The Rise of Holiday Homes

In the past, tourists, business travelers, and relocating residents would have opted to stay in a hotel. However, holiday homes and short term residences have become a new favorite amongst Dubai tourist accommodations.

At the end of 2013, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, issued a new law governing holiday homes, and subsequently the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) began to set regulations for holiday homes and their operators. Now, the number of licensed holiday homes operators in Dubai is growing considerably, with over a thousand available short-term rental properties.Driven Holiday Homes, founded through a partnership between entrepreneur Khadija El Otmani and Driven Properties Managing Director Abdullah Alajaji, was one of the first operators to receive licensing in Dubai. El Otmani was inspired by the short-term rentals markets abroad and saw the growing need for such homes in Dubai.

Co-founder Khadija El Otmani explains why people are starting to choose serviced short-term rentals over traditional hotels. Why do people choose an apartment or villa rather than a hotel? Its because they want to feel at home, El Otmani said, Its the best of both worlds. She emphasizes that tending to all of the guests needs and providing the highest level of service is top priority at Driven Holiday Homes. We try to meet and exceed the expectations of both the guest and the owner, she adds.

The holiday homes sector balances between hospitality and real estate. Guests can enjoy the high-end services and amenities of a hotel concierge, room service, round-the-clock security while bringing their own personal touch to the home. The units, which come in all kinds of designs and layouts, can be decorated and fitted according to the guests needs.

These homes are not only ideal for visitors, but also those who are in the process of relocating. Moving to a new home, or even to a new city, can be a stressful and costly venture. With the option of a short-term rental, guests who are in-between homes can stay in a fully furnished home without having to pack and unpack their belongings multiple times throughout the process.

The short to long-term rental market is not only growing, but will also become a key factor in Dubais future tourism plans. Dubais Tourism Vision 2020 aims to welcome 20 million visitors per annum and the growing holiday homes market surely will play an important role in reaching that goal, as well as creating a new revenue stream for property owners.