Housing in
Dubai
As a student coming to Dubai, finding accommodation is perhaps one of the most difficult things to do. The variety of rental prices based on location and the type of accommodation is wide.
The good news: there are many student-friendly housing options, from university dormitories to private apartments and shared villas. The key is knowing where to look, what to expect, and how to avoid common traps.
Types of Housing
Tips for Finding Housing
• Use trusted platforms like Dubizzle, Bayut, and Property Finder — always filter for shared/student-friendly spaces.
• Visit properties in person before paying anything.
• Always ask if DEWA (water & electricity) and Wi-Fi are included in rent.
• Check transport options: Is there a metro station nearby? Are there bus links to your university?
• Consider proximity to grocery stores, gyms, and budget restaurants.
• Use WhatsApp groups and Facebook communities like:
“Dubai Student Accommodation”
“Flatmates in Dubai”
“Indians in Dubai” (or your nationality-specific groups)
Popular Areas for Students
Documents & Rules to Know
To rent legally in Dubai, even for shared housing, you should be aware of these key requirements:
• Emirates ID: Required for official tenancy contracts (but not always needed for informal sharing).
• Passport Copy + Visa: Often requested by landlords for identity verification.
• Ejari Registration: Official rental registration in Dubai Land Department system — typically done for full apartment rentals, not room sharing.
• RERA Regulations: Rental agreements must comply with Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) guidelines.
• Tenant Rights: Dubai law caps annual rent increases and protects tenants from arbitrary eviction — check the Dubai Rent Increase Calculator.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Paying deposits without visiting – Always visit the room in person or via a trusted contact before sending any money.
Hidden costs – Some landlords don’t include utilities or internet in the rent.
Agent scams – Never trust listings with suspiciously low prices. Use only RERA-registered agents when dealing with property brokers.
Overcommitting – Avoid long-term contracts if you're unsure about your stay duration. Many students start with short-term options and move after settling.
Rent payment – official rent in Dubai is paid by checks which can be a problem for a student who has monthly budget.
Useful Platforms & Sources
Platforms for house searching:
- Dubizzle - Housing Section
Facebook Groups:
“Dubai Student Housing”
“Flat Sharing in Dubai”
“Apartments & Rooms for Rent Dubai”