Your Ultimate Guide To
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SETTING UP
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MOVE IN. MOVE UP. FURNISH YOUR NEW HOME AT 15 % OFF. T&C’S APPLY.
www.newmovers.me
NEW MOVERS 15% OFF Bloomingdale’s Home when you move to a new home.* *T&C’s Apply.
Welcome
Congratulations on your new home! This year, Dubai has claimed the top spot for offering the highest quality of living in the Middle East for the seventh time in a row*. With its mixture of sun, sea and sand, big ticket attractions and employment opportunities, it's easy to understand why. Whether you’re planning on being here for a long time or just a good time, we hope you enjoy your stint in the sandpit – and we're here to help! This useful guide is packed with top tips and expert advice on setting up home, from getting your utilities connected to taking charge of maintenance issues, and designing the abode of your dreams. Plus, we've rounded up all the essential contacts you need to make it happen so you've got all those handy numbers at your fingertips.
*Mercer’s 21st annual Quality of Living survey (mercer.com)
Whether you need a little help registering with Ejari (p17) or choosing a maintenance company to handle all those healthy home must-dos (p28), we've got you covered. Moreover, this guide has been designed especially to help take the stress out of the big move, and to fast track you to domestic bliss. Make sure you hang onto this booklet, as we've also got the skinny on streamlining your exit strategy (p48) whether you're leaving on a jet plane or simply shifting within the emirate. Indeed, with the introduction of the Gold Card visa (offering five- and ten-year residence visas), and some great deals on the market, an increasing number of residents are switching from renting to owning. If you're ready to make the jump, we take you through the points you need to consider before you sign on the dotted line.
Managing Director Victoria Thatcher
Contributing Editor Claire Malcolm
Production Manager Muthu Kumar
General Manager David Wade
Editorial Director John Thatcher
Art Director Kerri Bennett
To contact any of the above people, email firstname@hotmedia.me
Managing Editor Faye Bartle
Senior Designer Hiral Kapadia
Advertising Group Manager Sukaina Hussein +971 50 515 9691
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Contents
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WELCOME HOME Your definitive home information list
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STREAMLINE YOUR SET-UP Get clued up on move-in permits, Ejari and more
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38
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46
56
30
48
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HOME SWEET HOME From deep cleaning to getting the curtains up, get a grip on the basics so your house is move-in ready
HOME HEALTH CHECK-UP Top tips for maintenance must-dos
A SAFE HAVEN Keep your home safe and secure
GRAND DESIGNS Expert advice on designing a home you love
PUTTING DOWN ROOTS Why not buy?
ON THE MOVE Your guide to packing up or shipping out
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LIVING ON THE WATERFRONT Coastal neighbourhoods to covet
ONE-STOP SHOPS A handy map of the city, and its one-stop shops for home matters
ESSENTIAL CONTACTS Dubai's best on-call services and home essentials providers
Photography & vector credits: Getty Images, Phocal Media, and Flaticon.com Produced in collaboration with HOT Media. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media is strictly prohibited. HOT Media does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Your Ultimate Guide To Setting Up Home In Dubai. Please note that rules and regulations mentioned inside this guide may change over time. Tel: +971 4 364 2876 Fax: +971 4 369 7494
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Welcome home Make a note of those all-important details you won’t want to forget Address: Building name/unit number: Move-in date: 10-digit property number: Plot number: Period of tenancy / Title deed issue date: Ejari contract number and registration date: Security deposit paid: Cheque dates: Service fee payment dates (for homeowners): Developer contacts:
Moving company name:
Letting/sales agent name:
Landlord name:
Contacts:
Contacts:
Contacts:
Vehicle number plate:
Location and time zone:
Preferred maintenance company:
DEWA account number:
Du account number:
Contacts:
DEWA premises number:
Etisalat account number:
Makani number (10 digits):
Building and home contents insurance
Size of property (sqft/sqm):
provider:
All vectors made by flaticon.com
Unit type: Policy number: Swimming pool maintenance company:
Private PO Box number: Policy date:
Building/compound security: Contacts:
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Streamline your set-up
The big move can be a big headache but knowing what to expect when you relocate to or within Dubai is a game changer. Get clued up on move-in permits, Ejari and more with our guide to getting up and running
Get a move-in permit Most communities and building owners require that you apply for a moving in permit. Check with your real estate agent, or building security, exactly what paperwork needs to be completed in advance as it can take up to five working days to come through. The process is different from community to community, but you will usually be asked to fill out a Move-In/ Move-Out form and to hand over a copy of your tenancy contract or title deed, passport, visa, and proof of settlement of any community service fees. You may also need to provide the details of your moving company.
HAVE A STRESSFREE MOVE
Relocation aces Anthony Roberts from Allied Pickfords (alliedpickfords.ae) and Santa Fe Relocations’ Christine Sperr (santaferelo.com) share their tips for packing up and moving in
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MOVING FROM ABROAD If you’re moving here from abroad and are using an international moving company, it helps to pick one with offices in Dubai. The relocation process starts with a house survey to establish how much container space is required. After insurance and all the other paperwork is sorted, your possessions will be packed
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and loaded onto a ship. Dubai end, your movers should complete any customs formalities and unload the container at your new home.
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GET INSURED Although picking an established and experienced removal company should fill you with confidence, shipment protection for an international move is essential. It provides an extra layer of protection for high value pieces, as well as sentimental items that may be pricey to repair if damaged.
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SHIFTING LOCALLY Allow eight to 12 weeks to prepare for a local move.
MOVING IN
TAKE A PICTURE of how all the electronics are connected in your old home so you can easily reconnect them without hours spent puzzling over random or missing cables
Do your homework by comparing quotes from a few moving companies as well as checking out customer reviews before signing on the dotted line. Choosing a company with a valid trade license and insurance is non-negotiable.
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PERFECT PACKING You want your most precious possessions to arrive in one
piece, an expert moving company will know exactly how to wrap and pack granny’s antique glassware and delicate family heirlooms. Hanging wardrobe cartons ensure that dresses and suits arrive uncrumpled and mattresses should be plastic wrapped to keep them in tip-top shape. It’s common sense to expect boxes to be clearly labelled so your movers know where it all needs to go.
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POWER UP Professional movers come in teams of anywhere from four to 15 people. A one-bed or
small two-room apartment move should be doable in a day, including unpacking, with a large fourbedroom villa packed, relocated and unpacked in two full days.
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FIRST NIGHT ESSENTIALS Put together a ‘first night box’ that contains everything you will need to survive the move. This should include basic toiletries, pyjamas and a spare change of clothes. And while it may be obvious, don’t pack any essential items you need to keep to hand… otherwise they may end up at the bottom of a box.
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GET CONNECTED
The UAE has two main telecommunications companies: Etisalat and Du, offering broadband, TV, mobile and fixedline packages. Some buildings only work with one provider, however, so be sure to check before you buy.
Etisalat (etisalat.ae) Go: To any one of the six main customer service centres. Take: Emirates ID and passport with residency visa (original and copy) and valid Ejari-registered tenancy or title deed if you're the home owner.
You’ve got mail The UAE doesn’t have a regular postal delivery service and instead uses PO Boxes. Register online for a private PO Box through Emirates Post (epg.gov.ae) and select from a number of options, including collecting mail from your own box at the nearest post office, collecting from a dedicated PO Box ‘shelter’ (they're located in different communities), or thrice-weekly deliveries to your home. You also have the option to install a private home PO Box (for villas in selected areas). Some newer apartment communities also have banks of PO Boxes in the lobby. Or, keep it simple and have everyday post sent to your work PO Box. It costs from Dhs70 to register, with an annual fee from Dhs250, depending on the set-up.
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Remember: You can only apply for services once you have a UAE residency visa and you need to know your full building address for the application. Next steps: Wait four to seven days for the application to be processed. A home visit will then be scheduled with a technician.
Du (du.ae) Go: To any of the Du shops located in major malls across Dubai. Take: Emirates ID and passport with residency visa (original and copy) and valid Ejari-registered tenancy or title deed if you're the home owner. Next steps: Wait 48 hours for the application to be processed and a technician home visit will be scheduled within seven days.
Remember: You can only apply for services once you have a UAE residency visa.
Talk time Both Etisalat and Du offer different international calling packages for fixed line and mobile, and
MOVING IN
have regular promotional offers. Etisalat offers new subscribers’ Good to international access to 162 know countries with its 1 Fils Per Local and Second Plan while its nonational landline contract-required Unlimited to landline calls International Calling plan for are free prepaid account customers in Dubai comes with a monthly fixed rate and unrestricted call access (fair usage policy applies) to a single country of choice (mobile or landline numbers). Du’s World Calling Pack gives you 1,200 minutes to your home country for a monthly fixed subscription, and its International Savings Offer for prepaid mobile customers offers pay-by-the-second access to over 100 countries, with no hidden fees or additional charges. Virgin Mobile (part of the du family) is another option (virginmobile.ae).
Show and tell Skype and FaceTime are unavailable in the UAE, but screen time is possible with VoIP apps, including BOTIM, C’Me and HiU Messenger, which you can access via Etisalat and Du for a fixed monthly fee.
