Author: Estattor.com

Indian Investors Lead Dubai Property Market Despite Regional Tensions

Indian investors are once again emerging as the dominant force behind Dubai’s booming real estate market, reinforcing the emirate’s status as one of the most attractive overseas property destinations for Indian capital despite rising geopolitical tensions in the Gulf.

According to a research note by property consultancy Anarock Group, Indian nationals account for roughly 20–22 per cent of all foreign property purchases in Dubai, making them the largest overseas investor group in the market. The scale of Indian participation reflects a combination of financial returns, geographical proximity and long-standing economic ties between India and the UAE.

Industry estimates suggest Indian investors purchased Dh35 billion to Dh40 billion worth of residential properties annually in recent years, highlighting the scale of capital flowing into the emirate from India.

Attractive rental yields, strong capital appreciation and the stability of the UAE dirham—which is pegged to the US dollar—continue to make Dubai one of the most compelling global property markets for Indian investors. Residential properties in Dubai typically generate annual rental yields between 6 and 9 per cent, among the highest in major global property markets such as London, New York and Singapore.

Dubai’s property market entered the current period of geopolitical uncertainty after completing one of the strongest growth cycles in its history. According to Dubai Land Department data analysed by Anarock and other industry consultancies, total real estate transactions reached Dh917 billion ($250 billion) in 2025, the highest value ever recorded in the emirate.

“Transaction volumes crossing 270,000 deals clearly reflect strong investor participation and deep liquidity in the market. Residential real estate has been the main growth engine, and since 2021 housing prices in Dubai have risen roughly 60–75 per cent, making it one of the strongest housing cycles globally in the post-pandemic period.”
— Dr Prashant Thakur, Executive Director and Head of Research and Advisory at Anarock Group

Global property consultancies have also highlighted the exceptional performance of Dubai’s housing market. According to Knight Frank, the emirate recorded more than 500 residential sales worth over $10 million in 2025, underscoring the extraordinary growth of its luxury property segment and the rising influx of wealthy global buyers.

Indian investors have been particularly active in both luxury and mid-market segments, with demand driven by high rental yields and long-term wealth preservation strategies.

Indian Developers Expand Footprint

Beyond individual investors, Indian developers are also expanding their footprint in Dubai’s real estate landscape. According to Anarock, companies with Indian roots now account for around 8–10 per cent of the development pipeline in Dubai.

Among the most prominent players is Sobha Realty, which developed the luxury Sobha Hartland community in Mohammed Bin Rashid City and continues to expand its portfolio of premium projects. Danube Properties, another developer founded by Indian entrepreneur Rizwan Sajan, has launched more than 20 residential projects in Dubai and remains a major player in the mid-market segment.

Other Indian groups, including Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate and Casagrand, have also begun exploring high-end residential developments in the emirate. The growing footprint of Indian developers mirrors the broader expansion of Indian capital into Dubai’s property ecosystem, reinforcing the deep economic linkages between the two economies.

Geopolitical Tensions and Market Resilience

The latest geopolitical tensions introduce a psychological factor that could influence investor behaviour in the near term. However, Dubai’s position as a global financial hub continues to provide strong structural support to its real estate sector.

“The current geopolitical tensions will undoubtedly introduce a degree of caution among investors,” the Anarock report noted. “Transaction volumes may moderate in the near term as buyers assess the evolving risk environment. Yet Dubai’s position as a global financial and lifestyle hub continues to provide strong structural support to its real estate sector.”

Another potential transmission channel is tourism—a key pillar of Dubai’s economy. The broader Middle East tourism sector is estimated to be worth around $367 billion annually, and prolonged regional instability could dampen travel sentiment across the region. Such a scenario would primarily affect short-term rental apartments, hospitality properties and retail assets located in tourist-heavy districts.

