🏠Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rentals for Holiday Homes in Dubai: Which is Right for You?
Dubai’s dynamic real estate market offers multiple opportunities for property owners and investors. One of the most popular choices today is converting your property into a holiday home—but the question remains: should you rent it out short-term or long-term?
In this blog, we break down the key differences between short-term and long-term rentals to help you decide what’s best for your goals.
🌴 What is a Short-Term Rental?
Short-term rentals (STRs) are fully furnished properties leased for days, weeks, or a few months. They cater mostly to tourists, business travelers, and digital nomads.
âś… Pros of Short-Term Rentals:
- Higher income potential during peak seasons and holidays.
- Flexibility—you can block off dates for personal use.
- Less wear-and-tear as stays are often shorter.
- Ideal for holiday homes in prime locations like Dubai Marina, Downtown, or Palm Jumeirah.
⚠️ Things to Consider:
- Income can be seasonal or inconsistent.
- Requires active management (cleaning, guest check-in/out, listings).
- You need a Holiday Home Permit from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
🏡 What is a Long-Term Rental?
Long-term rentals involve leasing your property for 6 months to 1 year or more, usually to residents, expats, or working professionals.
âś… Pros of Long-Term Rentals:
- Steady, predictable income month to month.
- Less day-to-day management compared to STRs.
- Tenant usually pays for utilities and maintenance.
⚠️ Things to Consider:
- Lower income potential compared to short-term, especially in high-demand tourist areas.
- Less flexibility—you can’t use the property yourself during the lease.
- Legal obligations under Ejari and tenancy laws must be followed.
🏖️ Which Is Better for You?
It depends on your priorities:
|
Goal |
Best Option |
|
Maximize income during high season |
Short-Term |
|
Prefer consistent monthly income |
Long-Term |
|
Own a home in a tourist area |
Short-Term |
| Want a hands-off approach |
Long-Term |
At A-living Holiday Homes, we help property owners manage both short-term and long-term rentals based on market demand, location, and your preferences.
đź“Ś Final Thoughts
Dubai’s holiday home market is thriving—whether you prefer short-term flexibility or long-term stability, the key is professional management and legal compliance. If you’re unsure which direction to take, we’re here to help.
As someone who travels to Dubai every few months for business, short-term rentals have been a game changer. I get the comfort of a home, better locations, and it usually ends up cheaper than a hotel — especially for extended stays.
Long-term stays are ideal if you’re relocating or planning to stay in Dubai for a few months. I used A-Living Holiday Homes when I first moved, and it helped me settle in quickly without the stress of yearly contracts.