International City rental yield
The cheapest entry point in Dubai, with the highest gross yields and the most caveats.
10.0% indicative gross yield
Typical International City units
| Unit | Price | Size | Annual rent | Service charge | Gross yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | AED 330,000 | 420 sqft | AED 35,000 | AED 11/sqft | 10.6% |
| 1 bedroom | AED 480,000 | 700 sqft | AED 48,000 | AED 11/sqft | 10.0% |
| 2 bedroom | AED 720,000 | 1000 sqft | AED 68,000 | AED 12/sqft | 9.4% |
What you actually keep in International City
Pre-filled with International City figures. Change the price, rent and service charge to match the unit you are looking at.
Starting point
The property
AED 786 per sqft
AED 4,620 per year
Net yield after all costs
6.37%
Gross yield 10.61% — what listings quote
Monthly cash flow
AED 518
Cash needed
AED 108,975
Estimates for guidance only. Fees follow standard Dubai practice (4% DLD, 2% agency, 1% mortgage arrangement). Confirm service charges and rent for the specific building.
Investing in International City
International City has the lowest entry prices of any freehold apartment district in Dubai, and gross yields on paper are the highest in the city.
Buildings are older, service charges are low but maintenance standards vary, and tenant profile is more transient. Voids and turnover costs deserve a conservative assumption.
For yield-focused buyers with a tolerance for hands-on management, the net numbers can still be compelling. For hands-off investors, the management drag often eats the advantage.