How to register with Ejari Meaning ‘My Rent’ in Arabic, Ejari is the mandatory registration of your tenancy contract, and is designed to offer full protection of rights to all parties covered within the tenancy agreement. TO REGISTER, EITHER: Go to any one of the official Ejari-approved typing centres listed on the government portal (800 4488, ejari.gov.ae) to get your paperwork sorted, then visit an Ejari service centre to complete the registration in person. Or, if you already have all the approved paperwork, simply upload your documents via the Ejari website (ejari.gov.ae). Required documents: Passport copy, UAE residency visa, tenancy contract, Emirates ID, a recent DEWA bill or receipt of DEWA connection application, title deed of the property and a copy of either the landlord’s passport or Emirates ID. Cost? Dhs220. Alternatively, apply online via an approved thirdparty service, with fees from around Dhs600. Wait: Up to two working days to receive your Ejari number and for your contract to be sent to you via email.
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MOVING IN
SET UP YOUR UTILITIES There’s no need to queue at a Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) Customer Happiness Centre to sort your utilities connection. It takes just a few minutes to complete the online application form (in English or Arabic) and pay the requisite fees at dewa.gov.ae
Q A
What documents/personal details do I need to provide? Your Ejari number, property title deed (for owners) or tenancy contract (for renters), Emirates ID and passport copy along with your DEWA number (if you’re an existing customer) and 10-digit premises number (which is located on a mounted wall plate next to your front door).
Q A
How much does it cost to set it all up? Activation charges are Dhs100 for a small meter connection (Dhs300 for large meters), Dhs10 for registration, and
Dhs20 knowledge and innovation fees. You will also need to pay a security deposit of Dhs2,000 for an apartment or Dhs4,000 for a villa.
Q A Q A
How soon will it take for the service be activated? Within 24 hours of registration and security deposit payment.
Can I do this at a DEWA customer centre instead? Absolutely. You just need to fill out a printed form, pay the security deposit at the payment counter, collect your receipt, and the service will be activated within 24 hours.
EMPOWER AS YOUR PROVIDER? If you live in a community where Empower (empower.ae) chiller services registration is required, you’ll need to do this in person at one of four customer service centres. Property owners should take along the title deed, passport copies with visa page and Emirates ID, and then fill in a form and pay and the security deposit of Dhs2,000 (apartment) or Dhs3,000 (villa). Plus, for first-time landlords only, a one-time connection fee of Dhs2,000 and Dhs1,000 administration charge applies. Tenants will also need an attested Ejari contract and tenancy contract copy.
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Gas and water home delivery There's no mains gas in Dubai and many high-rise apartment buildings do not permit the use of gas cylinders (some newer buildings may have centralised supply systems). If you’re in a villa and gas is your cooking fuel of choice, individual canisters are the answer. Dubai has a long list of cylinder companies that deliver to your door and who will also connect and replace new or empty cylinders. There’s a one-off connection fee/deposit from Dhs500, while refills cost from Dhs85-285 depending on cylinder size. Tap water in Dubai is drinkable although it isn’t particularly flavourful. Virtually all of the local brands you see in the supermarket also offer home delivery (see page 58) and will install a water cooler for a fee. For perfectly potable tap water with environmentally friendly credentials, consider fitting a Quooker tap – an all-inone filter system that dispenses boiling, hot, cold, chilled, still and sparkling directly from the tap (quooker.ae).
PROMOTION
LET IT RAIN
A few small improvements can make all the difference, as these sleek bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings by GROHE go to show
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o, you’ve found your dream home but the bathroom’s lacklustre shower head is putting a dampener on your day and that bulky water cooler is lowering the tone of your kitchen’s modern aesthetic. Let GROHE come to the rescue with high-quality solutions that team form and function to ensure your home is at its most efficient and stylish best. Free up some floor space and wave goodbye to lugging heavy bottles of water around thanks to UltraSafe water filter technology. These high performance filters remove even the smallest particles and bacteria from tap water, leaving behind all the important minerals for a pure taste. For variety, opt for the GROHE Blue Home tap and you can pour a chilled glass of still, medium-fizzy or sparkling water straight from your elegant faucet. If less is more, the GROHE Blue Pure is a simple yet stylish choice. The all-in-one system delivers filtered still water through your tap and is available in three designs.
GROHE Pure
If those dreary shower heads have got to go, GROHE’s Euphoria SmartControl Shower System is sure to elevate your experience with its multi-jet shower head (available in square or round) and compact handheld shower for creating your very own hydrotherapy zone. Go from a simple ‘on and off’ option to selecting the volume of water, type of jet spray and specific shower experience at the touch of three simple buttons. Simply choose the water pattern to suit your mood. The ActiveRain jet setting sends a powerful spray for a salon-style hair wash that helps to massage away tension while the PureRain button releases a gentle spray for ultimate relaxation. The clever temperature limiter stops the water from getting too hot and CoolTouch technology means that scalding pipes are a thing of the past. What’s more, it comes with an adjustable upper bracket so you don’t need to worry about drilling it into the wall. Visit grohe-middleeast.com to find out more
GROHE Blue
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MOVING IN
STORAGE SOLUTIONS Moving in together, downsizing or renovating? Storage is the short-term solution
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WHAT GOES IN
Everything, including the kitchen sink, and canned goods, but it’s a no to anything perishable (including plants) or flammable.
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SIZE MATTERS
Storage spaces and units range from minipods and 10-sqft boxes up to 500 sqft (apartment-size) units, housed in air-conditioned warehouses to prevent deterioration or damage.
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PEACE OF MIND
Check whether insurance is included in your storage agreement, as not all facilities offer this as standard. If the amount is less than the value of your possessions, additional cover may be required.
Shop and ship it
Join Amazon Prime and enjoy free delivery on items ordered from Amazon.com LOAD AND GO (US) and Amazon UAE (amazon. Self-storage couldn’t ae/prime). Aramex offers a Shop be easier, from & Ship service (shopandship.com) classic storage lockers in a with a one-time registration fee 24/7-accessible warehouse providing you with local mailing to firms that deliver storage addresses and affordable pods to your door for you to shipping rates from over fill before they’re transported to 80 international a drive-up warehouse facility. For destinations.
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a big move, hands-on packers are usually part of the package.
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STATE OF SECURITY
Full-time facility security should come as standard, but do check this is the case. Individual units often come with built-in locks that allow you to create your own passcode or you may need to provide a padlock.
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TIME SERVED
Leasable from as little as one month there’s a variety of configurations to choose from. Shop around so you only pay for the space and time that you need. A security deposit is the norm.
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Home help Maid services in Dubai are generally very affordable and there are plenty of companies out there ready to scrub, tidy and polish your home to perfection. If you choose the live-in route, you'll need to legally sponsor your maid and arrange for her UAE residency visa. On top of her salary, costs include a medical fitness test, a deposit and non-refundable fee for the visa, Emirates ID, health insurance, an air ticket home as per the contract and (depending on nationality) a refundable security deposit payable to the embassy of the maid’s home country. If you use a recruitment agency, there’s also their fee to factor in. Plus, there's the option to hire a maid who remains under the sponsorship of maids. cc. See tadbeervisa.com
MOVING IN
HOW TO:
Get an alcohol licence Tenants: By law, your landlord is obliged to hand over a property in full working order. Do a thorough check of the physical state of your new home before you start the big move. Have the walls been painted? Does the toilet flush? Is the A/C working properly? If
WHAT IS RERA? You’re sure to hear the acronym RERA bandied around at some point. The emirate’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority, RERA is the regulatory arm of Dubai Land Department. Its most commonly used service is its regularly updated Rental Increase Calculator, a useful resource for tenants wanting to check if they are paying a fair price for their rented home. The body is also responsible for licensing and regulating all real estate activities in Dubai. dubailand.gov.ae 22
possible, ask for a clause in your tenancy contract that gives you at least 48 hours to report any issues immediately after moving in, so the management company/landlord can rectify problems without delay. It is also prudent to check there are no outstanding DEWA bills or service charges before signing your lease. If you do find yourself facing a reluctant landlord, your next move is to seek recourse through the Dubai Rental Disputes Centre. Homeowners: Sloppy snagging? Garden not landscaped? If it’s a new property, the developer will arrange for access to conduct a snagging check before you collect the keys (and hand over any final payments), with the contractor required to make good on any issues as per the Defect Liability Period. If it’s an older home, then you can ask for an inspection contingency clause in the purchase contract. If all else fails, the Amicable Settlement Centre (ASC) at Dubai Land Department (DLD) is your go-to mediator. As a last resort, given the time and costs involved, a case can be filed with DLD/Dubai Property Court.
Fancy a tipple? As a (nonMuslim) resident in the UAE aged 21+ years and earning a minimum salary of Dhs3,000, you need to obtain a liquor licence through one of the government-approved alcohol companies (African & Eastern or MMI) in order to be able to buy and consume alcohol, either in the privacy of your home or out at a bar. It’s a simple process... 1 Log on to africanandeastern. com or mmiliquorlicence.com 2 Fill in the application form and attach all required document copies (passport copy, residency visa copy, digital passport picture and optional tenancy contract) 3 Pay the Dhs270 fee or alternatively, you can also pop into your nearest liquor store to complete the application form and submit the necessary documents on the spot. When will I get my licence? Your licence will be ready for collection (or delivery) in two to four weeks.
CALL 054-7670077
CHAT 054-7670077
Quote code: BTRHMS & get 20% off on your first service today!
PROMOTION
FULL HOUSE
Whether you have a single room that’s crying out for a makeover, or need to decorate your whole house from scratch, Bloomingdale’s Home has you covered
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Any self-confessed home interiors fan will have, at some point in their life, dreamed of rocking up at Bloomie’s and snapping up an entire batch of new furniture and accessories. Famous for its covetable collections, Bloomingdale’s Home is where great design meets comfort. Shopping there means you can feel confident that you are investing in high-quality pieces that not only look great, but will stand the test of time. Make a date to discover The Dubai Mall store to get a feel for the latest collections. You’ll find everything you need for the whole house, from elegant dining room set-ups to cosy bedrooms, calming bathroom accessories and stylish home office solutions. Plus, you can call upon the in-house interior design service to help you plan your perfect space. Follow @bloomingdaleshome and visit altayer.com to find out more
TIP Choosing earth-tones for a bedroom will help you feel more grounded.
