Finding the perfect apartment in Dubai is no easy task, especially with budget constraints. Many professionals moving to the city often weigh their options between studio vs. 1-bedroom apartments, as both offer affordable living. While they might seem the same at first, there are several differences that once you learn will significantly impact your decision.
There’s a lot to consider when choosing which one is right for you, as both have pros and cons depending on your lifestyle choices. If you’re looking for an apartment in Dubai and unsure which one is the best for you, this guide will help you make the best choice.
What’s the Difference?
A studio apartment is a compact space that combines your bedroom, living and dining areas into one open-plan layout. Often referred to as efficiency apartments, studios maximize space while keeping things minimal.
On the other hand, a one-bedroom apartment has a separate bedroom, offering more privacy and defined spaces for living and dining. While both are designed for single or two-person occupancy, their layouts significantly impact daily comfort and functionality.
Comparing Studio vs. 1 Bedroom Apartments
To help you decide between the two, here’s a breakdown of the differences between studio vs. 1-bedroom apartments. These will help you weigh your options based on what they offer.
1. Size
The idea of an open layout of a studio apartment may make you think the house will look bigger than a one-bedroom apartment. However, studio apartments are generally smaller than one-bedroom apartments in size. The average studio in Dubai ranges from 27 to 65 square metres, while one-bedroom apartments vary from 55 to 110 square metres.
When deciding which one to choose consider how much space you need. If space is a priority to you, a one-bedroom apartment offers more room for furniture, storage and movement.
2. Lifestyle
Your lifestyle is also one of the things you need to consider. If you spend most of your time outdoors and just need a place to sleep, living in a studio apartment is a cost-effective option. However, if you’re someone who frequently entertains guests, a one-bedroom apartment will offer more privacy by separating the sleeping area.
Generally, people who spend more time indoors require more space to move around and for it to feel more like an organised home. This criteria also fits people who work from home.
3. Maintenance and Costs
One of the biggest advantages of a studio is its low maintenance. With a smaller space, cleaning takes less time and utility bills are lower. However, since everything is in one space, studios can look messy more easily. There’s no extra room to escape clutter if you’re too busy to clean. Comparatively, a one-bedroom apartment requires more cleaning but provides more space for storage and organization.
4. Furnishing
Studio apartments require careful planning when it comes to furnishing. Since space is limited, every piece of furniture must be functional and well-placed, often resulting in a minimalist design. You can create an efficient living space, but there’s little room to move furniture around and customise the arrangement to your liking.
People often use convertible furniture to save space such as freestanding beds and convertible sleeper sofas. Dealing with convertibles gets a bit tiring after a while and it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. If you prefer a more customised and decorative home, a one-bedroom offers more flexibility.
Even so, with the right design choices, you can make your studio look like a one-bedroom apartment and feel just as cosy. Check out our tips for furnishing your studio to make it look bigger and more inviting without spending extra on a larger apartment.
5. Demand
Both studio and one-bedroom apartments for rent in Dubai have strong demand, but they attract different tenants. In comparison, one-bedroom apartments appeal to a broader tenant base. It is perfect for singles, couples or even small families looking for affordable housing options. Whereas, studio apartments are in demand among short-term renters like young professionals, students and tourists.
Which One Should You Buy?
Should you rent a studio apartment in Dubai or a one-bed? Still unsure? Deciding which one to buy in the studio vs. 1-bedroom debate ultimately depends on your lifestyle and budget. Here’s a quick checklist you can use to figure out which option suits you better:
Choose a One-Bedroom Apartment If:
- You require more space
- You entertain guests frequently
- You don’t live alone and privacy is a concern to you
- You prefer the sleeping area to be separated from the living and dining space
- You prefer flexible furnishing and interior design options
- You prefer an organised home
Choose a Studio Apartment If:
- Affordability matters more than space
- You spend most of your time outdoors
- You want lower maintenance costs
- You prefer a minimalist living space
FAQs
Buying a studio apartment in Dubai is a budget-friendly option with strong rental demand. It’s a great choice for investors and first-time buyers seeking affordability and steady returns.
Yes, there are many places to rent luxury apartments in Dubai. Some popular names are Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah which offer waterfront views and premium amenities.
There are several areas where you can find studio apartments for rent in Dubai under 50K per year. Some of the most affordable ones include Al Qusais and International City.
If you value privacy, flexibility, and space, a one-bedroom apartment might be the right choice. On the other hand, if affordability, low maintenance, and a minimalist lifestyle appeal to you, a studio could be the better fit. Regardless of which apartment you choose, making the most of your space is key. We’ve got plenty of tips and tricks for small apartment designs that can help you maximize space without compromising on style.
