Unit types and typical sizes
| Type | Typical size | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 35–45 m² (380–480 sq ft) | Yield-focused investment, single tenants |
| 1-bedroom | 60–80 m² (650–860 sq ft) | Investment and couples; the most liquid segment |
| 2-bedroom | 95–130 m² | Families and long-term letting |
| 3-bedroom + | 140 m² and above | Family living and prestige |
Sizes in Dubai are usually quoted as total area including balconies.
Options by budget
| Area | Avg. per m² | Gross yield | Studio | 1-bed | Service charge* | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | ≈ 4,430 $ | 7–8.5% | $150–220k | $245–370k | 10–14 AED | Yield-focused investment |
| Arjan | ≈ 4,600 $ | 7–8% | $140–205k | $230–355k | 10–14 AED | Balance of lifestyle and investment |
| Business Bay | ≈ 7,470 $ | 6–7.5% | $230–355k | $355–625k | 14–22 AED | Central location and residence living |
| Dubai Marina | ≈ 6,030 $ | 5.5–7% | $230–340k | $355–570k | 16–25 AED | Lifestyle and liquidity |
| Downtown Dubai | ≈ 8,830 $ | 5–6.5% | $300–465k | $490–815k | 20–30 AED | Prestige and capital preservation |
| Dubai Hills Estate | ≈ 7,130 $ | 5–6% | $245–340k | $370–545k | 14–20 AED | Family living and long-term value |
* AED per sq ft per year. Prices per m² are converted from average apartment transaction prices in Property Monitor’s DLD data (1 Jan–6 Jun 2026) (1 m² = 10.76 sq ft; $1 = AED 3.6725). Yield and budget ranges are 2026 market estimates. Current listings and project details are verified by a licensed partner before any sale.
Ready or off-plan?
Off-plan
Payment plans that often start with a 10–20% down payment and are spread over construction; some include post-handover instalments.
Always check the developer’s track record, handover date and escrow account.
Ready (resale)
You see the building, view and service charge before buying, and can let it straight after transfer.
Cash or mortgage; transactions often complete within a few weeks.
Branded residences
Residences run by hotel and luxury brands, offering prestige, service and strong short-term demand.
Service charges and management fees are higher.
Commercial property
Offices, retail and warehouses, with longer leases to corporate tenants.
Commercial sales and leases carry 5% VAT and different vacancy risks.
Branded residences
Residences managed by international hotel and luxury brands are one of Dubai’s signature products. Services such as a lobby, concierge, cleaning and maintenance bring prestige and strong short-term demand. Service charges and management fees are higher, so the terms of the management agreement must be part of any yield calculation.
Checklist for choosing an apartment
- The building’s annual service charge (via Mollak/Dubai REST) and the quality of building management
- The developer’s delivery record and build quality
- Recent sale and rental prices in the same building and for similar units
- View, floor, orientation and noise
- Payment plan, delay and assignment terms
- Parking, storage, kitchen type (open or closed) and balcony share
- Whether the building allows short-term letting
- After-sales letting and management options
How to get a current list of apartments
Property advertising in Dubai requires DLD Trakheesi permits, and prices and availability change fast. We therefore share verified current options personally, using our licensed partners’ permitted listings.
Tell us your budget, preferred areas and goals, and we will send a shortlist with prices, payment plans, service charges and net-yield estimates.
Frequently asked questions
Which unit type do investors prefer in Dubai?
Studios and one-bedrooms are the most popular for yield and liquidity. Two-bedrooms suit long-term investments targeting family tenants.
Is buying a furnished apartment worthwhile?
For short-term letting, a furnished unit saves time. Unfurnished apartments let well long term too; include the cost of furnishing in your yield calculation.
Is VAT added to apartment prices?
VAT is generally not charged on residential sale prices. Service fees such as agency commission carry 5% VAT.