Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A quarter of Dubai home buyers are on the hunt for living spaces that provide mental health benefits, according to real estate brokerage Union Square House (USH).
Living spaces and amenities that support mental health include spa-like bathrooms, freestanding bathtubs, meditation nooks, indoor plants and fixtures, outdoor spaces, designs that let in more natural light, and fit-for-purpose residential communities.
Developers and facilities management companies play a key role in maintaining common areas, which are essential gathering places for the community to hold gatherings and participate in fun activities.
According to a recent work-life balance study conducted by mobile technology company Kisi, Dubai residents are among the hardest working in the world. As a result, stress levels among residents tend to be higher and therefore finding a place of healing in a home becomes a necessity.
Gaurav Aidasani, Founder and CEO of Union Square House, said: “The last two years have been difficult for all of us. In addition to work-related challenges, our living spaces can have a direct impact on our mental health. In the wake of the pandemic, the correlation between a home and stress levels cannot be overlooked.”
Dubai home buyers are increasingly looking for thoughtful, wellness-focused designs. In recent years, a new form of demand for living spaces has emerged that aims to enhance positive emotions and reduce depression. Developers are now taking note of this trend to optimize living space for mental health and wellness.
“Finding the right home to ease the burden of mental health extends beyond the living space itself. Home buyers must first find the right community. Many of us envision owning a home in a serene, friendly community with parks, playgrounds, gyms, and swimming pools. Being part of a lively neighborhood has moved up the homebuyer agenda thanks to a prevailing work-from-home lifestyle that calls for greener communities where people can happily spend their time,” continued Gaurav.
“However, singles or couples may prefer to live in the bustling city center. Therefore, it is important to choose a community that suits you based on what a perfect home means to you personally. You must live in a community where you feel a sense of belonging,” Gaurav concluded.
When identifying the right community, home buyers should also consider ease of access. Some communities in Dubai experience traffic congestion. The time spent entering and leaving a residence can have an impact on mental health.
It is also important to consider the proximity of a home to key facilities. Short distances to points of interest such as schools, hospitals, retail stores, leisure facilities, beauty salons and restaurants can make life easier and therefore reduce stress levels.
In 2021, USH achieved AED 3 billion in real estate transactions, expanded its client base from six to 30 nationalities, experienced a threefold growth in business performance and a twofold growth in team members. The real estate brokerage also focused on new markets, capitalizing on demand for luxury homes from European, US and Canadian clients.
USH has recently been awarded the number one spot as the most awarded real estate agency in Dubai. The company has received the “Best Real Estate Agency” award from Emaar Properties for the last 10 years in a row, Dubai Properties (seven years in a row), Meraas Properties (two years in a row), Majid Al Futtaim (No.1 Performing Partner 2021), District One Meydan (Agency No.1 2021), Nakheel (Agency No.2 2021), RERA (2021), Dubai Holding (2021), and DAMAC Properties (2021).
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