TIP Create a contemporary office space by mixing materials and prints – we love this zebra rug teamed with emerald green velvet seating.
TIP Create a talking point in your dining area with shelves staked with objets d'art and a unified lighting solution that creates symmetry.
Bloomingdale’s Home: Photography, Jules Dune; Styling, Lauren Haslem
LABEL LOVE
If you have a penchant for designer furniture from the likes of Bentley Home, Fendi Casa, Ligne Roset, Minotti, Ralph Lauren Home and more, be sure to check out Aati (@aatihome). This homegrown multibrand store, which launched in Dubai in 1982, is the place to go for premium and contemporary designer furniture and accessories from top European and American labels. There’s plenty to catch the eye, but if you need a little help deciding what to buy, simply request a consultation so you can draw upon the expertise of the in-house interior design buffs. They’re on hand to help you create the luxury home décor of your dreams, offering a bespoke service – and they’ll even go the extra mile by sourcing hard-to-find items directly from designers.
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HOME PREPARATION
Home sweet home Make sure your new digs are move-in ready by getting a grip on the basics DO A DEEP CLEAN Your new home should be cleaned prior to moving in but, for a deep clean that will leave it gleaming, consider booking a top to toe steam cleaning service, which trades chemicals for heat, to freshen up your home from top to bottom. Urban Housekeeping (04 294 4893/055 558 8614; urbanhousekeeping.com) offers this service, and can also sanitise your carpets, sofas, mattresses and curtains. Another company promoting a chemical-free approach is Saniservice (04 368 9941/052 964 8070; saniservice.com). It’s a top choice for cleaning and disinfecting A/C units, using specialised tools to get to every nook and cranny. If you need a hand with everyday chores, from vacuuming to ironing and making the beds, Helpling (800 989; helpling.ae) has a fab online booking system as well as a handy guide to how many hours you should book for, based on the size of your home.
REPAINT THE WALLS A new lick of paint does wonders to refresh a room and put a personal stamp on your home. If you’re renting, do bear in mind the fact that if you paint your home a different colour, you will be required to return it to the original hue before you move out. If you want to take the colour plunge, use the Jotun ColourDesign app (04 341 8957; jotun.com) for a sneak peek of what your chosen shade will look like: simply upload a photo of
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your space and select a shade to apply for a virtual snapshot. If you want to leave it to the experts, TipTop Technical Services (055 271 9291; tiptoptechnicals.com) will paint or stain the walls and ceilings, doors and banisters – all while keeping surfaces well protected. For special textures and decorative coatings, Italian brand MAS Paints (04 347 9242; maspaints.com) will hand treat your walls to stunning effect.
statement pendant lamps to cute wall lamps for kids and much more. Or, head to Home Centre (800 694 663; homecentre. com), which has a great variety of seasonal styles that won't break the bank. For a dinner party talking point or dramatic entryway lighting, Huda Lighting (04 341 1301; hudalighting.com) is a treasure trove for wow designs from a selection of high-end international brands.
DIY YOUR LIGHT FITTINGS
Call in an expert handyman to sort those fiddly little home maintenance jobs in a jiffy. HandyMan Dubai (055 649 2270; handyman-dubai.com) offers a range of services from hanging shelves to repairing water leaks. What’s more, the team covers the entire city and offers aroundthe-clock emergency call out services. Long-term Dubai resident and self-monikered ‘handy Scandy’ Bjorn and his team at Handy Scandy Home Services (052 167 5464; handyscandy.com) specialise in quality paint and wallpapering services, tiling, electrical jobs and much more, but they can also help with your basic DIY needs such as putting up shelves, fixing picture frames to the wall or assembling tricky flat pack furniture. From plumbing to DIY work, We Will Fix It (800 349; wewillfixit.com) has more than 10 years’ experience in the UAE and boasts a reliable team of maintenance professionals.
FIX ANNOYING NIGGLES Covering those bare bulbs with decorative light fittings will take your space from stark to homely in an instant. IKEA (800 4532; ikea.com) is the go-to for your affordable lighting needs, from
White goods 101 While most white goods come in standard sizes, be sure to measure up before you splurge on these big ticket items. In terms of where to buy, Carrefour (carrefouruae.com) is a one-stop shop for large appliances, German brand TEKA (04 283 3047; teka. com/uae) is famous for its efficient, hi-tech products, and LG (800 54, WhatsApp 054 393 9054; lg.com) appliances will bring a touch of luxury to your space.
Tackle those DIY niggles, such as putting up shelves and hanging pictures, from the get-go They’re happy to take on any job, big or small, from installing a smoke alarm to giving the water tank a deep clean.
GET THE CURTAINS UP Unless you have an amazing eye for detail and are a whizz with a power drill, we recommend leaving it to the professionals when it comes to hanging blinds and curtains. There are lots of tailors in Satwa and Al Quoz who can whip you up the window dressings of your dreams, including Empire Curtains (+971 54 460 3101, empirecurtains. ae). Most will come to you to measure up, and can often turn around your chosen designs in as little as three days. Alternatively, there's a lot of choice on the high street. Danube Home (800 3131; danubehome.com) is a popular choice with more than 3,500 made to measure designer fabrics alongside a contemporary collection of window blinds and wallet-friendly ready-made curtains to take home.
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Home health check-up Ensure your home is in tip-top shape by taking care of these maintenance must-dos What are the home maintenance must-dos? Amandeep Kaur, VFix Maintenance: Regular A/C servicing and preventive maintenance should be at the top of your agenda, as poorly maintained units will cost you money on your utility bills. If you have allergies, it’s also worth having your filters cleaned every couple of months. Otherwise, a quarterly service is advised. Also, be sure to carry out an annual electrical supply and wiring check. During routine inspections, we often notice faulty wiring, which is a major safety hazard, although it's easily fixed. Plumbing is another area to The expected expenses that come ensure things are working well focus on. Cleaning and flushing or check previous maintenance with running a home in Dubai the drains every six months is a records for work carried out. include utilities, rent or mortgage, hygiene non-negotiable and helps The saying, ‘prevention is better insurance and living expenses, but avoid the possibility of airborne than the cure’ hits the nail on the how much thought have you given bugs taking hold. The checking head when it comes to home to general maintenance or repairs of internal and external pipe leaks maintenance. It is much easier and whose responsibility is it? Call should also be factored in and it’s to stop something happening in on the local experts to step in and important to routinely maintain the first place than to repair the get the job done, and for some faucets and toilets. damage after it has happened. useful insight into what it takes to Overall, the issues we see keep your home up and running. most frequently include clogged We get the lowdown from the guys drains, poor A/C performance What should on the ground… or breakdown, leaking faucets be included in rental or pipes, chipped paintwork, contracts regarding INSIDER ADVICE loosely fitted cabinets and other maintenance? Why is home maintenance carpentry issues. If you ignore “Responsibility for maintenance should be something I need to factor into these problems this will cost included in the contract and should be as my domestic running costs? you a lot more in the long-run. specific as possible. If there is a maintenance Lukas Eigenman, COO, Plus, if you own and decide to dispute that cannot be resolved between Hitches & Glitches: A poorly sell, a well-maintained home the landlord and the tenant, the tenant maintained property will will command a higher price. may open a case at the Rental Dispute create problems from day Settlement Centre DLD (fees/costs one, so choose a good landlord How do I choose a home apply),” Richard Waind, Managing who maintains the property well maintenance company? Director, Betterhomes and keeps records. If you're the Lukas: Always deal with a homeowner, get a site survey or reputable company and don’t audit done on the property to be afraid to compare quotations
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HOME MAINTENANCE and service proposals. Insist on seeing a company profile as well as references. A reputable company that can be trusted will have no problem providing third-party testimonials – and do ask to speak to existing clients. Amandeep: Track record is key. We recommend trialling several handyman and maintenance services before signing a contract. The cheapest providers may outsource their services with little or no control over the end result. We also strongly advise residents to steer clear of apps and companies who only market the service and outsource jobs with no in-house maintenance team. Don’t ● Cut corners on jobs that are likely to save you money further down the line ● Be tempted by one-time marketing-led offers ● Take service provider apps at face value – do some research ● Go with a company that doesn’t have its own in-house team Do ● Go direct and speak to different maintenance companies
● Employ licensed technicians ● Look for uniformed technicians. This is a good sign that it is a reputable outfit ● Check out customer testimonials and longevity in the market Is an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) the way to go? Lukas: Having an annual contract can be extremely beneficial, particularly when you consider how hard an A/C unit has to work in this climate, not to mention the impact sand and humidity can have on your home, creating additional problems. There are different types of packages available, for example, a basic offer that provides unlimited emergency cover but limits the standard cover; a standard package with guarantee of a quick turnaround time, unlimited call outs (emergency and standard) and two A/C services per year; and an ‘executive’ package, which also includes unlimited carpentry and spare parts. Amandeep: It’s absolutely worth it as a property owner. An AMC should come with assured priority service and maintenance support as well as the security of preventive maintenance.
Recycling rules Dubai is awash with recycling bins and you’ll find them in the majority of residential communities. No time to dump your plastics? Green Truck (greentruck.ae) and Madenat Recycling (madenatrecycling.ae) will collect recyclable items from your door for a fee.
