Have you ever tried to find a place to stay in Dubai during an important event?
In such a case, early booking is essential, or you should opt for beach accommodation. With Expo 2025 accommodation Dubai becoming a top priority for global visitors and the city’s epic New Year celebrations coming up, finding good accommodation is like a marathon.
On certain days, tech enthusiasts flock to Expo City. while others follow Burj Khalifa fireworks. Everyone is looking for the right place to stay. That’s why short-term rentals Dubai Expo and Dubai New Year rentals increase sharply, especially for travelers who want comfort, space and fair prices.
In this, we are with you and provide you with a friendly road map of the best areas of Dubai to rent accommodation, and how to book smartly, and all the documents you need, and how to avoid surprises in the peak season of Dubai. Ready to find your perfect winter home in Dubai? So let’s go!
Why Demand Rises During Expo & New Year
Dubai has a great charm in winter and becomes a global magnet. But during Expo years and the New Year season, demand hits an entirely different level.
According to International Travel and Tourism analysis, five key forces are driving short-term rental demand:
- Expo 2025’s Global Tourism Inflow
Expo 2020 attracted over 24 million people. More visitors are expected for the next event. visitors are already searching for short-term rentals Dubai Expo and nearby stays.
- New Year’s Record-Breaking Visitor Waves
Have you ever seen the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks in Dubai? The Burj Khalifa fireworks attract millions each year, making New Year rentals in Dubai one of the most searched terms for accommodation in the region.
- Hotel Price Spikes & Reduced Availability
Usually, hotels increase rates by 40 to 120 percent during peak event seasons. With limited room availability near the event centers, it is really hard to find a suitable place. The existence of apartments that are rented for a short period solves this problem and the lack of accommodation to a large extent.
- Diverse Visitor Segments All Arrive at Once
Expo attracts exhibitors, international representatives, innovators, and business travelers. Expo exhibitors, business visitors, long-stay tourists, and holiday families all arrive at once. That’s why the demand for flexible options like Expo 2025 accommodation Dubai is increasing.
- Early Bookers Grab the Best Deals
Travel planners and digital nomads usually book their accommodation months in advance so that they don’t want to allocate more funds for the increase in rates. So plan well to save 30% with early bookings.
For visitors who want convenience, a convenient location, and a fair price, booking Dubai Expo short-term rentals early is a smart strategy.
Areas Close to Expo City & Event Hubs
Choosing the right neighborhood is very important because it can make or break your Expo or New Year experience.
Choosing top regions is good because it gives you different access. Sometimes you can find a suitable place to stay at a fair price and enjoy various events and celebrations in this city.
Dubai South & Expo Village (Best Proximity for Expo 2025)
If your priority is to stay near Expo City, there is no better place to stay than South Dubai. Closest access to Expo City!
Ideal for exhibitors seeking Expo 2025 accommodation Dubai. Expo Village is designed to be the main accommodation center during Expo 2020. This area is still the closest and most convenient place for Expo 2025 visitors.
Travel Times:
- 2-5 minutes to Expo City
- 20 minutes to JBR & Marina
- 25-30 minutes to Downtown Dubai
Average Prices:
- Nightly: AED 250-450 (holiday homes & studios)
- Weekly: AED 1,800–3,200
To whom do we recommend accommodation in this place? Exhibitors, trade visitors, and travelers who want zero commuting time.
Jumeirah Village Circle (Budget-Friendly)
This area is consistently listed as the best affordable area in Dubai for short stays. The area is full of holiday homes, modern studios, and well-equipped apartments, making it a great option for exhibitors.
Jumeirah Village Circle is a smart choice for visitors who want convenience but don’t want to pay the high price of downtown.
Why It Works:
- High supply of licensed holiday homes = making prices more competitive.
- It is surrounded by key highways (Al Khail Rd & Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd).
- It is 12 to 18 minutes away from Dubai Marina
- It is 22 to 28 minutes away from Expo City
Average prices:
- Nightly: AED 180–350
- Weekly: AED 1,300–2,500
Dubai Marina & JBR (New Year Fireworks Spots)
Demand for Dubai Marina & JBR accommodation consistently peaks during New Year’s week. Dubai Marina & JBR are top spots for travelers prioritizing Dubai New Year rentals.
These coastal neighborhoods are highly desirable and ideal for nightlife, trying new cuisine at restaurants, and viewing iconic fireworks. That’s why many people all over the world go to Dubai and choose the Dubai Marina & JBR area to rent houses for the New Year.
