Why Holiday Homes Beat Hotels: The Smarter Choice for Modern Travelers

The travel landscape has changed. Today’s guests want more than just a bed for the night — they want space, flexibility, and a home-like experience without sacrificing comfort. That’s where holiday homes shine.

If you’re still booking hotels for your getaways or business trips, it’s time to rethink your options. Here’s why holiday homes are fast becoming the preferred choice for travelers across Dubai and around the world.

1. More Space, More Comfort

Hotels often mean small, identical rooms. Holiday homes? They give you room to breathe. From spacious living areas to fully equipped kitchens, you can spread out, relax, and truly settle in. Whether it’s a family gathering or a long stay, extra space means less stress and more enjoyment.

2. Better Value for Money

On paper, a hotel might seem cheaper per night — until you factor in meals, laundry, and extra charges. Holiday homes bundle the essentials you need (and often luxury extras) into one price. Cooking your own meals, doing laundry in-house, and having multiple bedrooms can save a fortune compared to hotel add-ons.

3. Privacy You Can’t Get in a Hotel

No busy corridors, no housekeeping knocking at inconvenient times, no noisy neighbours through thin walls. Holiday homes offer true privacy — whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway or working remotely in peace.

4. Live Like a Local

Hotels keep you in a bubble. Holiday homes place you in real neighbourhoods, giving you a taste of local culture, dining spots, and hidden gems you’d never find from a concierge desk. You’ll feel part of the city, not just a visitor passing through.

5. Perfect for Groups and Families

Booking multiple hotel rooms for a group is costly and inconvenient. A holiday home keeps everyone together under one roof, making shared meals, movie nights, or simply catching up effortless. Plus, kids have space to play, and adults have room to relax.

6. Tailored Experiences

With a holiday home, you can choose a property that matches your lifestyle — from sleek city apartments to luxury villas with private pools. At BLVD Holiday Homes, every property is professionally managed to deliver hotel-level service with the comforts of home.

7. The “Home Away From Home” Feeling

At the end of the day, a hotel can feel… like a hotel. A holiday home lets you create your own atmosphere — make coffee in your kitchen, watch Netflix in your living room, or step onto your balcony with a view that’s yours alone. It’s your space, on your terms.

Final Thought

The world has moved beyond the one-size-fits-all hotel room. Holiday homes offer more comfort, more flexibility, and more value, making them the perfect choice for modern travelers.

If you’re ready to experience Dubai in style — without the limitations of a hotel — explore our curated selection at BLVD Holiday Homes. Your perfect stay is just a booking away.

‍Holiday Homes vs. Long-Term Rentals in Dubai: Which Pays More?

When it comes to Dubai property investment, owners often face one big question: Should I rent my property as a holiday home or as a long-term rental?

Both options can generate strong returns, but the differences in income potential, management requirements, and risk levels are significant. In this guide, we compare holiday homes vs. long-term rentals in Dubai so you can decide which strategy offers the best return for your property.

1. What’s the Difference Between Holiday Homes and Long-Term Rentals?

Holiday Homes (Short-Term Rentals)

• Fully furnished properties rented out for days, weeks, or months.
• Popular with tourists, business travelers, and residents seeking flexible stays.
• Licensed by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
• Marketed through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO.
  

Long-Term Rentals

• Typically 1-year contracts regulated by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).
• Usually unfurnished or semi-furnished.
• Tenants handle their own utility bills.

2. Dubai Rental Yields: Holiday Homes vs. Long-Term Rentals

Holiday homes in Dubai often outperform long-term rentals in high-demand areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).

Example: 1-Bedroom Apartment in Dubai Marina

• Long-Term Rental: AED 90,000/year
• Holiday Home: AED 500–700/night in peak season, averaging AED 140,000–160,000/year at 70–80% occupancy.
  

Key takeaway: A well-managed holiday home in a prime location can generate 30–60% more income annually than a traditional long-term lease.

3. Costs and Expenses to Consider

Holiday Home Costs

• DTCM license fees
• Professional property management (15–25% of revenue if outsourced)
• Furnishing & setup (AED 30k–60k for a 1-bedroom)
• Utilities, internet, and TV subscriptions
• Regular cleaning, laundry, and guest supplies
  

Long-Term Rental Costs

• Minimal ongoing expenses beyond occasional maintenance
• No need for furnishing or frequent repairs due to lower turnover

4. Risks and Challenges of Each Option

Holiday Homes

• Seasonal income fluctuations (higher in winter, slower in summer)
• Higher wear and tear from frequent guest turnover
• Requires marketing, guest communication, and prompt maintenance response
  

Long-Term Rentals

• Fixed annual income, but can’t adjust rent mid-lease
• Lower flexibility if market rents rise during the contract
• Vacancy gaps possible between tenants

5. Which Option Pays More in Dubai?

If your goal is maximum rental income and your property is in a prime tourist area, holiday homes generally pay more than long-term rentals in Dubai—provided occupancy rates stay high and the property is well-managed.

If you prefer steady, hassle-free income with minimal involvement, long-term rentals are the safer choice.

6. Conclusion: Matching the Strategy to Your Goals

For properties in tourist hotspots, a holiday home strategy can significantly increase annual returns. For suburban or less tourism-driven areas, a long-term lease offers consistent income and less operational stress.

Pro Tip: Many investors in Dubai diversify—using holiday home rentals for high-demand properties and long-term rentals for stable cash flow.