Dubai Accommodation: Hotels, Rentals and Practical Tips for 2025

Looking for a place to stay in Dubai? Whether you’re after a five‑star hotel, a comfy apartment, or a cheap room‑share, the city has choices for every budget. The trick is knowing where to look, what the rules are, and how to avoid hidden fees. Below you’ll find the basics you need to book confidently and stay hassle‑free.

Hotel Stays Made Easy

Hotels dominate the short‑term market, and most international chains are easy to book online. When you reserve, check if the price includes breakfast, Wi‑Fi, and airport transfers – these extras can save you cash later. If you’re traveling as a couple, most hotels allow unmarried partners to stay together, but it’s worth confirming the policy at check‑in to avoid surprise fees.

Want to bring a friend or a girlfriend into your room? Many hotels let overnight guests for a small charge, but you’ll need to show both IDs. In Dubai, some venues still ask for a guest‑list registration, especially in upscale resorts, so have an extra copy of your passport handy.

For party‑goers, know that drinking alcohol is permitted inside licensed hotel rooms and bars, but you can’t consume it in public areas after sunset. Some hotels even provide mini‑bars with a capped selection, so you won’t get caught off‑guard by a big bill.

Finding a Rental That Fits Your Budget

If you plan to stay longer than a month, renting an apartment can be cheaper and feel more like home. The most common lease term is a year, but many landlords now offer month‑to‑month options for expats. Look for listings that mention “Ejari” – this is the official tenancy registration that protects both tenant and landlord.

When you sign a lease, expect a security deposit equal to one month’s rent and a post‑dated cheque for the first year’s rent. Cheques are still widely used in Dubai, so keep a record of them and make sure they’re dated correctly. Some developers also allow you to pay via credit card, which can simplify things if you’re abroad.

Shared accommodation, or “bed space” businesses, are growing fast. They’re legal if the property has an Ejari registration and the landlord approves sub‑letting. This option works well if you’re traveling solo and want to meet other travelers. Just double‑check the contract to see if there are limits on the number of guests or gender mix in the unit.

Two men sharing a room? Absolutely allowed. The UAE’s laws focus on privacy and public decency, not on who shares a private space. However, if you’re staying in a community‑style building, some managers may have additional rules, so ask before you move in.

Finally, don’t forget about utility costs. Some rentals include water and electricity in the rent, while others bill you separately. Knowing this ahead of time helps you budget accurately and avoids surprise bills at the end of the month.

By checking the hotel guest policy, confirming Ejari registration, and understanding deposit and utility rules, you’ll have a smooth stay in Dubai without any nasty surprises. Happy travels!