The sun is shining... …and Dubai is upping its game on the global solar stage with the goal of increasing renewable energy capacity to 7% by 2020. If this floats your boat then get on board by checking out Shams Dubai (dewa.gov.ae), DEWA’s first smart initiative for connecting solar energy, which offers guidelines for installing solar panels at your home. Electricity generated is for your own use and any excess is fed back into the grid with a credit against future bills. You can also estimate electricity consumption and savings via the Shams Dubai Calculator.
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HOME SAFETY & SECURITY
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Fit those fire alarms The UAE is working on phased implementation of the Hassantuk 24/7 smart monitoring, alert and control fire alarm system, with the goal of connecting more than 500,000 buildings across the country by 2021, but don’t wait to take action. New laws are being ratified to make smoke alarms mandatory, but if you need to arrange installation yourself, it is essential to have one alarm for each bedroom, hallway and kitchen, with at least one per floor. There are different types of smoke alarms for sale, but a combination of heat sensing and optical alarms is highly recommended.
Use security screens
Villa residents concerned about security may want to consider a
Buy a home safe Only invest in a home safe certified by VdS, ECB-S or other recognised international institutes (check the back of the safe door for a certification label), as these will have passed rigorous testing for burglary and fire protection.
collection of valuable jewellery or watches, it may be worth getting a bespoke vault. Always make sure your safe is fireproof, so the contents are well protected.
Insure your home Annual premiums for home contents and personal possessions insurance roughly equate to 0.5% of the total coverage value, so it’s a security investment no-brainer. Buildings insurance is a legal requirement for homeowners and covers structural damage plus fire, flood, natural disasters, malicious damage and theft, as the major considerations. If you’re a landlord, it also covers tenant liability issues. Tower dwellers should also buy a policy for their apartment, separate to any overall building policy (plus home contents and personal possessions). Annual premiums for building insurance start from as low as 0.1% of the rebuild value of the property.
A safe haven
While no security solution is 100% effective, a physical deterrent on a villa will make someone think twice about breaking in, which is why many people opt for security screens on glass doors and windows. “Invest in screens made from robust materials that will last in the UAE’s extreme environment, and ensure they comply with internationally recognised security standards and the knife shear test,” says Katrina Wilton of Safety Screens (safetyscreens.ae). “Check they come with a quality latch and lock system that little fingers can’t easily figure out and choose a product that offers a multi-year warranty.”
Invest in a camera
CCTV camera system. A surveillance camera from Dubai Police’s partner Du, costs from Dhs1,000. If you’re off on holiday, be sure to inform Dubai Police so you can benefit from their free home security service, which offers free drive-by home security checks when you’re travelling.
Your home is your castle, so keep it secure
Dubai is a very safe place to live but don’t be lulled into a false sense of security when it comes to protecting your home. From taking out contents insurance to installing fire alarms and changing the locks, it pays to take charge “Opt for an electronic lock versus a mechanical key lock so you won’t need to worry if about misplacing the key, plus the latest safes use biometric fingerprint locking,” says Reiner Kaltenbach of Hartmann Tresore (safes.ae). “Think about what you plan to put in your safe and the space you have to accommodate it before making a purchase. The average family home safe weighs around 85kg (and up to 300kg).” If you have a large
Changing the locks If you’re renting, chances are the landlord won’t replace the locks prior to you moving in. There’s no legal requirement to do so, but if you feel the need to change them, be prepared to pay. Getting the landlord’s permission is a must and there are several options to consider, from a simple and affordable master key system to a retrofit key system (access via an electronic key fob) and a smart lock system for keyless entry (with a little help from your smartphone).
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HOME SAFETY & SECURITY
GROHE Sense
Wills in the UAE Registering a will in the UAE should be a must-do for every expat resident as the country’s inheritance laws fall under Sharia, which may differ from your home country’s legal system. To avoid the issues surrounding local laws, non-Muslims are strongly advised to secure a will. Do homeowners need to have a will drawn up locally? Non-Muslim residents can draw up and register a will to cover their assets in the UAE under common law (not Sharia law) through the DIFC Wills Service Centre and using an approved wills specialist. Types of will include property, financial assets, business owners, guardianship and full. Another option is through the notary public at Dubai Courts’ Personal Status Court. Cost? Anywhere from Dhs3,000-21,000 Consider this If you have a foreign will then your estate could be subject to the UAE Law of Inheritance (Sharia), which can even affect the guardianship of your children. A lengthy court process is to be expected, which comes with significant expenses and the freezing of assets.
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3 must-have home safety gadgets GROHE Sense and SenseGuard
Steinel XSolar L-S Solar Sensor Light
The GROHE Sense water sensor alerts you the moment it comes into contact with water, or if it senses humidity. The GROHE Sense Guard takes it a step further by tracking consumption, detecting micro leaks and, if a pipe bursts, automatically shutting off the water supply. grohemiddleeast.com
This outdoor light offers 140-degree coverage and can operate for 50 days with full charge. Al-Futtaim ACE, aceuae.com
Hartmann Tresore burglary and fireproof safes Keep your valuables and important documents protected inside a highquality domestic safe
Steinel XSolar L-S Solar Sensor Light
from this leading German manufacturer. Choose from a variety of sizes and fix it to the floor. safes.ae
HOME SAFETY & SECURITY
YOUR PRE-SUMMER CHECKLIST
When the mercury rises your home needs a little extra TLC. Don’t leave it to chance and summer-proof your villa or apartment with some practical advice from the experts at Hitches & Glitches (hitchesglitches.com)
BEAT THE HEAT
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We all crank up the airconditioning during the summer, so make sure it’s delivering the chill factor. Book a pre-summer check-up to ensure air filters are clean, refrigerant levels are topped up and electrical connections are working correctly. If they’re not nipped in the bud, everyday issues such as these have the potential to cause bigger, more expensive problems further down the line.
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More of us are making the switch to filtered tap water but even if you only use it to shower and clean the dishes, regular water tank checks are
an absolute necessity. The tank should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in line with local authority standards as water and heat create the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria, diseases and parasites (and other creepy crawlies).
Before you jet off ● As a rule of thumb, we should all get in the habit of unplugging anything that’s not needed, not only is this safer but electronic devices still draw energy when they are plugged in. It’s also a no brainer bill saver. ● Air conditioning on or off? Make sure your A/C unit is set to ‘auto’ rather than the ‘on’ mode – it'll help regulate the room temperature more effectively. Plus, don’t crank it down any lower than needed. Each time you reduce the temperature a notch, this has a knock-on effect on your bills. ● Ask a neighbour or friend to pop in periodically while you’re out of town for added peace of mind and leave them the contact details of your preferred maintenance company in case of an unexpected emergency. ● Keep blinds or curtains closed in any rooms that get direct sunlight as this will help keep them cooler. ● Consider turning off the water supply when away as flooding is a common problem in homes left vacant for an extended period.
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One of the biggest benefits of having your electrics regularly checked and repaired by qualified electricians is peace of mind. Not only that; regular maintenance helps avoid appliances malfunctioning and can save you money by implementing energy efficient lighting, for example.
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HOME SAFETY & SECURITY
A BUG'S LIFE Creepy crawlies of all sizes and shapes are a given in Dubai’s climate and potential infestations are a common occurrence, so be prepared
BEDBUGS Feeling the itch? It’s a good idea to check yourself and your belongings after travelling. Not just confined to hotel beds, bedbugs also love soft furnishings, and they love to travel with/on you. Look for small black dots on mattress edges or headboards and get the professionals in to eradicate them – this isn’t a DIY job. COCKROACHES Cleanliness is key here
KEEP IT GREEN ● During summer, make sure you water your garden in the early morning or early evening; not during the midday temperature highs. This gives plants enough time to hydrate properly ● Add low-cost mulch and/or bark chippings to your borders to help retain moisture, and cool soil and roots ● Install some garden shading to help protect your plants during the 11am to 5pm sunlight peak
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Invest in preventive pest control before the summer temperatures set in as a dirty house is an invitation to move in for our little carapace friends. Pay extra attention to your kitchen and garbage disposal areas and don’t leave leftover food lying around. Roach gel is the hardcore option and a do-it-yourself solution, but don’t hesitate to call in the experts if you feel like you're overrun. FLIES An annoyance that can quickly get out of control, expect to
come into contact with house, drain, fruit and blowflies at some point. Usually attracted to dirt, moist dark places and rotting food, hygiene is paramount but natural deterrents such as using lavender or eucalyptus oil may help. They are also disease carriers, so don't hesitate to call in the pros if necessary. RATS A furry four-legged issue in some villa communities. Again, it’s all down to keeping your home and garden clean and tidy (they love a messy home). Another problem best addressed by professionals, with poison and traps. Be sure to keep animals and children safe until the problem is resolved.
TERMITES These minute microscopic beasties have a voracious appetite and can munch their way through prized pieces of wooden furniture before moving on to the next meal. They love damp areas, so keep an eye out for possible problems and control humidity where possible. Heavy duty pesticide treatments carried out by the experts is required.
Grand designs Whether you rent or own, follow our expert advice on designing a home you love
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RENOVATING & INTERIOR DESIGN
Indigo Living Spring/Summer 2019
PLANNING A RENOVATION Whether you’re keen to redo the kitchen, add a pool or build your dream walk-in closet, don’t reach for the hammer just yet. There are various hoops to jump through and boxes to tick – so make sure you have all the necessary permissions in place first. Different developers and communities have varying requirements but to get you started, follow our quick stepby-step guide:
Show and tell
Your project NOC must be displayed and ready for inspection outside the property while works are being carried out. Your contractor will also need to provide a skip or refuse receptacle for any project refuse/discarded materials.
