In the UAE, amenities that rival those of 5-star hotels are becoming increasingly common in new residential projects. Location is always a key factor in property buying, but amenities are also crucial, especially in advanced cities like Dubai where residents seek modern features and facilities that cater to their lifestyle needs. These amenities are not only important for influencing buyers’ decisions, but they also have a direct impact on property prices within these projects.
To meet the growing demand, developers are incorporating amenities into various areas such as podium levels, rooftops, and dedicated floors. Luxurious amenities such as private cinemas, gaming arenas, BBQ spots, and health and wellness facilities are becoming the norm in new residential launches across Dubai. Liam Chase, a senior developer property consultant at Allsopp & Allsopp Group, noted a significant focus on health and wellness amenities like gyms, studios, and tranquil spaces for meditation.
One amenity that is gaining attention from buyers and tenants is the padel court. Some developers are highlighting the number of amenities offered in their projects as a key selling point. According to Chase, amenities significantly influence property buyers’ choices, with studies showing that a well-planned range of amenities can be a decisive factor for potential buyers in their decision-making process. Buyers are willing to pay more for homes in communities that offer amenities aligned with their lifestyle needs.
Devmark’s CEO, Sean McCauley, mentioned that amenities significantly influence property buyers’ decisions, especially in Dubai where the expectation is for a lifestyle along with a home. As remote or flexible work becomes more common, there is an increased demand for homes that support a work-from-home lifestyle. Families also seek residences with family-friendly features such as children’s play areas and proximity to schools. Price plays a role in incorporating more amenities into residential projects, as direct expenses for amenities may drive developers to increase property prices.
A well-rounded set of amenities can attract buyers and enhance property value. The type of amenities sought by buyers includes wellness facilities, recreational spaces like padel courts, jogging trails, indoor play areas for children, co-working spaces, private cinemas, communal dining areas, and more. Developers are investing in projects that offer a wide array of amenities to differentiate their developments and drive sales. Unique amenities can be a key differentiator for buyers in the market.
Amenity-rich residences come at a cost, with direct expenses for amenities potentially leading to an increase in property prices. However, some developers like Danube Properties focus on providing added value without passing the cost on to buyers. Popular amenities in new residential projects include man-made beaches, meditation pods, sustainability features, gym facilities, nanny services, doctor on call, curated libraries, infinity pools, and various sports courts. These amenities cater to the diverse lifestyle needs of residents and enhance the overall appeal of the property.
