Welcome to Dubai
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Furnishing a Traditional style property in the United Arab Emirates for Airbnb hosting comes with its unique set of challenges and obstacles. A broader understanding of traditional Emirati aesthetics, the arid climate, and the blend of Eastern and Western tastes is crucial.
Hosts indeed struggle with striking the right balance between preserving the traditional essence and incorporating modern furnishings to meet the global traveler's expectations. One of the most common pain points is selecting the correct furniture that suits or complements the architecture and ambiance of traditional UAE properties.
There is also confusion around picking out suitable durable materials that can withstand the hot climate without losing their charm, as well as hassle determining the perfect amenities to enhance guest comfort without compromising the Emirati authenticity of the space. Against this backdrop, the detailed amenities list that follows serves to ease these struggles for Airbnb hosts.
Derived from years of expert understanding of the UAE's culturally rich rental market, this guide aims to help elevate the guest experience whilst maintaining the unique character of your Traditional style property.
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bathroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tissues | Must Have | 1 box per bathroom | A necessary item for any bathroom. | Any major brand like Kleenex, Scottex |
| 2 | Shower Gel | Must Have | 1 per shower | A scented shower gel can add to the warm, inviting atmosphere. | Any major brand like Dove, Body Shop |
| 3 | Bath Mat | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | A non-slip bath mat is essential for safety. | Non-slip, quick dry bath mat |
| 4 | Towels | Must Have | 2 per guest | High-quality, soft towels provide an added touch of luxury. | Cotton, Egyptian or Turkish towels |
| 5 | Hand Soap | Must Have | 1 per sink | Liquid soap is preferable for cleanliness and ease of use. | Any major brand like Softsoap, Dove |
| 6 | Toilet Paper | Must Have | 2 rolls per guest with extra stocked | Try to choose a quality, soft type of toilet paper to add an extra touch of comfort. | Any major brand like Kleenex, Charmin |
| 7 | Shampoo | Must Have | 1 per shower | Shampoo should be provided even if guests often bring their own. | Any major brand like Pantene, Dove |
| 8 | Conditioner | Must Have | 1 per shower | Conditioner should be provided even if guests often bring their own. | Any major brand like Pantene, Dove |
| 9 | Waste Bin | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | A bin with a lid is preferable for added privacy and hygiene. | Stainless steel, Traditional style bin |
| 10 | Toilet Brush | Must Have | 1 per toilet | This is necessary for guests to maintain cleanliness during their stay. | Any standard toilet brush with holder |
| 11 | Hand Towels | Must Have | 2 per sink | Hand towels should be smaller than regular towels and dedicated for hand drying. | Cotton, Egyptian or Turkish towels |
| 12 | Bathrobes | Optional | 1 per guest | A luxury touch. Ensure they are clean and fresh for each new guest. | Cotton, Egyptian or Turkish bathrobes |
| 13 | Hair Dryer | Optional | 1 per bathroom | Not all guests will use this, but it's a nice amenity to have. | Any major brand like Conair, Remington |
| 14 | Slippers | Optional | 1 pair per guest | A thoughtful addition especially for guests from western countries. | One-size-fits-all slippers are best |
| 15 | Shower Cap | Optional | 1 per guest | Not all guests will use this, but some appreciate the thought. | Any standard shower cap |
| 16 | Scented Candles or Diffuser | Optional | 1 per bathroom | These add to the warm, inviting atmosphere. | Oud or sandalwood scents are traditionally Emirati |
| 17 | Scale | Optional | 1 per bathroom | Some guests appreciate this, but it's not necessary. | Any easy-to-use digital scale |
| 18 | First Aid Kit | Optional | 1 per bathroom | It's important for guests to feel safe. Include basics like bandaids and antiseptic cream. | Any major brand like Johnson & Johnson |
| 19 | Cotton Buds | Optional | 1 box per bathroom | Some guests appreciate these for makeup application or removal. | Any major brand |
| 20 | Makeup remover wipes | Optional | 1 per guest | Some guests appreciate these for convenience. | Any major brand like Neutrogena, Simple |
