The first trip to the beach is a lifelong memory for most people. Playing volleyball by the shore, making weird sand castles, or going for a swim – it’s a fun time for everyone. But what if you actually start living on the beachfront in Dubai? The fun times will never end, right?
Well, you have a lot of concerning issues to consider before buying a property by the seaside. This blog will help you weigh the positives and the negatives before you start looking for your dream waterfront home.
Advantages of Beachfront Living
Peace and Quiet
Dubai frequently ranks as the most popular city to visit. This bustling metropolis is also a major trading hub attracting potential expats for better economic opportunities. Needless to say, city life can get quite hectic as the pace is just too fast for some people.
Considering which, your beachfront home can be the perfect place to retreat and recharge. After a long tiring day at work, you can relax and unwind by simply sitting on your balcony and enjoying the sea breeze as it caresses your face.
Worst case scenario, your beachfront is open to the public, and every day you are welcomed by huge crowds.
Even then, the nighttime brings much-needed relief with only the beautiful starry night to accompany you. On top of that, the off seasons from January to March would allow for necessary alone time.
But that’s just the worst-case scenario. Private beaches would give you the perfect experience away from the noises and lights every day of the week.
To explore your options can start by having a look at Emaar’s new projects since they generally have exclusive beach access.
The Scenery
Imagine starting your morning with a cup of coffee on your seaside front porch. The beautiful view of the world-renowned Dubai beaches is sure to put you in a good mood.
Whether your waterfront home is in Emaar Beachfront or beachfront villas at Ras al Khaimah, Dubai beaches are distinctly eye-pleasing.
Sunsets by the beach are a universal craving. Something about seeing the sun slowly disappear, makes for a special moment that’s best experienced with a loved one.
The night brings an entirely unique experience. Residents can enjoy their evenings under gentle moonlight and a clear view of the dazzling (read:starry) sky.
Endless Activities
There are tons of things to do at the beach. Apart from enjoying the views or swimming, you can also:
- Go fishing for the next big catch
- Dive in refreshing turquoise waters
- Jet ski or parasail for an adrenaline rush
- Sunbathe while enjoying a book or doing yoga
- Build sandcastles for relaxation
- Stroll along the beach
Great Investment
During this massive boom in Dubai’s real estate the beachfront properties were the most in-demand. In the first quarter of 2024, Palm Jumeirah’s seaside properties dominated sales with $628 million in property deals.
This accounted for 36.3% of total property sales by value. What’s interesting is that the next in line was Jumeirah Bay Island, also primarily a waterfront project, accounting for 11.1%.
Healthier Lifestyle
Being near nature, the outside calls you to enjoy your day away from your phone. The scenic views are great for your mental health. The golden sand and deep-blue waters under the beaming sun induce a primal response that drops stress and anxiety levels.
It’s a natural therapy for the mind. In fact, just the calming sounds of crashing waves and the flowing winds are enough to put one in a tranquil state.
The proximity to nature will push you to develop healthier habits, like going out in the sunshine, stimulating the production of vitamin D.
Moreover, the cardio done in water, like swimming and diving, is not only fun but is also more conducive. Even going on a run along the shore, or doing yoga with ocean breeze is supremely beneficial in the long run.
Diverse Community
The waterfront projects of Dubai call out to people from myriads of different cultures. Beachfront communities are exceptionally diverse, and those who celebrate contrasting traditions would be thoroughly engaged.
Some individuals dream of traveling around the world and learning about other ways of life. But those living in Dubai’s beachside communities can just go say hello to their neighbors. For families, this serves as an ideal place to nurture their child’s social development.
Disadvantages of Beachfront Living
Seasonal Hazards
The properties by the beach are especially vulnerable to storms and floods. People are also exceptionally tense after the recent historically devastating flooding, unmatched by anything experienced in the last 75 years. Waterfront property owners were, unfortunately, the most affected due to direct exposure.
However, the issues were mostly mitigated, especially after the UAE cabinet approved the AED 2 billion package to help homeowners with repairs.
Higher Maintenance Costs
The properties near the sea are more susceptible to damage. The phenomenon is due to the increased humidity and salt content in water. This combination can damage the outside of the property, including paint, sidings, and roof tiles.
The effects are quite significant, in fact, beachfront properties are repainted twice as frequently compared to inland buildings. The salt content in water and air makes the walls and other belongings prone to corrosion. The higher degree of corrosion can have an effect on any metal parts in your house and even your car, making it one of the things to consider in beachfront living.
More Upkeep:
The sand is quite bothersome. This experience of constantly cleaning your home can get quite tiring. The cool ocean breeze tempts you to open the window and let the air in. But beachfront living may come with some sand in your home.
Higher Price:
The aforementioned striking increase in the property value of beachfront property makes it an ideal investment. However, this also means a lot of demand and, subsequently, a lot higher rents and valuations.
Loses its Novelty:
As mentioned, the paint of the walls and the metal objects tends to corrode. The newness of the home will disappear. The initial excitement might fade, but the peace and beauty of the ocean can be a constant source of enjoyment. That’s where beachfront living might give you a disadvantage, but with a constant peaceful view.
FAQs
While beachfront living and houses are a completely different experience, there are certain things to consider:
– Seasonal hazards like hurricanes will affect your waterfront property more substantially.
– The property will require more frequent and expensive maintenance.
– Sandy breezes translate into more upkeep.
– Beachfront properties are more expensive.
– Over time, the ocean will become routine for you, and you may lose all excitement.
Beachfront property refers to any real estate that is located directly on the coast, with the beach as its immediate foreground. These properties can be anything from single-family homes and condos to resorts and hotels.
Yes. Ocean proximity offers stress relief and mental clarity while encouraging healthy activities like swimming and jogging.
Keeping in mind the pros and cons of beachfront living in Dubai, the end-decision, as to whether or not one should invest in real estate along the shores, differs from person to person. Before investing in beachfront properties in the UAE, remember to conduct thorough research, seek advice from real estate experts and consider the market trends.
There are plenty more guides listing down the pros and cons of different types of properties in the UAE. Find them on Property Finder blogs.
