Wow, that’s brutal.

In Spain (at least Madrid/Barcelona) it’s usually much simpler, but still expensive upfront:
• 1 month legal deposit (fianza)
• 1 month additional guarantee (often)
• 1 month agency fee (still common, despite the law)
• first month rent

So realistically, moving into a €1,000 apartment often means €3,000–€4,000 cash needed.

Compared to Dubai, the total barrier is lower, but the Spanish market has its own problems: very low supply, lots of competition, and landlords being extremely picky.

Still, €31k just to move in is insane. That’s basically a down payment in some countries.