A significant majority of UAE residents are actively planning property acquisitions despite ongoing market price uncertainties, according to recent survey data. Property Finder’s bi-monthly Market Pulse research, conducted across November and December 2025 with 5,540 participants, reveals that seven out of ten residents intend to purchase real estate within the coming six-month period.
The survey indicates a nuanced shift in buyer expectations regarding property valuations. During November, 40% of respondents anticipated price declines, while 32% projected increases and 28% expected market stability. By December, expectations moderated slightly with 39% forecasting decreases, 32% still predicting growth, and 29% anticipating unchanged prices. This represents a subtle but notable change from the September-October period when price decline expectations consistently ranged between 39-40%.
Market analysts observe that while purchasers demonstrate heightened price consciousness, this awareness hasn’t substantially dampened acquisition intentions. The data suggests prospective buyers are proceeding with transactions rather than delaying decisions amid fluctuating market conditions.
Driving this sustained demand is a demographic shift seeing increased participation from young professionals aged 25-35. This trend emerges from converging factors including escalating rental costs, mortgage payments that increasingly parallel leasing expenses, and more defined long-term residency options such as the Golden Visa program. Financial practicality now positions property ownership as a viable alternative to renting for many younger buyers seeking both financial security and flexibility.
Industry experts simultaneously caution purchasers regarding substantial upfront capital requirements, typically representing 25-30% of property value for down payments and transaction fees not covered by mortgage financing. While improved affordability stems from easing interest rates and extended loan tenures, the initial financial outlay remains a significant consideration.
Developers are responding with innovative payment solutions including reduced booking amounts, post-handover payment plans, and rent-to-own options designed to facilitate the renter-to-owner transition. Concurrently, financial institutions are enhancing market accessibility through digital tools like Mashreq’s recently launched fully digital home-loan pre-approval service. This platform provides salaried residents earning minimum Dh15,000 monthly with same-day preliminary approval based on income assessment, existing liabilities, and credit history, offering clearer budgetary parameters before purchase commitment.