The Home Office Becomes a Must-Have

For many Dubai residents, remote working has moved from an occasional option to a daily routine. Working from the dining table or a bedroom has proved difficult for many families, and a dedicated home office has quickly become a priority.

What residents want

• A separate room with a door for calls and concentration.
• Natural light and good ventilation.
• Reliable internet and enough power outlets.
• Quiet: away from living areas and noise.

Effects on demand

Homes with an extra bedroom or study are attracting more interest. Two-bedroom apartments are being preferred over one-bedroom units, and villas with study rooms are in demand.

Effects on layouts

Developers are likely to respond with more flexible layouts, study nooks and multipurpose rooms in future projects.

Considerations for investors

Properties that can accommodate home working may achieve stronger rental demand as tenants prioritise workspace.

Expo postponed

Expo 2020 has been postponed to October 2021, giving the city more time to recover before welcoming visitors.

Creating a workspace in an existing home

Not every resident can move to a larger home, but many can improve their current space for working. A corner of a bedroom or living room can become a workspace with a proper desk, a supportive chair and good lighting. Noise-cancelling headphones and room dividers help in shared spaces. A reliable internet connection, ideally with a backup, is essential. Some residents convert a maid's room or storage space into a small office. Landlords who allow minor improvements, or who offer furnished homes with desks, may find their properties more attractive to tenants. Small changes can make remote working far more comfortable without the expense of moving.

Our view

The home office is likely to remain important even after restrictions ease. We help clients find homes that work for both living and working.