However, Dubai’s housing demand is not solely dependent on tourism. One of the emirate’s strongest structural supports is its rapidly expanding population. Dubai’s population crossed four million residents in 2025, driven largely by expatriate inflows, according to official statistics.

The emirate’s property market also benefits from one of the most diversified investor bases globally, with buyers from more than 150 nationalities participating in the market. This diversity reduces reliance on any single investor group, helping the market remain resilient even during periods of geopolitical volatility.

March 8, 2026
Dubai Property Market Has Nothing to Fear, Says Emaar Founder

The UAE’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate exceptional confidence amid geopolitical uncertainty, according to one of its most prominent figures. Mohamed Alabbar, CEO and founder of Emaar Properties, one of the world’s largest real estate developers, expressed absolute certainty that Dubai’s property market will weather both regional tensions and the wave of new supply expected in 2026 and 2027.

“We are not here for the short run. We are here for a long, long time to do business,” Alabbar said in a recent interview with CNBC. He characterized the incoming supply as a natural feature of a market built on decade-long ambitions rather than short-term speculation. While acknowledging that a brief cooling-off period is possible, he dismissed concerns about structural problems ahead.

Market Sentiment Remains Firm

To illustrate current confidence levels, Alabbar shared a telling anecdote from his personal property search. Currently looking for a seafront apartment for his own use, he noted that after two days of viewing, not a single seller was willing to negotiate on price.

“Nobody wants to budge. Nobody wants to give a discount. That’s a true situation.”

The observation serves as a quiet but powerful signal of where sentiment stands on the ground, reflecting sustained demand despite external pressures.

Structural Resilience Built on Prudent Lending

Alabbar highlighted a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes Dubai from other global property markets: its real estate sector is not built on bank borrowing. Lending to buyers remains tightly restricted, insulating the market from credit-driven collapses seen elsewhere during financial crises.

“Our real estate business is not built on bank borrowing. Bank borrowing is very restricted in this market,” he explained, adding that while consumer confidence may experience temporary dips, the UAE’s policy environment has a proven track record of restoring it quickly.

This assessment aligns with recent market performance. Dubai real estate continues processing deals exceeding $100 million, with developers reporting uninterrupted operations despite some buyers adopting a cautious stance.

Long-Term Capital Recognizes Stability

On the broader question of geopolitical uncertainty and Dubai’s reputation as a refuge for global wealth, Alabbar expressed unwavering confidence. He argued that investors who study the trajectory of UAE policy over years and decades will consistently find the same qualities: consistency, sustainability, wisdom, and stability.

“A country like this, with all these principles and stable leadership and the safety, it has shown that it can deliver,” he stated.

Alabbar reserved particular admiration for the UAE’s leadership and its capacity for long-range strategic planning. While acknowledging he is not versed in military affairs, he said he was genuinely moved by the country’s demonstrated capabilities during recent tensions.

“People with true capital understand this, they appreciate this, and they will double down on investing.”

The sentiment echoes statements made earlier this week, when Alabbar noted that recent attacks have ultimately reinforced confidence in the country’s stability, pointing to decades of consistent policy and institutional strength.

Market Context and Performance

Alabbar’s confidence comes as Dubai’s property sector maintains strong fundamentals. The emirate’s real estate market recorded 874 transactions worth AED2.46 billion on March 2, 2026, demonstrating sustained investor confidence as economic fundamentals continue to outweigh short-term geopolitical sentiment.

The debt-free structure of Dubai’s real estate market, combined with prudent lending restrictions and long-term government planning, positions the emirate to absorb new supply without the leverage-driven volatility that has characterized property cycles in other global cities. As regional tensions persist, Dubai’s market continues to attract capital seeking stability, transparency, and proven governance frameworks.

March 7, 2026
Dubai Real Estate Defies Regional Tensions with $100M Deals

The UAE property market is operating normally despite heightened geopolitical tensions, with real estate activity continuing across the country and developers maintaining scheduled project launches.

