Why More First-Time Buyers Are Choosing Dubai Over the Netherlands

The possibility of buying a first home in the Netherlands is becoming increasingly remote. The housing market is overheated, and affordable homes are scarce. In cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, in particular, prices have risen enormously. Supply is low, and the homes that do come onto the market are often outdated, sometimes 30 years old, and still command a sky-high price.

For many people, it feels like a choice between an old house with deferred maintenance in the Netherlands, or a brand-new apartment with modern amenities somewhere else. And that comparison is increasingly being made with Dubai.

In Dubai, you get much more luxury for the same money

Those looking at emerging neighbourhoods in Dubai will see that prices there are still relatively moderate. Especially when compared to what you get in the Netherlands for the same money. New apartments with a swimming pool, gym, and sauna are not uncommon. These are often modern projects that are still in full development, offering amenities rarely found with a property in the Netherlands.

Compared to cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, where a substantial sum buys an old terraced house without extra facilities, Dubai offers an attractive alternative. This is especially true for people who are open to living abroad and value luxury.

Nevertheless, it remains important to do thorough research and consider your long-term goals. Dubai may seem attractive, but life there is also different and requires adaptability. In the summer, temperatures can rise significantly, and some neighbourhoods are still very much under development. It is also important to note that salaries can be lower in Dubai.