<a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/tags/my-dubai-rent/"><b>My Dubai Rent</b></a><b> takes you inside a reader’s home to have a look at what they get for their money, how much they pay in rent and asks them what they like and don’t like</b> After more than a decade of living in the same apartment, Anita Govind Bhatia has no plans to move. The long-time <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/12/22/my-dubai-rent-event-manager-pays-dh48000-for-peaceful-one-bedroom-apartment-in-dubailand/" target="_blank">Dubai</a> resident has been renting a studio in <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/12/15/my-dubai-rent-ukrainian-model-pays-dh120000-for-one-bedroom-apartment-in-creek-harbour/" target="_blank">Jumeirah Lakes Towers </a>(JLT) for 13 years and is looking into the possibility of buying the property. Estate agent Ms Bhatia, 45, pays Dh45,000 in annual rent and appreciates the convenience, amenities and affordability that JLT offers. Over the years, she has watched the area develop into one of Dubai's most sought-after residential and business hubs. Her favourite part of living in the district is its lush green spaces, which provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, along with the vibrant selection of restaurant, cafes and outdoor areas. I chose to live here because it was a great alternative to noisy Marina across the road. It’s great in terms of everything really. I can just go down and there’s a park, lake and cafes, where I can lounge or walk around to clear my head. The metro and my office are just a five-minute walk away. Since I [normally] work from home, this space is really where I plan and think. I think that every space of the property is like my own home, even though I’m renting it. A home is so much of a feeling, and it's so close to my heart. Absolutely. I may win the lottery tomorrow and would still decide to live here. I realise how much of an edge this community has over the others – it’s safe, green and has a dedicated walking area with benches all around that actually encourages residents to explore it. Most definitely. It embodies the spirit of Dubai where friends and neighbours are just a shout out away. It’s safe 24/7 with mostly families or single professionals living, working out and hanging out here – pretty much at all times. I do. We often hang out for coffee in the various cafes below. I think it’s quite important to have friends and neighbours around you. It definitely helps having someone to simply lend you an ear when required. I do wish there were even more green spaces or, at least, the amount of concrete/construction that I see right now wouldn’t increase. I understand the population is increasing and supply of units is important to cater to them, but I really do want to hang on to my green spaces.