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Dubai’s real estate market has continued its remarkable upward trajectory in Q3 2025, driven largely by a surge in off-plan sales and sustained investor confidence. According to Metropolitan Premium Properties (MPP), one of the UAE’s leading real estate agencies, off-plan transactions now account for 75.3 per cent of all property sales, reflecting a 26.4 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
This surge underscores the growing confidence of both domestic and international investors in Dubai’s property market and highlights the city’s status as a global hub for real estate investment.
The total value of off-plan transactions reached Dhs96bn, while overall sales, including both off-plan and resale properties, climbed to Dhs134bn.
Apartments dominated off-plan activity, particularly in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and Business Bay, which have become magnets for investors seeking strong rental yields and future capital appreciation. At the same time, waterfront developments such as La Mer, Jumeirah, and Dubai Water Canal commanded the highest average prices, underlining the continued appetite for premium, lifestyle-oriented properties among buyers.
Read more-From off-plan frenzy to suburban shift: 6 trends defining Dubai real estate
Several factors contributed to this off-plan surge. Limited-time discounts offered by developers, flexible payment plans, and higher agent commissions have made these properties particularly attractive to a wide range of buyers. These incentives encourage participation from both local and international buyers, further boosting sales and market momentum.
“Dubai’s off-plan sector continues to outperform expectations and remains a cornerstone of the city’s real estate momentum,” said Nikita Kuznetsov, CEO of Metropolitan Premium Properties. “Developers are responding with innovative projects and flexible payment structures that appeal to both international investors and local end-users. The sustained demand for off-plan apartments highlights growing confidence in Dubai’s long-term market fundamentals and its role as a global real estate hub.”
Off-plan projects are increasingly seen as gateway investments, allowing buyers to secure high-quality apartments in prime locations before completion. This approach benefits investors by mitigating initial entry costs while positioning them for future capital appreciation, aligning perfectly with Dubai’s broader strategy of offering a diverse real estate ecosystem that appeals to multiple buyer segments.
Resale market dynamics: Ready homes in demand
While off-plan properties dominate the market, Dubai’s resale segment presents a contrasting but equally important narrative. In Q3 2025, 84 per cent of resale transactions were for ready properties, with off-plan resales representing just 16 per cent. Despite a 10.7 per cent year-on-year decline in overall resale transactions, average prices rose 11.3 per cent to Dhs1,656 per square foot, reflecting strong demand from end-users seeking immediate occupancy and lifestyle convenience.
Villas continue to attract buyers seeking both luxury and immediacy. In Q3 2025, 97 per cent of villa resale transactions were for ready-to-move-in properties, highlighting a clear market preference for homes that are available for living rather than under construction. Resale prices per square foot jumped 18.7 per cent on the Palm Jumeirah, 20 per cent in Arabian Ranches 3, and 17.4 per cent in The Springs. Emerging districts also posted notable growth, with Town Square apartments increasing 25.1 per cent and Dubai South rising 18.8 per cent.
“We’re seeing clear market segmentation with off-plan dominating new supply and investor activity, while ready villas and townhouses are becoming increasingly limited and valuable,” Kuznetsov explained. “This dual strength across sectors reinforces Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most resilient and diversified real estate markets.”
Rental markets have also shown resilience, with average rates climbing 8.8 per cent year-on-year to Dhs83 per square foot, despite a slight 4.2 per cent decline in total rental transactions. This suggests longer lease durations and strong tenant retention, further strengthening the stability of the Dubai housing market.
This divergence between off-plan and resale markets illustrates a dual-track growth dynamic. Off-plan properties cater primarily to investors seeking future returns, while ready-to-move-in homes appeal to end-users seeking convenience and lifestyle flexibility. This duality enhances Dubai’s overall market stability, offering opportunities for both speculative investment and immediate occupancy.
Nakheel’s waterfront villas at Palm Jebel Ali
Dubai’s waterfront living continues to captivate investors, with Nakheel unveiling an exclusive collection of premium villas at Palm Jebel Ali. The development introduces 11 architecturally distinct villa styles across The Beach and The Coral Collections, designed to cater to discerning buyers seeking luxurious coastal living with direct beach access, a WAM report said.
The Beach Collection features five- and six-bedroom villas ranging from 7,500 to 8,500 square foot, including designs such as Cyan Sky, Cobalt Beach, Baia Luna, Wave Crest, Ocean Whisper, and Bluejay. Meanwhile, the Coral Collection offers six- and seven-bedroom villas spanning 11,500 to 12,500 square foot, including Red Aurora, Porcelain Roses, Redwood, Coral Dune, and Sunset Mirage.
“Palm Jebel Ali stands as a symbol of Dubai’s vision and enduring ambition,” said Khalid Al Malik, CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate. “This latest release of villas reinforces Nakheel’s commitment to excellence in design, delivery, and community creation.”
