Category: Dubai

  • Dubai Launches Al Ras Walkway with 12km Pedestrian Network

    Dubai Launches Al Ras Walkway with 12km Pedestrian Network

    Dubai’s historic Al Ras district is set for a pedestrian-focused transformation under a new infrastructure initiative designed to improve walkability, heritage connectivity, and public transport integration.

    The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Dubai Walk Master Plan in Al Ras, marking the start of a comprehensive effort to reshape urban mobility in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

    Key Features of Phase I

    The first phase will deliver 12km of dedicated walkways and 5km of cycling tracks, alongside the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces created in partnership with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, featuring work by Emirati and local artists.

    Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said the project supports Dubai’s wider goal of creating a “20-minute city” under the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, where more than 80 per cent of essential services are accessible within a 20-minute journey.

    “The plan enhances pedestrian safety, strengthens connections between districts, and integrates cultural and creative elements into walkways. It also gives young people a chance to contribute ideas to the design of these public spaces.”

    Connecting Heritage and Transport

    The walkway will link key landmarks including Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Fahidi Fort, and the Al Shindagha Historic District, while connecting to 11 metro, bus, and marine stations to facilitate seamless public transport access.

    The design preserves the area’s historic character while upgrading the pedestrian experience through widened pavements, additional shading and seating, expanded green spaces, and improved wayfinding systems.

    Advanced lighting will highlight the district’s heritage, while interactive installations and artwork will enhance engagement along the route.

    Part of a Wider Vision

    Phase I forms part of the broader Dubai Walk Pedestrian Master Plan, which aims to create more than 6,000km of walkways across 160 areas by 2040, supported by 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses.

    The initiative targets an increase in walking and soft mobility trips from 16 per cent in 2025 to 25 per cent by 2040, with planned infrastructure projects improving connections across key districts.

    The walkways will feature landscaping, misting systems, digital wayfinding, recreational and fitness equipment, rest areas, and commercial spaces, while maintaining barrier-free access throughout.

    The Al Ras Walkway represents a strategic step in Dubai’s urban evolution, integrating mobility, heritage preservation, and public art into a cohesive pedestrian network designed to serve residents and visitors across the city’s historic core.

  • Futura EDGE Launches Oak Yard Residences in Dubai’s JVC

    Futura EDGE has made its entry into the UAE real estate market with a 19-floor, 190-unit residential development in Jumeirah Village Circle, bringing institutional standards refined across European markets to one of Dubai’s most active residential communities.

    The company, which has delivered over 3 million square metres of residential and commercial real estate across the UK, Germany, Spain, and Eastern Europe since 2009, entered the project as both investor and main managing partner through a strategic investment in Yard Development, a local developer.

    Oak Yard Residences is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026 in JVC District 10. The development features what the company describes as the largest gymnasium in JVC, along with an outdoor yoga area, Finnish and infrared saunas, a swimming pool, BBQ facilities, and over 1,000 square metres of outdoor space.

    Inside, a NextGen Workhub targets Dubai’s remote working community, while a biophilic kids’ zone and photocatalytic air purification system set indoor air quality standards ahead of typical market offerings. Every unit includes a private terrace and premium Italian and German interior finishes.

    The development also offers built-in rental management services designed to provide investors with a hands-off ownership experience.

    Futura EDGE has already begun construction on its second UAE project, located on Dubai Islands, with a public launch planned for May 2026. The move from JVC to one of Dubai’s emerging waterfront destinations signals the company’s escalating ambition in the emirate.

    The entry comes as Dubai’s property market rebounds with transaction volumes rising sharply in March 2026, while major residential allocations continue across the emirate.

    For Futura EDGE, the UAE expansion represents a calculated extension of a development philosophy built on fewer projects, higher standards, and longer-term thinking—a model the company has applied across multiple European markets over the past 17 years.

    Interested investors can contact the developer at 800663 9273 or via email at [email protected].

  • Dubai Property Market Rebounds as DFM Real Estate Stocks Extend Losses

    Dubai Property Market Rebounds as DFM Real Estate Stocks Extend Losses

    Two weeks after the onset of regional conflict on February 28, a significant divergence has emerged between Dubai’s physical real estate market and its listed equities, as property transactions rebound while financial markets continue to reprice risk.

    Transaction Liquidity Rebounds After Initial Shock

    Following an initial risk-off pause, the physical property market demonstrated a notable bounce-back in the second week of March. According to Dubai Land Department records analyzed by The Real Estate Reports, total transaction value on a headline basis, including land transactions, surged to Dhs15.66 billion in the week of March 9–15, representing a 51% increase in value and a 58% jump in transaction counts over the previous week.