● External alterations and structural changes are usually strictly prohibited (so you can forget about vertical additions or changing the stucco) ● A refundable deposit* prior to issue of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) is the norm. This is refundable upon the completion of the works – as soon as they’ve been checked for health and safety, environmental and community compliance ● Factor in administrative/NOC fees, from Dhs1,000-3,000 per application, depending on project scope and documentation urgency ● Dubai Municipality approvals (including architectural/structural drawings, affection plan and permitted area schedule) are the next steps once an NOC is obtained – don’t just take the NOC as a green light. It costs from Dhs700 including deposit ● You’ll also need a contractor entry permit. You can apply for this once the NOC has been issued. Required documents include copies of the company’s trade license, owner passport copy, labour card, vehicle registration(s) and workers’ Emirates ID *Emaar, for example, requires a Dhs5,000 deposit
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ASK THE CONTRACTOR Choosing the right professional to do your refit or renovation can be a minefield. We asked some of the best in the business for their advice. How long will it take? “Ask for an honest time frame and get it in writing. The contract should include the project delivery date plus a penalty clause for late handover, or if the finished work is not up to scratch,” advises Martin Hibbit of Another Level Technical Services (055 340 0959). How much will it cost? “If you have a project in mind, that’s a good starting point. Make sure you get a full costing up front. Ask to see samples of the materials/fittings to be installed to check the quality is in line with your brief and the costing. A make-good Defect Liability Period (generally 12 months) should also be factored into the contract, which obliges the contractor to fix any problems without any additional cost to the homeowner,” says Shane Curran of Interact Group (04 442 6886). What are the usual payment terms? “Typically you are looking at 40% on contract signing, 50% progress payment upon completion of the defined scope of works (approximately 90%) and the
final 10% post snagging. If you've requested specific materials or a custom order, you may be asked for a larger advance, so make sure you understand what is included in the bill of quantities (BoQ). When discussing variation orders (VO), which will come up, make sure you have a well-documented arrangement and quotes before starting," reveals Kym Jackson Shen of Haute Bohème (056 705 8178; hauteboheme.ae).
QUESTIONS YOU MUST ASK
1 2 3
Ask to see permits, insurance and copies of all documentation pertaining to the company’s legal right to operate, and to complete your project. Be aware of the possibility of any additional costs from day one – ask the contractor for ballpark costs so you don’t get a shock halfway through the build. Check out the company by asking to see testimonials. Go and view thier finished projects and talk to previous clients.
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What licenses are required? “Internal home modifications involving structural changes require a general fit-out or technical license while contractors doing electrical works must be DEWA registered. A civil contractor license is needed for major internal changes/ extensions/exterior work,” explains Martin. What insurance should contractors have? It's important to check that your contractor has an at-risk policy to cover any sub-contractors, plus third-party building insurance and workman’s compensation insurance for on-site labour. Insurance requirements may be specified by the developer or community manager, so don't assume anything.
RENOVATING & INTERIOR DESIGN
YOUR OWN POOL
Splash out on the coolest addition to your home and make the most of Dubai’s amazing year-round sunshine with your very own swimming pool. David Russell from Pools By Design (poolsdesign.net) shares his top tips on taking the leap... COST ● From Dhs100,000 for a standard 8x4-metre pool, as well as monthly maintenance from Dhs350 (two visits per week) CONSIDERATIONS ● Pool plans, designs and permissions are subject to individual developer and municipality approvals, and you need to budget around Dhs20,000 for fees ● Trakhees, Dubai Municipality and DDA are the three main zoning authorities and each has different requirements regarding pool safety. Dubai Municipality requires all pools to have a safety fence but you can get a waiver letter for some developments (but do check first!) ● If your new home already has a pool, have it checked over by a reputable pool company. You also want to know how old it is, who built it and, if it’s empty, get it filled so you can check whether there are any issues ● Going with a new pool? Ask to see examples of past projects and speak to previous clients before you commit CARE ● Covering a pool will generate heat, so best avoid it. Everyday maintenance needn't be expensive – just switch off the heater, chiller and lights when travelling and hire an expert to check on it regularly
Know your jargon
● Bear in mind that if left empty for any length of time, pools get very hot, which can lead to structural and operational damage from ground water pressure ● Pay a professional to handle pool maintenance. They are experts in handling cleaning chemicals, plus you shouldn’t store dangerous chemicals in your garden/plant room
Defect Liability Period is applicable to all new properties in Dubai and to renovation/upgrade projects. This is usually a one-year period, starting from building/ project completion (not handover). The developer or contractor has a responsibility to repair, replace or snag any defects that you report within this period.
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UAE’S CHOICE
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2019
Water Saving
Clean Process
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The FC5 hard floor cleaner is the easy way to vacuum up light debris and wash your floors simultaneously & efficiently. Direct contact of the microfibre rollers, spinning at optimum speed gives you results never seen before.
For more Information: www.karcher.ae | 800-5272437 | customercare@ae.kaercher.com
RENOVATING & INTERIOR DESIGN
QUICK FIXES FOR RENTERS
Even if you don’t own your own home, it’s easy to add a little va-va-voom to your living space with these easy fixer-upper ideas that cost a little but make a big difference Opt for peel and stick wallpaper Wake up to a wall of palms or colourful vintage peonies thanks to the super cool peel and stick wallpaper collection from Dubai-based Paper Pop. You can even work with the in-house design team to dream up your own custom creation. Prices start from Dhs224 for a 100x100cm roll. paper-pop.com Lay a vinyl floor Vinyl flooring has had a makeover in recent years with easy-to-install solutions giving those old tiles a stylish upgrade in a flash. Floorworld’s 100 percent waterproof luxury vinyl tiles, hardwood boards and laminates are adhesive-free and designed to ‘float’ above existing flooring via an underlay. From Dhs40295 per sqm (depending on finish). floorworld.com Don't paint it, wrap it Give cabinets and the like an easy makeover with removeable vinyl wrap. Available in a wide range of styles and finishes from Italian-look marble for kitchen countertops to on-trend grey wood for storage areas, a kitchen transformation can cost as little as Dhs3,000-5,000. "If you’re planning to use a selfadhesive vinyl wrapping solution for your cabinets, countertops, wardrobes or doors, best to call in the experts. Make sure they are using the correct safety
Floorworld
standard-approved materials for the space and, if using near the stovetop, avoid placing a hot pan directly onto the wrapped surface as it’s only heat resistant up to a point,” says Shelley-May Jennings of Totally Wrapped, totallywrapped.ae
DESIGN ON A DIME Three of Dubai’s top-rated interior designers tell us how to put your stamp on a space on a budget “Add some oomph to an outdoor space by getting your existing furniture reupholstered. There are lots of reputable companies that can do this for you at a reasonable price. Introducing wall lighting, tree up-lighters, pergola pendants and more – as well as some affordable cushion covers – can completely change the ambience of your garden or balcony." Rhian Clarke, rhianclarkehome@gmail.com
“A bathroom makeover needn’t cost a fortune. Instead of full tiling, apply halfway and then go with a moisture-resistant wallpaper the rest of the way. At Dhs100-200 per roll it’s a great value alternative. You can always get arty on a budget too. I advise my clients to keep any eye out for unique buys, such as a handpainted piece of fabric, which can easily be framed.” Kadambari Uppal, kadambari@home-diva.com
“Lots of mid-range retailers offer beautiful pieces that will give you the high-end look without the high-end price tag. Plus, you can get a great bargain via the many secondhand buying/selling groups. Even if a piece is in need of some TLC, there are lots of inexpensive ways to give it a new lease of life, from reupholstering to chalk painting.” Lilly Engelbrecht, lilly@ escapehomeinteriors.com
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RENOVATING & INTERIOR DESIGN
Aati
ONE-STOP SHOPS
Not everyone loves the home shopping experience. Get it sorted all under one roof at these divine design emporiums Indigo Living indigo-living.com An entire team of experienced interiors designers, decorators and stylists is at your service. Expect the full shebang with floor layouts, 3D renderings and mood boards, plus top home brands including Krosno, Maxwell& Williams, Fromental and Notre Monde.
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Crate & Barrel crateandbarrelme.com With two Dubai stores and option of an in-store or home visit, a complimentary 2D floor plan will paint the big picture then it’s up to you to fill in the blanks with thousands of items from stylish sofas to a set of steak knives. Home Centre homecentre.com A wallet-friendly option helmed by switched-on home experts who can help with A to Z interior design, tailor-made modular
storage solutions and dĂŠcor plans, schedule a home visit or chat in-store. An added plus is having your designer on site during delivery and the team will even arrange for linens to be steamed and dining tables dressed. Aati altayer.com Boasting collections from Bentley Home, Fendi Casa, Ligne Roset and more, a dedicated interiors expert will hold your hand throughout the entire catalogue to home delivery design experience.
Putting down roots If you’re looking to enjoy Dubai for the foreseeable, then it may be time to buy
No one likes to throw good money away on rent, but switching from tenant to homeowner is a big step and a major financial consideration. Betterhomes has been on the ground helping Dubai residents for over 30 years, and believes the city is a great place to invest. A high achiever in every respect, it’s not often that Dubai wants to rank anywhere lower than first place, but the Mercer 2019 Cost of Living survey puts a different spin on things by
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comparing lifestyle costs in 500 cities around the world. The emirate came in at 21st place with the report authors attributing highly competitive compensation packages, falling real estate prices, high safety standards and a healthy economy as key cost of living drivers. Dubai also rated highly in Deutsche Bank’s Mapping the World’s Prices 2019 survey and was named as the 11th best city for income after rent, in the top 20 places for quality of life and in the top spot for safety.
