Studio vs. One-Bedroom Apartment: Which one is Right for You?
The real estate market of Dubai is one of the most sought-after and luxurious in the world, drawing interest from a global audience. Investing in Dubai real estate is considered a profitable and smart decision for all the potential the city has. From exclusive villas to branded apartments, there is no dearth of opulent living spaces in this city. But amongst all the gigantic residential spaces, two choices that allure for their compact yet comforting and cozy vibes are the studio apartments and 1-bedroom apartments.
The booming economy of the city generates a great deal of employment from all across the nation and the world. Many of the folks who come to the city for work are always on the lookout for such studio and 1-bedroom apartments. Not only are they affordable, but they are also craftily designed to accommodate all the amenities one needs to enjoy the chic lifestyle of the city.
We are here to get you acquainted with these living spaces, understand the differences between the two, and give you a full rundown of comparisons to help you decide which one you should opt for. We are also going to recommend the best areas in Dubai to rent a studio or a 1-bedroom apartment. So, if you are thinking of renting any of these spaces in the city, this is the guide for you.
Differences between Studio and 1-bedroom Apartments
Studio and 1-bedroom apartments are the two most economical residential living spaces one can get into. Although they may seem similar at an initial glance, there are several differences between the two that give each of them its distinct identity.
What is a Studio Apartment?
A studio apartment is a self-contained apartment consisting of only one room. They are also known as efficiency apartments. It essentially comprises a large room that combines the living room and dining spaces as well as the bedroom. Some studio apartment designs might see the sleeping area separated by a half-wall or screen.
What is a One-Bedroom Apartment?
A 1-bedroom apartment is a residential living space that comprises multiple rooms wherein the living area is separated from the bedrooms through an enclosed door and wall. A separate kitchen may exist or may be part of an open kitchen with the living and dining area.
While both studio and one-bedroom apartments allow you to place one bed in them, there is a stark contrast between them, especially in terms of the square footage of areas. When it comes to the real estate market of Dubai, the area size of studio apartments is generally 300-700 sq. ft., while the same for 1-bedroom apartments usually spans 600-1,200 sq. ft.
Comparing the key elements of both of them will help you understand their nuances even better, which brings us to our next section.
Comparing Studio vs 1-bedroom Apartments
To help your choice further, here is an in-depth comparison between studio apartments and 1-bedroom apartments, taking into consideration some of the important aspects of a residential living space.
Size
Studio apartments are inherently smaller than 1-bedroom apartments. This is because, in studio apartments, the living room, sleeping area, and kitchen are all contained in a single space. This is in sharp contrast to 1-bedroom apartments, wherein there is a distinct separation between the living area and the sleeping area.
Depending on the design of the specific 1-bedroom apartment, some may have an open kitchen while others may have a separate closed kitchen. All in all, studio apartments are apt for someone who doesn’t mind the small crunch space or who plans to live alone. One-bedroom apartments are ideal for renting for small families or multiple roommates.
Lifestyle
Your choice between a studio apartment and a 1-bedroom apartment might also be dictated by your lifestyle. If you are someone who loves having friends and families over, having guests come over to your place frequently, or hosting and socialization overall, then a 1-bedroom apartment will give you ample space to do so. A one-bedroom apartment will give you the extra space to entertain your guests.
However, if you are someone who prefers solitude and alone time more or someone who attends socialisation, gatherings, and parties somewhere else other than your house, then you should rent a studio apartment.
Privacy
Privacy is a big concern and is needed for varied reasons. Even with a small family or a few numbers of roommates, it can get claustrophobic when you don’t have your space. Whether you are working from home or need some moment of solitude, having a separate zone for yourself is important.
If this is of concern to you, we recommend opting for a 1-bed apartment, as you can get away from others and work or rest without getting disturbed. This simple yet effective separation can go a long way in providing the much-needed privacy. Studio apartments don’t provide this benefit, as you won’t get a disturbance-free environment from others in them.
Furnishing and Amenities
As studio apartments are compact and small, they are moderately furnished in comparison to their 1-bedroom counterparts. Studio apartments provide fewer customisation options, and you only have limited space to install furniture. Therefore, you have to mostly opt for a minimalistic style. The furnishing of a studio apartment is done in a fashion that utilises every single centimetre of the space.
