My Dubai Rent: Family pay Dh200,000 for four-bedroom villa in swanky suburbs

Catherine McEvoy, an events company owner, and her family reside in a four-bedroom villa in Dubai's Layan community, located in Dubailand. The McEvoy family, consisting of Catherine, her husband Ian, daughters Orla and Ayda, their nanny Misiel, and four pets, pays Dh200,000 ($54,454) annually for their lease. The villa boasts four bedrooms, four bathrooms, an open living room/dining room, an upstairs living area, a double garage, and a padel court, small football pitch, 25-meter swimming pool, and well-equipped gym.

The McEvoy's property is situated within a small, well-maintained community with brand new AC units and included maintenance services. The family chose this area due to its proximity to Fairgreen International School, the maintenance and service contracts included in the community, and the fact that most of their children's friends lived within cycling distance.

They have brought their previous garden and five mature trees with them, creating an immediate sense of home. The community offers amenities such as a small but well-stocked supermarket, a beauty spa, and nearby shops and cafes. Catherine would like to see more restaurants or bars nearby for the family to meet friends. The McEvoy family plans to remain in their villa until they eventually leave Dubai and are satisfied with the value for money in the current market.