Smart locks have moved from being a futuristic luxury to an essential part of modern living. As technology advances, homeowners, landlords, and Airbnb hosts are turning to digital locks for greater convenience, control, and peace of mind.
But with so many options available, from retrofit cylinder locks to advanced biometric systems, deciding which smart lock to buy can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the advantages of smart locks, highlights the most popular models, and helps you make an informed choice.
Why Smart Locks Are Gaining Popularity
Traditional locks have remained largely unchanged for centuries, but our lifestyles have not. Today’s on-the-go families, property managers, and holiday home owners need solutions that:
- Eliminate the hassle of carrying or copying keys
- Offer flexible, trackable access for multiple users
- Integrate with smartphones and smart home devices
- Balance strong security with modern, sleek design
This is exactly where smart locks shine.
Top Advantages of Smart Locks
1. Keyless Convenience
No more lost keys or expensive locksmith calls. Most smart locks allow access via smartphone apps, fingerprint recognition, PIN codes, RFID cards, or a combination of these options.
2. Remote Access Control
With Wi-Fi enabled locks, you can lock or unlock your door from anywhere in the world. Perfect for Airbnb hosts who want to grant temporary access without being physically present.
3. Activity Logs and Notifications
Smart locks provide digital audit trails, showing who unlocked the door and when. This is invaluable for property managers, parents, or landlords overseeing multiple tenants.
4. Enhanced Security
Modern models include tamper alerts, auto-locking, and even integration with video door viewers from Philips and Oji. They’re far more proactive than traditional deadbolts.
5. Simple Installation Options
Depending on the type of lock you choose, installation can be:
- Cylinder retrofit locks – DIY upgrades, usually under 1 minute, with no drilling needed.
- Full body or mortise locks – Feature-rich, more secure, but may require door modifications and professional installation.
Our Most Popular Smart Locks in Dubai & UAE
Oji Code+ – DIY, hassle-free upgrade
- No drilling or wiring required
- Bluetooth-enabled control
- Elegant, simple design
Price: AED 849
Oji XT8 – Versatile access with audit trail
- Unlock via app (BLE), fingerprint, PIN, or RFID card
- Full user log of who unlocked and when
- Perfect for homes or holiday rentals
Price: AED 2,000
Oji Elite – Push-Pull innovation
- Slim Bluetooth smart lock
- Unique push-pull handle for seamless entry
- Stylish and compact
Price: AED 2,350
Oji Sigma – Retrofit for Euro cylinders
- Easy installation, no carpentry
- Auto-locking with fingerprint and app access
- Ideal for European-style doors
Price: AED 1,199
Oji S617 – Built for aluminum and glass doors
- Works indoors or outdoors
- Designed for framed glass or aluminum doors
- Durable and reliable for heavy use
Price: AED 2,000
The Pros and Cons of Smart Locks
Pros:
- Keyless entry for ultimate convenience
- Remote access and guest codes
- Stylish, modern designs
- Real-time activity logs
- Integration with smart home systems
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than traditional locks
- Requires batteries (typically lasting 6–12 months)
- Some models need Wi-Fi gateways for remote features
- Mortise/full body locks may require professional installation
Final Thoughts
Smart locks are no longer just a novelty—they’re quickly becoming the new standard for home and property security in Dubai and across the UAE. Whether you manage multiple Airbnb properties or simply want the peace of mind of keyless access, the right smart lock can completely change how you interact with your doors.
At OjiSmart, we stock the latest models from Oji and Philips, ensuring every home, office, and rental property has a tailored, future-proof security solution.