What amenities attract the most guests to short-term rentals?
When it comes to short-term rentals in Dubai, offering the right amenities can significantly increase your property’s appeal to both tourists and business travelers. Dubai's competitive short-term rental market attracts a wide range of guests, from leisure vacationers to corporate visitors, all of whom expect comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury. To maximize occupancy rates and ensure high guest satisfaction, it’s essential to provide amenities that align with these expectations.
Here are the top amenities that attract the most guests to short-term rentals in Dubai, supported by data and trends:
High-Speed Wi-Fi and Workspaces
Why It Matters: Many travelers, especially business travelers and digital nomads, require reliable, high-speed internet to work remotely. With Dubai being a business hub and increasingly attracting long-term visitors who work remotely, offering fast Wi-Fi is non-negotiable.
How to Improve: Ensure that your property is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi that covers the entire space, and provide a dedicated workspace with comfortable seating, power outlets, and good lighting. A smart TV with streaming capabilities can also enhance the guest experience.
Data Insight: Properties with high-speed Wi-Fi and workspaces see 40% higher booking rates among business travelers and digital nomads, according to Airbnb.
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Why It Matters: Guests, particularly those staying for longer periods or families, often prefer to cook their own meals to save money or accommodate dietary preferences. A fully equipped kitchen makes your property more appealing to these types of travelers.
How to Improve: Stock your kitchen with essential appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, stove, coffee maker, and toaster. Provide cookware, utensils, and basic pantry items like salt, pepper, and oil. The more comprehensive your kitchen, the more appealing your rental will be.
Data Insight: Properties with fully equipped kitchens receive 25% more bookings from families and long-term guests, according to Booking.com.
Swimming Pool Access
Why It Matters: In a hot city like Dubai, access to a swimming pool is a major selling point, particularly for leisure travelers looking to relax. Properties with private pools or access to shared pools in residential complexes are highly attractive to guests.
How to Improve: If your property is located in a building with a shared pool, highlight this feature in your listing. If it’s a villa with a private pool, ensure the pool area is well-maintained and clean. Adding poolside seating or a BBQ area can enhance the guest experience.
Data Insight: Properties with access to a swimming pool have 30% higher occupancy rates during peak seasons, especially from tourists visiting between November and March, according to Property Finder.
Parking Availability
Why It Matters: Dubai is a city where many guests rent cars to explore the city comfortably. Providing free parking or secure parking spaces is a major convenience for guests who drive, especially those staying in more suburban or less public transit-accessible areas.
How to Improve: Highlight any free parking options in your listing and provide clear instructions on how to access the parking space. If parking is not included, offer suggestions for nearby public or paid parking facilities.
Data Insight: Short-term rentals offering free or secure parking have 20% higher booking rates compared to those without, particularly in neighborhoods like Jumeirah Village Circle and Dubai Hills Estate, according to Lodgify.
Air Conditioning
Why It Matters: Given Dubai’s desert climate, having air conditioning is a must, especially during the summer months when temperatures can exceed 40°C. Guests expect a cool and comfortable environment, and a lack of proper AC can lead to negative reviews.
How to Improve: Ensure that your property is equipped with well-functioning air conditioning in all living spaces. Regularly maintain your AC units to avoid breakdowns, particularly during the peak summer season.
Data Insight: Properties with air conditioning systems that are regularly serviced and in good condition see 15% fewer complaints related to comfort during the summer, according to AirDNA.
Proximity to Public Transport
Why It Matters: Many travelers, particularly international tourists, prefer using public transportation to explore the city. Being close to Dubai Metro stations or major bus routes can make your property more attractive to budget-conscious travelers or those unfamiliar with the city.
How to Improve: Highlight your property’s proximity to key public transport options in your listing. Provide guests with tips on navigating the metro or bus system, and mention nearby stations like Business Bay, Dubai Marina, or Downtown Dubai.
Data Insight: Properties located within a 10-minute walk of a Dubai Metro station receive 25% more bookings from tourists looking for convenience, according to Booking.com.
Outdoor Spaces and Views
Why It Matters: In a cosmopolitan city like Dubai, views of landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, or Dubai Marina are highly sought after. Outdoor spaces like balconies, terraces, or private gardens enhance the appeal of your rental, especially for guests looking for relaxation or Instagram-worthy moments.
How to Improve: If your property offers city skyline or sea views, emphasize this in your listing with high-quality photos. For properties with outdoor spaces, ensure they are furnished with comfortable seating or dining areas.
Data Insight: Listings with great views and outdoor spaces can command 20-30% higher rates and attract more leisure travelers, according to Property Finder.
Luxury Amenities
Why It Matters: Dubai is known for its luxury lifestyle, and many guests visiting the city are looking for premium experiences. Offering luxury amenities such as a Jacuzzi, sauna, or high-end appliances can set your property apart from others.
How to Improve: Consider adding high-end touches such as smart home features, marble bathrooms, or premium bedding to appeal to luxury travelers. Highlight any additional services you offer, such as housekeeping, personal chef services, or concierge services.
Data Insight: Short-term rentals with luxury amenities attract 25-35% higher-end guests, particularly those looking for longer stays or special occasion trips, according to Airbnb.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Why It Matters: An increasing number of travelers, especially families and long-term renters, travel with their pets. Offering pet-friendly accommodations can expand your potential guest pool and help you stand out from properties that don’t allow pets.
How to Improve: If you choose to make your rental pet-friendly, provide amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and a designated outdoor space for pets. Clearly communicate your pet policies in your listing, including any additional fees or cleaning charges.
Data Insight: Pet-friendly properties see a 15-20% increase in bookings, especially from families and long-term travelers, according to AirDNA.
Strong Reviews and High Ratings
Why It Matters: Beyond the physical amenities, a property’s online reputation plays a huge role in attracting guests. Properties with high ratings and consistently good reviews are more likely to be booked.
How to Improve: Provide exceptional service, respond to guest inquiries promptly, and ensure that all amenities are as described. Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews after their stay to help boost your property’s ranking on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Vrbo.
Data Insight: Properties with an average rating of 4.8 stars or higher see 35% more bookings compared to properties with lower ratings, according to AirDNA.
