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Tag: Dubai real estate

  • UAE Long-Term Renters Turn Homeowners Amid Flexible Payment Plans

    UAE Long-Term Renters Turn Homeowners Amid Flexible Payment Plans

    Competitive pricing compared to global cities, flexible payment plans, and residency incentives such as the Golden Visa are helping nudge more UAE residents towards home ownership, according to real estate experts.

    Blagoje Antic, CEO and Founder of DHG, noted strong interest in emerging, master-planned communities with a clear long-term vision, such as Meydan Horizon and Dubai Islands.

    “Looking ahead to 2026, demand is moving toward communities that balance accessibility with green spaces and a more sustainable way of living,”

    he said.

    The shift comes as buyer intent remains strong. Last month, a survey revealed that seven in 10 UAE residents plan to buy property in the next six months. The findings, based on Property Finder’s bi-annual Market Pulse survey, gathered responses from 5,540 participants and showed that buyers expect only moderate changes in prices.

    That intent is increasingly translating into actual purchases, supported by government-backed initiatives aimed at making home ownership more accessible. Dubai’s First-Time Home Buyer Programme has enabled more than 2,000 residents to purchase their first home in the past six months, generating over Dh3.25 billion in residential property sales, according to figures from the Dubai Land Department.

    Launched in July 2025 by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and DLD, the programme offers first-time buyers priority access to new projects, tailored mortgage solutions and preferential pricing. More than 41,000 residents have registered for the programme so far, with nearly half of completed purchases made by residents who have lived in Dubai for more than five years without previously owning a home, highlighting its role in converting long-term renters into homeowners.

    Industry experts say this renewed confidence is drawing more first-time buyers and long-term residents into the market, with purchasers increasingly focused on build quality, location, developer reputation, and how well a home will hold up over time.

    “End users are more informed and are prioritising good layouts, practical design, amenities, and strong community infrastructure,”

    Antic said. “One- and two-bedroom apartments remain the most in-demand, mainly due to affordability and strong rental demand, with well-planned layouts and quality finishes playing a bigger role in decision-making.”

    Svetlana Vasilieva, Head of Secondary Sales at Metropolitan Premium Properties, said most first-time buyers currently have a budget range between Dh2 million and Dh3 million. She added that while some developers rarely offer incentives, others provide flexible payment plans or upfront discounts to encourage sales.

    “My advice to first timers is to buy with resale and long-term value in mind, not just what fits your budget today,”

    she said.

    Affordability and space remain key considerations.

    “Many first-time buyers are looking for larger apartments or townhouses within family-oriented communities and are willing to live further out to achieve a lower price per square foot,”

    Vasilieva added. In Dubai, buyers are most frequently enquiring about Arabian Ranches 3, The Valley, Dubai South, Nad Al Sheba and Town Square.

    Elie Namaan, CEO and Co-Founder of Ellington Properties, said market momentum is increasingly being driven by end-users buying with intent rather than urgency.

    “We have noticed far more confident and deliberate first-time buyers than even a year ago. These buyers are asking sharper questions and making decisions after more consideration, not just around price but around how a home fits into their daily life,”

    he said.

    Namaan added that livability has become central to the decision-making process, with buyers prioritising thoughtful layouts, natural light, storage, walkability and a sense of community over short-term gains.

    “There’s a growing recognition that a first home is not just a financial milestone, but an everyday environment that needs to support work, wellbeing and long-term comfort,”

    he said.

    The trend aligns with broader market shifts toward value-driven purchases across the region, as buyers prioritize developer credibility and long-term stability. With Dubai recording over 200,000 transactions in 2025 and residential prices rising 12.1%, the emirate continues to attract investors seeking quality and sustainable communities.

  • Gulf Property Buyers Shift to Value-Driven Approach in 2026

    Gulf Property Buyers Shift to Value-Driven Approach in 2026

    The Gulf property market is experiencing a fundamental shift in buyer behavior as 2026 unfolds. While transaction volumes remain robust, particularly in Dubai, the urgency that characterized late 2024 and much of 2025 has given way to careful, data-driven decision-making.

    Developers and sales leaders report that geopolitical uncertainty has sharpened buyers’ analytical skills without dampening demand. The UAE and wider Gulf continue to be viewed as stable environments for both residence and investment, but selectivity has become the defining characteristic of today’s market.

    From Speed to Strategy

    The most pronounced change is the transition from rapid purchasing to comprehensive due diligence. Donna Lee-Elliott, Chief of Sales at OCTA Properties, observed that buyers are increasingly favoring prime locations, reputable developers with proven track records, and projects underpinned by strong community fundamentals.

