< PreviousRenting in Dubai 20 September 30 – October 13 2020 timeoutdubai.com for a one-bedroom apartment. So accounting for all of the above, what kind of cost are you looking at in addition to the rent itself, and before buying new furniture and sorting out your contents insurance? Here are two hypothetical scenarios, to give you an idea… • First property / tenancy agreement in Dubai (based on one-bedroom apartment with rent valued at Dhs65,000 per year) DEWA deposit + du deposit + Ejari + agent’s fee + security deposit + move-in clean = approx. Dhs9,000. • Moving between tenancy agreements in Dubai (based on one-bedroom apartment with rent valued at Dhs65,000 per year) + du relocation + Ejari + agent’s fee + security deposit + movers + move-out maintenance + move-out clean + move-in clean = approx.. Dhs9,700. THERE ARE MORE PLACES TO BUY FURNITURE THAN GENERIC MALL STORES Yes, there’s a big argument for getting your basics from one of the regional or global homeware giants (cost, mainly) but there are loads of great independent stores for antiques, unique pieces and made-to-order furniture. Check out five top picks on the opposite page. RE-UPHOLSTERING SOFAS INSTEAD OF REPLACING THEM COULD SAVE YOU CASH Brand-new sofas are among the biggest expense when it comes to replacing furniture that’s seen better days. But if it’s just your cushions feeling a bit flat or the covers looking a bit tatty, and you’re otherwise entirely devoted to your L-shaped lounging mate, it’s Choose & Move Offering a ‘one-stop-shop’ service for both those relocating across the UAE and internationally, Choose & Move offer services such packing, organising the transportation of your stuff, documentation work and even handyman services such as plumbing, wall painting and flooring. One-stop-shop service indeed. O www.chooseandmoves.com (050 135 9865). GAC International Moving A firm favourite among expats in Dubai, GAC International Moving offers comprehensive and personalised packing and relocation solutions including door-to- door marine transit insurance packages. GAC was also one of the first moving companies in the region to be accredited by FIDI (Federation of International Furniture Removers). O www.moving.gac.com (800 668464). Leader Relocations Leader Relocations is a fully-licensed and insured moving company that’s been operating since 1991 and offers international and local removals, auto shipping, excess baggage and storage – all under one roof. With over 1,000 removals every year and a great reputation across the UAE, you can be assured that your personal belongings are in good hands. O www.leaderrelocations.com (04 885 2204). Mac Pack Removals The Dubai-based packing and moving company has been relocating homes across the UAE for five years and promises a stress- free experience with most moves being completed in just one day. From planning your move to packing your stuff and unpacking them at your new home, all aspects of your relocation are taken care of. They also offer a range of insurance options to cover your possessions during the move. O www.macpackdubai.com (055 946 9222). On The Move This British-run professional moving company provides a one-to-one personalised service guiding you through each step of your relocation, and promises a reliable service at an affordable price. Even your best furry friend will be taken care of as the Dubai- based company even offers pet relocation services. O www.onthemove.ae (04 884 7705). FIND A QUOTE: LOCAL MOVING FIRMS 14 - 21_FEATURE_RENT_11370529.indd 2028/09/2020 11:57:15Renting in Dubai timeoutdubai.com September 30 – October 13 2020 21 Furnishing your home? Check these out Antika Furniture Home to an ever-changing collection of unique pieces imported directly from India’s Rajasthan and Gujarat regions, get your hands on original or upcycled antiques, bearing all the hallmarks of pieces that have lived a life. O Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, www.antikadubai.com (050 485 1583). Art and Craft Furniture Rocking chairs, bar counters made of barrels, beside tables, benches – whatever you’re looking for, there’s a unique piece at this UAE furniture store. Its bar stools are particularly eye-catching (we love the pedal pick), while you’ll also find a variety of upcycled antiques and statement pieces in eye-catching colours. O Umm Suqeim Road, Dubai, artandcraftfurniture.com (04 397 8646). Lucky Furniture & Handicrafts Launched in 1985, Sharjah-based Lucky Furniture specialises in Indian antique pieces lovingly restored and modernised. Over the years, it has added to and expanded its range to include more diverse items. O Fourth Industrial Street, Industrial Area 11, Sharjah, luckyfurnitureuae.com (06 534 1937). The Driftwood Factory As the name suggests, this Abu Dhabi furniture store specialises in working with reclaimed wood, which it says gives all its pieces “that unfinished, weathered look”. Custom-made pieces range from home bars and dining tables to unique shelving