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.