    Geopolitical headlines have not removed demand, but they have sharpened decision-making. Buyer sentiment in the first half of the year has shifted less towards hesitation and more towards disciplined selectivity.

    Enquiry levels in Dubai remain resilient, reflecting continued confidence in economic stability, infrastructure development, and regulatory transparency. However, purchasing behavior now emphasizes escrow compliance, construction-linked payment plans, and delivery certainty.

    Credibility and Clarity Drive Decisions

    Ahmed Hashish, Head of Sales at HRE Development, identified the growing emphasis on transparency as the market’s biggest transformation. “Buyers are still active, but they are more analytical,” he explained. “They are asking deeper questions about delivery timelines, build quality, long-term community value, and operating costs.”

    This scrutiny is creating market polarization. Strong projects with clear value propositions and proven track records continue to transact quickly, while projects lacking clarity face longer decision cycles and heavier negotiation.

    Demand is concentrating around established communities and well-planned lifestyle developments, while properties perceived as speculative or heavily reliant on short-term price appreciation are experiencing slower absorption.

    Safety and Predictability Attract Capital

    Heightened global uncertainty typically pushes investors toward stable, predictable assets—a pattern clearly visible across Gulf real estate markets. Ajay Rajendran, Founder and Chairman of Meraki Group, noted that buyers are gravitating toward established communities with proven demand through occupancy and resale activity.

    “When global uncertainty increases, buyers usually move toward what feels safe and predictable,” Rajendran said, adding that smaller apartments in well-connected locations and appropriately priced townhouses remain particularly active segments.

    This shift reflects broader movement toward practicality, with buyers focusing on liveability, long-term comfort, and sustainable service costs rather than speculative gains.

    Income Generation Over Trading

    A defining trend is the growing emphasis on income generation and long-term holding strategies. Investors are increasingly assessing realistic rental yields, service charges, and tenant demand before committing funds.

    Ammar Malhi, Chief Operating Officer at SmartCrowd, summarized the shift: “Buyers haven’t disappeared. They’ve just slowed down enough to think.” He noted that investors are focusing more on steady income than short-term price gains.

    Rental performance across Dubai remains strong, with many communities recording double-digit increases over the past two years, reinforcing the appeal of income-producing assets. Holding periods are extending while flipping activity has moderated as investors adopt longer time horizons.

    End-Users Shape Market Dynamics

    A rising share of transactions is being driven by end-users rather than short-term investors, particularly in lifestyle-led developments. Xu Ma, Founder and Chairman of Tomorrow World Properties, reported that owner-occupiers account for more than 85% of transactions.

    “Buyers are increasingly taking their time and prioritizing lifestyle and long-term fit over quick flips,” Ma said. Demand is strongest for larger homes, wellness-focused communities, and properties offering immediate move-in readiness.

    Investors remain active but are focusing more heavily on delivery credibility, rental demand, and long-term value retention.

    UAE Stability Supports Sustained Demand

    The UAE’s neutral geopolitical positioning remains a major factor attracting both people and capital to the property market. Relocation activity from Europe, South Asia, and North America continues to rise, driven by the country’s stable regulatory environment, business-friendly policies, and strong infrastructure.

    For many buyers, property ownership is tied to broader decisions around residency, lifestyle, and business continuity rather than purely financial returns. This combination of stability and opportunity is helping sustain demand even during periods of global volatility.

    Market Outlook

    Industry experts expect demand to remain resilient through the second half of 2026, though increasingly concentrated around high-quality assets. Prime residential developments, established communities, and projects with strong rental potential are likely to maintain momentum.

    Speculative or undifferentiated supply may face longer decision cycles, reflecting a maturing market where buyers prioritize fundamentals and long-term value over rapid gains. Major developers reporting record results continue to benefit from this flight to quality.

    The shift from urgency to analysis marks a healthy evolution in the Gulf property market, indicating growing sophistication among buyers and a more sustainable foundation for long-term growth.

  • Dubai Residential Prices Rise 12.1% as Market Records 200,000 Transactions

    Dubai’s property sector concluded 2025 with landmark performance metrics, recording over 200,000 sales transactions—an 18.8% increase over 2024—as both off-plan and ready property segments outperformed previous years, according to a report by Cavendish Maxwell.

    Residential prices rose 12.1% during the year, down from 16.5% growth in 2024, while rental increases moderated to 11-12% by year-end compared to 13-15% earlier in the year, signaling a gradual market stabilization.