5 REASONS TO BUY 1. Recent price reductions now show real value 2. Low interest rates mean repayments are low (often lower than renting) 3. Equity upon selling (paying down the mortgage and hope of capital growth) 4. If you leave, you can rent it out and earn an income 5. You can renovate and remodel to add value.
BUYING A PROPERTY Is it a good time to buy? "This usually depends on personal circumstance. But for those with the means and the desire to buy, an increasing number of investors and end users are returning to the market due to the value they see in today’s prices," says Richard Waind, Managing Director of Betterhomes. "We have seen prices drop by approximately 35% since the last peak in 2014, which is making property ownership more affordable for many UAE residents. There is lots of new supply still to come to market, but the population is growing, and the government is taking lots of steps to support this through new residency visa initiatives and business reform. So, if you are thinking of buying and you are taking a mid to long-term view, it’s a very good time to invest." What are the other benefits? "The main benefit of owning is that, upon selling, you'll have some equity in the property through mortgage repayment, and hopefully some capital growth," says Richard. "While not all property investments see capital returns, buyers in today’s market might be more positive about prices in the next five years than the last five years. Even if prices remain flat or soften slightly further, a buyer who bought today and paid down their mortgage is likely to have a nice amount of equity in five years. Anybody renting over the same time will likely have paid out more on a monthly/yearly basis but have nothing to show for it at the end of the tenancy." What if I don’t have the 25% down payment? "For those who can afford it, buying makes a lot of financial sense," he continues. "For those who don’t have the 25% deposit, the off-plan market has some fantastic offers from developers. Down payments for off-plan properties are typically around 10% with subsequent payments due through to handover." Make me an offer "Home loans are capped at 75%, which means your monthly mortgage payment covers 75% of the property value plus interest. Valid for a period of up to 25 years, fixed rate mortgage products, (which usually run for a maximum of five years before switching to a variable interest rate), currently range from 3-4%."
Cost it out A hefty down payment isn’t the only financial outlay with a number of upfront fees and related home purchase costs to build into your budget. These add up to around 7% of the total purchase price and include: ● 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee (based on total property purchase price) ● 0.25% DLD mortgage registration fee (% of total agreed home loan) + Dhs290 admin fee ● Dhs2,000-4,000 property registration fee (dependent on value of property) ● Dhs2,500-3,000 property valuation fee ● Bank mortgage set-up fee (could be zero, or anywhere up to 1% of total loan amount) ● 2% real estate broker fee, plus 5% VAT for agency fee ● 4% Oqood fee for off-plan sales only ● Plus, once you’ve bought, there are annual community service/maintenance fees
HOMEBUYER CHECKLIST Grab a clean sheet of paper, sharpen a pencil and ask yourself the following questions: How long do I plan on staying here? If it’s only a couple of years or there’s a strong possibility that your company might relocate you, and the thought of renting your home out sounds like too much hassle, stick to renting. Can I really afford it? How stable is your job? If you have a regular income and your company is doing well, it’s potentially less risky. Word of warning: your mortgage is linked to your residency, so if you do leave Dubai, your mortgage will either need to be paid off (cash or house sale) or you’ll need to renegotiate the terms with the bank (if you want to rent it out, for example). Can I afford the down payment? The first hurdle is the average 25% upfront down payment (a significant amount for any investor in any market) as well as the mortgage repayments. Personal loans cannot be used to finance down payments for property investments in the UAE.
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MOVING OUT
On the move
Whether you're packing up and leaving the emirate for good, or are simply moving home within Dubai, here’s how to streamline your exit strategy
ADVICE FOR RENTERS
So, your tenancy contract is coming to an end and it’s time to decide whether to stay or go. Most landlords or management companies will send out a renewal notice (with updated terms) well ahead of time, but tenants are required to give notice or confirm renewal 90 days in advance. If you’re on your way out, here’s how it goes… Done and dusted. Normal wear and tear aside, you’re legally required to hand over your apartment or villa in pristine condition. This means that walls need to be restored to their original colour and condition, and that everything is generally in good working order. Failure to do so could see you lose a chunk of your security deposit. Ready for inspection. The landlord, management company or appointed agent will inspect the property to make sure all is in order. The final step is to hand back the keys, at which point your deposit should be returned. Cut the connection. On the day your tenancy expires, you need to either call or put in an online request to DEWA to let them know you’re moving out and to prepare the final bill. This usually takes 24 hours. There’s a Dhs120-320 disconnection charge (excluding VAT), plus final bill amount. Any DEWA deposit will be refunded. If you already have a new pad, you
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BREAKING YOUR CONTRACT
Need to cut short your tenancy contract? Check the small print for early exit penalty clauses. Also, don’t forget that your current Ejari contract remains live until all issues are resolved. If you have issued post-dated cheques, ask for them to be returned or written confirmation of non-encashment.
Due to renew Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you check: ● What’s going on in the ’hood? Are there any major construction projects coming up that could drive you crazy noise-wise or potentially affect your home, such as blocking out the natural light ● The RERA Rental Increase Calculator to make sure that you’re paying a fair rate for the area. Find it at dubailand. gov.ae ● If you think you’re paying over the odds, negotiate! If the situation isn’t resolved and the RERA Rental Increase Calculator is in your favour, consider filing a complaint with the Dubai Land Department’s Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. A 3.5% fee (based on total annual rent) is payable, but if you win the case, this is refunded. Other fees may apply ● It’s also worth negotiating terms and conditions if you are looking for a better deal, such as paying in four or more rather than fewer cheques, or asking for an extra parking space
can transfer your account through the online ‘Move To’ service. With Empower, it’s a similar process but you’ll also need to visit their offices in person to make the final payment and get clearance. Please hang up. For Du, call their customer care line (800 155) at least three days prior to moving out to request a 72-hour call-back to explain the process, then pop into one of the customer care centres to pay your final bill (and collect any monies owed). It’s a similar story with Etisalat (800 101). If you have an eLife package, don’t forget to read the small print, as you’ll probably be locked into a contracted period with penalties for early cancellation, plus there’s a standard 30-day cancellation notice period. Moving within Dubai? Accounts can be transferred fairly easily. Call the helpline at least four working days before you relocate to set the wheels in motion and schedule a technician visit to your new place (fees apply). Same as moving in, some communities will require you to obtain a moving-out permit. Some buildings may also request a landlord NOC.
Notice of eviction An unexpected eviction notice can be a shock to the system, so be aware of your rights. If your landlord wants to move into the property himself or sell it, a written 12-month notice period is required. Eviction (upon expiration of current contract) is only possible if the landlord plans to demolish the property, is selling, has immediate family moving in, or if it needs serious maintenance/ renovation (Dubai Municipality technical report required).
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MOVING OUT IN
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HOMEOWNER’S ANNUAL CHECKLIST
Get all your ducks in a row thanks to our handy checklist…
Selling up? Richard Waind, Managing Director of Betterhomes, shares a six-point plan…
Get insured 1. Have a property appraisal Buildings and home insurance is by a local market expert. Make a legal requirement and covers sure it’s a face-to-face meeting structural damage plus fire, flood, at your home so they natural disasters, malicious can see any unique damage and theft. If you’re features, assess Instruct your a landlord, it also covers current market conveyancer tenant liability issues. conditions and to act as your Before renewing, it’s Power of look at recent and always wise to shop Attorney for the comparable sales around for the best deal. full, hassle-free in the same area. experience To note: If you leave your 2. Be exclusive. home empty for more than Listing your property 60 days, this may render your with one agent comes with home insurance invalid. a number of benefits. It gives Pay the housing fee the broker some security over This 5% fee, which is charged by the listing, making them more Dubai Municipality to support civic likely to invest extra time and services, is calculated against the marketing know-how to attract potential rental value for the area buyers. It’s also easier to in which you live (as per the RERA deal with one, as opposed to Rental Increase Calculator). multiple brokers. What’s more, To note: There’s no need to register, as the fee pops up on your DEWA developer. If you sell your property, bill for 10 months of the year. Settle the service charge all outstanding service charge payments must be made. Covers maintenance of common areas (from elevators to swimming THE SALES PROCESS EXPLAINED pools) and is payable to either the If you would like to accept an offer community owners’ association or and are happy to agree terms with developer. Calculated on a per sqft the buyer, your agent will help basis, payment is usually annual or you prepare a Memorandum of split across the year. Understanding (MoU) to be signed To note: This is not a standard by both parties, which locks you citywide property fee and can into the deal. vary greatly from community to
“Once you’ve decided to sell, it’s well worth investing some time and money in making sure the property photographs and shows well as, in a competitive market, you want it to stand out from the crowd. Replacing old or broken units, fixtures and fittings can go a long way to leaving a positive first impression. If the property is vacant, consider home staging. Keep the garden in good order, too,” Richard Waind.
over-exposure through different brokers can come across as a desperate sales measure and attract low offers. 3. Make sure you choose a brokerage with a strong local presence and wider market appeal to ensure that your property is marketed to all potential buyers. 4. While most fees fall on the buyer, sellers can expect to pay a small fee for a No Objection Certificate (NOC), which is needed in order to sell the property and up to 2% to their broker. 5. Sellers who have a mortgage on their property will need to go through ‘blocking’ and obtain a liability letter from their bank (costs and fees apply – buyer or seller settles in full). 6. Engaging the services of a professional conveyancing company is recommended, and will cost you around Dhs6,000. The buyer and seller will then meet at the offices of the developer to apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to sell the property (this is usually paid for by the buyer). Any outstanding service charges owed by the seller must be settled now. Once the NOC is issued, both parties head to Dubai Land Department to transfer ownership. Payment must be made by manager’s cheque on the day of the transfer. Once completed, the new title deed will be issued in the name of the buyer. To note: If you have a mortgage on the property, both parties must also visit the Registration Trustee office to officially ‘block’ the property, while the seller settles it in full prior to the NOC application.
