Do I really need a property manager for my Dubai apartment?

It isn't legally required - you can self-manage. But a manager makes sense if you live abroad, own several units, or lack time for Ejari, DEWA, the rental index, maintenance calls and RDC disputes. For a single unit you live near, self-managing is common. The trade-off is essentially saving the 5-8% fee versus saving time and avoiding costly compliance mistakes.