The development is complemented by a 9,000 square metre retail centre and a Friday mosque designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), capable of accommodating 1,000 worshippers. Spanning seven islands over 13.4 kilometres, with 16 fronds and over 90 kilometres of beachfront, the project represents a major new growth corridor aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
This release highlights Dubai’s ongoing emphasis on holistic waterfront living, combining premium residences with retail, leisure, and cultural amenities. Buyers are drawn not only to the architectural beauty and beachfront access but also to the long-term investment potential of properties in master-planned luxury communities.
Aldar launches boutique lifestyle quarter in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, Aldar Development has unveiled The Row Saadiyat, a boutique residential and lifestyle quarter situated in the Saadiyat Cultural District, home to iconic landmarks such as the Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
The development spans seven mid-rise buildings, each with nine floors, featuring one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed by award-winning Kettle Collective. Ground floors are dedicated to F&B, wellness, and lifestyle concepts, creating an environment that seamlessly blends social vibrancy with private retreat spaces.
“The Row Saadiyat brings together the finest elements of contemporary design and cultural context to create something truly unique for Abu Dhabi,” said Jonathan Emery, CEO of Aldar Development. “The development embodies Aldar’s commitment to crafting communities that are globally relevant and deeply connected to their surroundings.”
By integrating cultural, residential, and retail elements, The Row Saadiyat exemplifies Abu Dhabi’s strategy to create communities that are both lifestyle-oriented and culturally connected. This approach appeals to buyers seeking premium residences in proximity to major cultural landmarks, offering both investment potential and unique lifestyle benefits.
Buddha-Bar hotel and floating residences on The World Islands
Dubai is also pioneering experiential luxury real estate with the launch of the Buddha-Bar Hotel and Floating Residences on The World Islands, a first for the region. The Dhs3bn project comprises 162 hotel keys, 24 floating residences, and the signature Buddha-Bar Beach, blending island living with immersive design and luxury hospitality.
The floating residences span three levels across 4,000 square foot, featuring rooftop decks with jacuzzis, sea-level living areas, and underwater bedrooms with views of coral gardens. Each residence can be furnished with Bentley Home collections, combining maritime glass, tactile woods, and veined stone to ensure the natural seascape remains the centerpiece.
“Partnering on the launch of the first Buddha-Bar Hotel and Floating Residences represents a defining moment for experiential real estate in the region,” said Mohamad Issa, Founder of Yieldhaüs. “Our mission is to connect discerning investors with projects that transcend traditional property and become living works of art.”
Completion is projected for 2027, promising a transformative luxury lifestyle that combines hospitality, wellness, and experiential design. The project underscores Dubai’s leadership in ultra-luxury, branded residential developments, appealing to investors seeking both exclusivity and long-term capital appreciation.
Emaar Hills: Dubai mansions redefine luxury living
Emaar continues to set benchmarks for ultra-luxury living with its Dubai Mansions at Emaar Hills, a AED 100 billion development featuring 40,000 high-end homes. The mansions, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 sq. ft., are designed to deliver timeless sophistication, bespoke interiors, and integrated amenities.
The development combines golf, wellness, retail, and landscaped parks, creating a fully integrated community experience. Residents benefit from proximity to Dubai Hills Estate and Dubai Hills Mall, ensuring seamless access to lifestyle and retail offerings.
“Dubai Mansions represents the ultimate expression of refined living,” said Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar. “Every residence, every garden, and every pathway reflects an uncompromising attention to detail, creating a setting that embodies harmony, prestige, and a lifestyle that is unmatched anywhere in the world.”
Emaar Hills illustrates how master-planned communities can integrate premium residential offerings with lifestyle amenities, setting new standards for luxury property developments in the UAE.
Market outlook: UAE real estate remains resilient
From off-plan apartments in Dubai to luxury waterfront villas and cultural district residences in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s property market demonstrates resilience, diversification, and record-breaking growth.
Investor confidence is being fueled by a combination of premium residential projects, lifestyle-led communities, and innovative architectural designs. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to benefit from infrastructure-led growth, proximity to cultural and lifestyle hubs, and a strong regulatory framework that supports domestic and international investment.
Experts predict that the next phase of market expansion will focus on premium waterfront developments, experiential hospitality-led residences, and mixed-use cultural communities, further reinforcing the UAE’s status as a global real estate hotspot.
“The UAE continues to offer unmatched investment opportunities, whether in luxury villas, cultural district residences, or landmark waterfront communities,” Kuznetsov emphasised. “Market fundamentals remain strong, driven by both investor appetite and end-user demand.”
With record transaction values, rising property prices, and ambitious new developments, the UAE property sector is well positioned to sustain its momentum well into 2026 and beyond. The market’s unique ability to balance investor-driven off-plan sales with end-user ready-home demand continues to make it an attractive destination for both international and domestic buyers.