    Off-Plan Dominance Intensifies Market Concentration

    Off-plan transactions represented 72.9% of total real estate activity in Dubai, up from 69.3% in 2024, with transaction volumes reaching 146,400 units—a 25% year-on-year increase. This surge was driven by sustained developer confidence and robust investor appetite for future developments.

    Ready property sales recorded more modest but steady growth, reaching 54,400 transactions, up 5% compared to 2024, supported by stable demand from end-users and investors seeking immediate occupancy opportunities.

    The market’s increasing reliance on off-plan sales, however, creates concentration risks, making it potentially vulnerable to shifts in launch momentum and buyer sentiment.

    Supply Dynamics Show Persistent Delivery Gaps

    Approximately 40,400 residential units were completed in 2025, significantly below the initial projection of 82,600 units, resulting in a materialization rate of just 48.9%. Despite falling short of targets, actual completions were 16.4% higher than the 34,700 units delivered in 2024.

    Looking ahead, around 110,500 residential units are projected for delivery in 2026, though historical completion patterns suggest actual deliveries may range between 33,000 and 50,000 units, with some projects likely spilling into 2027.

    Apartments are expected to dominate upcoming completions, representing 84.3% of projected units through 2028. Key locations including Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai South, Business Bay, Dubai Residence Complex and DAMAC Lagoons are forecast to contribute 30.7% of all projected deliveries during this period.

    Luxury Segment Surges 47% in Transaction Volumes

    Dubai’s luxury real estate segment recorded approximately 2,500 transactions in 2025, marking a 47.1% increase compared to the previous year. Off-plan sales led growth with a 52.6% year-on-year increase, accounting for 70.5% of all luxury transactions.

    The ultra-luxury segment exhibited robust performance with 302 transactions totaling Dh27.9 billion, representing increases of 31.9% in volume and 53.7% in value compared to 2024, highlighting growing preference among high-net-worth individuals for Dubai as both a residential and investment destination.

    Economic Fundamentals Remain Supportive

    Despite emerging supply pressures, broader macroeconomic fundamentals continue supporting the market. UAE GDP growth is projected at 5.2% in 2026, with Dubai expected to expand by 4.5%, supported by ongoing infrastructure investment, population growth, and sustained tourism momentum.

    Tourism is projected to maintain momentum with visitor volumes expected to surpass prior-year levels, while business activity indicators remain positive, providing continued support across housing, retail and commercial sectors.

    Market Enters Transition Phase

    Looking ahead, Dubai’s real estate market is expected to remain relatively stable in 2026, though entering a critical transition phase where supply pressures, moderating growth trajectories and potential external headwinds require heightened vigilance.

    While a sharp correction appears unlikely given Dubai’s solid macroeconomic foundation, diversified economy and sustained population growth, stakeholders should prepare for a more balanced environment characterized by moderate appreciation and heightened selectivity.

    The market’s performance contrasts with record results posted by developers in 2025, suggesting continued confidence in long-term fundamentals despite near-term moderation signals.

  • Emaar Properties Reports Record 2025 Results with Dh80.4 Billion Sales

    Emaar Properties delivered its strongest financial performance to date in 2025, with growth accelerating across all business segments including property development, retail, hospitality, and international operations.

    The Dubai-based developer reported a 16% year-on-year increase in property sales to Dh80.4 billion ($21.9 billion), while total revenue climbed 40% to Dh49.6 billion ($13.5 billion). Net profit before tax rose 36% to Dh25.7 billion ($7 billion), and EBITDA reached Dh25.6 billion ($7 billion), marking a 33% increase from 2024.

    Revenue backlog surged 39% to Dh155 billion ($42.1 billion), providing substantial visibility on future earnings and demonstrating sustained market confidence.

    “Our 2025 results were shaped by a business environment that enables ambition and rewards long-term thinking. The UAE Government and the city of Dubai have created a framework built on stability, clear regulation, and openness to global investment, allowing companies like Emaar to plan with confidence, scale responsibly, and focus on execution,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Emaar founder.

    Domestic Development Drives Growth

    Emaar Development PJSC recorded Dh71.1 billion ($19.4 billion) in UAE property sales, representing a 9% increase from 2024. Revenue from domestic projects reached Dh36.4 billion ($9.9 billion), while net profit before tax grew an impressive 52% to Dh15.5 billion ($4.2 billion).

    The company launched 48 new residential projects throughout the year, including high-profile developments such as Grand Polo Club and Resort, The Valley, and Bristol at Emaar Beachfront. The UAE backlog stood at Dh134.3 billion ($36.6 billion), reflecting strong pre-sales momentum.