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LIVING IN DUBAI
Beside the sea
Swap city living for waterfront bliss at these new emerging coastal communities in Dubai 52
NEW NEIGHBOURHOODS France’s Côte d’Azur, Australia’s Gold Coast and Italy’s Ligurian Riviera have a new real estate rival with Dubai’s growing community of high-end coastal enclaves attracting investors and residents alike. Check out our take on the Dubai Riviera destinations to watch
Mina Rashid
Developer: Emaar Location: Port Rashid Launch date: May 2019 Handover date: September 2022 Residential options: Named after the first commercial vessel to dock here (Sirdhana) and reflecting the location (Seashore), the first two phases of this new development comprise of one to four-bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses offering contemporary waterfront living with glittering glass façades, floor-to-ceiling windows and generous balconies. Community facilities: The Dubai Mall by the Sea, clutch of signature hotels, private 12,600sqm golden sand beach, beach club, 500m-long canal style swimming pool (the longest in Dubai), a floating yacht club, community parks, theatres, art galleries, a pedestrian bridge, waterfront promenades and a Venetian piazza centerpiece with multiple restaurants. Why we rate it: A luxury coastal community positioned as the Dubai alternative to Monte Carlo or Portofino, your neighbour is the iconic QE2 and you can moor your superyacht just steps from the front door. A 430-berth marina is the focal point of the development, so the sense of waterfront escapism is tangible, while Dubai International Airport is just 15 minutes’ drive away.
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NEW NEIGHBOURHOODS
This page clockwise from this image: Emaar Beachfront; Sur La Mer; Asayel at Madinat Jumeirah Living Opposite: Bluewaters
Downtown Dubai's retail and leisure attractions are reachable within 20 minutes.
Port de La Mer Developer: Meraas Location: La Mer, Jumeirah 1 Launch date: September 2018 Handover date: From Q4 2020 Residential options: Choose from Sur La Mer's 147 three to five-bedroom townhouses, La Côte’s 400 one to four-bedroom modern Mediterranean openstyle apartments and a twostorey penthouse housed across five low-rise buildings, or La Rive’s 250 one to four-bedroom units and penthouses located in four adjacent buildings. Community facilities: Anchored by a 192-berth superyacht marina with piazzas lined with fashionable boutiques and restaurants, a private beach, choice of several large swimming pools, collection of upscale hotels, limited vehicle access and interconnected open spaces. Why we rate it: La Mer is already a hot leisure destination in the city so why not live at the heart of the action yet far enough removed to feel at one with nature? Reminiscent of lazy summers in the Med, think terracotta rooftops and whitewashed stonework. Located
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at the tip of the North Peninsula, privacy is guaranteed as are panoramic sea views and lush green surroundings that feel a world away from the city but with the hustle and bustle of Dubai only a short drive away.
Madinat Jumeirah Living Developer: Dubai Holding Location: Umm Suqeim Launch date: October 2018 Handover date: TBC Residential options: The phase one collection is made up of 161 one- to four-bedroom apartments ranging in size from 762sq ft to 3,584sq ft and spread across two low-rise buildings connected by a central podium. Community facilities: Pool deck, gym, children’s play area and pool, a community centre, retail stores, parks, walkway with jogging and cycling tracks, dedicated parking and an airconditioned pedestrian bridge connecting the community to
Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Why we rate it: Self billed as the first freehold luxury residential development and bang opposite the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, in an area previously reserved for UAE national buyers, this is your chance to invest in some seriously sought-after prime real estate. Access is everything with the Sheikh Zayed Road highway literally three minutes’ drive away and the beach within walking distance. And with the upscale retail, entertainment and dining attractions of the popular Madinat Jumeirah complex just over the road, it’s wall to wall luxury on your doorstep.
Emaar Beachfront Developer: Emaar Location: Dubai Harbour Launch date: January 2018 Handover date: From Q3 2021 Residential options: The 375unit duo of Beach Vista towers and 26-storey Marina Vista tower offer a choice of one- to four-bedroom floor-to-ceiling glass fronted apartments with large balconies and views of the sea, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai skyline. Sunrise Bay was inspired by modern yachting culture and comprises a limited collection of one to four-bedroom premium residences while the pièce
Ain Dubai observation wheel is a hop, skip and jump away de résistance is the Elie Saab designed Grand Bleu tower, home to an Art Deco design inspired collection of one to four-bedroom residences and a four-bedroom penthouse. Community facilities: Infinity pools, landscaped pool decks, gyms, a 1.5km-long beach, yacht club, on-site retail and healthcare facilities, direct access to Emaar Beachfront Boulevard’s dining and entertainment attractions, mainland monorail connection and pedestrian bridge with a jogging and cycling track connecting to Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters island. Why we rate it: This master planned private island is set to become the hottest offshore beachfront residential ticket in town. The exclusive residential nucleus of the city’s new
maritime epicentre (the biggest in Dubai with 1,100 berths), it’s investment worthy whichever way you look at it.
Bluewaters Residences Developer: Meraas Location: Bluewaters Island Launch date: Q1 2017 Handover date: From Q2 2019 Residential options: There's a total of 10 mid-rise towers with 698 luxury apartments boasting Ain Dubai and Marina skyline views, as well as four penthouses with panoramic Arabian Gulf vistas, and 17 townhouses all with fab sea and greenery views. Ranging from 815 to 2,473 sqft, residence interiors feature a neutral palette and minimalist aesthetic that blends homely warmth and contemporary design, and boast Scandinavian
flooring and state-of-the-art appliances. Community facilities: Two gyms, four swimming pools, landscaped gardens, basketball courts, children’s play area with splash pad, central landscaped podium featuring 32 retail outlets along with all the fun of the Bluewaters restaurant and retail scene. Why we rate it: A beachfront playroom with Ain Dubai, the island’s 210-metre-high observation wheel (opening 2020) a hop, skip and jump away, and plenty for visiting friends and family to enjoy. You’ve also got the Las Vegas kudos of Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, home to The Rotunda theatre, within walking distance, and if the mainland is calling, it’s a lovely stroll across the pedestrian bridge.
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HOT NEW NEIGHBOURHOODS Where to find the emirate's most coveted emerging coastal
Atlantis TheAtlantis The Palm, Dubai Palm, Dubai
residential developments. 1 Mina Rashid 2 Port de La Mer 3 Madinat Jumeirah Living 4 Emaar Beachfront 5 Bluewaters Residences
Sky Dive Dubai Sky Dive Dubai
5 ABU DHABI ABU DHABI JEBEL ALI 2
PALM JUMEIRAH PALM JUMEIRAH
4
Public Beach Public Beach JEBEL ALI 2
Burj Al ArabBurj Al Arab Jumeirah Jumeirah
DUBAI MARINA DUBAI MARINA
Public Beach Public Beach
3 MEDIA CITYMEDIA CITY
KNOWLEDGE KNOWLEDGE VILLAGE VILLAGE AL SUFOUH AL SUFOUH
JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH LAKES LAKES TOWERS TOWERS
EMIRATES EMIRATES THE THE THE HILLS HILLS GREENS MEADOWS MEADOWS JEBEL ALI VILLAGE
JEBEL ALI VILLAGE
THE GREENS BARSHA HEIGHTS
BARSHA HEIGHTS
THE LAKES THE LAKES
UMM AL SHEIF UMM AL SHEIF AL MANARAAL
AL BARSHA AL 1 BARSHA 1 Al Barsha Al Barsha AL BARSHA AL 3 BARSHA 3 Pond Park Pond Park Jebel Ali Jebel Ali RacecourseRacecourse
THE SPRINGS THE SPRINGS
AL BARSHA AL 2 BARSHA 2
DUBAI DUBAI PRODUCTION PRODUCTION CITY CITY
DUBAI AI INVESTMENTS MENTS PARK K
JUMEIRAH GOLF JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES ESTATES
JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE VILLAGE CIRCLE
DUBAI DUBAI SPORTS CITY SPORTS CITY
MOTOR CITY MOTOR CITY
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UMM SUQE
Mall of the Emirates Mall of the Emirates
EMIRATES HILLS EMIRATES HILLS JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH ISLANDS ISLANDS
UMM SUQEIM UMM 3 SUQEIM 3
AL SUFOUH AL 1 SUFOUH 1
ARABIAN ARABIAN RANCHES RANCHES
AL BARSHA AL BARSHA
AL QUOZ AL QUOZ INDUSTRIALINDUSTRIAL AREA 3 AREA 3
AL QUOZ AL QUOZ INDUSTRIALINDUSTRIAL AREA 4 AREA 4
MAP OF DUBAI
ONE-STOP SHOPS
In terms of setting up your home, there are a couple of key one-stop-shop style locations where you can take care of pretty much every registration essential. One such place is Dubai Municipality’s Al Manara Center (open 7.30am–2.30pm). Here you can complete your Ejari registration, connect with DEWA and telecommunication providers Du or Etisalat, apply for your UAE driving license before checking out various visa and real estate services. Dubai Land Department primarily performs real estate services for homeowners but is also home to Ejari registration and the Dubai Rental Dispute Centre. If you’re based in that part of the city, DEWA’s head Customer Happiness Centre is the best place to access its full range of utilities related services.