solutions and even dog beds. O Store 25, M44, Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, driftwoodfactory.com (055 305 7856). The Emporium UAE Going for the chunky-industrial vibe? You’ve come to the right place. In addition to a warehouse filled with unique wood-iron coffee tables, dining tables, mirrors, bedframes, desks, shelves and more, The Emporium can custom-make furniture pieces to order. Each piece is completely unique. O Warehouse 5, Al Asayel Street, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.theemporiumuae.com (04 359 9095). The Greens well worth getting a quote for reupholstering before you chuck it out and start again. (Getting your upcycle on is also better for the environment.) Check out companies such as Upholstery Doctor, which can give you a quote quickly based on photos. It brings fabric books to you so you can choose, and prices include collection and delivery of your pieces. IN SOME DISTRICTS, A/C IS CHARGED SEPARATELY TO DEWA When you’re looking at a new property, it’s important to identify whether air-conditioning (A/C) is part of your monthly DEWA bill, or supplied by a separate district cooling firm. Where A/C is supplied via district cooling, you will often find combined utility bills are more expensive, particularly in cases where tenancy contracts specify that quarterly A/C connection fees, and not just monthly consumption charges, are the responsibility of the tenant. JOIN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD’S COMMUNITY FACEBOOK PAGE IF THERE IS ONE These are useful for a whole load of reasons, from tracking down missing pets to getting an understanding of typical DEWA costs for properties in the neighbourhood. Being part of a community group can also help you source recommendations for good gardeners, electricians, contractors and loads more. SOME PROCESSES WILL TEST YOUR PATIENCE Moving in the UAE is just like moving anywhere else in the world – a challenging experience. Go into the whole thing as prepared as you can, but don’t be surprised to find you need another copy of this or that. Requirements can change and vary. Remember to breathe (the Calm app is a great resource for coming down off the ceiling after a difficult conversation), and focus on how good it’s going to feel when you’re finally moved in. You’ll get there. Happy moving day! 14 - 21_FEATURE_RENT_11370529.indd 2128/09/2020 11:57:23Renting in Dubai 22 September 30 – October 13 2020 timeoutdubai.com Which of these best describes the type of property in which you currently live? 81% Apartment 12% Villa 3% Serviced apartment 3% Townhouse 1% Hotel Neighbourhood Want to know what everyone else is paying? We asked 1,500 Dubai residents about renting in the city over the past 12 months, and their plans looking ahead Length of UAE residence 34% More than ten years 12% Seven to ten years 13% Five to seven years 17% Three to five years 17% One to three years 7% Less than one year Aug 30- Sep 23, 2020 Survey conducted 1,500 Dubai residents responded in full watch 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2228/09/2020 16:15:36Renting in Dubai timeoutdubai.com September 30 – October 13 2020 23 Which of these best describes the area in which you live? Of 48 possible areas and neighbourhoods to choose from, these were the top 10, representing 49% of all respondents: 15% Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence 6% Bur Dubai 5% Jumeirah Village Triangle and Jumeirah Village Circle 5% Al Nahda and Al Qusais 4% Al Barsha 4% Business Bay 4% Downtown Dubai 4% Jumeirah Lakes Towers 4% Jebel Ali, Discovery Gardens and Green Community 3% Dubai Motor City and Dubai Sports City Which of these best describes the area in which you would most like to live? Of 48 possible areas and neighbourhoods to choose from, these were the top 10, representing 67% of all respondents: 16% Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence 12% Downtown Dubai 9% Palm Jumeirah 6% Dubai Hills 5% Business Bay 5% Jumeirah 4% Emirates Hills 4% Jumeirah Lakes Towers 3% Bur Dubai 3% The Springs, The Meadows and The Lakes In terms of your living arrangements, do you rent your property.. . 33% with a partner / spouse 26% With family (spouse / children) 25% Alone 8% With relatives (parents / siblings / other) 1% Other 7% With housemates 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2328/09/2020 16:15:47Renting in Dubai 24 September 30 – October 13 2020 timeoutdubai.com What is the annual value of the current rental agreement for the property in which you live? 25% Dhs50,000-69,999 per year 21% Dhs30,000-49,999 per year 18% Dhs70,000-89,999 per year 11% Dhs90,000-109,999 per year 7% Dhs110,000-129,999 per year 6% Less than Dhs30,000 per year 4% Dhs130,000-149,999 per year 2% Dhs150,000-169,999 per year 2% Dhs170,000-199,999 per year 2% Dhs220,000-plus per year 1% Dhs200,000-219,999 per year In the past two years, has the numbe r of cheque s in which your rent is paid... 69% Stayed the same 18% Increase d 13% Decreas ed In the past year, has the cost of your rent... 50% Decreased in the same property 28% Stayed the same 9% Increased as moved to a larger property / different area 8% Decreased as moved to a smaller property / different area 5% Increased in the same property In how many cheques is your annual rent paid? 40% Four cheques 14% One cheque 13% Two cheques 11% Six cheques 2% Other 10% 12 cheques 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2428/09/2020 16:15:57Renting in Dubai timeoutdubai.com September 30 – October 13 2020 25 Have you moved house within the UAE in the past 12 months? 