Donna Lee-Elliott, chief of sales, OCTA Properties/Image: Supplied
In the blink of an eye we have made it to the first half of 2025, and Dubai’s real estate market is not only outperforming expectations – it’s evolving with a deeper sense of purpose.
We saw nearly 99,000 property transactions in just six months, a record-breaking number that speaks volumes about investor confidence. But what fascinates me more than the data is the shift in mindset. Behind those transactions are people asking questions that go far beyond square footage and ROI. They’re asking about where to raise their children, how the healthcare system functions, and what kind of life they can build here. That tells me this market is growing in maturity, not just volume.
Buyers today are far more diverse nationally, financially, and emotionally. I’ve met families from across Europe – Germany, Portugal, Spain, France, the Netherlands – many of whom had never previously considered Dubai. What’s changed? It’s not just about opportunity anymore; it’s about lifestyle, stability, and the genuine intention to make Dubai a long-term home.
This shift isn’t confined to residential property alone. For the first time in nearly twenty years, I’ve had the opportunity to launch off-plan commercial buildings in Motor City, JVC, and Business Bay.
The response has been electric. Entrepreneurs are looking for practical, well-sized Grade A spaces to set up businesses here. It’s clear that Dubai’s reputation as a commercial hub is being translated into real, bricks-and-mortar investment.
The question that often follows such growth is whether prices will correct itself. My honest opinion? Yes, but modestly, and selectively.
Read: Investors are rushing to Dubai: Here’s why you shouldn’t wait
Prime and emerging areas will remain robust due to limited supply and sustained demand, especially as Dubai’s population nears the 4 million mark and continues rising. Where we might see softening is in less strategic locations or from developers who have failed to deliver on promised lifestyle value. There’s been some buzz about a slight dip in off-plan activity, but this is not a downturn – it’s a recalibration.
Not all families moving to Dubai are looking for ready homes – they’re taking the time to rent, understand communities, and buy with more clarity.
Meanwhile, off-plan options remain attractive to international buyers dealing with cross-border finance limitations, thanks to flexible payment structures. Both segments are strong, just driven by different needs.
Finally, the recently announced First-Time Home Buyer initiative is a game-changer. This new approach aims to make property ownership more accessible for residents by offering priority access to new launches, preferential pricing, and flexible payment plans. Eligible buyers – UAE residents over 18 who don’t own freehold property in Dubai – can also benefit from tailored mortgage solutions and interest-free installments on registration fees.
It’s a brilliant move toward encouraging homeownership among mid-income residents and cultivating long-term stability. I see this resonating not just with young professionals but with families exploring how to support their adult children onto the property ladder.
It’s another example of how Dubai is proactively shaping a market that’s resilient, inclusive, and ready for the future.
So yes, the numbers are thrilling, but the real story is quieter and more powerful – it’s the story of people choosing to stay, to build, and to belong. That’s what makes Dubai’s real estate scene in 2025 not just impressive, but profoundly meaningful.