Why visitors love it:
- Direct access to the beach & waterfront
- Dubai’s busiest winter nightlife scene
- Quick links to Bluewaters & Palm Jumeirah
Average Prices:
- Nightly: AED 400–800
- Weekly: AED 3,500–6,000
If you are one of the travelers who want to have a happy and fun stay in the New Year and be within 20-25 minutes from Expo City, it is better to choose Dubai Marina & JBR.
Business Bay & Downtown (Burj Khalifa Countdown)
Is watching Burj Khalifa fireworks on your wish list? So without a doubt, finding the right accommodation in Business Bay & Downtown will be very exciting for you. Field research shows that these areas are almost filled every December.
Why Stay Here:
- Walkable distance to Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa
- Best for premium Expo 2025 accommodation in Dubai
- Metro access + top-tier hotels and serviced apartments
Average Prices:
- Nightly: AED 600–1,200
- Weekly: AED 4,500–9,000
- Expect higher rates — but unbeatable convenience.
Al Barsha & Tecom (Affordable + Metro Access)
These two neighborhoods are consistently recognized as Dubai’s most affordable areas, and access to the metro is a major plus for major events. It is a great option for travelers looking for both affordable prices and easy transportation.
Why They’re Popular:
- Close to Mall of the Emirates
- Excellent metro access for Expo and New Year events
- High number of serviced apartments + cheaper holiday homes
Average Prices:
- Nightly: AED 200–400
- Weekly: AED 1,500–2,800
Short-Term Apartments vs. Hotel Stays
Choosing a place to stay in Dubai during peak season seems like a strategic mission. Especially with the crowds arriving at the Expo and New Year’s celebrations starting at the same time.
Well, in such a situation, you may ask for Short-Term Apartments or Hotel Stays. That’s why here’s how to realistically compare apartments and hotels so you can make a better decision.
Pros of Short-Term Apartments
Short-term apartments are a great option during Expo and the holiday season. Because they offer you flexibility, space, and comfort.
Well, these three features are great for every traveler.
Kitchen & Home Comfort:
Some visitors stay in Dubai for 5-10 days, so they don’t want to eat out for every meal. For those who prefer to be able to cook a bit, the Kitchen is very important.
More Privacy:
Travelers usually prefer places that are “home-like”.So they want a great place for short-term rentals Dubai Expo guests.
Ideal for Group Stays:
Exhibitors and teams can rent a large apartment for a certain period of time instead of booking several hotel rooms.
Often Cheaper for Longer Stays: Note that weekly rates for apartments can be 20-35% cheaper than hotels during the fair season. So, for many travelers who are looking for short-term rentals in Dubai, apartments are the best option because they are both comfortable and affordable.
Pros of Hotels
Hotels are also very desirable. Because they offer another kind of comfort, especially for short trips or visitors who decide to travel to Dubai at the last moment and near the New Year.
Services & Amenities: Housekeeping, room service, restaurants, gyms, and concierge support are useful services. Hotels are best for Dubai New Year rentals.
Consistent Standards: Recognized hotels maintain predictable quality that appeals to international travelers.
Better for Last-Minute Bookings: When other travelers rent apartments during peak weeks, hotels are more likely to still be available.
Prime Event Locations: Many hotels near Burj Khalifa, Marina, and Expo City offer good service and are perfect for New Year rentals in Dubai.
Hotels are usually practical for visitors who want simplicity, walkable locations, and strong service guarantees.
Which Option Works Best for Expo Visitors?
Different travelers have different priorities, and this is important when choosing where to stay for Expo 2025 in Dubai.
Best for Exhibitors, Delegates & Business Visitors:
- Short-term apartments
- More space for equipment
- Better privacy for team members
- Weekly savings
- Ability to cook and store food
In general, long-haul business travelers seem to prefer apartments during major trade shows.
Best for Tourists, First-Time Travelers & Short Trips:
- Hotels or serviced apartments
- Close to attractions
- No setup required
- Easy transportation options
- Instant support if something goes wrong
Empirically, it can be observed that tourists who come to Dubai mainly for fireworks, sightseeing, or weekend events often choose hotels because they are more comfortable and have access to favorable facilities.
How to Book Smartly and Save on Peak Season
During the New Year period and Dubai’s Expo, due to the excitement of visitors and the fact that they come from all over the world, we see hotel and accommodation prices rise. But with a few smart strategies, you can have a comfortable stay without paying extra.
Note that time and location make the biggest difference when booking short-term rentals for Dubai Expo or New Year rentals in Dubai.
Book 30-60 Days Before Event Season
Essential for Expo and New Year weeks. The rental prices of properties in Marina and Downtown increase even up to 40-60% in the last two weeks before New Year’s Eve.
