Renting Furnished vs Unfurnished Houses in Dubai

There are many factors to consider while thinking of renting a new house in Dubai. Finding just the right place is an exciting yet challenging process. One of the key factors we’ll be discussing more closely in this article is whether to opt for a furnished or unfurnished property. Keep in mind that both options come with their own set of pros and cons depending on your personal preference, budget, and specific needs in the end.

First of all furnished apartments are divided into two:

Fully furnished Apartments:

Fully furnished apartments in Dubai typically come with all the necessary furniture, appliances, and sometimes even linens and kitchenware. They are ready for immediate occupancy and provide a hassle-free living experience. These apartments are suitable for those who prefer convenience and do not want the hassle of buying and moving furniture. Furnished apartments are often the preferred choice for short-term stays, expatriates, or individuals who prioritize convenience over customization.

Semi-Furnished Apartments:

Semi-furnished apartments in Dubai strike a balance between fully furnished and unfurnished properties. They typically include essential fixtures such as kitchen cabinets, lighting, and sometimes built-in wardrobes, but may not come with all the furniture and appliances found in fully furnished apartments. Semi-furnished apartments provide a middle ground for tenants who want some level of convenience without sacrificing the flexibility to personalize their living space.

Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider when deciding between a furnished and unfurnished house in Dubai:

Cost:

Unfurnished properties generally have lower average annual rent compared to furnished ones. This is because almost all the furniture and household necessities are available in furnished apartments. However, don’t forget that furnishing an unfurnished property can also involve significant upfront costs as well. It will then depend on how long you’ll be staying in Dubai.

Read more on Short Term Vs. Long Term Rentals in Dubai

Duration of Stay:

If you plan to stay in Dubai for a short period, a furnished house might be more suitable. It eliminates the need to invest in furniture that you'll eventually have to sell or move. If you plan to stay long-term or have specific furniture preferences, an unfurnished property might be a more practical and cheaper option.

Customization:

Unfurnished properties provide the flexibility to decorate and design the space according to your preferences. This allows you to create a personalized living environment that suits your style and needs. However, this also means you need to invest time and money in furnishing the property. That’s why it’s not very practical to go for this option if you’re not really staying that long. But if you are then it’s definitely a way to make you feel more at home giving you a more sense of belonging as an expat.

Maintenance and Repairs:

With a furnished property, the landlord is typically responsible for maintaining the provided furniture and appliances. In an unfurnished property, you may have to bear the responsibility and costs of maintaining your own furniture and appliances. Of course, some prefer to use their own belongings and furniture even if it would mean more maintenance work on their hands.

Convenience:

Furnished properties are ideal for those looking for a hassle-free move, as they come with essential furniture and appliances. This can save you time and effort in setting up your new home. On the other hand, if you already have your furniture, an unfurnished property allows you to personalize the space to your taste and needs.

Resale Value:

If you plan to leave Dubai in the future, furnished properties might have better resale value, as they cater to a broader market of potential renters or buyers who prefer furnished accommodation.

Storage Space:

Unfurnished properties generally offer more storage space as they don't come pre-furnished. If you have a lot of belongings, this could be an important factor to consider. Also, sometimes when you move into a furnished place you end up stuck with several pieces of furniture that you may not use at all, taking up too much space that you could be using in a much more useful way.

Before making your decision on choosing an unfurnished, fully-furnished or semi-furnished property, carefully assess your needs, budget, and long-term plans. It's also advisable to consult with a reputable real estate agent in Dubai who can provide insights into the current rental market trends and help you make an informed choice.

Remember to consult with professionals in the real estate market such as RE/MAX UAE for any specific inquiries or assistance related to the rental market in Dubai. You can contact us by calling +971 4 589 7376 or contact us here.