| 21 | Vanities (for storage) | Optional | 1 per bathroom | Helpful for guests to store their personal toiletries. | Traditional wooden style vanity |
| 22 | A set of Cups/Glasses | Optional | 1 per guest | For guests who like to have a glass of water in the bathroom during the night. | Traditional middle eastern style glasses |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bedroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bed | Must Have | 1 | Choose a good quality bed to ensure comfort for your guests | King or Queen sized bed |
| 2 | Mattress | Must Have | 1 | Select a comfortable yet durable mattress | Medium-firm mattress; firm for larger guests or those with back problems |
| 3 | Bedding Set | Must Have | 2 | Ensure they are of good fabric and easy to clean | Cotton or linen bedding set, Include frequent cleaning in the service |
| 4 | Pillow | Must Have | 2 per guest | Ensure they are soft and comfortable enough | Memory foam or down pillows |
| 5 | Air Conditioner | Must Have | 1 | Necessary for hot climate in the UAE | Split or Central Air Conditioner, with too silent operation |
| 6 | Curtains or Blinds | Must Have | As many as windows in the room | Follow the Decor of the room | Traditional Arabic style curtain with quality fabric |
| 7 | Closet | Must Have | 1 | Ensure it's spacious enough for the guests to store their clothes | A Wooden closet with hangers, drawers and a full-length mirror |
| 8 | Lamps | Must Have | 2 | One for each nightstand | Arabian style bedside lamps with dimming feature |
| 9 | Mirror | Must Have | 1 | Full length mirror is required | Elegant Mirror with Arabian frame |
| 10 | Hangers | Must Have | 10 | Essential for hanging clothes | Wooden or velvet hangers |
| 11 | Nightstand | Must Have | 2 | Place on the side of every bed for comfort | Arabic style wooden nightstand with storage unit |
| 12 | Room Spray/ Freshener | Optional | As needed | Keep the room smell fresh | Choose a light, refreshing scent, avoid over powering or synthetic fragrances |
| 13 | Rug | Optional | 1 | Represents luxury and comfort | Traditional Arabic carpet with soft fabric |
| 14 | Art and Decorations | Optional | As per taste and size of the room | Represents the Arabic culture and tradition | Arabian style Art works, paintings, sculptures or wall hangings |
| 15 | TV | Optional | 1 | For guests who like to watch TV before bed | Smart TV with pre-loaded applications like Netflix |
| 16 | Safe | Optional | 1 | For guests to store valuable items | Digital safe with override key |
| 17 | WiFi Access Point | Optional | 1 | If the WiFi signal in the room is weak | A WiFi repeater or extender |
| 18 | Snack basket | Optional | As per number of guests | For a welcome touch | Assortment of both healthy and indulgent treats |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Kitchen
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tea and Coffee Mugs | Optional | 4 per guest | Can be matching or eclectic | Any good kitchen brand |
| 2 | Mixing Bowls | Optional | 1 set of 3 sizes | Stainless steel or glass are best | Any good kitchen brand |
| 3 | Cutting Board | Optional | 1 | Have at least one for meat and one for veggies to prevent cross-contamination | Any kitchenware brand |
| 4 | Glasses | Optional | 4 per guest | Include water and wine glasses | Any good quality brand |
| 5 | Utensils | Optional | 4 per guest | Keep additional | Brands are not much important |
| 6 | Microwave | Optional | 1 | It should be easy to operate | Any well-known brand with good reviews |
| 7 | Plates and Bowls | Optional | 4 per guest | Ceramic or porcelain plates are ideal | Any reputable brand |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Living Room
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dining Chairs | Must Have | As per dining table | Comfortable, sturdy, matching dining table | upholstered in fabric that matches decor |
| 2 | Coasters | Must Have | Set of 4-6 | Protect surfaces from stains | Traditional theme to match the style of the room |
| 3 | Dining Table | Must Have | 1 | Should accommodate all guests | Wooden, in line with traditional UAE style |
| 4 | WiFi Router | Must Have | 1 | Guests expect Wi-Fi, keep password handy | Latest model for best range and speed |
| 5 | Air Conditioner | Must Have | 1 | Important for hot climate | Any reputable brand with energy saving feature |
| 6 | Curtains | Must Have | As per windows | Block-out curtains for privacy and better sleep | Luxurious velvet or silk in rich color matching the decor |