A $100 million-plus property transaction was recorded in Dubai this week, demonstrating sustained investor appetite even as some international buyers pause purchase decisions to monitor regional developments.

Broker Ben Crompton confirmed that transactions already underway are progressing as planned.

Buyers who already signed MOUs are proceeding as normal, and some deals are still being negotiated. Most buyers are in a ‘wait-and-see’ mode as you can imagine.

He noted that property prices typically decline only during periods of forced selling triggered by widespread job losses or sharp interest rate increases—conditions that have not materialized in the UAE.

International Investors Monitor Closely

International investors, who represent a significant share of UAE property buyers, are watching the situation more closely than long-term residents, according to market participants.

A second broker, speaking anonymously, said a major project scheduled to launch next week is proceeding as planned.

They are not postponing launches because of the current situation.

The broker emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s market is anchored by families with deep roots in the emirate.

A large proportion of residents here are families who have been in the UAE for many years. They consider this their home and they are planning long-term—with schools, jobs and their families here—so they still want to buy property.

However, some foreign buyers from the UK, US, and Germany have become more cautious, the broker noted.

Opportunity for Strategic Investors

Market professionals indicated that short-term uncertainty can create opportunities for cash investors. When sellers exit quickly and reduce prices, those units tend to be acquired rapidly by investors with available liquidity.

The broker cited examples of properties valued at Dh1.3 million being negotiated at Dh1 million for quick transactions, with investors planning to hold until market conditions stabilize.

Real estate is a slow and stable market. It doesn’t react like the stock market where prices can suddenly fall by 10 per cent in a day. For significant price changes to happen, a large number of people would need to move in the same direction. Right now, the majority still believe in the UAE and its government, so the market remains stable.

Developers Emphasize Continuity

On March 6, 2026, Emaar Properties confirmed normal operations across all assets. Earlier, Aldar Properties stated that all its residential communities, retail destinations, commercial offices, hotels, schools, and development sites continue to operate without interruption.

Aldar highlighted its strong financial position with more than Dh30 billion in available liquidity, including Dh14.2 billion in free cash and Dh16.4 billion in undrawn bank facilities.

Developers have not adjusted launch pricing, but some are offering more flexible payment plans—such as 35-65 or 40-60 structures instead of 50-50—to reduce upfront costs and maintain investor confidence.

Economic Fundamentals Remain Robust

Crompton emphasized that broader economic conditions supporting the property market remain strong.

The economic fundamentals are very strong. Capital hates uncertainty more than anything. The sooner there is long-term clarity, the sooner investors will feel comfortable committing again.

The UAE real estate sector has been supported by strong population growth, international investment, and economic expansion. Dubai’s population has surpassed four million, driving unprecedented housing demand as the emirate’s property market recorded nearly Dh900 billion in transactions during 2025.

Industry professionals point to continued long-term demand across key residential hubs including Reem Island, Yas Island, and Saadiyat Island, where new infrastructure and lifestyle developments are expected to support property values over time.

The broker concluded:

There is still strong belief in the long-term prospects of the market. Real estate in the UAE has historically moved upward over the long term, even if there are short-term fluctuations.

March 7, 2026
Alabbar: UAE Proves Safety Credentials Amid Regional Tensions
Speaking in a CNBC interview that aired on Friday, Alabbar said the UAE’s ability to intercept incoming threats has underscored its reputation as a global safe haven.

The past days have proven that we are really a safe country.

The developer emphasized that the UAE’s long-term policy consistency and stability have been built over decades and cannot easily be undermined.

“If you were to look and study the trajectory of UAE policies, you will see consistency, you will see sustainability, you will see wisdom, you will see stability — all for one purpose: to create an incredible life for the people who live here,” he said. “You don’t build this over one year, two years: it took us over 40 years for the leadership to establish this.”

Alabbar added that recent developments are unlikely to weaken investor confidence in the UAE, noting that Dubai’s property market continues to attract strong interest.

