Pay 
Language 
Currency 
No results found
Accommodation in Dubai for long-term stays as a digital nomad
Find the best accommodation in Dubai for long term stays — the city of the Burj Khalifa is waiting for you!
Dubai is one of the most incredible, luxurious, and extravagant cities in the world — built right in the middle of the desert. From its iconic Burj Khalifa to its colourful souks, the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood, and over 50 km of coastline along the Persian Gulf, this destination amazes you at every corner. Spending a season in this United Arab Emirates city can be an excellent idea, but finding the right accommodation in Dubai for long-term stays is essential. Don’t worry — this guide’s got you covered.
To begin with, answering the question “where to stay in Dubai” isn’t easy — the options are endless! Both tourists and digital nomads, students or anyone wishing to stay longer will find a wide and varied range of accommodation. On top of that, Dubai offers everything you need to live: excellent connectivity, safety, top-class services and, above all, a very active international community.
In this article, we’ll show you the best areas for living a season in Dubai, the types of accommodation available and the approximate price for each option. It’s all designed for digital nomads, students, expats or travellers looking for comfort, good location and a reliable internet connection.
Ready to discover where to stay in Dubai without spending a fortune, while enjoying everything you need to live and work comfortably?
Where to stay in Dubai? Options for long-term living
Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world — like the Burj Al Arab or Atlantis The Palm — but also plenty of alternatives suitable for longer stays, and even simple hotels made for travellers on tighter budgets. As a digital nomad or student planning to settle in the city, you’ll likely want a practical and comfortable place that doesn’t break the bank. With a bit of patience, time and a good search, you’ll find it and live your dream of working and exploring Dubai at your own pace.
Get comfortable, because we’re about to share the main accommodation options for staying in Dubai for weeks or months. We’ve included approximate prices in dirhams (AED) with their equivalent in euros, so you can plan clearly. And if you’re unsure about your budget, we recommend reading this article on the cost of living in Dubai. It might surprise you in more than one way.
Coliving in Dubai: The best option for digital nomads
In major cities around the world, coliving spaces have become the most suitable alternative for digital nomads seeking community life. Working remotely while travelling can feel lonely, so coliving offers a place to live, work and meet like-minded people. Not sure what these spaces are? Reading this article will help you understand them better.
Coliving in Dubai is booming, especially in neighbourhoods such as Dubai Marina, JLT and Business Bay. These spaces include private rooms, shared areas, coworking zones, weekly cleaning, high-speed Wi-Fi and other amenities. They also organise events, workshops and networking activities to encourage connection and community spirit — sometimes even a gym is included.
What coliving options can you find in Dubai? Some of the most popular include Hive Coliv JVC (Jumeirah Village Circle), The Co-Dubai, located in the city centre, and You&Co in Dubai Production City (IMPZ). The areas with the highest number of coliving options are Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Al Barsha and Business Bay.
- The average monthly cost of living in a coliving space in Dubai ranges between €750 (AED 3,000, $873) and €1,500 (AED 6,000, $1,747).
Furnished apartments
If coliving isn’t your thing — maybe you prefer not to share your kitchen or workspace — renting a furnished flat or studio in Dubai could be a better choice. You’ll find great options in JVC, Al Barsha, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai Hills, the most recommended areas for this type of accommodation. If you’re after a more luxurious experience, Bluewaters Island offers ready-to-move apartments with access to facilities like a swimming pool and gym.
Where can you look for furnished apartments in Dubai? Check websites such as Airbnb, Property Finder, Bayut and Dubizzle.
- The estimated monthly cost of a studio in Dubai starts at €1,000 (AED 4,000, $1,165).
- A one-bedroom apartment: from €1,370 (AED 5,500, $1,596).
- A two-bedroom apartment: from €1,750 (AED 7,000, $2,039).
- Keep in mind that prices rise significantly in central areas.
Where to stay in Dubai? Airbnb for seasonal stays
When searching for ready-to-move-in accommodation, Airbnb is one of the most popular choices — and a city like Dubai is no exception. Many hosts offer discounts for long stays (28 days or more), so it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons of renting through this well-known platform.
