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Writer's picturePeter Considine

The Best Airbnb Investment Properties for Short-Term Rental in Dubai: Maximizing ROI When Investing in Dubai Real Estate

Updated: Sep 10


Investing in Dubai Real Estate


Dubai, known for its luxury real estate market and vibrant tourism sector, offers lucrative opportunities for investors seeking to buy Airbnb property and capitalize on short-term rentals. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best places to buy Airbnb property for short-term rental in Dubai, focusing on strategic investments that yield high returns on investment (ROI). Through meticulous research and analysis, we've identified key factors that contribute to the success of short-term and Airbnb rental business, including property type, location, and market dynamics resulting in maximizing your Dubai Real Estate Investment.


Understanding the Dubai Short-Term Rental Market Before You Buy Airbnb Property


Before delving into the specifics on the best Airbnb investment properties, it's essential to grasp the dynamics of Dubai's short-term rental market. With a thriving tourism industry and a diverse range of attractions, Dubai attracts millions of visitors each year, creating robust demand for short-term accommodations. Additionally, the emergence of platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com has revolutionized the hospitality landscape, providing property owners with accessible avenues to monetize their assets through short-term rentals. 


While it's evident that the short-term rental market faced challenges due to increased supply in 2023, leading to underperformance and many units going offline in 2024, this situation signals a potential bounce-back for the market. The understanding of property performance has improved, particularly emphasizing that larger properties tend to excel. This trend underscores the importance of examining why larger properties are favored in the market.

Let's get into some of the details below: 

In the Dubai short-term rental market, the success of 2 bedroom or larger property investments can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, despite the city having approximately 25,000 active short-term rental units (Slightly down over the last two quarters), nearly 70% of these are studios or one-bedroom properties, indicating an oversupply in these categories. Conversely, larger properties, especially 3 or 4 bedrooms, cater to an undersupplied market segment, making them a more lucrative option for higher rental yields.


Buying Airbnb property that is large enough also offers better value for guests financially compared to hotels, as a 2 or 3 bedroom unit is often priced more attractively than booking multiple hotel rooms. This financial advantage contributes to the success of larger short-term rental properties. Moreover, larger properties appeal to a different type of traveler, providing more space and amenities, thus serving the needs of a diverse customer base.


In conclusion, buying property for Airbnb, especially the larger properties intended for short-term rentals in Dubai, presents a safer and more profitable opportunity due to the undersupply in this segment and the financial benefits they offer to guests. As for the best places to buy Airbnb property (the larger properties), prime areas like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and emerging neighborhoods like Dubai Creek Harbour and even Dubai Hills Estate are recommended for their demand and potential for high returns.


Best Places to Buy Airbnb Property Investments for Short-Term Rentals


A great tourist location for short term rental

The Best Real Estate Investment in Dubai: 2-Bedroom or larger units in older buildings within tourist friendly areas.


Contrary to popular belief, older buildings in prime locations such as Marina and Downtown Dubai offer compelling investment opportunities to buy Airbnb property for short-term rentals. 2-bedroom or larger units in these buildings occupy a niche category in the market, catering to families and groups seeking spacious accommodations with character and charm.


Advantages of Older Buildings:

  • Competitive Pricing: Buying Airbnb property in older buildings typically have lower sale prices compared to newer developments, allowing investors to acquire properties at a more affordable cost.

  • Unique Appeal: Older buildings exude a sense of authenticity and character, appealing to discerning travelers seeking an immersive experience in Dubai's vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Similar Rental Rates: Despite being in older buildings, 2-bedroom or larger units can command comparable rental Airbnb rates to newer properties due to their desirable locations and spacious layouts.


Marina - a great place for short term rental

Prime Locations for Buying Airbnb Property: Marina and Downtown Dubai.

Marina and Downtown Dubai stand out as the best places to buy vacation rental property for short-term rental investments due to their central positioning, proximity to key attractions, and vibrant lifestyle offerings.


Marina:

  • Waterfront Living: Dubai Marina offers a picturesque waterfront setting with stunning views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf, making it an ideal place for an Airbnb investment property.

  • Convenience: Marina properties offer easy access to leisure amenities, dining options, and entertainment venues, catering to both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience and accessibility.

Downtown Dubai:

  • Iconic Landmarks: Home to iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai presents an unparalleled urban lifestyle experience for short-term rental guests.

  • Cultural Attractions: Guests can immerse themselves in Dubai's rich cultural heritage by exploring attractions like the Dubai Opera, Dubai Fountain, and Souk Al Bahar, all within close proximity. Hence, this area is known for having some of the best Airbnb property to invest in.


apartment on short term rental in dubai

Turnkey Solutions: properties already on short-term rental platforms.


For investors seeking a hassle-free approach to buying property for Airbnb investments, properties that are already listed on platforms like Airbnb offer a turnkey solution. By acquiring pre-established rental properties, investors can bypass the initial setup phase and start generating income immediately. Additionally, leveraging professional property and Airbnb management services can further streamline operations and optimize rental income.


How We Can Help You in Finding the Best Airbnb Investment Properties in Dubai?


At Shosty, this is our specialty. We live and breathe the practice of locating the best places to buy vacation rental property, perfect for short-term rental investment opportunities in Dubai's dynamic real estate market. Our team of experienced professionals offer comprehensive guidance and support throughout the entire investment process, from guiding you to which buildings you should buy for your short term rental to helping you finalize what rental strategy would work best for you.


Whether you're a seasoned Airbnb properties investor or a first-time buyer, we're here to help you maximize your ROI and achieve success in Dubai's Airbnb rental sector.


To sum up, investing in 2-bedroom or larger units in older buildings in Marina and Downtown Dubai presents a strategic approach to acquiring the best Airbnb investment properties, offering competitive pricing, unique appeal, and excellent rental potential. By capitalizing on prime locations and turnkey solutions, investors can unlock lucrative opportunities and position themselves for long-term success in Dubai's dynamic real estate market.


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