“Success does not happen by luck,” he said. “Because of years of great policies, stability, competence and fairness that exist in this country, that really have pushed tremendous belief in this country and what the future holds.”

Alabbar also dismissed concerns about a major correction in Dubai’s property market, despite regional tensions. “I know my business well. I know the banking system. I know the business environment,” he said. “I have no concerns.”

He pushed back against predictions made by global ratings agency Fitch in 2025 about a 15% property price correction, calling the forecast “very unrealistic” based on his analysis of business data.

High Interception Rate Demonstrates Defense Capability

Alabbar’s comments come as figures released by the UAE Ministry of Defence on March 5 show that the country’s air defence systems have intercepted the vast majority of missiles and drones launched toward the UAE since the escalation began.

According to the ministry:
- 1,072 drones were detected, with 1,001 intercepted
- 196 ballistic missiles were detected, with 181 intercepted
- Eight cruise missiles were detected, with all eight intercepted
A total of 71 drones impacted on land, while two ballistic missiles struck inside the country and 13 fell into the sea, according to the ministry’s latest update. The figures highlight the scale of the attacks but also the effectiveness of the UAE’s layered air defence systems.

Meanwhile, the intensity of strikes across the region appears to be declining. Iranian ballistic missile launches were down 90% from the first day of fighting, while drone attacks have fallen 83%, according to reporting by The Wall Street Journal on Friday.

Institutional Strength Reinforces Investor Confidence

Analysts say the UAE’s response to the crisis may ultimately reinforce investor confidence. Simon Wolfe, co-founder and managing partner of Marlow Global, said the country’s institutions and communications have remained strong despite the scale of the attacks.

“In the short term, there is a physical reality here that optimism cannot shortcut. Airports, ports and energy infrastructure will take weeks to come back online, and the disruption to trade flows and aviation connectivity is real and immediate,” Wolfe told Gulf Business this week.

However, Wolfe said the UAE’s response demonstrates the strategic qualities that attracted global investors to the country in the first place.

“Look at what the UAE has actually done in the face of an extraordinary assault: its institutions have held, its government has communicated with clarity, and it has called for negotiated resolution within days of being targeted,” he said. “And perhaps most importantly, the air defences have, in large part, held. This demonstrates exactly the kind of strategic maturity that made it attractive to global capital in the first place.”

The UAE real estate sector has demonstrated operational resilience in early March 2026, with Dubai recording sustained transaction activity despite heightened regional tensions.
March 6, 2026
Alabbar: Dubai Property Market Remains Strong Despite Regional Tensions

Dubai’s real estate sector remains fundamentally strong as global capital continues to flow into the emirate, according to Mohamed Alabbar, who told CNBC that the UAE’s long-term development strategy and stable leadership have created an environment that withstands external pressures.

“It’s the global business hub, and its success, its limelight, its reflection of what life should be and what success should be, what prosperity should be, what positive you should be is this place,” Alabbar said, adding that attempts to undermine that success will ultimately fail.

Fundamentals Built Over Four Decades

Alabbar acknowledged that social media speculation can amplify fears during periods of geopolitical tension but emphasized that the UAE’s track record demonstrates consistency and wisdom. “If you were to look and study the trajectory of UAE policies, you will see consistency, you will see sustainability, you will see wisdom, you will see stability,” he stated.

According to the Emaar founder, the country’s leadership has spent more than 40 years building systems designed to deliver prosperity for residents and investors. Recent events have only reinforced confidence in the nation’s safety and infrastructure, he noted.

“I promise you what happened will only strengthen what this country is all about.”

Capital Flows Accelerate, Not Reverse

Addressing concerns that capital moved to the UAE during global crises could now begin to leave, Alabbar pointed to recent market performance as evidence of sustained confidence. “If you were to look at the past two years, just look at our business, the real estate business alone, we had an increase of almost 70% in 2023, we had 40% in 2024, we have another 40% in 2025,” he said.