Through Airbnb, you can find a wide variety of properties across the city, for as long as you like and without complex paperwork. We recommend areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown, City Walk and JVC. If Airbnb prices seem high, it’s still a great option for your first few days while you search for more permanent accommodation.
Here are a few examples for reference, though remember that prices may vary depending on the location, length of stay and season:
- Studios or small flats (Downtown or Dubai Marina): between €1,400 (AED 5,500, $1,631) and €2,030 (AED 8,000, $2,365) per month.
- One-bedroom apartments: One-bedroom apartment: between €1,900 (AED 7,500, $2,213) and €2,800 (AED 11,000, $3,262) per month.
- Two-bedroom apartment: Between €2,530 (AED 10,000, $2,947) and €4,060 (AED 16,000, $4,730) per month.
In more distant areas like Deira or Al Qusais, prices average around €890 (AED 3,500, $1,036), while in premium zones such as The Palm, rates rise to about €5,000 (AED 20,000, $5,825) per month.
Student residences in Dubai
Did you know the United Arab Emirates ranks among the countries hosting the highest number of international students each year? As one of its most important cities, Dubai is a key destination attracting people who come to study at its universities and educational centres. If you’re planning to move for a course or academic programme, we recommend reading our guide on studying in Dubai as a foreigner.
If you’re part of this group, student residences are an excellent and practical solution when deciding where to stay in Dubai. They’re cheaper and more convenient than other types of accommodation, as most are located near university campuses. Some of the most popular and modern options include The Myriad Dubai, Uninest Student Residences and KSK Homes, all within Dubai International Academic City (DIAC).
- The estimated monthly cost of living in a student residence in Dubai ranges from €620 (AED 2,500) to €1,100 (AED 4,500).
Hotels with long-stay discounts Staying in a hotel in Dubai might not seem the most affordable option, but don’t dismiss it too quickly.
Some hotels offer reduced monthly rates for stays of more than 28 nights. Many operate as apart-hotels, featuring equipped kitchens, weekly cleaning and included services, making them another valid alternative for long-term stays in Dubai.
You can search on Booking, Agoda or similar websites using the “long stay” filter, or directly on hotel websites. You’ll often get a better rate if you email the reservations team and explain you’re looking for a 30-day or longer stay. In many cases, this guarantees a lower price than booking platforms.
Which hotels offer long-stay discounts? Some good examples are Staybridge Suites Dubai (Internet City and Financial Centre), Element Al Jaddaf (Marriott), Citadines Metro Central Dubai and Golden Sands Hotel Apartments.
- The estimated monthly cost of staying in a two- or three-star hotel in Dubai is around €1,500 (AED 6,000, $1,747).
How to stay connected to the internet during your trip to Dubai
Dubai has excellent internet infrastructure — something you’d fully expect from such a forward-thinking city. Having a reliable data plan helps you make the most of it. Furthermore, if you plan to settle in Dubai for a while, having a good connection from day one is essential for working, getting around the city, and staying connected. Holafly’s eSIM for the United Arab Emirates provides you with unlimited data only on the days you need it, perfect for short stays.
For longer trips, the best solution is the Holafly monthly plan. It offers unlimited data in Dubai and more than 160 countries — ideal if you plan to explore other destinations in the Arabian Peninsula. You can also share data with several devices. It’s convenient, affordable and avoids nasty surprises on your bill.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Where to stay in Dubai? Best districts and areas for a long stay
Now that you know the best types of accommodation for extended stays, let’s explore the top neighbourhoods in the city. Dubai is divided into very different areas — some ultra-modern, others more residential or tailored for expats and students. The good news is that nearly all are well-connected, safe and ideal for long-term living.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most sought-after areas, so we suggest booking early if you plan to live here. It’s one of the main meeting points for foreigners living in Dubai. Although it’s pricier than other districts, staying here comes with many advantages: countless restaurants, the Marina Mall — one of the city’s top shopping centres — and plenty of atmosphere.
For digital nomads, this area offers towers with sea views, cafés with high-speed Wi-Fi, coworking spaces and direct beach access. You’ll also find plenty of coliving and monthly rental options. The area is very well connected to the city centre by metro and tram and has quick access to Sheikh Zayed Road — the country’s main highway — all within ten minutes.
