What To Know
- Over the first nine months of 2025, total real estate sales in the capital reached Dh94 billion, representing a 43 percent increase compared to the same period a year earlier.
- Dubai once again confirmed its position as the Gulf’s leading real estate market in 2025, with residential property sales reaching a record Dh541 billion ($147 billion), according to new industry data.
- Analysts expect activity to rebound following the opening of the Saudi market to foreign property buyers, a move likely to attract new capital while also raising concerns around affordability for local residents.
Dubai once again confirmed its position as the Gulf’s leading real estate market in 2025, with residential property sales reaching a record Dh541 billion ($147 billion), according to new industry data. The figure marks a 27 percent increase compared to 2024, underlining the emirate’s continued appeal to global investors, end-users, and high-net-worth buyers.
Data released by Springfield Properties shows that more than 200,000 property transactions were completed during the year, representing a 19 percent rise year-on-year. The sustained growth reflects strong demand across villas, apartments, and off-plan developments, supported by population growth, investor-friendly regulations, and Dubai’s reputation as a safe and stable market.
Industry experts point to several factors behind Dubai’s performance, including long-term residency options such as the Golden Visa, tax advantages, and a steady influx of international buyers seeking lifestyle-driven investments. Luxury and waterfront developments continued to perform particularly well, while mid-market housing also saw healthy activity.
While Dubai remains the clear leader, other Gulf cities are also showing momentum. Abu Dhabi’s property market, though smaller in scale, recorded faster growth. Over the first nine months of 2025, total real estate sales in the capital reached Dh94 billion, representing a 43 percent increase compared to the same period a year earlier. This growth has been driven by rising demand from both local and international buyers.
In contrast, Riyadh’s real estate market experienced a more mixed year. Transaction values and volumes declined during the second and third quarters compared to 2024. However, analysts expect activity to rebound following the opening of the Saudi market to foreign property buyers, a move likely to attract new capital while also raising concerns around affordability for local residents.
As regional competition intensifies, Dubai’s combination of scale, liquidity, and investor confidence continues to set it apart as the Gulf’s undisputed property powerhouse.
