Apartment or villa for a first home?

For a first home, apartments are the usual entry point - lower price and less upkeep, though higher service charges (~AED 10-30/sqft/yr) for shared pools, gyms and lifts. Villas cost more upfront but carry lower per-sqft charges (~AED 2-8) and more space, with you maintaining the garden and pool yourself. Choose by budget, lifestyle and how much maintenance you want.