If you plan to spend your vacation in Dubai and in popular areas such as Marina, Downtown, or Burj Khalifa, and participate in fireworks, be sure to pay attention to early booking.
Compare Weekly vs. Nightly Prices
Most people don’t realize that weekly rates are often significantly cheaper. Usually, one-week stays include a 20 to 35 percent discount.
Weekly accommodation rentals are useful for visitors looking for:
- Expo 2025 accommodation in Dubai
- Long holidays around the New Year
- Group or family stays
Be sure to compare the weekly option before booking daily. Sometimes this difference and price difference are huge.
Use Filters (Metro Access, Self-Check-In, Free Parking)
To rent a property in Dubai for the short term and book accommodation, it is better to save time and money by filtering the transportation options.
This is especially helpful for visitors looking for:
- Access to the subway (preventing the increase in costs for taking a taxi)
- Free parking (holiday home apartments often have an extra charge)
- Self-check-in (late-night arrivals during Expo & NYE)
- Access to a washing machine/kitchen (to reduce daily expenses)
These filters help Dubai accommodation bookers to find real and affordable options from thousands of listings.
Stay 5-10 Minutes Away from Expo City to Save Money
We list one of the biggest secrets of saving money in Dubai:
- You don’t need to stay inside Expo Village to enjoy Expo.
- Try to be as close to the desired destination as possible; for example, a distance of 5 to 10 minutes can reduce your cost by 25 and 40 percent.
Best alternatives:
Choose the southern suburbs of Dubai for accommodation: (cheaper studios + quick access to Expo City)
Choose Jumeirah Neighborhood (JVC): Great for weekly bookings, and you’ll have direct access to the highway.
These two areas in Dubai are always a great option for short-term rentals at the Dubai Expo.
Avoid Hidden Charges (Tourism Fee, Cleaning Fee)
The most common surprise expenses in short-term stays in Dubai are:
- Cleaning fees (varies by host/property)
- Security deposits
- Tourism Dirham Fee (mandatory per-night tax)
Early check-in / late check-out fees
So it is better to always check the final cost so that you are not surprised, especially for apartments and holiday homes. You should pay attention to the price to match your budget.
Hidden costs are a very important issue in travel, and one of the main reasons for travelers’ deep search for short-term rentals in the Dubai Expo with transparent prices.
Top Websites and Apps for Short-Term Rentals
Homebook stands out as one of the most trusted platforms when it comes to finding reliable, managed and modern accommodation in Dubai. Especially for travelers going to Expo City or planning to spend New Year in Dubai.
We can introduce Homebook as a rising leader in short-stay listings across Dubai.
Homebook
This platform offers a quality and convenient rental experience specifically designed for today’s travelers. From exhibition exhibitors to business visitors and people coming to Dubai for the New Year holidays are satisfied with the service they receive.
Whether you’re looking for short-term rentals for Expo Dubai, planning a New Year’s Eve rental in Dubai or early booking accommodation for Expo 2025 in Dubai, Homebook is there for you and offers a selection of accommodation that meets your exact needs.
Why Homebook Works So Well for Event Travelers
- Verified & Licensed Stays
According to the Dubai Tourism Regulations (DTCM), every holiday home must be licensed. Homebook guarantees the availability of licenses and full compliance with them. Therefore, travelers can rest easy knowing that their stay is legally registered and its quality has been checked.
- Diverse Property Options
Homebook offers the right variety to suit every need, making it easy to fit any budget and match any travel style.
Homebook specializes in:
- Modern apartments
- Apart-hotels for semi-hotel experiences
- Fully furnished holiday homes
- Practical studios near Expo City
- Flexible Short Stays
Looking for daily, weekly and monthly reservations? Choose Homebook because it is very flexible and supports various options and is recommended for the following cases:
- Expo exhibitors need multiple weeks
- Tourists spending the New Year in Marina or Downtown
- Digital nomads escaping winter weather
- Location-Smart Listings
Homebook offers different accommodations in different neighborhoods of Deb and suit your lifestyle. With the help of the useful services of this platform, travelers can quickly choose the best areas to attend and stay at Expo events or enjoy attending fireworks celebrations.
If you come to Dubai for work or leisure, there are different neighborhoods in Dubai that welcome you, such as:
- JVC
- Marina & JBR
- Dubai South (Expo City)
- Downtown & Business Bay
- Transparent Pricing & Easy Booking
Homebook is popular for these reasons, making it easier to book accommodation in Dubai than many traditional platforms. Other reasons for the popularity of this platform include:
- No hidden charges
- Clear fee breakdowns
- User-friendly booking flow
- Trusted payment methods
Why Homebook Is Ideal for Expo & New Year Travelers
For visitors to the 2025 exhibition:
Because the travel time is short and it is possible to find affordable studios and stay for a few weeks.
