Whether you’ve just landed in the UAE or are preparing to fly soon, finding the right place to live is one of the most important steps in settling down as a student. This guide is specially written for Nepalese students in the UAE and aims to help you make smart, safe, and budget-friendly housing decisions.
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✈️ If You’re New to the UAE — Start Smart
Once you receive your university admission letter, it’s the perfect time to start researching where and how you’ll stay in the UAE.
🕒 Start Early: Begin your accommodation hunt immediately. Don’t wait until you land here, as last-minute decisions may cost you more or leave you with fewer options.
On-Campus or University-Arranged Accommodation
Most universities offer their own or partnered hostels. These are usually:
- Clean and secure
- Close to your university
- Easy to settle into during your first months
📌 Tip: While on-campus options can be expensive, they offer a good start for 1–2 months. It gives you time to adjust to the city without stress.
Connect with the Nepali Student Community
Once you’re on campus, start interacting with:
- Senior Nepali students
- Students from other nationalities
- Cultural clubs and student events
- Online groups like “Nepali Students in UAE” (Facebook, WhatsApp, etc.)
Don’t hesitate to ask where they’re staying. This kind of first-hand information is reliable and often leads to cheaper and more student-friendly accommodations.
Explore Shared Accommodations
For long-term living, shared rooms or apartments are the go-to choice for students. They’re:
- Affordable
- Often located near universities
- Equipped with essential facilities
- Easier to find via networking
💡 Bonus: You’ll get roommates, possibly fellow Nepali students, who can support you emotionally and help you adjust.
Always Visit Before You Pay
If you’re already in the UAE, never finalize a room online or via phone. Make sure to:
- Visit the place physically
- Inspect for cleanliness, ventilation, safety
- Check for groceries, metro/bus access nearby
- Ask whether Wi-Fi, electricity, water, gas are included in the rent
- Understand the building environment and neighbor behavior
🚫 Beware of Scams: Many fake agents and listings target newcomers. Never send money until you’ve verified the property and owner/agent in person.
Budget Wisely
Here’s how to create a realistic rent plan:
- Calculate your total monthly income or allowance
- Deduct your expected food, transport, and mobile/internet costs
- Whatever’s left should determine your rent limit
✅ Prioritize safety, cleanliness, and convenience even if the rent is slightly higher. Cheap is not always best.
Where to Find Rooms & Flats in the UAE
Here are some trusted platforms to find housing:
- 🌐 Dubizzle.com
- 🌐 PropertyFinder.ae
- ✅ Facebook groups like “Nepali Room Sharing UAE”, “Rooms in Dubai for Students”
- ✅ WhatsApp room-sharing and community groups
- 👥 Ask classmates, friends, or seniors
UAE Living Costs: Know Before You Choose a City
| Emirate | Average Rent | Student Friendly? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | High | ✅ Yes | Excellent facilities but expensive |
| Abu Dhabi | High | ✅ Yes | Great infrastructure but higher living costs |
| Sharjah | Medium | ✅✅ Best Option for Students | Affordable, close to Dubai, great for Nepali community |
| Ajman | Low | ✅ Budget-Friendly | Peaceful but fewer job/internship options |
| Ras Al Khaimah / UAQ | Very Low | ❌ Less Convenient | Far from major universities and job markets |
Final Tips for Nepalese Students
- ✅ Visit the room, don’t rely on pictures
- 🚫 Never pay in advance to an unverified source
- ✅ Ask about included utilities
- ✅ Keep all rent receipts or agreements in writing
- ✅ Check the area for accessibility and transport
- ✅ Join Nepali student groups in the UAE — they are your best resource!
A Note from the Nepalese in UAE Team
We are here to help! Whether you’re already in the UAE or still planning your journey, our community is active in guiding students, workers, and new arrivals. From room-sharing updates to internship tips, we’re building a helpful platform for Nepalese, by Nepalese.
👉 If you’ve recently found a good place or had a learning experience with accommodation, share your story in our group. It could help someone else from making a mistake or find a perfect place!
Stay Connected:
Facebook: Nepalese in UAE
Instagram: @nepaleseinuae
Website: www.nepaleseinuae.com
