Serviced offices have become big business in Dubai. In fact, the market size for UAE flexible office space is $1.12bn in 2025, with it projected to grow to $1.81bn by 2030. This is down to Dubai in particular becoming one of the world’s top business hubs. It attracts businesses of all sizes, from startups and SMEs through to major global corporations.
So demand for professional office space is high, and serviced offices in Dubai offer a great solution. You get a fully furnished space that is ready to go. You also have that much-needed flexibility and cost efficiency because there isn’t the burden of traditional leasing.
In this article, we will explain what exactly serviced offices are and how they work, which are the best serviced offices in Dubai, and what to ask when you’re making your choice. Since launching in 2016, OBC has supported hundreds of startups, consultants, and SMEs across Dubai – and we are ready to support you. So let’s get into all the details and what you need to know.
What are serviced offices and how do they work?
Let’s start with some basic definitions. Serviced offices are fully equipped workspaces that are ready to use. You move in and you’re working right away. There are no setup delays, nothing.
So they’re quite unlike traditional office rentals in that sense. Serviced offices do not require long leases or large deposits or heavy investment in furniture. So costs are kept under control. Serviced offices come ready with desks and chairs as well as internet and admin support – and of course utilities. You won’t be setting up accounts for water or electricity, it’s all included.
This kind of flexible leasing is great for small teams or growing startups. It’s also a good option for international companies that are testing the Dubai market before taking the plunge. When you work with OBC, you can scale up or down depending on your needs. As they change, so your office space changes with you.
Benefits of choosing a serviced office in Dubai
The main benefits of choosing a serviced office in Dubai are flexibility, cost efficiency, premium locations, and access to shared amenities. Let’s look at these in more detail:
- Flexible leasing: Your business can go for a short or a long-term arrangement. As your circumstances change, then your office can adapt with ease. It gives you peace of mind that you won’t need to move out just because your company grows or needs to downsize.
- No large deposits: This is huge for professionals and small businesses. No one wants to have to put down a large sum of money when that could easily be being put to work in your business. So unlike traditional leases, serviced offices don’t require a lot of upfront costs which greatly eases the financial burden for startups and SMEs.
- Scalable: A company only pays for the space they need but they have that all-important option to expand by adding new desks or offices if required at a later point.
- Premium address: Dubai has some highly desirable business districts including Downtown and JLT. These offer real international credibility and can help your business strengthen their brand presence.
- Amenities: When you go with a reputable provider, you will get reception services, IT support, meeting rooms for hire, as well as communal lounges.
Contact OBC today to explore serviced offices that grow with your business.
How to choose the best serviced office for your business
The best serviced office for your business is one that fits your location preference, budget, size requirements, and design needs. It’s a decision that needs considerable thought given the different parties your choice will affect. Let’s look at these in more detail:
- Preferred location: The location is always going to be the first and probably most important consideration. It needs to be convenient and simple for clients to visit, as well as the rest of your team commuting. So look for a place such as Downtown or JLT that has easy, central access.
- Number of desks: Now that you know where you are going to be in terms of location, the next step is to figure out how many desks you are going to need for your employees. Also keep in mind your future growth plans and make sure the place you choose can accommodate them with ease.
- Design: The most important thing is that the design of the workspace fits your brand identity. Does it say something about your style and professionalism? What kind of message does it send internally to your employees? The right style and look of a place can make all the difference.
- Budget flexibility: Of course costs are going to come into play, so make sure the rental terms are in line with your budget and cash flow situation. While you want the best possible place, it’s also important to know that paying the rent isn’t going to be an issue.
- Additional amenities: Check what amenities come with the serviced office and which will be at an additional cost. Key things to check include security, parking, concierge services, meeting facilities, and so on. All of these come together to help support your daily operations.
What to ask a serviced office provider in Dubai
When evaluating serviced offices in Dubai, ask questions that clarify pricing, flexibility, and available amenities. Asking these questions is an important step to make sure you are getting exactly what you need for your business.
- Pricing and terms: Find out exactly what is included in the monthly fee and whether utilities and services are included in it.
- Customisations: Ask the extent to which you can tailor the office layout for your specific team’s needs.
- Included amenities: Check whether internet, reception, cleaning, IT are covered in the contract.
- Security measures: You want to make sure the access is controlled and monitored. Double check this before signing anything.
By asking these questions upfront, you will have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you are avoiding any hidden costs and choosing the right space for your team.
Why choose OBC’s serviced offices in Dubai
OBC’s serviced offices stand out for their premium locations, flexible packages, and easy, transparent pricing. Our locations in Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Media City are strategically chosen to help members stay close to key business hubs and clients.
Regardless of the size and sector your business operates in, our OBC team ensures every member gets the most out of their experience. And alongside serviced offices, OBC also offers small offices, coworking desks, dedicated offices, private suites, virtual offices, meeting rooms, and event venues.
Whether you’re scaling your business or just starting out, OBC provides everything you need to help you grow. For businesses of all sizes looking to establish or expand their Dubai presence, a serviced office with OBC is a great choice. Contact One Business Centre to book a free tour.