What attractions are nearby? The waterfront promenade, Dubai Marina Mall, JBR public beach, Aquafun Water Park and Ain Dubai — the world’s largest observation wheel. The district also has a vibrant nightlife scene, making it perfect for those seeking lively evenings.
Accommodation in Dubai Marina
Here are a few accommodation options for long stays in Dubai Marina:
- Coliving: Roam Coliving and Hive Marina.
- Hotels with long-stay discounts: Wyndham Dubai Marina, Radisson Blu Residence Dubai Marina and Pearl Marina Hotel Apartments.
- Furnished apartments: In towers such as Marina Gate or Princess Tower.
Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
JLT sits right opposite Dubai Marina and offers a calmer, more affordable version of modern city life. Here, you’ll find over 2.5 km of skyscrapers stretching along Sheikh Zayed Road and surrounding three large lakes. Despite its size, it’s one of the city’s most relaxed districts. It stands out for its green spaces, coworking hubs, cafés with Wi-Fi and international supermarkets.
It’s an ideal choice if you want a convenient area with everything nearby, without overspending. If you enjoy outdoor time after work, JLT’s lakeside paths are perfect for walking or jogging. In fact, it’s one of Dubai’s best districts for strolls when the weather’s pleasant. The park area also hosts open-air film screenings, markets, fitness classes and community events.
Accommodation in JLT
The accommodation offer here is slightly smaller than in Dubai Marina. For example, there are few three-star hotels — Oaks Liwa Heights Hotel Suites is the only one in the area. However, there are other affordable options nearby, so this shouldn’t be a problem.
- Recommended colivings in JLT: Hive Coliv and Co-Dubai.
- Hotels with monthly rates: Oaks Liwa Heights and Bonnington JLT.
Al Barsha: A great area to stay in Dubai
Looking for a well-located district with lower prices? Al Barsha is an ideal choice. It’s a residential, practical and more affordable area, close to the Mall of the Emirates, schools, supermarkets and has a distinctly local vibe.
Al Barsha stretches from Dubai Miracle Garden to the main Dubai highway, near the famous Palm Jumeirah. It has good metro connections and offers a wide range of accommodation at more reasonable prices than Dubai Marina or Downtown.
The main city attractions are a bit farther away, which keeps the area less touristy and more authentic. For longer stays, it’s undoubtedly one of the best alternatives. Nearby attractions include the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai and Dubai Science Park.
Accommodation in Al Barsha
The area offers a solid range of accommodation and easy access to coworking hubs like Media City and Tecom. When searching, type Al Barsha 1 or Al Barsha Heights to narrow your results.
- Budget hotels for long stays: Novotel Suites Mall of the Emirates and Golden Tulip Al Barsha.
- Coliving: Hive Coliv (Al Barsha 1), Nomad Coliving Dubai (near Al Barsha Heights) and Colif Dubai. We also recommend Sonder Suites & Rooms, a boutique-style coliving option with a similar community vibe.
- Airbnb: Modern Studio near MOE and Luxury Studio.
Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Dubai
If you’re after a balance of location, comfort, connectivity and price, JLT is an excellent choice. It’s quieter than Dubai Marina, more modern than Al Barsha and far more affordable than Downtown. You’ll have everything nearby: coworkings, parks, metro, cafés, shops and active colivings.
Neighbourhoods like Al Barsha, JVC and Dubai Silicon Oasis offer lower prices without losing connection to the rest of the city. Studios start from €950 (AED 3,800, $1,106), and one-bedroom flats cost around €1,250 (AED 5,000, $1,456).
Although Dubai has a huge range of accommodation, if you’re looking for affordable or well-located options, it’s best to book at least two to four weeks in advance, especially during the high season (November to March).
Yes. If you’re coming from Latin America or Spain, you’ll find many people who speak Spanish in Dubai. There are even social media groups, events and meetups for Spanish speakers, especially within the digital and entrepreneurial community.
The most expensive area to stay in Dubai is Palm Jumeirah. It’s an exclusive district with beachfront villas, luxury hotels like Atlantis and The Royal, and premium apartments. It suits those seeking luxury and stunning views, though it’s not the best choice for long stays.