    These results align with broader market trends, as Dubai’s property sector continues its upward trajectory with record-breaking transaction volumes.

    International Expansion Accelerates

    International property sales experienced exceptional growth, surging 124% to Dh9.3 billion ($2.5 billion), with revenue of Dh2.6 billion ($0.7 billion) generated across operations in Egypt and India. This expansion demonstrates Emaar’s successful geographic diversification strategy beyond its home market.

    Recurring Revenue Streams Strengthen

    Emaar’s malls and retail leasing revenue increased 13% to Dh6.3 billion ($1.7 billion), maintaining an impressive 98% occupancy rate across its portfolio. The hospitality, leisure, and entertainment segment recorded revenue of Dh4.2 billion ($1.1 billion), up 12%, supported by higher tourism inflows and the addition of three new hotels.

    Combined recurring revenue from malls, hotels, and commercial leasing reached Dh10.5 billion ($2.8 billion), reflecting a 13% increase and strengthening the company’s diversified income base.

    The record performance comes as Dubai’s property market demonstrates exceptional momentum, with investor confidence remaining robust amid favorable regulatory frameworks and economic stability.

    Emaar’s 2025 results reinforce the company’s market leadership position and highlight the sustained appeal of Dubai real estate as a destination for both end-users and investors seeking long-term value in a transparent, well-regulated environment.

  • Emaar Posts Strongest-Ever Results as Revenues Climb 44%

    Emaar Posts Strongest-Ever Results as Revenues Climb 44%

    Emaar Development has concluded 2025 with unprecedented financial results, demonstrating the continued strength and attractiveness of Dubai’s real estate market. The company’s performance reflects robust demand for homes and strategic expansion across various communities.

    Key financial highlights include:

    • Property sales reached Dh71.1 billion, the highest ever and a 9% rise from 2024
    • Revenues climbed 44% to Dh27.5 billion
    • Net profit before tax jumped 52% to Dh15.5 billion
    • Revenue backlog grew to Dh125.2 billion, indicating strong future earnings

    In 2025, the company significantly expanded its land bank, acquiring 36 million square feet of land with an estimated development value of Dh120 billion. Emaar launched more than 48 residential projects across master-planned communities, including new phases in The Valley, Bristol at Emaar Beachfront, and the Grand Polo Club and Resort.

    A notable announcement was Emaar Hills, a new master-planned district featuring Dubai Mansions, a collection of ultra-luxury homes targeting high-net-worth global buyers. This move signals the company’s strategic push into the luxury property segment.

    “A stable regulatory environment, long-term planning and openness to global investment allow developers like Emaar to plan with confidence and execute at scale,” said Founder Mohamed Alabbar.

    As of now, Emaar Development has delivered over 80,500 residential units since 2002 and currently has around 51,000 units under development in prominent Dubai communities like Dubai Hills Estate, Arabian Ranches, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Emaar Beachfront.

    The company’s proposed dividend payout of Dh4 billion, pending shareholder approval, represents a 47% increase from the previous year, further underlining its strong financial performance.

    This remarkable growth reflects not just Emaar’s strategic capabilities, but also the broader confidence in Dubai’s property market, which continues to attract global investors with its dynamic and supportive ecosystem.

  • Dubai Property Market Sets Record with Dh15.6 Billion Single-Day Transactions

    Dubai Property Market Sets Record with Dh15.6 Billion Single-Day Transactions

    The Dubai Land Department’s data reveals an unprecedented surge in real estate activity, with sales reaching Dh11.4 billion covering land, residential units, buildings, mortgages, and property gifts. This landmark achievement reflects the emirate’s diverse and expanding property market.

    Badar Rashid AlBlooshi, Chairman of Arabian Gulf Properties, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating that it represents strong confidence from both local and international investors in Dubai’s real estate sector. The transaction volume underscores the city’s ability to attract large-scale investments in a globally competitive environment.

    The market’s momentum is supported by gradually easing property prices. In December 2025, property prices stabilized, reaching Dh1,673 per square foot—105% above the market’s 2020 trough and 35.7% above the 2014 peak.

    Real estate consultancy Cushman & Wakefield Core predicts that 2026 will be characterized by more selective, fundamentals-driven performance. The continued attraction stems from broader economic growth, corporate expansion, and Dubai’s strengthening position as a global business hub.

    The record-breaking day signals a promising trajectory for Dubai’s real estate market, attracting both residents transitioning to property ownership and foreign investors seeking attractive opportunities.