33% Yes Of the 33% who said they had moved house in the past 12 months, we asked: Was your decision to move house within the past 12 months... 32% Impacted by COVID-19 68% Not impacted by COVID-19 Of the 67% who have not moved house in the past 12 months, we asked: Why are you staying in your current property? Respondents were asked to select all that applied. On average, how often do you move house within the UAE? 28% Less than once every three years 25% Once every two years 18% Once every three years 19% I have never moved from my current property 10% Once a year Mid-contract, have you ever successfully re-negotiated terms? 21% Yes – reduced price of rent but the same number of cheques or instalments 40% Did not ask 27% Tried but unsuccessful 7% Yes – reduced price of rent and more cheques or instalments 5% Yes – more cheques or instalments but at the same price 67% No Of those who selected “Other”, most common reasons included waiting for rental contracts to end, proximity to Metro stations, and uncertainty around the future of their employment in light of the business impact of COVID-19. 65% I like the area 47% Don’t need the hassle of moving 35% My rent has decreased 34% It’s close to work 30% It’s close to attractions / amenities 24% My landlord is helpful 10% It’s close to schools 10% Other 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2528/09/2020 16:16:09Renting in Dubai 26 September 30 – October 13 2020 timeoutdubai.com Are you looking to move property within the UAE in the next 12 months? 29% No 27% Undecided Of those the 44% who said they were looking to move house, we asked: Is your decision to move house within the next 12 months... 46% Impacted by COVID-19 54% Not impacted by COVID-19 Of those who answered “Other”, the most common reasons were moving from a hotel to an apartment, or moving from an apartment to a hotel apartment. Do you currently have a garden? 84% No 16% Yes 44% Yes Of those who said they were looking to move property (44%) or were undecided (27%), we asked: What type of property move are / would you be looking to make? 65% Apartment to apartment 23% Apartment to villa 8% Villa to villa 2% Villa to apartment 2% Other Are / would you be looking to move to a property... 40% With a garden 47% With or without a garden – it’s not important either way 13% Without a garden 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2628/09/2020 16:16:19Renting in Dubai timeoutdubai.com September 30 – October 13 2020 27 Why are you, or would you be, looking to move? Respondents were asked to select all that applied. 49% I’m looking for more space 37% I’m looking for better community facilities 22% I want a garden 17% I want to be closer to work 17% I want to be closer to attractions / amenities 13% I want to be closer to a Metro station 9% I want a private pool 7% I want to be closer to schools 1% I’m looking for less space 10% Other In terms of your rental agreement at a future property, are / would you be looking to pay... 57% Less 28% The same 15% More Of those who selected “Other”, the majority of responses said they would be looking for a newer, cleaner or better quality building, or a property with either more affordable chiller fees, or no chiller fees. Further responses included finding a pet-friendly building and plans to purchase a property as reasons for a potential move. 55% I’m looking for lower rent In terms of the size of the property you are / would be looking to move to, would it be... 50% A larger property 28% A property of the same size 12% A smaller property The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. Published under the authority of and in collaboration with Time Out Group Limited London UK. The name and logo of Time Out are used under licence of Time Out Group Limited London UK. With any questions about this or future Time Out surveys, please email: Holly Sands, editorial director, Time Out GCC (holly.sands@itp.com). 22 - 27_TOD_2018_FEATURE - SURVEY_11380037.indd 2728/09/2020 16:16:2928 September 30 – October 13 2020 timeoutdubai.com Me Tortuga 28 - 33_FEATURE_MEXICAN_11383547.indd 2828/09/2020 12:01:25timeoutdubai.com September 30 – October 13 2020 29 Marvellous Once the craving for tacos, burritos, enchiladas or a dollop of fresh guacamole creeps up, these are the Mexican places you need on your radar Mexican 28 - 33_FEATURE_MEXICAN_11383547.indd 2928/09/2020 12:01:34Next >