Living in Dubai can be exciting, but also expensive. This is especially true for Filipino expats and other migrant workers trying to make ends meet in a city that has a high cost of living. That’s where bed space living comes in.
This budget-friendly setup involves renting a space—not a whole room—in an apartment or villa shared with others. It’s common among OFWs and other expats who want to save money while still enjoying the opportunities Dubai offers.
But let’s be honest. Sharing a room with strangers (and sometimes their snoring, smelly cooking at midnight, or peculiar toilet habit) isn’t always easy. Whether you’re new to Dubai or just moving to a new place, this guide will give you the lowdown on how to not just survive, but thrive in a shared bed space.
What is bed space living?
A bed space typically means renting a bunk bed or partitioned area within a shared room. With smaller living space, it’s cheaper than a full room rental, making it ideal for those on a tight budget.
Some pay monthly; others pay weekly. You’ll share common areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and sometimes the dining area with 4, 6, or even 10 other people, depending on the place and how “creative” the landlord is with partitions.
Where to find bed spacers and listings
Finding a bed space in Dubai isn’t hard, but finding a good one takes some effort. Here are reliable platforms and methods:
- Facebook groups – Search for “Dubai Bed Space,” “Pinoy Flatmates in Dubai,” or “Kabayan Bed Space UAE.” Most listings are posted here.
- Dubizzle – One of the most popular classified platforms in the UAE.
- WhatsApp and Telegram groups – Ask friends to invite you to bed space or flatmate groups. These are often faster and more updated than websites.
- Word of mouth – Ask workmates, churchmates, or co-passengers on the bus. The Filipino network in Dubai is strong—use it!
- Ask around: Your friend’s cousin’s roommate’s tita might have a spare top bunk, ask everyone you know!
How to spot the right bed space and roommates
Choosing a bed space isn’t just about rent affordability. It’s also about compatibility with fellow housemates. Here are things to consider before saying yes:
Questions to ask before agreeing to moving in:
- How many people are in the room/flat?
- Is it mixed gender or same gender only?
- Is there a curfew?
- Is cooking allowed? (Some flats are strict.)
- Is the location close to your work or a metro station?
- Are DEWA (utilities) and Wi-Fi included?
Red flags to watch out for:
- No tenancy contract or written agreement.
- Overcrowded rooms (more than 4-6 in one room).
- “Too good to be true” prices. This means significantly lower than market rates for such type of accommodation
- Landlords who only want to deal via WhatsApp and won’t show the place.
- Requests for full advance payment without receipts.
Roommate survival tips
Living with others means adjusting to different habits, hygiene levels, and personalities. It’s part of the adventure! Here are survival strategies:
- Be respectful
- Keep your space clean.
- Don’t hog the bathroom.
- If you eat adobo at 2am, maybe skip the bagoong.
- Set boundaries politely
- Label your food if needed.
- Agree on a quiet time (especially if shifts vary).
- Avoid borrowing personal items like towels or chargers without asking.
- Know your role
- Chip in for cleaning supplies or shared amenities.
- Be a team player—offer to take out the trash or wash common dishes once in a while.
How to spot and avoid bed space scams
Unfortunately, Dubai’s rental scene includes scammers targeting desperate new arrivals. Stay alert:
- Never send money before seeing the place.
- If possible, meet the landlord in person.
- Ask for a written agreement or at least a receipt.
- Avoid listings with stock photos or unclear addresses.
- If the landlord is always “abroad” or asks you to pay now and view later, ignore and find another one.
Bonus trick: Copy-paste the listing photo into Google Images. If it shows up in multiple cities or countries—it’s probably fake.
How to make the most of bed space life
Yes, it’s cramped. Yes, privacy is limited. But with the right mindset, it can be a great experience. Here’s how to thrive:
- Use noise-cancelling earbuds if you’re a light sleeper.
- Foldable storage boxes help maximize tiny spaces.
- Be friendly but cautious—not everyone is your best friend, but good relationships go a long way.
- Celebrate little things—birthday salu-salo with pancit and Coke goes a long way to beat homesickness.
- Get out when you can—explore Dubai’s public spaces, beaches, and malls to avoid “bed space burnout.”
True story: In one shared flat, Sundays became “salon day”—one roommate cut hair, another did nails, another did TikTok dances. They called it “Room 407 Spa and Beauty.”
Final thoughts
Bed space living in Dubai isn’t always glamorous, but it can be a great stepping stone. Many long-time Dubai residents started out in bunk beds and partitions, and eventually moved into their own rooms or even flats.
The key is to be smart, respectful, and adaptable. And when things get rough, remember, you’re not alone. Thousands of kabayans are in the same boat, and some of your best friendships might start in a cramped room with three bunk beds and a rice cooker that never turns off.
Whether you’re in Dubai for the long haul or just starting your OFW journey. Be wise, be safe, and always bring your slippers to the common bathroom.