Dubai’s real estate sector is experiencing a sharp rebound in buyer activity following the ceasefire announcement, with Sobha Realty witnessing customer conversions increase threefold compared to the period before tensions subsided.
Francis Alfred, managing director of Sobha Realty, told Khaleej Times on April 19, 2026, that the recovery has been immediate and decisive.
“People who were waiting on the sidelines are beginning to return. International buyers are also coming back,” Alfred said, adding that long-term investors in Dubai remain focused on the emirate’s future prospects rather than short-term geopolitical events.
The developer, which has delivered 13 master communities in Dubai, is now expanding into Abu Dhabi with its first major project in the capital, bringing the same expertise and customer-focused approach that has defined its operations in Dubai.
“We have gained deep insights into what customers need and how to deliver high-quality products. We are taking that expertise into Abu Dhabi,” Alfred explained, confirming that the company plans further expansion beyond its debut development in the emirate.
Quality Over Discounts
Sobha Realty is maintaining its focus on product quality rather than offering deep discounts to stimulate demand. Alfred emphasized that the company believes in preserving intrinsic value through disciplined pricing.
“We believe a quality product has intrinsic value. We are not going to discount our projects in a way that reduces that value,” he stated.
Instead, the developer may offer limited incentives such as support with registration costs while maintaining overall pricing discipline.
The company’s financial position remains robust, supported by a large land bank, infrastructure assets, and a multi-year revenue backlog from previous sales. Construction funding is largely covered through escrow accounts and customer collections, reducing reliance on additional borrowing.
“The land is already paid for, and most construction is funded through escrow accounts. We do not foresee any serious requirement for additional funding at this stage,” Alfred confirmed.
Market Maturity and Resilience
Alfred noted that the current environment is likely to widen the gap between established developers with proven track records and smaller players with weaker financial foundations. Buyers are increasingly choosing companies with strong reputations and the ability to maintain quality standards.
“Customers know that trusted developers will deliver the same quality product without compromise,” he said.
Comparing the current situation with the Covid-19 pandemic, Alfred highlighted that today’s challenges are regional rather than global, meaning the impact on the UAE market should be more contained. He expects the market to return quickly to its previous growth trajectory without experiencing a sharp correction or speculative rally.
“The UAE property market is now far more mature and resilient. It is not jumping up and down because of short-term events,” Alfred concluded.
The comments align with broader market trends, as Dubai’s property market staged a sharp recovery in recent weeks despite ongoing volatility in financial markets. The sector recorded Dh32.2 billion in rental contracts during the first quarter of 2026, reflecting sustained stability across residential segments.