The developer said sophisticated investors recognize the strength of the UAE’s fundamentals and are likely to deepen their commitments rather than pull back. Dubai’s real estate market recorded AED2.46 billion in transactions on March 2, 2026, demonstrating sustained activity levels.

“Smart capital understands that a country like this, with all these principles and stable leadership and the safety that it has shown that it can deliver,” Alabbar said. “People with true capital understand this and they appreciate this and they will double down on investing anyway.”

No Signs of Market Weakness

Alabbar said current demand shows no indication of softening. He recounted his own recent experience searching for an apartment in Dubai: “Myself, I’m looking for one building, one apartment overlooking the sea that I didn’t buy in, and the past two days I’ve been looking and it seemed like nobody want to budge. Nobody want to give a discount.”

That reflects a market where sellers remain confident and demand stays firm. While consumer confidence may soften temporarily during periods of uncertainty, the country’s policies tend to restore confidence quickly, he added.

Correction Forecasts ‘Unrealistic’

Some analysts have warned that Dubai’s property market could face a correction as new supply enters the market, with Fitch Ratings recently suggesting prices could decline by up to 15%. Alabbar dismissed that scenario as unlikely.

“I know my business well. I know the banking, I know the business environment, because I operate in multi industries,” he said. “The banking system is so strict, amazing discipline. Government policies are just getting better and better. I have no concerns.”

Asked directly whether a 15% correction was realistic, Alabbar was unequivocal: “In my opinion, the way I do, the way I look at my business and listen, I look at so much data, I think it’s very unrealistic.”

Recent high-value transactions support his assessment. Dubai recorded a Dh422 million apartment sale at Aman Residences on March 5, 2026, marking the third most expensive apartment transaction in the emirate’s history.

New Supply Could Stabilize Growth

Dubai is preparing for a wave of new property supply expected in 2026 and 2027. Alabbar said additional inventory could benefit the market by preventing prices from rising too quickly and maintaining the city’s competitiveness.

“I said this a year ago. The supply that’s coming in in 2026 and 2027 will be good for the market,” he stated. “We are not here for the short run. We are here for a long time to do business.”

The developer said he prefers a market where property prices rise gradually—around 5% to 6% annually—rather than experiencing sharp spikes that could undermine long-term stability. “Jacking up prices too high doesn’t benefit anybody,” he said.

Real estate costs play a significant role in inflation, contributing approximately 50% to 52% of overall price increases, Alabbar noted. Maintaining balanced growth helps both investors and residents. “We don’t also want investors and people who come here for their jobs to really feel that the city is too expensive,” he added.

Long-Term Stability Over Short-Term Gains

Alabbar said the goal for Dubai’s property sector should be stability rather than aggressive price increases. Developers are already generating strong returns at current price levels, and maintaining balanced growth will help sustain Dubai’s appeal as a global destination.

“Developers are making enough money with these prices. We should not shoot too high,” he said. “I want stability. I want long term.”

A modest adjustment driven by new supply could help ease pressure on housing costs without undermining the broader market, he concluded. Emaar recently confirmed that UAE property sales reached Dh17.2 billion in the first two months of 2026, marking a 118% increase year-on-year.

March 6, 2026
Dubai Real Estate Maintains Momentum Amid Regional Uncertainty

The Dubai Land Department confirmed 874 property transactions valued at AED2.46 billion ($670 million) on March 2, reinforcing the emirate’s reputation as one of the world’s most resilient investment destinations despite periodic regional tensions.

Market analysts note that regional escalations have historically been short-lived and strategically contained, with limited long-term economic impact. In contrast, the UAE’s framework is built on diversified industries, institutional strength, and long-term planning.

“Regional tensions may create headlines and short-term sentiment shifts, but the UAE’s long-term economic fundamentals remain extremely solid,” said Loai Al Fakir, CEO of Provident Estate. “Investors understand that the country’s stability, governance and strategic global positioning make it one of the safest places to allocate capital.”