    However, a closer examination reveals the recovery was primarily volume-driven. When excluding land plots to remove the volatility of high-value land deals, built value grew 13% to Dhs8.26 billion while transaction volume rose 56% to 4,327 deals. The discrepancy between modest value growth and surging volume indicates the market remains operational under more cautious, broader-based participation, with average ticket sizes softening.

    Off-Plan Sales Maintain Market Dominance

    The structural integrity of the market appears to have held. Off-plan sales continued to command the lion’s share of activity, accounting for 63% of built property value in the second week of March, compared to 66% in the week immediately following the conflict’s start.

    The most visible shift within this segment was a rotation toward villas. Off-plan villa sales rose to approximately 23% of the segment’s value, up from 16%, while the ready market similarly saw increased interest in landed homes over commercial assets. This suggests selective risk-taking by buyers who are prioritizing tangible residential assets over more sensitive commercial segments.

    Mortgage registrations nearly doubled to 1,053 in the second week of March, demonstrating that the fundamental infrastructure of the property market remains intact. Earlier this week, property services handled over 563,920 customers throughout 2025, reflecting the sector’s operational capacity.

    DFM Real Estate Index Plunges 13.8%

    The resilience in physical transactions stands in stark contrast to the Dubai Financial Market. Since trading resumed on March 4, aided by a temporary 5% limit-down threshold to prevent panic, equities have undergone a sustained de-risking phase.

    The DFM General Index (DFMGI) fell 5.7% in the second week of March on a turnover of 1.52 billion shares, nearly double the volume of the prior week. The pain was most acute in the Real Estate Index (DFMREI), which slumped 13.8% last week as investors demanded a higher risk premium for regional exposure.

    “While the physical market shows signs of a recovery in activity, the heavy-volume sell-off on the DFM suggests that financial markets may be pricing in a more prolonged period of uncertainty.”

    Growing Gap Between Sentiment and Real Economy

    The data highlights a widening gap between sentiment-driven equities and real economy property transactions. In the stock market, liquid shares are being sold as investors demand higher risk premiums for regional exposure. In the physical market, the normalization of mortgage registrations and sustained transaction volumes suggest the operational framework of the industry remains intact.

    Ali Shahin, founder of The Real Estate Reports, noted the contrast between the two markets, stating that while Dubai real estate is proving it can operate under pressure, listed counterparts are absorbing the brunt of the geopolitical shock.

    The divergence comes as global capital continues flowing into Dubai property, with industry leaders citing structural advantages and a diversified buyer base. Despite regional tensions causing an initial pause, off-plan demand has held firm, with luxury sales continuing across premium locations.

    For now, Dubai real estate is proving it can operate under pressure, even as its listed counterparts absorb the brunt of the geopolitical shock. The question remains whether financial markets are pricing in risks that the physical market has yet to fully experience, or whether the resilience on display will ultimately validate current transaction levels.

  • UAE Condemns Iran Attack on Habshan Gas Facility and Bab Field

    UAE Condemns Iran Attack on Habshan Gas Facility and Bab Field

    The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement following the attempted strike on critical energy infrastructure, describing the attack as a direct threat to regional security and global energy supply.

    “The UAE reserves its full right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and national security, and to safeguard its national interests,” the ministry stated.

    This terrorist attack targeting critical infrastructure and oil facilities represents a direct threat to regional security and stability, as well as to global energy security.

    The attack comes amid a broader escalation across Gulf energy infrastructure. Reuters reported that Iran had warned of retaliatory strikes on energy sites in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar after Iranian gas facilities were hit on Wednesday.

    In Qatar, missile attacks caused extensive damage at Ras Laffan Industrial City, the centre of the country’s LNG operations, although no casualties were reported. The strikes mark a significant escalation in regional tensions, with critical energy infrastructure now directly in the crosshairs.

    Oil Markets React to Energy Security Threat

    Oil markets responded sharply to the latest attacks. Brent crude rose by as much as 3 per cent on Thursday as investors assessed the growing risk to energy infrastructure and supply routes.

    Brent futures climbed $3.69, or 3.44 per cent, reaching $111 per barrel earlier in the day. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose $2.29, or 2.38 per cent, to $98.61.

    The attacks on UAE facilities follow a pattern of escalating strikes across the region. Earlier this week, Dubai’s property market demonstrated resilience despite ongoing regional geopolitical tensions, with industry leaders citing structural advantages and diversified buyer base as key factors supporting continued capital inflows.

