Renting in Abu Dhabi
May 8, 2011 2:51 PM Subscribe
I am moving to the UAE, Abu Dhabi next week to start a new job. How do you go about finding an apartment to rent. Any online resources? Or do I ask around for a broker when I get there?
Best answer: Look at Dubizzle, for a start. The Gulf News Classifieds are also a good place to look for leads.
Online resources are good for leads, but be prepared to be told "Oh that great deal we advertised is gone; now we have only this more expensive, somewhat less attractive option."
A decent broker can be a good thing, depending on your budget. There are many, many, expat web forums, where people who are based locally are usually pretty happy to answer queries. Also, whatever support you can get from your employer in the house hunt should be grabbed with both hands.
Feel free to memail for more specific suggestions. I'm in Abu Dhabi.
posted by bardophile at 1:33 AM on May 9, 2011
Online resources are good for leads, but be prepared to be told "Oh that great deal we advertised is gone; now we have only this more expensive, somewhat less attractive option."
A decent broker can be a good thing, depending on your budget. There are many, many, expat web forums, where people who are based locally are usually pretty happy to answer queries. Also, whatever support you can get from your employer in the house hunt should be grabbed with both hands.
Feel free to memail for more specific suggestions. I'm in Abu Dhabi.
posted by bardophile at 1:33 AM on May 9, 2011
HGTV's show House Hunters International recently aired "Apartment Hunting in Abu Dhabi," which you may find interesting. The full episode is online at hgtv.com.
posted by lrrosa at 1:44 AM on May 9, 2011
posted by lrrosa at 1:44 AM on May 9, 2011
Response by poster: Thanks bardophile and Irrosa for the tips. :)
posted by convex at 10:34 AM on May 12, 2011
posted by convex at 10:34 AM on May 12, 2011
I'd also recommend picking up a copy of Abu Dhabi week when you get there. The back is full of adverts for (now) reasonably priced property. During the last 18 months rental prices have dropped significantly here, but not to Dubai levels unfortunately.
Remember to look out for hidden charges such as the agents fee (5%), Service/maintenance charges (~3.5%), water/electricity (nothing to lots).
Good luck!
posted by Fezzer at 4:01 AM on May 19, 2011
Remember to look out for hidden charges such as the agents fee (5%), Service/maintenance charges (~3.5%), water/electricity (nothing to lots).
Good luck!
posted by Fezzer at 4:01 AM on May 19, 2011
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by kat518 at 5:48 PM on May 8, 2011