According to recent data from Property Finder, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) has emerged as Dubai’s most popular rental community, getting over 214,000 page views for apartment listings.
Dubai Marina follows closely with nearly 192,000 page views, highlighting the strong demand for waterfront living options.
The UAE rental market has experienced significant growth, with average rental prices increasing by 23.6 per cent between November 2023 and November 2024.
Over a five-year period, rental prices have surged by 33 per cent, driven primarily by an influx of expatriates and increased rental contracts.
JVC leads Dubai’s rental market with over 9,000 available properties, followed by Business Bay with 5,631 units and Downtown Dubai with 5,541 units.
Apartments dominate the rental landscape, comprising approximately 96 per cent of available units across popular communities.
The average yearly rent across all UAE communities stands at approximately AED 86,222. Palm Jumeirah commands the highest average annual rent at AED 170,000, while Al Nahda in Sharjah offers the most affordable options at an average of AED 43,000 per year.
Dubai’s rental prices range from AED 28,000 to an astonishing AED 1,500,000 annually, with an average of AED 90,000.
Abu Dhabi’s rental market is slightly more affordable, with prices ranging from AED 27,000 to AED 350,000 and an average of AED 82,999.
JVC has gained popularity for its affordability and family-friendly environment, offering apartments with an average annual rent of AED 78,000.
The community features parks, jogging trails, schools, and convenient access to major highways.
“JVC is a thriving residential area known for its affordable housing options that include apartments, villas, and townhouses,” according to Property Finder.
“It is a popular, family-friendly community teeming with parks, jogging trails, schools, supermarkets, dining and retail options.”
In Sharjah, Al Nahda has emerged as the most searched community with over 100,000 page views.
The area attracts professionals who work in Dubai but prefer more affordable living options, with an average annual rent of AED 43,000.
Abu Dhabi’s rental market has also seen significant growth, with average apartment rents increasing by 4 per cent quarter-on-quarter and 10 per cent year-on-year in Q1 2025.
Khalifa City leads the capital’s rental searches with nearly 86,000 page views, offering an average yearly rent of AED 49,999.
Market experts note that high-end properties in Abu Dhabi have experienced the strongest growth at 8-12 per cent, while mid-tier properties have risen by 5-8 per cent.
The luxury villa market has seen increases of up to 15 per cent compared to last year.
Forecasts suggest Dubai’s rental market may experience a 10-20 per cent correction in 2025 due to increased supply and competition among landlords, potentially providing relief for tenants facing rising costs.
“Rental activity across the UAE reflects broader trends that include growing expat populations, economic opportunities, and shifting preferences in housing. Dubai leads in volume and variety, while Sharjah and Abu Dhabi offer competitive alternatives,” according to Property Finder.
