Space to work: Dubai buyers increasingly seek home offices

The demand for a dedicated work area surged in the property market post-Covid, prompting some developers to reassess their designs.

One of the enduring trends seen so far in 2024 is the buyer demand for residential Dubai properties with dedicated office space.

Having a home office – while not always a deal breaker – has become a highly desirable ‘extra’ in the past few years due to shifting work trends and new technology.

A recent Khaleej Times article pointed to developers like Majid Al Futtaim who are recognising this consumer demand by updating their designs to include larger study and office areas. For instance, the recent phases of their Tilal Al Ghaf project, Harmony, now features expanded spaces for home offices.

The article also offered the example of 25th Heimat, a chic residential project in Downtown Dubai developed by East and West Properties and branded by 25hours. It incorporates home offices into its apartment layouts.

“More and more we are hearing that a great home working set-up – either a well-equipped study or proper office – is a key requirement for purchasers in the current market,” revealed Charlie Bannan, Managing Director, haus & haus.

“Developers in the larger villas are creating these kinds of spaces, while owners are often planning renovations with this in mind. Whether it’s an entrepreneur from overseas without a main hub in Dubai or an employee allowed to work from home, there is a demand in the current market.”

However, he added: “It will be interesting to see if this trend lasts with some big-name companies trying to abolish the idea of work from home to create a ‘back to the office’ environment for the sake of company culture.”
 

What’s driving the demand for home office space?

One of the key drivers for home office space is the rise of entrepreneurship and the gig economy in Dubai. As more people launch their own businesses or take on freelance work, having a dedicated and professional workspace at home becomes essential.

This trend is supported by the city’s business friendly environment and numerous initiatives encouraging startups and independent work, making home offices an indispensable feature for many residents.

For example, initiatives like Dubai Future Accelerators are giving practical help to startups, facilitating partnerships with government entities and large corporations – while Dubai SME, an agency of the Department of Economic Development (DED), has supported over 23,000 SMEs and startups through various programs and initiatives.

And just recently, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, voiced plans to expand the flexible working and remote work policy to help reduce traffic density.
 

What are the current trends in home office design?

One of the big trends in home office design in 2024 is multifunctionality.

Home offices are now designed to serve multiple purposes, often doubling as guest rooms, workout spaces, or hobby areas. This approach maximises the use of available space, especially in urban settings where square footage is at a premium.

Interior designers are incorporating fold-away desks, modular furniture, and built-in storage solutions to create versatile and efficient work environments that can easily transform to meet different needs.

Another key trend is the integration of technology.

This could include smart desks with built-in charging stations, ergonomic chairs, and advanced lighting systems that mimic natural daylight. In higher end properties, soundproofing solutions such as acoustic panels and noise cancelling windows are also gaining popularity to minimise distractions and enhance productivity.

Additionally, there is a growing focus on creating aesthetically pleasing workspaces that reflect personal style, using elements like houseplants, art, and customisable decor to make the home office a more inviting and motivating space.

Looking for a home with an office? Speak to our team