Dubai’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate unprecedented momentum as off-plan developments solidify their position as the primary growth driver heading into 2026. Industry analysis reveals that pre-construction properties not only maintained market dominance throughout 2025 but are positioned to capture an even larger share of transaction volume in the coming year.
Market intelligence indicates that both local and international developers are preparing significant project launches that will further stimulate investor interest. According to Himanshi Trivedi, Deputy Director for Off-Plan Sales at Metropolitan Premium Properties, “Off-plan remains the driving force of Dubai’s residential real estate market, accounting for over 70% of total transactions in 2025. With major developments underway in high-growth corridors including Dubai South, Dubai Islands, and new master-planned phases by industry leaders Emaar and Damac, we anticipate off-plan unit sales to increase by 10-15% in 2026.”
The appeal of off-plan investments stems from their superior return potential compared to completed properties. Market data shows that projects nearing completion continue to experience price appreciation, while the ready market offers rental savings advantages for residents.
Betterhomes CEO Louis Harding notes a pronounced shift in demand dynamics: “Demand is clearly tilting toward new supply, especially in the apartment segment.” This trend is reflected in 2025 transaction data, where off-plan activity constituted 65% of total transactions and 53% of total value, with apartment sales surging 29% to AED 325 billion while villas and townhouses contributed AED 221 billion, representing a 26% increase.
The market expansion has been extraordinary, with approximately 145,000 new off-plan units entering the market during 2024—averaging 400 units daily. Cavendish Maxwell research indicates sales volumes reached four times pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the sector’s robust recovery and growth trajectory.
John Lyons, Managing Director at Espace Real Estate, observed: “Dubai’s real estate market, spanning both residential and commercial sales, continued to demonstrate remarkable resilience and growth throughout the second half of 2025. Transaction volumes remained robust, buoyed by sustained demand across all asset classes.”
Development leadership emerged clearly in H2 2025, with Binghatti launching over 13,000 units, followed by Damac Properties (6,588 units) and Emaar (6,262 units), signaling continued confidence in Dubai’s property market fundamentals.