Reducing liquidity pressure for freelancers
Monthly rent also aligns better with the earnings patterns of freelancers and gig economy workers. Rohit Bachani, Co-Founder of Merlin Real Estate, said the structure finally matches real income cycles. “Monthly rent finally matches how freelancers and gig economy workers actually earn,” he said. He noted that the recent removal of minimum salary requirements for personal loans improves liquidity access, offering freelancers and fluctuating earners an additional buffer during unexpected shortfalls.
Bachani added that monthly payments create a consistent digital footprint that supports financial inclusion. “Monthly rent creates a consistent digital payment record. Banks can finally see real behaviour, not just salary brackets,” he said. Over time, this strengthens the country’s emerging credit ecosystem and gives tenants a clearer financial profile.
Safeguards in a market gaining more supply
Rising supply in 2025 and 2026 also shifts negotiating power toward tenants. With more handovers on the horizon, landlords are less likely to impose aggressive premiums for flexibility.
As PropTech adoption accelerates, monthly rent ties directly into broader market digitalisation. Platforms like Property Finder and Urban have already introduced monthly rent options and digital rental journeys, supported by partnerships with Keyper and Emirates NBD. These platforms allow residents to search, view, sign and pay through fully digital systems, eliminating cheque handling and reducing paperwork.
Both Hall and Bachani said the long-term effect could be a more predictable and less stressful rental experience, encouraging longer residency and giving households the ability to upgrade homes gradually rather than planning life around cheque season.