    The UAE’s air defence systems successfully intercepted the attack, preventing damage to the Habshan gas facility and Bab field. No injuries were reported, according to official sources.

    The incident underscores the vulnerability of Gulf energy infrastructure and raises fresh concerns about the security of global energy supply at a time when markets are already under pressure from geopolitical instability.

  • Abu Dhabi Approves $1.15 Billion Housing Package for Citizens

    Abu Dhabi Approves $1.15 Billion Housing Package for Citizens

    The housing package, approved under the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, includes housing loans amounting to AED2.1 billion for 1,415 citizens, ready-built housing grants valued at AED1.82 billion for 914 citizens, residential land grants worth AED144 million for 185 citizens, and exemptions from housing loan repayments totalling AED142 million for 138 senior citizens, limited-income retirees, and heirs of deceased citizens.

    Abu Dhabi’s disbursement of the first housing package of 2026 comes ahead of Eid Al Fitr and reflects the leadership’s ongoing commitment to enhancing Emirati families’ wellbeing and ensuring their social stability and happiness in an environment that meets their aspirations and needs.

    “We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, for their continued generous directives, care and commitment to providing citizens with the highest standards of living,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority.

    Al Shorafa added that the leadership’s directives to disburse this housing benefits package reflect their commitment to meeting citizens’ aspirations and housing needs, enhancing their quality of life and ensuring stability and well-being for Emirati families.

    This package brings the total housing benefits delivered to citizens in Abu Dhabi since the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Housing Authority to more than 132,000, exceeding AED181 billion.

    Hamad Hareb Al Muhairi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, noted that the new housing benefits package embodies the leadership’s ongoing dedication to ensuring dignified living standards and family stability for Emirati citizens, while serving comprehensive development objectives and underscoring the importance of suitable housing as a cornerstone of a cohesive and prosperous society.

    Al Muhairi further stated that Abu Dhabi Housing Authority continuously works to enhance and develop its programs and services, facilitating citizens’ access to suitable housing, in line with the leadership’s directives and ambitious vision for a prosperous future for citizens.

    The announcement comes as regional authorities continue to prioritize citizen welfare through housing initiatives. Earlier on March 18, Dubai allocated 4,631 residential plots valued at Dh5.3 billion for Emirati citizens across multiple communities. Abu Dhabi’s housing sector has also demonstrated strong momentum, with 75 million square meters of development approved in 2025, marking a 137% year-on-year increase.

  • Dubai Allocates 4,631 Residential Plots Worth Dh5.3 Billion for Citizens

    Dubai Allocates 4,631 Residential Plots Worth Dh5.3 Billion for Citizens

    The new housing package spans over 71 million square feet across three strategic locations in Dubai, forming part of the emirate’s broader citizen housing initiative designed to create integrated residential communities with advanced infrastructure and high quality of life standards.

    Allocations will be conducted through the Emirati platform on the DubaiNow app in the coming week, according to Dubai Media Office.

    “Today we approved the allocation of 4,631 residential plots valued at Dh5.3 billion, spanning an area of over 71 million square feet in Al Eyas, Latifa City and Mushrif areas. Our vision is consistent: Dubai’s true capital is its people and their families. The UAE citizen will always remain at the top of our priorities,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

    The Dubai Ruler emphasized that providing suitable housing for every Emirati family is central to Dubai’s development strategy, describing the initiative as part of broader urban development projects aimed at building integrated and vibrant communities.

    Sheikh Mohammed added that Dubai’s goal is to become the world’s best city for family life by offering a leading urban ecosystem that combines an integrated social environment and advanced housing supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure and services.

    Comprehensive Infrastructure for Future Communities

    The new residential plots are designed according to future urban planning standards, integrating green and open spaces to promote safe, healthy, and socially connected living. The planned communities will offer easy access to service centres providing top-tier amenities, supported by sustainable infrastructure that aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

    Eng Marwan bin Ghalita praised Sheikh Mohammed’s initiative, saying it “supports Dubai’s sustainable urban development and reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment to the welfare of citizens.”

    Dubai Municipality is committed to carrying out Sheikh Mohammed’s directives by creating an urban planning model for future-ready residential communities supported by sustainable infrastructure and integrated services, Eng Marwan noted.

    Allocation Details Across Three Communities

    The Al Eyas area will receive 2,540 plots covering 39 million square feet. The community will feature advanced infrastructure, mosques, a neighbourhood Majlis, retail centres, a school, and an early childhood centre. Parks, recreational facilities, and a green path with cycling tracks will connect all neighbourhoods.