On the other end of the spectrum, 1-bedroom apartments can be more intricately furnished and provide more rooms for customisation. The extra space in 1-bedroom apartments allows you to have more amenities to make your life more comfortable and convenient. The options for customisation increase further when you invest in off-plan properties.
Future Plans
You need to heavily consider your future plans while making this choice. As renting is not a permanent solution to living, your choice between a studio and a 1-bedroom apartment might come down to your short-term as well as long-term goals.
Are you planning to move out soon? Does your job require you to frequently shift residences? Do you plan to live by yourself? If the answers to all these questions are yes, then the compact nature of a studio apartment is more suitable for you. But if you are going to reside in a place for a considerable amount of time or plan to start a family in the near future, then we recommend you heavily consider renting a 1-bedroom apartment.
Maintenance
As studio apartments are comparatively smaller in size, maintaining them is much easier than a 1-bedroom apartment. You will require less time and effort for cleaning and maintaining your place. In addition, the electricity bill is also less in studio apartments, as you require only one A/C to cool your living space. As such, this is ideal for someone who stays very busy and can’t allot a lot of time to maintaining their living space.
On the other hand, 1-bedroom apartments have separate sections for living areas and bedrooms and potentially a kitchen as well. Therefore, you have to dedicate extra time and effort to clean and maintain it. If you have some help or don’t mind putting in the extra effort into maintaining your living space, then you can select a 1-bedroom apartment. All in all, the maintenance fees for 1-bedroom apartments are higher than those of studio apartments.
Top Locations to Rent Studios in Dubai
Studio apartments are always in huge demand for renting in Dubai. If you are considering renting one, then we suggest looking for one in one of the following locations.
International City
If you are looking for a studio for rent in Dubai, then International City should be pretty high on your list. Not only does this area have a diverse population owing to the settlement from all across the globe, but the real estate market is through the roof here. With country-themed clusters, you will find affordable studio accommodation in this area.
Business Bay
Being the commercial hub of the city, Business Bay is extremely popular among working individuals and business personnel. The vitality of the area has led to many people choosing this as their residential area, as it gives them proximity to their workplace. If you are someone who works in and around Business Bay and doesn’t want to commute a long distance, then look out for studio apartments for rent in this area.
Bur Dubai
Bur Dubai is one of the oldest districts of Dubai, known for its relevance to the history of Dubai. This is one of the rare areas in Dubai where you will see the beautiful merge of the old heritage with the modern developments. This beautiful and seamless blend has made it one of the most reliable and highly sought-after spaces to rent economical studio apartments.
Deira
Developed along the majestic Dubai Creek, Deira offers an uninterrupted view of the pristine water and the stunning skyline of Dubai. The sea trade facilitated by the canal made the area a buzzing spot for merchants and global settlers. It is no surprise that this area is always in demand for affordable residential units, including studio apartments.
Best Areas to Rent 1-bedroom Apartments in Dubai
Your choice of location for renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Dubai can dictate your convenience and comfort. We have prepared the following list of strategic areas in Dubai where renting a 1-bedroom apartment will give you the most lucrative options. Take a look.
Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis is a free-trade zone that is known for its masterful architectural planning and overall design of the area, along with a seamless transportation system. This makes it a perfect area for a family to thrive, which is evident by the fact that the demand for rent in the area is always soaring high. You will get numerous options of 1-bedroom apartments for rent in the area that are built by some of the most reliable real estate developers in the city.
Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
Dubai Investment Park (DIP) is an extremely pivotal business park in the city that houses a wide network of industrial, commercial, and residential developments. It is a popular choice for those who are looking for a one-bedroom for rent in Dubai as it offers proximity to various corporations and businesses, bridging the gap between your workplace and living space.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a freehold master development that is divided into multiple districts, wherein you will find an eclectic range of residential units, including 1-bedroom apartments. With both high-end and affordable options in the area and the availability of modern amenities, renting here is a feasible and smart choice.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is not just a treat for your eyes, but a pragmatic choice for those who are on the hunt for a single bedroom for rent in Dubai. With access to state-of-the-art amenities and easy navigation to the major hubs of the city, thanks to the fantastic public transportation system, you should heavily consider renting here. Besides, you will get picturesque views all through the day and night, elevating your urban living experience further. What more can one ask for?