Al Fakir noted that Dubai has consistently demonstrated resilience through global financial crises, regional conflicts, and the pandemic. “Each time, the market not only recovered quickly but attracted even greater international investment,” he added.

The March 2 figures highlight continued market liquidity and sustained investor confidence. Across the sector, operations remain fully active, with holiday homes operating at high occupancy levels, hotel bookings staying strong, and property handovers, contract renewals, and secondary market activity continuing consistently across key communities.

“Experienced investors understand that geopolitical cycles come and go, but the UAE’s economic trajectory remains consistently upward. Dubai offers a rare combination of safety, transparency, strong regulation and tax efficiency.” — Mohamad Jaafari, Operations and Primary Director at Provident Estate

Dubai’s real estate market is driven by long-term structural factors including sustained population growth—with the emirate’s population now exceeding four million—rising global migration, strong foreign direct investment, and ambitious government development strategies.

Industry experts note that periods of uncertainty typically follow a familiar pattern: a brief pause in investor decision-making, followed by renewed confidence and increased demand. The slowdown observed over the recent weekend was sentiment-driven rather than indicative of any structural market shift.

The UAE plays a central role as a global hub for aviation, finance, international trade, tourism, and real estate. With advanced security systems, strong diplomatic positioning, and a globally integrated economy, the country remains insulated from prolonged instability affecting conflict zones.

The emirate’s property market recorded nearly Dh900 billion in transactions during 2025, reinforcing its position as a leading global real estate investment destination. As international investors continue to prioritize stability and long-term economic growth, the UAE remains positioned as one of the most attractive property markets globally.

March 5, 2026
Dubai Records Dh422 Million Apartment Sale Amid Regional Tensions

A luxury apartment spanning 31,201 square feet at Aman Residences Dubai on the Jumeirah Peninsula has been sold for Dh422 million ($115 million), marking one of the most significant property transactions in the emirate’s history amid heightened regional uncertainty.

The deal, confirmed by fäm Properties, was completed off-plan and valued at Dh13,525 per square foot according to DXBinteract, the data platform developed in partnership with Dubai Land Department.

Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties, said the transaction reflects fundamental structural strength in Dubai’s real estate sector.

“The sale of an ultra-luxury unit at this level is particularly relevant in the current circumstances. It underlines the fact that the Dubai real estate market is structurally stronger than it has ever been. Over 70 per cent of transactions are now end-user driven, not speculative. The buyer base is globally diversified,” Al Msaddi stated.

He emphasized that mortgage activity has doubled in four years and the regulatory environment has matured, with market fundamentals remaining unchanged despite regional events.

The transaction comes as Dubai’s ultra-prime segment continues to demonstrate resilience. The sale represents the third most expensive apartment ever recorded in the emirate.

Market analysts point to shifting buyer dynamics supporting the sector’s evolution. End-users transitioning from rental to ownership, continued international capital participation, and expansion of freehold corridors across strategic districts have broadened the participation base.

Al Msaddi noted that UAE authorities’ commitment to safety and security sends a powerful message to investors globally. “It’s a sale which says so much about the UAE as a whole, and in this case, in particular, about Dubai as one of the world’s leading destinations for wealthy real estate investors,” he added.

The market’s momentum is supported by disciplined supply pipelines and phased project launches that continue to reinforce pricing stability across key communities. More than 70 per cent of current transactions are driven by end-users rather than speculation, with a globally diversified buyer base providing additional market stability.

This transaction reinforces Dubai’s position as a safe-haven real estate market, demonstrating that high-value property activity continues despite external pressures, with investors maintaining confidence in the emirate’s long-term prospects and governance framework.

