Dubai has made it easier for property buyers to secure residency, after the Dubai Land Department (DLD) introduced new rules removing the minimum property value requirement for a two-year real estate investor visa.

Previously, investors needed to own property worth at least Dh750,000 to qualify. Under the updated system, buyers can now apply for the visa regardless of property value, as long as they are the sole owner.

For many UAE expats and first-time buyers, the move significantly lowers the barrier to entry, making it possible to invest in more affordable properties while still securing residency benefits.

Officials say the change is part of Dubai’s wider push to expand its investor base, boost property demand, and strengthen its position as a global real estate hub.

There are still some conditions for jointly owned properties. According to DLD’s Cube Centre, if two investors share ownership equally, each person’s stake must be at least Dh400,000 to qualify for the visa.

What it means for expats

For expats looking to put down roots in Dubai, the update creates more flexibility and accessibility, especially for those entering the market at lower price points. It also opens the door for a wider range of investors to benefit from property-linked residency.

The move is expected to increase market activity, encourage long-term investment, and support sustainable growth across Dubai’s real estate sector.

‘Shop Local’, a new initiative aimed at helping consumers across the UAE discover and support homegrown businesses, while giving small and medium enterprises (SMEs) greater visibility, has been launched by a local platform Quiqup.

It will bring together UAE-based brands in one place, allowing users to easily browse, discover and purchase from local businesses that often face challenges standing out in crowded digital spaces.

Open to small and local businesses nationwide, ‘Shop Local’ is designed to address one of the most common hurdles SMEs encounter, reaching the right audience. By offering a dedicated channel, the initiative aims to help businesses build awareness, drive sales and support long-term growth.

The launch coincides with the announcement of the establishment of the Dh1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund to boost localisation within key industries by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Strengthening local businesses

Fatima Yousif Alnaqbi, Acting Assistant Under-Secretary for the Support Services Sector at the Ministry of Finance and representative at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund, highlighted the importance of enabling high-potential businesses to scale.

She noted that supporting companies at the right stage allows them to contribute more effectively to the economy, particularly in the UAE, where innovation and entrepreneurship play a key role in driving growth and creating new opportunities.

Bassel El Koussa, CEO of Quiqup, said the initiative reflects the company’s belief in strengthening connections between businesses and communities.

He added that ‘Shop Local’ is intended to create opportunities for local brands to grow, deepen customer engagement and build a stronger market presence, while encouraging consumers to play a more active role in supporting the local economy.

The platform has already received 190 brand submissions, with Quiqup aiming to onboard at least 250 businesses in the coming weeks.

Dubai continues to attract professionals, families, and digital nomads seeking long-term apartment rentals, thanks to its strong economy, modern lifestyle, and world-class infrastructure.

However, for newcomers, finding the right apartment that fits both budget and lifestyle can feel overwhelming.

Here are some of the top areas in Dubai for long-term rentals, based on tenant preferences, amenities, and rental trends:

Think luxury

• Dubai Marina
  Still one of the most in-demand expat hubs, prices vary a lot by tower, view, and furnishing.
  Typical rents:
  Studio: Dh55,000 – 110,000
  1BR: Dh75,000 – 135,000
  2BR: Dh110,000 – 200,000
  3BR: Dh200,000 – 350,000
• 
  Market note:
  Median rent sits around Dh130,000 across unit types
  Waterfront views and newer towers push prices to the top end.
  
  Palm Jumeirah (Palm Islands)
  This is a completely different tier—think luxury, beachfront, and limited supply.
  Typical annual rents:
  1BR (apartments): Dh 140,000 – 200,000
  2BR: Dh 250,000 – 350,000
  3BR apartments: Dh 500,000 – 700,000

Best for families with quality living

• Dubai Hills Estate:
  Green, peaceful, and family-focused. Popular for expat families, with top schools and long-term tenant stability.

Typical rents:

• 1BR: Dh80,000–120,000
• 2BR: Dh130,000–190,000
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC):
  Affordable, community-driven living with parks and strong rental yields. Ideal for families seeking quiet suburban life.

Typical rents:

• Studio: Dh45,000–65,000
• 1BR: Dh65,000–95,000
  

Best for professionals and city life

• Business Bay:
  A central business hub with high demand, perfect for young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Typical rents:

• Studio: Dh60,000–85,000
• 1BR: Dh85,000–130,000
• Downtown Dubai:
  Premium urban lifestyle near offices, dining, and entertainment.
• 1BR: Dh110,000–180,000
• 2BR: Dh180,000–280,000
• Dubai Marina:
  Vibrant waterfront living with high-rise apartments and strong rental appeal.
• Studio: Dh70,000–95,000
• 1BR: Dh95,000–140,000

Best for affordable rentals and value

A practical choice for professionals working in tech or nearby zones. Known for quieter living and relatively lower rents.

International City
Remains one of Dubai’s most budget-friendly areas, popular for first-time expats or singles.
Typical rents:

• Studio: Dh30,000–45,000
• 1BR: Dh45,000–65,000

Al Barsha
Well-connected (especially via metro) and still offers decent value compared to newer developments.
Typical rents:

• 1BR: Dh70,000–100,000
• 2BR: Dh100,000–150,000

Discovery Gardens 

This is firmly in the ‘affordable but spacious’ category. This neighbourhood is popular with expats who want bigger apartments without Marina-level prices.

 Typical annual rents:

• Studio: Dh 30,000 – 55,000
• 1BR: Dh45,000 – 72,000
• 2BR: Dh65,000 – 110,000
• 3BR: Dh90,000 – 120,000

 Market reality:

• Average rents sit around Dh 54,000 – 68,000/year, depending on unit type
• Studios start at Dh 47,000, while 2BR units can go up to Dh 110,000
• Still one of the best ‘space-for-money’ areas in Dubai, with larger layouts than newer buildings

How it compares 

• Discovery Gardens: Budget-friendly + bigger units + metro access
• Cheaper than JVC and much cheaper than Dubai Marina
• Trade-off: Older buildings + less ‘premium’ feel

For expats prioritising affordability, older central neighbourhoods such as Al Karama, Bur Dubai, and Deira continue to offer relatively lower rents compared to newer communities.

On the fringe

Further savings can be found in areas like Al Qusais, Muhaisnah, and outer residential zones, where rents are more accessible, but often at the cost of longer commute times and fewer modern amenities.

Typical budget range (older areas):

• Studio: Dh28,000–50,000
• 1BR: Dh45,000–75,000

Why Dubai is still ideal for long-term rentals

• Flexible payment options (1–4 cheques or annual upfront)
• High-quality amenities (gyms, pools, parking in most buildings)
• Strong, expat-driven rental market
• Wide mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget communities

How to choose if you’re new to the city

With rising rents, the decision often comes down to trade-offs:

• Want energy and convenience? – Business Bay, Downtown, Marina
• Want space and community living? – Dubai Hills, JVC
• Want affordability? – Silicon Oasis, International City, Deira

In 2026, several residents are compromising on location to gain space or save 15–25% on rent, especially with hybrid work becoming common.