    Latifa City will receive 1,761 plots across 28 million square feet. Planned amenities include mosques, parks, retail centres, a school, an early childhood centre, a community neighbourhood Majlis, and a Quran memorisation centre, along with a dedicated green path.

    The Mushrif area is allocated 330 plots covering 4 million square feet, with planned amenities including two mosques, a family park, a retail centre, and supporting infrastructure.

    Dubai’s Vision for Family-Centric Urban Development

    Dubai Municipality is committed to advancing sustainable urban planning and cutting-edge construction to create integrated neighbourhoods. By leveraging the latest technologies, the municipality aims to enhance the quality of life for all residents while preserving the city’s aesthetics.

    The initiative reflects Dubai’s ambition to remain a premier global destination while providing Emirati citizens with modern, safe, and community-focused living spaces. The new housing package reinforces Dubai’s position as a city that nurtures families and supports their wellbeing through comprehensive urban development that prioritizes people-centric design.

    The residential allocation comes as Dubai’s property market continues to demonstrate robust activity, with the emirate’s real estate sector maintaining strong transaction volumes and investor confidence across all segments.

  • Dubai Property Services Handled 563,920 Customers in 2025

    Dubai Property Services Handled 563,920 Customers in 2025

    Dubai’s real estate services sector demonstrated sustained operational growth throughout 2025, with key metrics pointing to rising activity across permits, valuations, and customer-facing transactions.

    The number of real estate permits issued in 2025 rose 24% to 26,044, reflecting strong demand for regulated property marketing channels. Electronic advertisements dominated activity, accounting for 23,521 permits, signaling how digital platforms are reshaping buyer engagement and developer outreach.

    Valuation Capacity Expands

    The emirate’s valuation infrastructure strengthened considerably during the year. The number of registered real estate valuers reached 133 by the end of 2025, with new registrations rising 50% year-on-year to 33.

    This expansion highlights how valuation has become central to investment decisions, financing, and pricing accuracy, particularly in a market that continues to attract both institutional and retail buyers seeking transparency in high-value transactions.

    Valuation capacity also increased on the ground, with the number of valuation offices rising to 68, including eight new offices added during the year, strengthening the sector’s ability to handle higher transaction volumes.

    Customer Service Network Grows

    Dubai’s real estate service infrastructure expanded with registration and service trustee offices increasing to 32, marking a 14% rise. Transaction volumes processed through these offices reached 282,661 in 2025, up 5% from the previous year, while the number of customers served climbed 7% to 563,920.

    The data points to growing reliance on structured, regulated channels to complete transactions, reflecting both higher activity levels and increased trust in the system as the market maintains momentum.

    Digital Oversight and Governance

    The rise in advertising permits is being supported by tighter regulatory oversight. Initiatives such as the Real Estate Advertising Governance Platform are helping to ensure accuracy and compliance across listings by using digital tools and artificial intelligence to monitor content.

    This approach is designed to enhance credibility in the market, reduce misinformation, and provide buyers with clearer, verified information when making property decisions.

    Structured Market Infrastructure

    The combined growth across permits, valuation services, and transaction channels signals a shift in how Dubai’s property market operates. Support services are playing a larger role in shaping efficiency, improving access, and strengthening regulatory discipline.

    This translates into more transparent pricing, better access to verified listings, and smoother transaction processes for customers, reinforcing confidence in one of the region’s most active real estate markets where regional activity remains strong.

    The expansion in service infrastructure demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to maintaining operational standards and transparency as the emirate continues to process record transaction volumes and attract global capital into its property sector.

  • Sharjah Property Market Hits Dh2.3 Billion in First Half of March

    Sharjah Property Market Hits Dh2.3 Billion in First Half of March

    Abdulaziz Rashid Al Saleh, Director of the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, confirmed on March 17, 2026, that the emirate’s property market recorded Dh2.3 billion ($626.3 million) in total transactions across 3,556 deals during the first half of March.

    Al Saleh emphasized that the figures demonstrate the robustness and resilience of Sharjah’s real estate sector, driven by rising interest from capital allocators. He noted that the department continues to deliver services through digital platforms and an extensive network of branches across the emirate.

    “The data demonstrates the robustness and steadfastness of the property sector in Sharjah, propelled by rising interest from capital allocators,” Al Saleh stated.

