<a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/tags/my-dubai-rent/"><b>My Dubai Rent</b></a><b> takes you inside a reader’s home to have a look at what they get for their money, how much they pay in rent and asks them what they like and don’t like</b> Arnold Novio, a Filipino event manager, pays Dh48,000 for a one-bedroom apartment with a study in <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/08/21/my-own-home-family-of-four-spend-dh250000-in-five-months-renovating-dubailand-apartment/" target="_blank">Dubailand.</a> After a busy day managing government and corporate events, he finds solace in his peaceful home, which he has personalised with sustainable decor and warm, calming tones. I live in a one-bedroom apartment with a study in Dubailand. The space is just right for me, offering a peaceful retreat from my hectic days as an event manager. The apartment has been my home for three years now, and I’ve made it my own by decorating it with a mix of sustainable, second-hand furniture and some new pieces. I chose to paint the walls grey for a warm and calming ambience. The living room is my favourite spot – it’s spacious, cosy and perfect for relaxing after work. I’ve added personal touches like warm lighting and comfortable furnishings to create a serene atmosphere. I live alone. With my job requiring constant interaction with people, having a private space to myself is crucial. My apartment is my sanctuary where I can recharge and enjoy my own company. I ended up in Dubailand by accident. I was previously living in <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/08/21/my-own-home-family-of-four-spend-dh250000-in-five-months-renovating-dubailand-apartment/" target="_blank">Liwan</a>, but when my old building was deemed structurally unsafe, I had to move out quickly. I found this apartment nearby and decided to stay. The area is quiet, uncrowded and offers the perfect escape from the hustle of the city. When I moved in, the apartment was a bare unit. I wanted to personalise the space while staying sustainable, so I sourced most of my furniture from second-hand marketplaces. For instance, I bought a stunning TV stand for just Dh250, which visitors often mistake for a high-end piece. I also made sure to invest in some new essentials, like my sofa and bed, for comfort. With its warm grey tones and cosy decor, my apartment reflects my personality and commitment to sustainability. The peace and quiet are unmatched. Dubailand is not as crowded as areas like Karama or Business Bay. It has a serene atmosphere that lets me relax and unwind. There are also plenty of facilities, including a pool, gym and even a steam and sauna room in the building. Plus, the location is convenient – it's a short drive to the Outlet Mall and other shopping centres, and the area is starting to see more restaurants and businesses pop up, adding to its charm. The only downside is that Dubailand is about a 15-20 minute drive from the city centre. However, the commute is smooth. For me, the trade-off is worth it for the peace and comfort the area provides. I love my home, but with my office moving to Commerce City, I’m considering relocating to Jadaf or a nearby area. Being closer to work will save time and energy, and it’s something I’m seriously thinking about as the office relocation approaches. Absolutely. At Dh48,000 per year, the rent is reasonable, especially considering the amenities and space. In a city where rental prices are soaring, I feel lucky to have found a home that offers such great value. My ultimate dream is to own a villa with a large garden and a beachfront view. While that may be hard to achieve in Dubai, I’ve already realised this dream in the Philippines. For now, my cosy apartment feels like the perfect place to call home.
