The Complete Guide to Holiday Home Fees in Dubai

When planning your stay in Dubai, consider booking a holiday home instead of a traditional hotel. But what does that entail, and what fees should you be aware of? Let’s break down the costs associated with holiday homes in Dubai.

What are the booking fees for holiday homes in Dubai?

The first fee you’ll encounter when booking a holiday home in Dubai is the booking fee. Typically, booking platforms or agencies charge this service fee to mediate between you and the property owner.

Online Booking Platforms for Holiday Homes in Dubai

To begin with, many people choose to book their holiday homes through online platforms. For instance:

• Airbnb: Service fees range from 6% to 15% of the booking subtotal.
• Booking.com: Additionally, Booking.com charges a commission of around 15% on the booking subtotal.
• Direct Agencies: Moreover, direct agencies may include a service fee ranging from 5% to 10%.

Therefore, it’s crucial to always read the fine print to understand exactly what you’re paying for and to avoid any hidden costs.

What are the Security Deposits of Holiday homes in Dubai?

After booking, many holiday homes in Dubai require a security deposit. This refundable fee covers potential damages during your stay. The amount varies based on the property’s value and size.

Types of Security Deposits

• Fixed Amount: Often ranges between AED 500 and AED 2,000.
• Percentage Based: Typically around 10-20% of the total rental cost.

Inspect the property upon arrival and report any pre-existing damages to ensure you get your full deposit back upon departure.

Daily Rental Fees of Holiday homes in Dubai

The primary fee you’ll pay is the daily rental rate, which varies based on location, size, amenities, and the time of year.

Factors Affecting Rental Rates

• Location: Homes in prime areas like Downtown Dubai or near the beach have higher rates compared to those in the outskirts.
• Size: Larger homes with more bedrooms and living space come with higher daily rates.
• Amenities: Properties with luxury amenities like private pools, gyms, or sea views cost more.
• Season: Peak tourist seasons (such as winter months) see higher rental rates compared to off-peak times.

Unlike hotels, vacation homes often feature more flexible pricing, with many properties offering discounts for longer stays or early bookings.

Tourism Dirham Fee: Mandatory Charges

One unavoidable fee is the Tourism Dirham Fee, levied by the Dubai government to support local tourism infrastructure. The property owner or management collects this fee and pays it to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Breakdown of the Fee

• Standard Rate: Ranges from AED 7 to AED 20 per night, depending on the property’s rating and location.
• Duration: Capped at 30 consecutive nights per stay.

This fee is separate from the booking or rental fees and must be paid directly, often in cash upon arrival.

Utility Fees: Including the Essentials

In many holiday homes, the cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and internet is included in the rental fee. Clarify this with the property owner to avoid surprises.

Utility Fee Breakdown

• Included in Rent: Most short-term holiday rentals include utilities in the daily rental fee.
• Separate Charges: For longer stays, utilities might be billed separately based on actual usage.

Additional Services: Luxury Add-ons

Holiday homes can offer a range of additional services to enhance your stay, often at an extra cost.

Common Additional Services

• Airport Transfers: Convenient pick-up and drop-off services.
• Grocery Delivery: Many properties offer grocery stocking prior to your arrival.
• Housekeeping: Beyond standard cleaning, you may want daily or weekly housekeeping.
• Chef/Catering: For a truly luxurious experience, some holiday homes offer in-house chef or catering services.

While these services can enhance your stay, they also add to the overall cost, so budget accordingly.

By understanding these fees, you can better plan your budget and ensure a smooth, enjoyable stay in one of Dubai’s holiday homes.