From the experts at haus & haus Holidays
Dubai is one of the world’s most exciting real estate markets, attracting investors with its tax-free income, global connectivity, and growing population. For property owners looking to generate returns, one key decision is whether to offer your property as a short term holiday home or commit to a traditional long term lease.
Each approach offers different benefits and challenges – and the best choice depends on your income goals, how hands-on you want to be, and what kind of flexibility you’re after.
At haus & haus Holidays, we specialise in short term rental management – helping landlords unlock the full potential of their Dubai property. Below, we break down the main differences so you can make an informed choice.
Short term vs. long term leasing: What’s the difference?
Short term leasing
Short term rentals involve letting out your property for a few nights, weeks, or months at a time. These are often used by tourists, business travellers, expats relocating to Dubai, or residents between moves.
In Dubai, all short term rentals must be registered and licensed through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Top-performing areas for holiday lets include Dubai Marina, Downtown, JBR, and Palm Jumeirah – thanks to their prime locations and high visitor demand.
With haus & haus Holidays, your short term rental is completely managed for you – including furnishing, photography, listing across platforms like Airbnb and Marriott Homes and Villas, 24/7 guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and revenue optimisation.
Long term leasing
Long term rentals refer to standard tenancy contracts lasting a year or more, registered through Dubai’s Ejari system. While long term leases provide stability with fixed monthly income, they limit your flexibility – especially if the market changes or you wish to use the property yourself.
At haus & haus Holidays, we focus exclusively on holiday home management – but if you decide to switch to long term leasing, our colleagues at haus & haus (our full-service real estate arm) can assist.
Short term rentals: Pros & cons for landlords
Advantages:
- Higher income potential – Especially during peak seasons and major events.
- Flexible pricing – Adjust rates based on demand and occupancy trends.
- Furnished appeal – Fully equipped homes attract premium guests and yield higher nightly rates.
- Sales flexibility – With no long term tenants or Ejari contracts in place, your property remains available for viewing and vacant on transfer – making it easier to sell if needed.
Considerations:
- Income fluctuations – Low seasons may impact earnings if not priced strategically.
- More involvement – Unless fully managed, short lets require guest support, upkeep, and frequent cleaning.
- Licensing – All holiday homes must comply with DET regulations and renew permits annually.
With haus & haus Holidays, all of these challenges are handled for you – so you can earn without the effort.
Long term rentals: Pros & cons for landlords
Advantages:
- Stable income – Monthly payments offer consistency over time.
- Less turnover – Fewer tenant changes reduce admin and wear and tear.
- Lower furnishing needs – Long term lets often don’t require full furniture packages.
Considerations:
- Locked-in pricing – You can’t adjust rent mid-contract based on market shifts.
- Legal complexities – Early termination or disputes must be handled through tenancy law.
- Hands-on admin – From contract drafting to Ejari registration and tenant management.
While this option may suit hands-off landlords, it lacks the flexibility and income upside of short term holiday lets – especially in high-demand tourist hubs.
What should Dubai landlords consider when choosing?
Location & demand
Certain neighbourhoods naturally perform better for holiday homes – especially near beaches, attractions, nightlife, or business hubs. Others, like suburban communities, are more suited to long term family tenants.
Our team at haus & haus Holidays can analyse your property’s location and advise on whether the short term model is right for you – backed by local data and years of market insight.
Costs & returns
Short term lets generally require furniture, linens, décor, kitchenware, and ongoing cleaning. But in return, they can deliver 10–20% higher gross income than long term rentals in the same area – especially with professional management in place.
We handle all furnishing, guest turnover, maintenance, and revenue tracking – so you get the benefits without the effort.
Legal & compliance
To list your property as a short term rental in Dubai, you’ll need:
- A DET Holiday Homes permit
- Emirates ID (or passport copy) of the owner
- Title deed or tenancy agreement
- NOC from the landlord (if subletting)
- Annual renewal through the DET portal
We take care of this entire process for you.
FAQs for Dubai landlords
Can I switch my property between short and long term rental?
Yes – but you’ll need to cancel or pause your Holiday Homes permit and vice versa. Switching models also involves logistical and operational shifts.
How much can I earn with a short term let in Dubai?
This depends on location, furnishing quality, time of year, and management. Our team provides income estimates and performance projections before onboarding your property.
Is there a minimum stay duration for holiday homes?
Typically, DET allows short stays from 1 night upwards, though platforms may impose their own rules.
Ready to earn from your Dubai property?
At haus & haus Holidays, we offer a fully managed short term rental service that helps you earn more from your investment, hassle-free. Whether you own a studio in Business Bay or a luxury villa on the Palm, we take care of everything – from styling and listing to guest hosting and income reporting.
Want a clearer picture of what your property could earn as a holiday home? Get in touch for a free income estimate and strategy call.
Visit hausandhausholidays.com to learn more.