What to Know Before Renting a Couple Room in Dubai

If you’re a couple looking to rent a room in Dubai, you’re definitely not alone. Whether you’re married, engaged, or simply living together, many couples—especially expats—choose shared accommodations to save money while still enjoying the city. But before you sign any agreement or hand over a deposit, there are a few important things you should know.

Let’s walk through what to expect, what to prepare, and how to avoid common mistakes when renting a couple room in Dubai.

Is It Legal for Couples to Live Together in Dubai?

This is probably the most asked question—and the good news is: yes, it's legal.

In 2020, Dubai made a significant shift in its legal framework to better accommodate the lifestyles of its diverse expat population. The law now permits unmarried couples to live together, which was previously not allowed. This change has made life much easier for couples who wish to share accommodation without getting into legal trouble.

However, while the law is now on your side, cultural expectations still exist. Some landlords or building managers may still request a marriage certificate, particularly in family-oriented buildings. So even though the law says it's fine, individual property owners or management companies might have their own policies.

Before making any payments or agreements, it's best to ask clearly whether your status as a couple is acceptable to the landlord. Some are flexible and progressive, while others may prefer to rent only to married couples.

Choosing the Right Area for Couples in Dubai

When it comes to choosing a place to live as a couple, your decision will likely revolve around budget, convenience, and lifestyle. Dubai has a wide range of areas catering to different needs and price points.

If you’re looking to save money, Deira, Al Qusais, and International City are great starting points. These areas offer some of the most affordable rents in Dubai, and you can find a decent couple room for under AED 2,000 per month. In some cases, especially with partitions, you might even pay less.

For something more central but still reasonably priced, consider Bur Dubai or Karama. These neighborhoods are known for their multicultural vibe, vibrant street life, and excellent public transport options. They are popular among South Asian and Filipino communities and have plenty of shared accommodation options.

If you prefer a more modern, upscale feel, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Business Bay, or Al Barsha may suit you better. These areas are generally more expensive, but they come with benefits like modern buildings, better amenities, and access to dining, shopping, and public transportation.

Your ideal location depends on what you're willing to spend and what kind of lifestyle you want.

What Budget Should You Expect?

Room prices in Dubai vary widely depending on the location, type of room, and included amenities. Here's a general idea of what you might pay:

• Partition for a couple: AED 1,200–1,800/month

• Private room in a shared apartment: AED 2,000–3,500/month

• Studio apartment: AED 3,500 and up

Most couple rooms come with Wi-Fi, DEWA (utilities), and air conditioning included in the rent. But not all do, so you should always confirm what’s covered. Ask whether cleaning services, kitchen access, and laundry facilities are also included. These small details can make a big difference in your monthly budget.

Types of Couple Rooms in Dubai

Not all couple rooms are the same, and what you choose depends on your comfort level, privacy needs, and how much you're willing to spend. Generally, you have three main options:

1. Partitioned Rooms

   These are the most budget-friendly but offer the least privacy. A large room or hall is divided into smaller sections with temporary walls or curtains. Not ideal for long-term stays but okay if you’re just starting out.

2. Private Rooms in Shared Apartments

   

   
   This is the most common choice for couples. You get your own room, but you'll share the kitchen, living room, and bathroom with other tenants. It balances privacy with affordability.

3. Studios or One-Bedroom Apartments

   
   If you have a larger budget, renting a studio or a one-bedroom apartment gives you complete privacy and comfort. However, this is often more expensive and may not include utilities.

What Documents Do You Need to Rent a Couple Room?

Even if you're renting a room in a shared flat, you should be prepared with a few basic documents:

• Emirates ID (or a copy if it's still being processed)

• Passport copy and visa page

• Sometimes, proof of employment or salary

In many shared setups, you may not get a formal Ejari (tenancy contract), but it’s still smart to get something in writing from the landlord. A signed agreement stating the monthly rent, deposit amount, and notice period can protect you if problems arise.

Avoiding Scams and Red Flags

Scams can happen, especially if you're finding rooms through online groups or social media. Here are some key red flags to watch for:

• The landlord or agent refuses to let you visit the room in person

• They ask for a large deposit upfront without providing a receipt

• Listings with unclear or fake photos

• Prices that seem too good to be true

Always make sure to meet the landlord, see the room, and ask questions. Ask who else lives in the apartment, whether the building allows couples, and how long the current tenants have stayed. Doing your due diligence helps you avoid stressful situations later.

Daily Life in a Shared Apartment

Living in a shared apartment as a couple can be a great way to save money, but it does require some communication and compromise.

Before moving in, talk to the landlord or housemates about basic ground rules:

• Kitchen usage times and cleanliness expectations

• Bathroom schedules (especially if shared with multiple people)

• Noise levels during day and night

• Guest policies (can your friends visit or stay overnight?)

Setting expectations early on can help create a peaceful living environment.

Where to Find Couple Rooms in Dubai

You have several options when it comes to searching for a couple room:

• Dubizzle: One of the most reliable websites for property listings in Dubai

• Facebook groups: Search for groups like “Dubai Rooms for Rent” or “Shared Accommodation Dubai”

• My Dubai Room: Best room rental platform for expats who are looking for affordable and varified rooms.

• Word of mouth: Ask colleagues, friends, or fellow expats. You’d be surprised how many leads come this way

You can also check out our complete guide to the best apps and websites for finding rooms in Dubai.