For New Year tourists:
You can have accommodation with premium Marina & Downtown views at competitive prices!
For long-term guests:
If your stay in Dubai is longer, don’t worry, with the help of this platform, you can choose an accommodation that has access to a full kitchen and experience the comfort of home and privacy.
For families:
It is not difficult for families to find multi-bedroom units in Dubai. Just select the appropriate filter to display different options.
Homebook is ideal as it gives you the comfort and security of a home, making it an outstanding choice for anyone visiting Dubai during the peak season.
What Documents Do You Need to Rent in Dubai
Dubai keeps its rental system organized, secure and transparent. Especially for visitors arriving in Dubai during peak season. According to the Dubai Tourism Guidelines (DTCM), the UAE Government Portal and other relevant bodies, travelers looking to book short-term rentals for the Dubai Expo or New Year in Dubai must submit a few essential documents.
Below is a simple breakdown of what every visitor to Dubai should prepare.
Passport copy:
Whether you are a tourist, exhibitor or business visitor, a passport copy is required for all short stays. DTCM regulations require operators to verify your identity before entering. Most hosts accept digital scans, which is good news and makes the process faster and easier. You may ask why is it necessary? For these reasons:
- Security and compliance with UAE hospitality rules
- Legal approval
- Registration in Dubai tourism systems
Visa (Tourist / Visit / Resident)
According to the UAE Government Portal, guests must present a valid visa that matches their current state of residence. This helps operators verify that you are legally allowed to stay in the country and that it matches the duration of your reservation.
You need to know that it is very important during the busy time of the exhibition and the arrival of the New Year.
- Visit Visa
- Tourist Visa (most common for short-term rentals)
- Residency Visa (for expats living in the UAE)
Emirates ID (for residents)
If you are a UAE resident, your UAE ID will serve as your primary ID.
Why residents should show it:
- Proof of identity
- Fast check-in approval for serviced apartments
- Tourists do not need an Emirates ID; a passport is enough.
- Verification against DTCM requirements
Security Deposit Rules
A refundable security deposit is standard practice in the Dubai short-term rental industry. Deposits are required to protect the host from accidental damage.
What to know:
- Refunds typically return within 3-7 business days
- This applies whether you’re booking Expo 2025 accommodation Dubai or a festive Dubai New Year rental.
- For luxury units, the hold may be placed on your card rather than charged
Tourism Dirham Fee Details
The AED tourism fee is a mandatory tax for all short-term stays in Dubai listed by Dubai Tourism (DTCM).
Key details:
- Amount varies based on property classification (usually AED 7-20)
- Charged per room, per night
- It applies to hotels, holiday homes, serviced apartments and short-term rentals.
Even if your stay is fully prepaid, this tax may be included as an item at check-in or checkout. For travelers looking for short-term rentals to attend Expo Dubai, it’s important to consider this cost when comparing prices.
Conclusion
It’s not hard to find the right place to stay in Dubai during Expo 2025 and the New Year. With a little planning, you can choose a comfortable home that fits your budget, travel goals, and event schedule.
From choosing neighborhoods near Expo City to comparing weekly prices and checking essential documents, every smart decision will help you enjoy Dubai the way it’s meant to be: stress-free and energized.
Whether you’re here for business, celebrations, or sightseeing, booking early puts the best position, from short-term Dubai Expo rentals to premium Dubai New Year rentals.
If you choose the peak season of Dubai to visit this city, according to the tips we mentioned in this article, you can enjoy a peaceful and memorable stay with Expo 2025 accommodation Dubai. So use the tips in this guide and book early with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
yes Both are witnessing a sharp rise in prices. These days, hotel rates increase by 40-120% and short-term rentals fill up quickly. So booking early will help you get fair prices and better places.
The ideal booking is 30 to 60 days before your trip to Dubai. Popular areas near Expo City are selling the fastest, especially for accommodation at Expo 2025 Dubai.
yes Dubai fully allows short-term rental platforms as long as the property has a Dubai Tourism License (DTCM). Hosts must register their units, obtain permits and comply with holiday-home regulations.For travelers, this means that all licensed listings, whether booked through a website or app, are legal, regulated and safe to stay at the fair and into the New Year.
These areas are the most popular areas for Dubai New Year rentals. The top fireworks locations are as follows.
Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa)
Bluewaters Island
Palm Jumeirah
Dubai Marina & JBR
absolutely DTCM regulations allow tourists to book licensed holiday homes for a short overnight stay. Weekly rentals are common and often cheaper, especially for short-term Dubai Expo rentals or longer holiday trips.
