Downtown, by the Burj
The address most visitors picture. Six things hosts here should know.
Check your building in writing
Downtown towers are run by different management companies, and some have restricted short stays in the past. Rules change, so ask your building for its current position in writing before you list.
The permit
Every Airbnb let by the night in Dubai needs a holiday home permit from the Department of Economy and Tourism, held by you or a licensed operator.
Name the view
Guests here search for the Burj Khalifa, the fountain and The Dubai Mall. Say exactly which rooms see what, and photograph the view at the right hour.
Events set the calendar
New Year, the winter season and the city's big events fill Downtown first. Price those dates early and do not sell them cheap months ahead.
The highest expectations in the city
Downtown guests expect hotel standards: spotless turnovers, in-person or clear self check-in and replies within minutes. Reviews here are earned on every stay.
New towers, many new listings
Newly handed over towers put many similar apartments on Airbnb in the same months. Good photos, a clear description and fast replies decide which ones book first.
See also building rules, Society House, Business Bay and best areas for Airbnb.
Our pick
fäm Living runs Airbnb homes in Downtown Dubai
fäm Living lists and runs Dubai apartments and villas on Airbnb, Booking.com and direct, as licensed holiday homes. Its own team handles check-in, cleaning and maintenance, and owners see every booking in the owner portal. Part of the fäm Properties group.
Holiday home management in Downtown- Holiday home permit handled
- Listing, photos and pricing
- Guest screening and in-person check-in
- Cleaning, linen and maintenance
Questions
Downtown: host questions
Can I Airbnb my apartment in Downtown Dubai?
In many buildings, yes, once the home holds a holiday home permit from the Department of Economy and Tourism and the building's management accepts short stays. Some Downtown buildings have restricted short stays before, so check your building's current rules in writing.
Who books Airbnbs in Downtown Dubai?
First-time visitors who want to be next to the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, families on holiday, visitors for New Year and the big events, and business travellers who want the best-known address in the city.
I just got the keys to a new Downtown apartment. Where do I start?
Snag the unit, connect the utilities, ask the building about short stays in writing, furnish to a standard that lasts, then get the permit. Our Society House guide walks through it for one new Downtown tower.