A lucky resident is now living in Dubai Hills rent-free after winning Careem and Kitopi’s competition in December in what she calls a huge “relief” as living and rental costs skyrocket across the emirate.
“It really is a life-changing opportunity,” said the winner, Sian.
“As with many others in Dubai, I have been feeling the strain of the recent rent hikes. Winning the prize has taken a huge amount of pressure off myself and definitely given me a sense of relief and security going into the year.”
The Dubai Hills resident’s rent has increased by AED15,000 this year, making the prize – which covers the entire annual rent of AED65,000 – a relief.
Sian told Arabian Business that she would have had to move to a cheaper house if it were not for the prize she won through an initiative by Careem and Kitopi.
“Dubai Hills… has seen such a huge increase in popularity and so naturally the prices have increased. If it wasn’t for winning this prize, I would have had to move from the area which would have been such a shame as I love what the community has to offer especially with the park and the mall right at my doorstep,” she said.
“It’s an amazing initiative by Careem and Kitopi, and I am incredibly grateful for winning a year of free rent. It’s more than just a win for me; it shows the real issue of crazy living costs and that companies like Careem and Kitopi want to support the residents of Dubai.”
In December, food firm Kitopi and UAE super-app Careem ran a campaign that gave customers the chance to win a year’s worth of rent coverage by ordering from over 50 Kitopi restaurants on Careem Food, including expat favourites like ChinChin, Right Bite and Pizzaro.
“The lucky winner secured the rent coverage prize when ordering a ‘Thai Red Chicken Curry’ from UNDER500,” said Careem’s VP of Food, Jaskaran Singh.
“We’re so pleased to make such a meaningful impact on the lives of one of our customers. We hope that Sian will be able to channel these savings into something truly meaningful for her and her family or friends.”
Singh said that the December campaign resonated “exceptionally well” with Careem’s customers.
“The campaign was launched to ease the challenges residents in Dubai are facing due to rising rent prices, compelling many to consider downsizing or moving to different neighbourhoods,” he added.
“It’s a reminder of the kindness and generosity of companies in Dubai – you wouldn’t get this opportunity anywhere else in the world,” the winner said.