March 5, 2026
Dubai Records Dh422 Million Apartment Sale, Third Highest Ever

The luxury residential unit, located within the Aman Residences Dubai development by H&H Development, spans approximately 31,200 square feet (around 2,898 square metres) and includes six bedrooms and eight parking spaces, according to figures released by Dubai Land Department on Thursday.

At an average price of roughly Dh13,525 per square foot, the transaction underscores sustained investor demand in Dubai’s ultra-prime property segment, even as heightened geopolitical tensions affect the broader region.

The Dh422 million deal ranks behind only two other apartment sales in Dubai’s history. The emirate’s most expensive apartment sale was registered in 2025, when a unit at Bugatti Residences by Binghatti sold for Dh550 million. The second-most expensive transaction took place in 2023 at Como Residences, developed by Nakheel, where a unit changed hands for Dh500 million.

The sale comes as Dubai’s property market recorded 16,959 transactions valued at AED60.60 billion in February 2026, with off-plan sales comprising 62% of total activity. The market’s performance reflects broader confidence in Dubai’s real estate fundamentals, supported by population growth that has recently surpassed four million residents.

Aman Residences Dubai is positioned within Jumeirah 2, one of the emirate’s established prime residential locations. The development caters to ultra-high-net-worth buyers seeking branded residences with premium amenities and services.

The latest sale further underlines continued demand for high-end property in Dubai’s prime locations, reinforcing the emirate’s status as a leading destination for international real estate investment despite external market pressures.

Dubai’s ultra-prime segment has consistently attracted buyers seeking stability, residency options including the Golden Visa programme, and exposure to one of the region’s most liquid property markets. The resilience demonstrated by this transaction suggests that investor confidence in Dubai’s long-term fundamentals remains strong, even as UAE property sales reached Dh17.2 billion in the first two months of 2026—a 118% increase year-on-year.

March 5, 2026
Emaar Confirms Normal Operations as Sales Double in Early 2026

Dubai’s largest property developer assured investors and residents that comprehensive business continuity planning and coordination with relevant authorities ensure uninterrupted operations across all its assets.

The statement, posted on the Dubai Financial Market where Emaar is listed, comes as the company reported exceptional momentum entering 2026 following record-breaking 2025 results.

“With diversified income streams, strong liquidity, and disciplined cost management, Emaar remains well-positioned to sustain growth and contribute to the continued strength and resilience of Dubai’s capital markets,” the company stated.

Record 2025 Performance Sets Foundation

Emaar achieved its highest-ever property sales of AED80.4 billion ($21.9 billion) in 2025, alongside record revenue of AED49.6 billion and net profit before tax of AED25.7 billion. The company’s revenue backlog reached AED155 billion as of December 31, 2025, providing strong visibility over future earnings and cash flows.

Recurring income streams across malls, hospitality, leisure, entertainment and commercial leasing accounted for 32% of total EBITDA, reflecting the strength of Emaar’s diversified and resilient operating model.

“Emaar’s performance reflects the strength of Dubai’s economic vision and the confidence investors place in its stability and long-term prospects,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar. “The city continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by effective leadership, sound regulation and a dynamic business environment.”

Strong 2026 Start Signals Sustained Demand

The developer’s UAE property sales reached AED17.2 billion in the first two months of 2026, compared to AED7.9 billion during the same period in 2025, representing a 118% year-on-year increase. This performance aligns with broader market trends showing sustained transaction volumes across Dubai’s property sector.

Supported by strong cash generation and consistent performance, Emaar’s Board of Directors recommended maintaining dividends at 100% of share capital for 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value to shareholders.

Strategic Position for Long-Term Growth

Emaar’s strong balance sheet includes a substantial land bank of approximately 618 million square feet, positioning the company to navigate evolving regional developments while maintaining disciplined expansion. The developer emphasized that Dubai’s clear regulatory environment, diversified economy and proactive governance continue to reinforce investor confidence.

The company’s performance comes as Dubai’s real estate market transitions toward more structured capital allocation, with major developers expanding their portfolios to meet growing demand driven by population growth exceeding four million residents.