THE WORLDTHE WORLD ISLANDS ISLANDS
PORT RASHID PORT RASHID
Burj KhalifaBurj Khalifa PEARL JUMEIRA
SHARJAH SHARJAH
2
Jumeirah Beach Jumeirah Beach
EIM 2
1
PEARL JUMEIRA
JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH
UMM SUQEIM UMM 1 SUQEIM 1
AL RAFFA AL SAFA AL SAFA AL MANARA AL MANARA AL WASL CENTERCENTER Safa Park Safa Park
AL RAFFA
AL JAFFILIYAAL JAFFILIYA
DEIRA DEIR
AL WASL
AL KARAMAAL KARAMA BUSINESS BAY BUSINESS BAY AL QUOZ
OUD METHAOUD METHA
AL QUOZ 1 AL QUOZBETTERHOMES 1 BETTERHOMES
HEAD OFFICE HEAD OFFICE DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN DUBAI DUBAI
DUBAI LAND DUBAI LAND DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT
GARHOUD GARH
WAFI Mall WAFI Mall BUR DUBAI BUR DUBAI
AL QUOZ 4 AL QUOZ 4
DEWA HEAD DEWA HEAD OFFICE OFFICE
DUBAI DUBAI INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIO AIRPORT AIRPORT
Key
Dubai Creek Dubai Creek
Government Building Metro red line stop
NAD AL SHEBA 1
UMM RAMOOL UMM RAMOOL
DUBAI FESTIVAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY CITY
NAD AL SHEBA 1
Metro green line stop
RAS AL KHOR RAS AL KHOR AL RASHIDIYA AL RASHIDIYA
AL BARARI AL BARARI
NAD AL SHEBA
NAD AL SHEBA
57 RAS AL KHOR RAS AL KHOR INDUSTRIALINDUSTRIAL AREA AREA
NADD AL HAMAR NADD AL HAMAR
Essential contacts All those handy numbers you need, at your fingertips
EMERGENCY NUMBERS Police 999
Al Ameen Service (Dubai Police) 800 4888 For reporting crimes anonymously Al Ameen SMS service 050 189 4444 Ambulance 998 Fire 997 Electricity failure 911 Water failure 922
FOR NECESSARY PAPERWORK Al Manara Center For Ejari registration (for Ejari typing centre list go to dha.gov.ae or ejari.gov. ae), DEWA and telecoms
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connections, UAE driving licence applications, visa and real estate services. 04 221 5555, dm.gov.ae Dubai Land Department Homeowner real estate services, Ejari registration, Dubai Rental Dispute Centre. 800 4488, dubailand.gov.ae Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) 04 203 0425/04 203 0219/04 203 0197, dubailand.gov.ae
UTILITIES
DEWA 04 601 9999, dewa.gov.ae/en Empower 04 375 5555, empower.ae
PHONE, TV & INTERNET PACKAGES
Du Consumer mobile: 800 155
Landline, broadband and TV: 04 390 5555 All du mobile customers (postpaid/prepaid) are welcome to sign up to Amazon Prime Video as an add-on subscription. du.ae Etisalat 101 (24/7) for callers within the UAE. 800 101 (24/7) for nonEtisalat customers within the UAE. etisalat.ae OSN Provides various TV packages. 04 367 7817, osn.com Netflix Streaming service offering a variety of award-winning TV shows, movies, anime, documentaries, and more. netflix.com
CLEANING SERVICES & EQUIPMENT
BusyBees Dubai Total home service solutions, from deep cleaning, to furniture cleaning, maid services, move in/out cleaning, steaming and sanitising. 04 360 9663, busybeesdubai.com Maid.ae A punctual, professional service that also offers window cleaning, post party clear-ups and ironing services. 800 404, maid.ae Urban Housekeeping Bespoke housekeeping service provider covering the full spectrum of domestic chores and home hygiene solutions, with an online booking
DIRECTORY service. 04 294 4893; urbanhousekeeping.com Kärcher A leading provider of cleaning technology, including pressure cleaners, vacuum and steam cleaners, sweepers, scrubber driers, and more. kaercher.com
PEST CONTROL
Rentokil Pest control experts with emirate-wide coverage, offering the latest tools and techniques to keep your home bug free. 800 73787, rentokil.ae National Pest Control Well established company with a highly professional team and pest control
- Annual Maintenance Contracts - Home Renovation - AC Maintenance - Handyman - Plumbing - Electrical
expertise. Part of the Rentokil group. 04 324 2342, natpest.com
MAINTENANCE SERVICES
Al Khayat Established in 1984, the experienced team specialises in cleaning, home security, pest control and building maintenance services. 04 393 3329, alkhayatgroup.net Hitches & Glitches The biggest independent home maintenance company in the UAE. Also offers renovation and refurbishment services. 800 42634, hitchesglitches.com
- Duct and Coil Cleaning - Water Tank Cleaning - Window Cleaning - Pool Cleaning - Maid Services - Landscaping - Pest Control
HomePro Offers a variety of affordable annual packages, covering everything from A/C and water tank cleaning to emergency call-outs and pest control. 800 8200, homeprouae.ae Nitty Gritty Maintenance & Contracting LLC Customer service agents work around the clock to provide a full range of support services. 04 346 7766, nittygritty.ae VFix Maintenance Provides painting, A/C, electrical, tiling and plumbing services. Get a speedy estimate by filling in the online form.
- Domestic Moves - OďŹƒce Moves
054 7670077, vfixmaintenance.com Transguard Living A trusted provider of end-to-end home maintenance solutions. From ad hoc hourly cleaning to pest control, general handyman services, specialist A/C maintenance and repairs, and even home removal services. 800 1800, transguardgroup.com
GAS DELIVERY
For villa residents who require a gas cylinder, there are around 55 gas distributors that deliver to your door in Dubai. These can be found via Emirates Gas. 800 36427, emiratesgas.com
- Home Entertainment - Smart Smoke Detectors - Smart Thermostats - Smart Cam
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DIRECTORY
WATER DELIVERY
To save multiple trips to the supermarket, most people have a five-gallon bottle water cooler at home. Numerous companies offer doorstep delivery, including: Mai Dubai 800 6243 8224 Masafi 800 5455 Oasis Water 600 522 261
SAFETY & SECURITY
Al-Futtaim ACE Go-to DIY and hardware store with large selection of security lighting, window and patio locks, door deadbolts, smoke alarms and more. 800 275223, aceuae.com Hartmann Tresore German-manufactured, tested, certified and customised safes and high-quality door locks. 04 380 8099, safes.ae Lock Repair Dubai Promises to reach you within 30 minutes, whether you’ve lost your car or home keys or need extra keys cut in a jiffy. 055 211 9393, lockrepairdubai. com Safety Screens Australian-owned company with door and window screen solutions for residential properties across the UAE. 050 877 1940, safetyscreens.ae
HOME UPGRADES
Bloomingdale's Home
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Houses a covetable collection of bedding, towels, luggage, kitchen, décor and more. Located at The Dubai Mall. @bloomingdaleshome Aati A treasure trove for luxury furniture. @aatihome Floorworld Offering a wide variety of flooring styles. 04 889 566, floorworld.com Jaquar Complete bathroom and lighting solutions for the home. jaquar.com Marina Home Interiors Upscale home furnishings brand with an urban and exotic edge. marinahomeinteriors.com Platinum House Offering turnkey home renovation services. 04 814 3800, platinumhouse.ae Hansgrohe Specialising in premium products for showers, bathrooms and kitchens. hansgrohe.com IKEA This world-famous Swedish brand is an enduring favourite for affordable furniture and accessories. ikea.com/ae Grohe Middle East Offers a range of bathroom taps, showers, shower heads and kitchen mixer taps for bathrooms
and kitchens. grohemiddleeast.com Quooker Make your home more eco-friendly with the Quooker tap, which dispenses filtered water (chilled, cold, hot, 100°C boiling, still and sparkling). 04 330 3063, quooker.ae
GROCERY DELIVERY
Carrefour Free grocery delivery service for orders over Dhs150, and large kitchen appliances. 800 73232, carrefouruae.com Kibsons Specialises in online grocery delivery for a wide range of fruits, vegetables, meats and everyday essentials. 800 KIBSONS, kibsons.com
Competitively priced UAEheadquartered relocation experts with a global reach. 04 338 8993, orbit-movers.com Santa Fe Relocations Global relocation and storage specialists with 96 offices in 47 countries and 120 years’ moving experience. Obtain a free online quote. 04 332 1595, santaferelo.com The Box Reliable self storage and mini warehousing services provider with aroundthe-clock availability and choice of flexible storage options. The online store sells handy 'move packs' in all shapes and sizes. 800 843 269, theboxme.com
MOVING & STORAGE
Allied Pickfords A leading global mover with 600 locations in 40 countries and a multilingual team with over two decades’ UAE market experience. 04 818 0400, alliedpickfords.ae Crown Relocations International moving company with a portfolio of services including shared container service option, destination settling-in services and free online quotation option. 04 230 5300, crownrelo.com Orbit Movers
NOISE ALERT
If the construction site next door or an all-night party are spoiling a good night’s sleep, and earplugs or a friendly word aren’t working, there is a solution. We recommend asking building security to help and then raise the issue with your landlord. If it persists, consider calling Dubai police. Dial 901 for non-emergencies.
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“Don’t be afraid to steer away from neutrals and be more creative by opting for something bolder and a bit more fun.”
@maspaints
Aleena Waqas