How to Save Money on Short Stays and Rentals Across the UAE? | OnsStay
Accommodations are an essential part of any trip, but there is a correct way and a not-so-correct way to think of this! If you’re planning to stay at your destination for a while, you must ask yourself, “How can I stay comfortable while also not breaking the bank?” You might immediately jump to say hotels, but this might not be true in every case. Hotels are cool for a couple of days, but if you are planning on a short, cheap staycation in the UAE (say, for +10 days), hotels might become the more expensive option.
This is why people looking for an affordable stay in Dubai during a short visit often choose to rent cheap Dubai apartments. In addition to enjoying the privacy of a home and having access to a kitchen, they are also more affordable in the long run.
And to help you find an affordable stay in Dubai, we will share our secrets on how to travel cheaply without compromising comfort.
1. Book on Weekdays Instead of Weekends
Our first point in the list of travel hacks to save money is to choose your travel schedule wisely. If your travel schedule is flexible, it is better to book your rental on weekdays rather than weekends, as prices in the UAE generally rise significantly from Thursday to Saturday. Moreover, some short rentals also offer midweek discounts from Sunday to Wednesday, which can instantly lower your costs.
2. Stay in Areas Just Outside the Main Hotspots
Staying directly in places like Downtown Dubai, JBR, or the Marina is convenient but expensive. Choosing nearby neighborhoods such as JVC, Al Barsha, Business Bay (inner areas), or Dubai Silicon Oasis gives you access to great buildings and amenities at a fraction of the price.
3. Compare Prices Across Multiple Platforms
Our next golden rule for a more affordable stay in Dubai is always to compare prices! You might often find the same listing on different websites, with the price as the only difference. So, before booking or confirming, roam around the internet, check at least two or three platforms, and look for the best deals; comparing platforms can easily save you 10–25% on your stay.
4. Avoid Traveling During Peak Seasons
Dubai, like anywhere else in the world, experiences price fluctuations during peak seasons, such as the winter months, New Year’s Eve, and Eid holidays. However, if you avoid the peak seasons, you’ll find far cheaper rates for both hotels and rentals. This not only saves money but also lets you find better units for less and experience the city without the crowds.
5. Book Early to Avoid Last-Minute Price Spikes
As the saying goes, “The early bird gets the worm”, this also applies to renting your travel accommodations! Unlike some cities where last-minute discounts are common, Dubai’s short-term rental prices usually increase as the stay date approaches (good units get booked, leaving fewer options at higher prices). Keep this in mind, and always try to book at least 10–20 days in advance for the chance of better prices and a wider range of apartments.
6. Choose Monthly Stays to Unlock Big Savings
If you’re staying for more than 10–14 days, checking monthly rates can be surprisingly cheaper. Many hosts offer 40–60% discounts for 30-day bookings to attract long-term guests. Even if your trip is shorter, the monthly rate might still cost less than paying the nightly rates.
7. Factor in All Hidden Fees Before Booking
Listings often look cheap at first, but the price increases once you include cleaning fees, service charges, security deposits, etc. So, to make sure you’re getting the best deals, factor in all these additional fees and check the final checkout price, not just the nightly rate. Bonus points to compare prices between websites, because some platforms charge higher service fees than others, so comparing total costs helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re actually getting the best deal.
8. Take Advantage of Loyalty and Reward Programs
Some platforms and even some rental companies offer loyalty tiers that unlock instant discounts, free upgrades, or exclusive rates. If you know the platform you often use offers such programs by simply logging in or through repeated bookings, take advantage of them, since they can lower the price and give you long-term benefits.
9. Travel With Friends and Split Apartment Costs
Short-stay apartments in Dubai offer excellent value when shared. A two-bedroom unit costs slightly more than a one-bedroom, making it much cheaper per person. Splitting costs makes premium areas, sea views, and larger apartments far more affordable, making them perfect for group trips or family vacations.
10. Choose Locations With Easy Public Transportation Access
Staying near a Metro station or a frequent bus route can save you a lot on transportation, especially in a city where taxi costs add up quickly. Areas like Al Jadaf, Deira City Centre, Bur Dubai, and Al Rigga are budget-friendly and well-connected, reducing travel time and letting you explore more while spending less.
11. Choose OnsStay
Staying comfortable during your stay makes all the difference in your trip. OnsStay understands this, which is why they offer reliable, licensed, and comfortable options at great prices! With modern apartments, transparent pricing, and thoroughly vetted properties across Dubai, you get the peace of mind you need to relax, recharge, and enjoy every moment of your visit.