What To Know
- Dubai’s property market is moving into a new stage of growth in 2026, with rising activity from both buyers and sellers signalling continued confidence in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate sectors.
- With strong demand, expanding inventory, and continued investor confidence, Dubai’s real estate sector appears well positioned to maintain its momentum into 2026 — though with more measured price growth and a shift toward a healthier, more balanced property cycle.
- The parallel rise in both buyer and seller activity suggests the Dubai property cycle is maturing into a more balanced and sustainable phase.
Dubai’s property market is moving into a new stage of growth in 2026, with rising activity from both buyers and sellers signalling continued confidence in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate sectors. Fresh data shows that transaction volumes remain strong, while search behaviour indicates deeper engagement across the market.
By the end of 2025, Dubai’s total residential inventory reached approximately 935,000 units, with around 46,700 homes delivered during the year. Despite growing supply, demand continues to absorb new stock, keeping the market firmly in expansion mode.
Buyer and Seller Interest Climbs
Recent research based on Google Trends data highlights a sharp rise in real estate-related searches. Interest in the term “real estate agency” surged by 115 percent between July 2025 and January 2026 compared to the previous six-month period. This jump reflects a growing number of homeowners and investors exploring opportunities to list properties and capitalise on strong price gains.
At the same time, searches for “buy property” increased by 16.2 percent, showing that buyer appetite remains solid even after several years of price growth. The parallel rise in both buyer and seller activity suggests the Dubai property cycle is maturing into a more balanced and sustainable phase.
Record Transactions and Price Growth
Dubai Land Department figures show that property transactions exceeded Dh520 billion in 2025, with more than 170,000 deals completed — among the highest annual totals ever recorded. Off-plan properties dominated activity, accounting for nearly 70 percent of total transactions as developers continued launching master-planned communities and branded residences.
According to global consultancy Knight Frank, residential prices in Dubai have risen by more than 40 percent since 2020. In 2025 alone, prices increased by around 12 percent, with villas outperforming apartments due to strong demand from families and high-net-worth individuals relocating to the emirate.
Population Growth Supporting Demand
Dubai’s population crossed 3.8 million in late 2025 and is projected to surpass 4 million within two years. Continued wealth migration, pro-business residency policies, and strong economic fundamentals are sustaining demand for both ownership and rental housing.
Analysts note that increased seller participation is a sign of market maturity rather than weakness. More listings improve liquidity and provide buyers with greater choice, potentially stabilising price growth while keeping transaction volumes elevated.
Outlook for 2026
While new project launches may moderate in 2026 due to rising construction and land costs, previously announced developments will continue to add stock over the next two years. This gradual increase in supply could help ease rental pressures while supporting steady activity in the sales market.
With strong demand, expanding inventory, and continued investor confidence, Dubai’s real estate sector appears well positioned to maintain its momentum into 2026 — though with more measured price growth and a shift toward a healthier, more balanced property cycle.
