The Rise of Co-Living: Is Communal the New Normal?

For most people the idea, or even the appeal, of ‘communal living’ spaces could be entirely alien. Even those who have fond (or traumatic) memories of university ‘halls’, laundry rooms and shared kitchens, are likely to assume those days are far behind them. Many people might find it strange to encounter a complex that is specifically geared to breaking down the barriers between residents and providing areas that promote socializing and connection. But this inclusive and convenient residential concept is now one of the fastest growing trends in tenant accommodation. Particularly well suited to modern, young professionals, millennials and entrepreneurs, co-living provides an environment that is welcoming, relaxed and engaging. Given that Dubai is the latest major international city to embrace this accommodation style, we thought we would take a look at what exactly co-living is and how it works and what its benefits might be for those considering Dubai relocation or looking for a new place to call home.

What is Co-living?

Although co-living, in this current iteration, has been an emerging concept around the world for several years, like much of our new reality, its popularity has been supercharged by the pandemic. Already providing solutions surrounding affordable living, disconnection and efficiency, co-living is now especially useful as a partner to the rise in remote working and freelance contracting. Co-living at its core is defined as a collection of private apartments that are situated in one complex and share a host of common areas and amenities. In addition to international pioneers like Coliving, there are already several co-living project types in Dubai that are either completed or under construction such as international brand Vonder and Hive Coliv.

The Benefits of Co-living

Many of the growing projects centred around building co-living communities will share similar ‘taglines’ on the unique benefits of choosing a co-living residence. At the most simplistic level, co-living provides tenants with a living experience that is easy, convenient and fun. Individuals, couples or friends living together can find themselves in an atmosphere that is intended to cater to a more inclusive lifestyle and one where everything is taken care of so you can concentrate on connecting and living. Here are some of the major elements that make co-living such an exciting option for renters and tenants:

Less Stress: Co-living residences are formulated to provide residents with an all-inclusive price tag that includes rent and all their bills, so they know exactly how much is required each month

More Comfort: Since co-living spaces can house a larger number of people, they can also provide world-class amenities and perks that would never be part of an individual residence with an acceptable budget. This gives residents access to facilities like cafes, gyms, cinemas, swimming pools and more

Less Loneliness: More and more individuals have reported feeling disconnected or lonely during their everyday lives. It seems that the faster and more efficient our society gets, the more chance there is that people can become overlooked or lack the time or ability to make meaningful connections. This often results in debilitating mental health issues and severely limits happiness over time. A co-living residence is actively intended to enable residents to socialize and connect, particularly given their shared desire to live in a more collaborative environment.

More Convenience: Co-living apartments come fully furnished with all the relevant appliances and accessories you could need. They also come with cleaning services, community managers, high-speed internet and readily available maintenance servicing

Less Costly: A key benefit of co-living, particularly for up-and-coming generations is its affordability. With the fluctuations in the global housing market often pricing tenants out of central areas, well-priced and inclusive co-living spaces are the ideal solution for those looking to get the right work/life balance

More Modern: As well as embracing the evolving concept of co-living itself, the premise of the platform is also tied to what is also included. The majority of co-living complexes have prioritized adding amenities and outlets that are geared towards wellness and sociability. Unlike in traditional apartment buildings, co-living spaces will often have venues like co-working spaces, wellness centres, meditation zones, cross-fit training, screening rooms and vegan cafes, all of which are intended to appeal to the younger generations that will respond most positively to this collective collaboration

If you would like to talk to one of our expert team about co-living residential options for assignees or if you are looking at options for your Dubai relocation please get in touch via info@eerme.com or call us on +971 4 421 1819.