Emaar’s operational continuity and financial strength underscore the resilience of Dubai’s real estate sector, which recorded nearly Dh900 billion in transactions during 2025, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leading global property investment destination.

March 4, 2026
UAE Real Estate Shows Resilience as Dubai Records $670 Million in Transactions
The UAE economy and real estate sector remain resilient amid rising regional tensions, according to a report released by Provident Estate on March 4, 2026. Recent geopolitical developments following escalation between the United States and Iran over the weekend of March 1 triggered precautionary measures across several Gulf states, including the UAE.

While such developments naturally created short-term uncertainty among investors and market observers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, the operational reality across the country remained stable with underlying fundamentals unchanged.

Market Activity Rebounds Quickly

Following a temporary sentiment-driven slowdown over the weekend, the UAE real estate market resumed momentum as the new week began. Official figures from the Dubai Land Department confirmed that 874 real estate transactions worth AED2.46 billion ($670 million) were recorded on Monday, March 2.

These numbers highlight continued market liquidity and sustained investor confidence. Across the sector, operations remained fully active: holiday homes continued operating at high occupancy levels, hotel bookings remained strong, and property handovers, snagging services, contract renewals, and secondary market viewings proceeded consistently across key communities.

“Dubai’s real estate market has proven time and again that it is built on strong fundamentals rather than short-term sentiment. What we are seeing now is a brief moment of caution, not a shift in investor confidence. Activity across transactions, rentals and hospitality clearly shows that the market continues to operate with resilience and stability,” said Loai Al Fakir, CEO of Provident Estate.

The performance aligns with broader market trends documented earlier in 2026. Emaar Properties reported doubled sales in the first two months of 2026, with UAE property sales reaching Dh17.2 billion—a 118% year-on-year increase.

Government Response Ensures Continuity

The UAE government responded swiftly to developments, implementing enhanced security measures across air, sea, and land infrastructure to ensure operational continuity. Authorities acted immediately to safeguard infrastructure, supply chains, utilities, and public services.

As a result, daily life across the country continued uninterrupted. Airports remained fully operational, roads and transportation networks functioned normally, and retail and hospitality venues stayed open. Major destinations including Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, and other central commercial districts remained active, reinforcing the stability of the UAE’s economic environment.

Despite heightened media attention, the difference between perception and reality on the ground proved significant. Over the 48 hours following the initial weekend tensions, no further escalation occurred, with public spaces remaining busy and daily routines continuing normally.

Structural Strengths Underpin Market Confidence

Real estate remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s long-term economic strategy, playing a central role in the country’s positioning as a global hub for investment, tourism, aviation, and financial services. The resilience of the market is supported by several structural strengths:
- Strong banking liquidity
- Advanced institutional crisis management
- Diversified national economy
- Long-term urban development strategies
- Continued global investor confidence
These foundational pillars represent permanent features of the UAE’s economic model rather than temporary advantages. The broader market context supports this assessment: Dubai’s February 2026 transactions totaled AED60.60 billion ($16.5 billion), marking an 18.14% value increase year-on-year.

The commercial sector has shown particular strength, with commercial property sales reaching Dh17.1 billion in early 2026—an 82% year-on-year increase driven by limited Grade A office supply.

Market Outlook Remains Positive

Based on current developments, market expectations remain positive for continued operational stability. The absence of further escalation reinforces confidence that the situation remains contained.

“The UAE has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to navigate regional tensions while maintaining economic continuity and investor trust. Short-term headlines may shift sentiment, but they do not alter long-term fundamentals. Operations continue. Confidence remains. The market is functioning,” the Provident Estate report concluded.

The resilience demonstrated in early March 2026 reflects the maturation of the UAE real estate sector from speculation-driven dynamics to a more institutionalized market structure, with strategic capital now accounting for approximately 40% of transactions.
March 4, 2026