    The director attributed the sustained market activity to the consistent legal framework established by the emirate under the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the oversight of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

    Sharjah’s real estate performance in early March reflects broader momentum across the UAE property sector. While Dubai recorded Dh3.8 billion in transactions on a single day earlier this week, neighboring emirates continue to demonstrate sustained investor confidence despite regional dynamics.

    The emirate’s property market has consistently posted strong growth over recent quarters, with institutional and retail investors maintaining active participation in both off-plan and secondary market segments. The Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department has facilitated this activity through ongoing digitalization of registration processes and enhanced service accessibility.

    Market analysts note that Sharjah’s relative affordability compared to Dubai, combined with expanding infrastructure and strengthened regulatory frameworks across the UAE, continues to support sustained transaction volumes as investors seek diversified exposure within the Gulf’s property markets.

  • Dubai Property Transactions Reach Dh3.8 Billion on Monday

    Dubai Property Transactions Reach Dh3.8 Billion on Monday

    Dubai’s real estate market processed transactions worth Dh3.8 billion at the start of the week through 1,194 deals, according to data released by the Dubai Land Department on March 16, 2026.

    Sales accounted for the largest share, reaching Dh2.93 billion through 930 transactions. Among the most prominent deals were properties in Al Yalyis 5 valued at Dh515.6 million, followed by Palm Jebel Ali with transactions worth Dh387 million, and Dubai Land Residence Complex totalling Dh187 million.

    Mortgage transactions reached Dh718.3 million across 243 deals. The largest mortgage was recorded in Dubai South (Dubai Aviation City) at Dh214.4 million, followed by Dubai Studio City at Dh82 million, and Meydan One with mortgages worth Dh81 million.

    Property gifts also contributed to the overall activity, totalling Dh164 million across 21 transactions. The most notable gifts were registered in Mohammed Bin Rashid City – District One valued at Dh43.5 million, Business Bay at Dh34.3 million, and Jumeirah Islands worth Dh28 million.

    The figures reflect continued momentum in Dubai’s property sector, with strong investor interest across a range of residential and mixed-use developments. The single-day volume underscores the market’s resilience as transaction activity remains robust across multiple segments.

    The data arrives as Dubai’s property market staged a sharp recovery in the second week of March 2026, with transaction volumes rising significantly despite continued selling pressure in real estate equities on the Dubai Financial Market.

    Industry observers note that the emirate’s real estate sector continues to attract diverse capital flows, supported by structural advantages and a diversified buyer base. Recent weeks have also seen major development announcements that signal long-term confidence in the market’s trajectory.

    The sustained transaction volumes demonstrate that Dubai’s property market maintains its appeal to both end-users and investors, with activity spread across established communities and emerging districts alike.

  • Ohana Development Records Dh6 Billion in Sales Within 72 Hours

    Ohana Development Records Dh6 Billion in Sales Within 72 Hours

    The sales performance of Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana marks one of the strongest project launches in Abu Dhabi’s real estate history, with the waterfront community on Yas Canal achieving the record figure between March 14 and March 17, 2026.

    Investors formed queues at the sales launch, reflecting exceptional demand for the project. The buyer profile shows 35% Emirati nationals and 65% expatriate and international investors, demonstrating broad appeal across market segments.

    “We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the UAE government and its visionary leadership for fostering a stable and forward-looking investment environment,” said Husein Salem, CEO of Ohana Development. “This strong foundation continues to strengthen confidence among investors and developers, supporting the resilience and growth of Abu Dhabi’s thriving real estate sector, despite any evolving circumstances.”

    Salem added that the strong response and sales record in just 72 hours reflects continued trust from investors locally and internationally, as well as the appeal of the project’s unique offering in the emirate.

    In response to the significant interest, Ohana Development is expected to release additional inventory from the project soon.

    The development spans 1.67 million square meters, with more than 55% of the masterplan dedicated to landscaped gardens and green spaces. Designed around sport and active living, the community will feature integrated training and recovery facilities, alongside a waterfront promenade with retail, dining and lifestyle destinations.

    Manchester City Yas Residences will include a marina sports club with water sports activities, as well as resort-style amenities including fitness facilities and pools.

    The sales achievement comes as Abu Dhabi’s property market recorded strong weekly sales in early March 2026, demonstrating sustained investor confidence. The UAE capital has been accelerating its development pipeline, with nearly 75 million square meters approved in 2025, marking a 137% year-on-year increase.

    The record-breaking launch underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as a premium residential destination, particularly for branded developments that combine lifestyle amenities with strategic locations on the emirate’s most sought-after addresses.