| 7 | Cushions | Must Have | 4-6 | Should match the decor, washable | Colorful, in line with traditional UAE style |
| 8 | Rugs | Must Have | 1 | Easy to clean, Persian or Arabian style | Traditional or vintage mixed material rug |
| 9 | Sofa | Must Have | 1 | Comfortable, well-cushioned, easy to clean | Traditional Arabian style sofa or a tan or brown leather couch |
| 10 | Side Tables | Must Have | 2 | Should match with the decor | Wooden, in line with traditional UAE style |
| 11 | Coffee Table | Must Have | 1 | Should match with the decor | Wooden, with traditional UAE carvings if possible |
| 12 | TV Cabinet | Must Have | 1 | Should ideally match the traditional decor | Wooden, ideally with decorative carving or brass work |
| 13 | Television | Must Have | 1 | Minimum 32 inches, Smart TV if possible | Any reputable brand such as Samsung, LG, or Sony |
| 14 | Floor Lamp | Optional | 1-2 | Easy to switch on/off, safe with children | Traditional Arabian or rustic style |
| 15 | Fruit Basket | Optional | 1 | Should be stocked with fresh fruits | Metallic, sturdy, easy to clean |
| 16 | Candles | Optional | 2-3 | Scented can add a nice aroma to the room | Traditional lantern-style candle holders |
| 17 | Plants | Optional | 1-2 | Easy to care for | Succulents or Ficus |
| 18 | Books about UAE | Optional | 4-5 | Culturally interesting for guests | Travel, history, culture related books |
| 19 | Bookshelf | Optional | 1 | Stock it with books about UAE for visitors' interest | Wooden, matching rest of the room's decor |
| 20 | Artwork | Optional | 1-2 pieces | Works of local artists can add attraction | Traditional Arabic artwork or pictures of local landmarks |
| 21 | Majlis Floor Seatings | Optional | 2-4 | Popular in local culture, adds charm | Traditional patterned floor cushions |
| 22 | Majlis Style Divider | Optional | 1 | Adds to traditional style | Wooden or metal with intricate designs |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Outdoor Space
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grill area | Must Have | 1 | Include necessary grilling tools and accessories | Portable or built-in grill |
| 2 | Outdoor Lighting | Must Have | Variable | Consider local views on light pollution, as well as safety and security | Traditional style lanterns, fairy lights |
| 3 | Patio Dining set | Must Have | 1 | Should be weather resistant and easily cleanable | Outdoor dining set with at least 4-6 chairs |
| 4 | Sun Umbrella | Must Have | 1-2 | To provide shade given the hot weather in UAE | Large weather-resistant umbrella |
| 5 | Majlis Seating | Must Have | 2 sets | Traditional Arab seating is a must-have to provide an authentic experience | Arabian style cushions and low tables |
| 6 | Potted Plants | Optional | Variable | Provide aesthetic and freshness. Be sure to use plants that can withstand local weather conditions | Desert plants such as Date Palm |
| 7 | Outdoor Cooler | Optional | 1 | For easy access to refreshments | Weather resistant outdoor cooler |
| 8 | Outdoor Games | Optional | Variable | Simple games can be a source of entertainment | Bocce ball, horseshoes, lawn chess |
| 9 | Water Fountain | Optional | 1 | Adds similar aesthetic to UAE's famous 'Dancing Fountain', must be properly maintained | Arabic style outdoor water fountain |
| 10 | Arabian Tent | Optional | 1 | Only applicable if the outdoor space is significantly large | Traditional Arabian Khaimah |
| 11 | Bird Feeder | Optional | 1 | For nature enthusiasts | Local bird-friendly feeder |
| 12 | Prayer Mat | Optional | 1-2 | Consider your guests values and beliefs | Arabian style prayer mat |
| 13 | Fire Pit | Optional | 1 | Only if space allows and is safe | Traditional Arab style fire pit |
| 14 | Serving Cart | Optional | 1 | For meals and drinks | Weather-resistant serving cart |
| 15 | Herb garden | Optional | 1 | If you have a green thumb, a herb garden could be a wonderful touch to the outdoor space | Traditional herbs common to the region |
| 16 | Outdoor Heater | Optional | 1 | For the chillier months. Ensure guidelines for usage are clearly stated | Propane outdoor heater |
| 17 | Rugs | Optional | 2-3 | As UAE is known for its beautiful carpets and rugs. But remember that they can be damaged by the weather | Outdoor Persian style rugs |
| 18 | Shisha Set | Optional | 1 | Do not forget to provide disposable mouthpieces for hygiene concerns | Standard shisha set with multiple flavors |
