Safety and comfort: student accommodation tips for first-time arrivals

When choosing accommodation, it is tempting to focus on price or location first. But before anything else, prioritise your safety and comfort. These two elements will shape your overall experience and well-being during your studies.

• Safety means feeling secure within your environment, from having well-lit entrances and CCTV coverage to knowing there is reliable on-site security or staff you can approach anytime.
  
  
• Comfort, on the other hand, includes everything that makes your stay enjoyable: a clean, well-maintained room, comfortable furniture, proper ventilation and amenities that make life easier.

At GBS Dubai, for instance, our student accommodation options have been designed with both in mind, offering fully furnished spaces within easy reach of the campus and local transport links, ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive.

Before signing any lease or paying a deposit, consider what type of accommodation suits your lifestyle and personality best. Generally, you will come across two main types: private accommodation and shared accommodation.

1) Private accommodation:

Ideal for students who value privacy and independence. You will have your own space, sometimes a studio flat or an en-suite room, with personal kitchen and bathroom facilities.
It is perfect for those who prefer a quiet study environment or need their own routine.

However, private accommodation usually costs more, especially in prime locations close to universities. The upside is peace of mind, control over your schedule and fewer distractions.

2) Shared accommodation:

If you are open to meeting new people and saving on costs, shared accommodation can be a rewarding choice.
You will share a flat or apartment with other students, often with private bedrooms but communal areas like the kitchen and living room.

This setup fosters friendship, cultural exchange and emotional support, especially for first-time arrivals adjusting to a new country. Just remember, clear communication with your roommates is key to maintaining harmony. Discuss cleaning schedules, shared bills and noise expectations early on.

The location of your accommodation can make a huge difference in your student experience. Look for places that are:

• Close to campus: So you can save time and energy travelling to classes.
  
  
• Near public transport: Easy access to metro, bus or cycling routes can make life more convenient and reduce expenses.
  
  
• Surrounded by amenities: Nearby supermarkets, cafes, medical centres and gyms add everyday comfort.

At GBS Dubai, the student housing options are located within easy reach of the campus and public transport links, ensuring students can explore Dubai safely and efficiently. Living close to your study environment also helps you stay connected to students, making it easy for you to join clubs, attend events and make friends.

Every student has a different budget, and thankfully, the housing market caters to a wide range of needs. The key is to strike a balance between affordability and comfort.

You will often find two categories of student accommodation:

• Budget or shared housing: Affordable and social, often with shared kitchens or bathrooms. Ideal for students on a tight budget or those who enjoy community living.
  
  
• Premium or studio housing: Higher-end, offering private kitchens, en-suites and sometimes gym access or housekeeping services. Great for students who prefer privacy and convenience.

Whichever you choose, check whether your accommodation is “all bills included”, that includes utilities like water, electricity and internet. This not only helps you manage your budget better but also eliminates the stress of setting up multiple accounts or unexpected expenses.

Feeling safe in your living space allows you to focus on what truly matters, your studies and student life. When viewing or researching properties, look out for these essential security features:

• CCTV surveillance: Well-placed cameras in communal areas and entrances can deter crime and provide reassurance.
  
  
• Access control systems: Secure entry using key cards, codes or digital apps ensures only residents and authorised visitors can enter.
  
  
• On-site security or warden: Having trained personnel nearby means help is available in case of emergencies.
  
  
• Emergency contact points: Some buildings provide dedicated helplines or intercom systems for instant assistance.

GBS Dubai’s accommodation partners prioritise student safety with 24/7 security and controlled access, so you can relax knowing you are in safe hands.

If you are renting privately, take time to read and understand your tenancy agreement. This document outlines your rights, responsibilities and what to expect from your landlord.

Before signing:

• Confirm what is included in your rent (utilities, internet, furniture).
• Check the notice period for ending your tenancy early.
• Ask about deposit protection and the refund process.
• Make sure there is a clear process for reporting maintenance issues.

If possible, visit the property in person or request a virtual tour before paying any deposit. Always use secure payment methods and keep a copy of every document for your records.

At GBS Dubai, our student support team can guide you through these steps and recommend trusted housing providers, reducing the risks associated with renting privately.

No matter how beautiful your room looks in photos, maintenance support can make or break your stay. Reliable maintenance and support services ensure that small issues, from plumbing leaks to broken lights, do not turn into major frustrations.

When choosing accommodation, ask about:

• What is the response time for repairs?
• Is there a 24/7 helpline?
• How are housekeeping or cleaning services managed?

GBS Dubai works closely with housing providers who offer dedicated maintenance and support teams, ensuring you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about faulty appliances.

If you are sharing accommodation, living harmoniously with others is a learning experience in itself.
Here are a few tried-and-tested tips:

• Set clear boundaries: Discuss quiet hours, chores and shared responsibilities early on.
  
  
• Be considerate: Respect personal space and belongings.
  
  
• Communicate openly: If conflicts arise, talk it out calmly before it escalates.
  
  
• Stay clean and organised: Shared areas reflect on everyone, so cleanliness keeps tensions low.

Room-sharing can be one of the most rewarding aspects of student life, a chance to make lifelong friends, learn teamwork and experience different cultures.
Many GBS Dubai students cherish this part of their journey, finding their roommates to become their closest allies in a new country.

Even if your room is temporary, it is still your space: a place where you will spend countless hours studying, resting and growing. Small touches can make it truly feel like home.

Try these easy ideas:

• Add photos or keepsakes from home.
• Use soft lighting, rugs or bedding to create a cosy vibe.
• Keep a few plants, they are great for improving mood and air quality.
• Maintain cleanliness; clutter affects both comfort and mental clarity.

Creating a comfortable environment will not only make you feel more at ease but also improve your focus and productivity.

For international and local students alike, finding the right accommodation can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. GBS Dubai offers students access to trusted, secure and comfortable housing options designed specifically for their needs.

• Modern facilities: Fully furnished rooms with essential amenities.
  
  
• Safety first: CCTV, on-site security and controlled entry systems.
  
  
• Convenient location: Close to GBS Dubai campus and major transport links.
  
  
• Support services: 24/7 assistance and maintenance support for residents.
  
  
• Community environment: A friendly, multicultural atmosphere that helps you settle in quickly.

Learn more about available options and how to book your accommodation here.

Your student housing is more than just a roof over your head, it is the foundation of your entire academic journey. Choosing accommodation that prioritises safety and comfort gives you peace of mind, helps you settle faster and allows you to focus on what truly matters: your education, experiences and growth.

As a first-time arrival, take your time to explore your options, ask questions and trust your instincts. Remember, a safe and comfortable home is not a luxury, it is a necessity that supports your success every step of the way.

At GBS Dubai, we believe every student deserves a place where they feel secure, supported, and truly at home. Because when you live comfortably, you learn confidently.

To know more about GBS Dubai's accommodation please connect with our student support team.