To Conclude
Studio apartments and 1-bedroom apartments are both popular choices for those who are looking for a compact space to live in. Dubai’s booming economy draws people from all over the world to its doors, which is why the rental options for these two residential units in the city are always in demand.
We hope our distinctions between the two from our aforementioned comparisons have given you clarity on your choice, as well as have helped you in narrowing down the areas to rent. While studio apartments are more manageable and economical, 1-bedroom apartments provide more privacy and customisation options. So, pick your choice and smartly select the best rental option for you.
FAQs
Which offers a higher rental yield, a studio or a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai?
Typically, studio apartments in Dubai offer a higher rental yield compared to one-bedroom apartments, especially through short-term rentals, with potential yields of 8–11% in prime areas, even reaching 12–15% during peak season.
On the other hand, one-bedroom apartments generally have lower potential yields, around 6–7% for long-term rentals in highly popular areas. The higher yield for studio apartments mostly stems from their affordability and high demand from short-term renters.
In terms of capital appreciation, is a studio or a one-bedroom apartment a better long-term investment?
In terms of strictly long-term capital appreciation, a one-bedroom apartment is usually considered a better investment than a studio apartment in Dubai.
It has been seen that one-bedroom apartments have better resale value, tend to appreciate more over time, and are attractive to a wider range of buyers, which makes them a robust choice for long-term growth.
While studio apartments are more affordable and offer high rental yields, one-bedroom apartments are better for stability and capital growth.
What is the typical price difference between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment in key Dubai areas?
A one-bedroom apartment is usually more expensive than a studio apartment in Dubai because of the extra separate bedroom. However, the exact price difference varies by location, age of the building, and amenities, among other factors. The price difference may range from a minute amount to several hundred thousand Dirhams.
For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in a prime area such as Dubai Marina or Downtown Dubai will be significantly higher priced than a studio apartment in a more economical neighbourhood such as International City.
Which unit type generally has higher rental demand and lower vacancy rates?
Studio apartments usually have high rental demand and lower vacancy rates in Dubai, particularly among students and young professionals who prioritise affordability. But one-bedroom units also have immense demand, especially among investors who are seeking good returns and those who are looking for more space than what a studio unit offers.
Can I qualify for the UAE Golden Visa by investing in a studio apartment?
When it comes to being qualified for the UAE Golden Visa through real estate investment, one has to invest in a property or group of properties worth at least AED 2 million. Generally, a studio unit costs much less. So, as long as you are buying it with some other properties, the total valuation of which is at least AED 2 million, you can effectively qualify for the UAE Golden Visa.
Does purchasing a studio apartment affect my mortgage eligibility or Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio in the UAE?
Yes, purchasing a studio apartment in the UAE can affect your mortgage eligibility for the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio. However, keep in mind that it is the appraised value of the studio, not its type, that impacts the ratio.
With that being said, certain studio units might be viewed as risky by lenders, which could impact the LTV ratio they are willing to offer, potentially demanding a larger down payment to achieve a lower LTV.
Which property type (studio or 1BR) is better for an investor looking for short-term rental income?
For investors who want to prioritise easy management and high rental yields, studio units are usually considered better for short-term rentals in Dubai. This is because of their higher demand from single travellers, lower price point, and potentially higher rental yield percentages.
Do developers in the UAE offer better payment plans for studios or one-bedrooms?
Both studio and one-bedroom units can fetch you flexible payment plans. Developers in the UAE view both these property types as heavily in demand because of their budget-friendly nature, which speaks well for the working professionals and students. So, if you are investing in either, you can expect compartmentalised payment plans from reputed developers.
How does the investment performance (studio vs. 1BR) differ in Ras Al-Khaimah, specifically Al Marjan Island?
Ras Al Khaimah, and especially Al Marjan Island, usually offers higher investment performance because of its faster capital appreciation, lower entry prices, and higher gross rental yields when compared to Dubai.