long-term or local tourist SIM card once you arrive at the airport.
- Payments: Have a local debit card or zero-Forex card, since Dubai is mostly cashless. However, smaller stores may still take AED cash.
Where to Stay for Your Extended Trip to Dubai
Here are the top neighbourhood recommendations for booking extended stay apartments in Dubai.
1. Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina offers great connectivity through the Red Line metro network and tram lines, along with the Sheikh Zayed Road. Amenities include high-rises with pools and gyms, along with clinics and supermarkets like Waitrose and Spinneys. You will enjoy the walkable waterfront promenades and lifestyle facilities here.
Nearby Attractions & Business Hubs: JBR Beach, Marina Walk, Dubai Media City, JLT business hub and Skydive Dubai.
Suitable For: Young professionals and couples who want a waterfront lifestyle.
2. Downtown Dubai and Business Bay
Downtown Dubai and Business Bay offer easy access to the Red Line network and several bus routes. There are several convenience stores, hypermarkets, fitness centres and premium dining options along the stretch, along with pedestrian pathways and canal walkways. The central location is a key benefit.
Nearby Attractions & Business Hubs: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera, DIFC and Downtown corporate hubs.
Suitable For: Corporate executives and families who want city centre convenience.
3. Al Barsha
Al Barsha is a budget-friendly neighbourhood that is preferred by families and offers easy access to the Red Line network through the Mall of the Emirates station. Bus networks are also accessible, along with local pharmacies, clinics, supermarkets and casual dining options. There are several accessible community spaces in the area as well.
Nearby Attractions & Business Hubs: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Tecom and Al Quoz business hubs.
Suitable For: Mid-budget families looking for reliable transit facilities, daily convenience and a more residential atmosphere.
Conclusion
Find tailored extended stay aparthotels across prime locations in Dubai from TheSqua.re. They offer competitive rates with ample space and great amenities. Book your apartment in advance to get more availability and better rates.
Recent Comments