Dubai · DIFC
Studio Apartments for Sale in DIFC
DIFC is the financial free zone where corporate tenants and business travellers pay a premium. Here's exactly what a studio apartment costs to buy here in 2026, what it earns, and how Alayan Homes handles it end to end.
Entry price
AED 1,392,000
Price per sqft
AED 2,900/sqft
Typical size
480 sqft
Gross yield
6–7%
Studio Apartments in DIFC: the 2026 picture
A typical studio apartment in DIFC runs about 480 sqft and trades near AED 2,900/sqft, putting purchase prices around AED 1,392,000. Long-term tenants pay roughly AED 89,900 a year, while the same unit operated as a licensed holiday home averages AED 501 a night at 79% occupancy — about AED 144,463 gross before costs. Owners on our managed programme average AED 199,359, a 38% uplift driven by dynamic pricing, multi-channel distribution and 4.9★ guest reviews.
Why investors pick DIFC
- ✓ Minutes from Gate Avenue
- ✓ Minutes from Emirates Towers
- ✓ Minutes from DIFC art district
- ✓ 6–7% gross rental yield
- ✓ 100% freehold, Golden Visa eligible
How Alayan Homes helps
We source on and off-market studio apartments in DIFC, run the yield maths with you, handle DLD transfer and mortgage introductions, then take over letting or hosting once you own it.
FAQ — studio apartments for sale in DIFC
How much does a studio apartment cost in DIFC?
Around AED 1,392,000 for a 480 sqft unit, based on a DIFC average of AED 2,900/sqft in 2026.
What rental yield can I expect?
DIFC delivers 6–7% gross on long-term rent, and materially more when the studio apartment is operated as a licensed holiday home.
What fees apply when buying in DIFC?
Budget 4% DLD transfer fee, roughly AED 4,200 in trustee fees, 2% agency commission and a mortgage registration fee of 0.25% if financed.
Does Alayan Homes charge upfront fees in DIFC?
No. We work on a performance model for hosting and a standard brokerage fee on sales — you only pay once your studio apartment is earning or a deal completes.
Can foreigners own a studio apartment in DIFC?
Yes. DIFC sits in a designated freehold zone, so any nationality can buy 100% ownership, and purchases above AED 2M qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa.