Short Term Rentals in Dubai - 2023 (know-hows)

In 2023, the reasons for renting a short-term apartment in Dubai are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you're attending a two-week conference, setting up a new business for a few months, or simply enjoying a vacation, Dubai caters to visitors seeking all the comforts of home while away. This means top-notch appliances, spaciousness, high-end furnishings, and the epitome of Dubai's opulence.

Enter fäm Living, your gateway to the perfect short-term rental experience in Dubai. We bridge the gap between discerning tenants in search of luxurious accommodations and homeowners with suitable properties for rent. At fäm Living, we play dual roles as both tenant and property manager, ensuring property owners enjoy a reliable income stream while tenants relish impeccably clean and stylishly furnished residences. Our aim is to create a seamless short-term rental experience for all parties involved, whether it's for business or leisure. In addition to short-term options, we also offer medium and extended rentals in Dubai in 2023.


Let's delve deeper into the ins and outs and the benefits of short-term rentals in Dubai.


Short-Term vs. Traditional Long Leases

Dubai's short-term rentals cater to individuals with different goals compared to long-term residential leases. Short-term renters typically require fully furnished units equipped with all essential amenities, such as high-speed internet, water, and electricity. Cleaning services may also be provided during or between stays, ensuring a hassle-free experience.


Dubai's Rental Regulations

Dubai's legal framework stipulates that short-term rentals must encompass the entire property; partial rentals are not allowed. This ensures that tenants have exclusive access to the entire premises during their stay.


Types of Eligible Rental Units

The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) in Dubai permits various property types for short-term rentals, with the exception of hotel apartments, which are regulated separately. Villas can be offered for short-term rental, but they must be part of a community comprising a minimum of four villas, and this community must be gated. Additionally, commercial villas located along highways can also be rented as vacation homes in accordance with DTCM regulations.


Obtaining a Short-Term Rental Permit

It's essential to note that short-term and long-term rentals are governed by different authorities in Dubai. Short-term rentals fall under the purview of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), which is responsible for overseeing and regulating Dubai's tourism sector and short-term rentals.


To obtain a short-term rental permit in Dubai, follow these steps:

Visit the DTCM website and locate the "Holiday Homes" section.

Choose the "Homeowner" option to sign up.

Complete all required fields on the form.

Upload your passport or Emirates ID.

Pay the operator fee (approx. AED 1,550 / year)

Apply for your permit.

Upload your property's title deed.

Upload the DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) documents for your property.

Landlords can secure a maximum of eight permits for up to eight units. If you exceed this limit, you'll need to apply as a professional operator and obtain a trade license.

You could also get an experienced holiday home operator in Dubai to free yourself of the hassles of licensing, furnishing, marketing and renting. 


In conclusion, short-term rentals in Dubai offer a luxurious and convenient way to experience the city in 2023. Whether you're here for business or leisure, Dubai's regulations and operators like fäm Living ensure a seamless and opulent stay in the heart of this remarkable city.


- Josiah Sebastian