Downtown Dubai Bans Holiday Rentals

Short-term rentals are no longer welcome

Emaar, the Dubai-based developer for Downtown Dubai, announced that holiday home rentals will no longer be permitted in the area effective Thursday, September 19.

Homeowners renting out apartments or villas for short-term living must stop business or similar practices, including canceling existing home bookings.

According to a statement released by Emaar's Community Management team, the decision was made following numerous disturbance complaints from Downtown Dubai residents.

"In the recent past, there has also been a growing concern as holiday homes have been used for non-residential and non-family orientated activities, impacting the value and neighbourhood spirit of our communities," the circular read.

It also added that “no new holiday home operations will be permitted" from September 19.

Downtown Dubai, along with Marina and the Palm, is one of the city's most popular spots for holiday rentals. According to 2018 reports, short-term home rentals or holiday lets is one of the highest performing categories in Dubai's real estate market.

The ban was criticised by a number of businesses and Emaar homeowners, including Vinayak Mahtani, CEO of bnbme - a short-term rental and management firm in Dubai, who questioned the restrictions when Emaar is also promoting their own holiday home services.

Emaar enters the holiday home market

Independent holiday lets for Emaar properties will be replaced by their new short-term rental app, Ease by Emaar, which allows homeowners to rent out their properties to visiting guests. Property management services will be provided to homeowners upon listing.

The app operates in a similar fashion to Airbnb, with added luxuries.

The new platform "opens a new avenue for visitors to experience a premium lifestyle located in some of the most sought-after destinations in the city”. Users can rent any of the Emaar properties listed on the app, and can enjoy hotel-quality amenities, housekeeping, and avail a digital concierge who can assist guests with information and recommendations while in Dubai.

A booking made through Ease by Emaar will also include unlimited Wi-Fi at the chosen property and an "Ease Pass", which offers the guest deals on various attractions across the city.