Dubai property prices trend in 2026
The UAE real estate market, much like the country’s economy, has in recent years diversified beyond its reliance on oil prices by developing other sectors such as tourism, transport, finance, and services. Between 2002 and 2008, residential property prices in Dubai nearly quadrupled, only to fall sharply due to the global financial crisis. From 2012 to 2015, the UAE market experienced a strong recovery, with housing prices rising by an average of 20% annually. This marked the beginning of a renewed phase of growth in the real estate market.
However, the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to a decline in property values in Dubai, driven by a significant drop in tourist numbers and the departure of skilled expatriates working in hospitality, aviation, and marine transport sectors. Since the reopening of borders, the UAE real estate market has seen robust growth once again.
In June 2025, the median cost per square meter for off-plan apartments in Dubai was $5,464, reflecting a 10% increase from June 2024.
Dubai Real Estate Market in 2026
Median cost per sqm (USD) | Median cost per sqft (AED) | Median apartment price (USD) | |
Dubai Marina | 11,230 | 3,832 | 1,217,921 |
Jumeirah | 8,617 | 2,940 | 1,239,107 |
Business Bay | 7,648 | 2,610 | 646,751 |
Dubai Hills | 7,469 | 2,549 | 872,566 |
Meydan City | 5,484 | 1,871 | 505,655 |
Motor City | 5,737 | 1,958 | 343,186 |
Arjan | 4,177 | 1,425 | 272,343 |
From $505,000
Completion in: 2029.II Total of 1097 apartments
From $213,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 210 apartments
From $742,000
Completion in: 2027.IV 108 units in total
From $157,000
Completion in: 2028.II Total of 5800 apartments
From $272,000
Completion in: 2029.II Total of 726 apartments
From $589,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 291 apartments
Dubai Real Estate Market Trends in 2025
boasts two international airports, one of which is the largest transportation hub in the Persian Gulf, as well as two seaports. The Dubai Deep Sea Port has established low customs duties, and together with a favourable tax policy, Dubai ranks third globally as a re-export centre.
Tourism remains an important part of Dubai’s economy. In January 2026, the emirate welcomed 2.00 million international overnight visitors, 3% more than a year earlier.
There is a notable increase in interest from Western Europe, with tourists from this region comprising 22% of the total number of visitors.
According to the Dubai Land Department, real estate transactions in June 2025 reached record levels compared to 2024 with the total transaction volume also set a multi-year record.
In Q1 2026, Dubai recorded 60,303 real estate transactions worth AED 252 billion. Transaction volume rose 6% and value 31% year on year.
In June 2025, 10,946 transactions were completed for properties under construction, which is 15.4% more than in June 2024 (9,489 transactions). This marks a 7% decline compared to May 2025.
The surge in demand for real estate in Dubai is not only driven by the post-pandemic recovery in investment activity but also by geopolitical factors. Foreign buyers now view Dubai as a safe haven for preserving capital and ensuring stable income from real estate investments.
Popular Areas for Buying Property in Dubai
Property prices in Dubai’s various districts have been influenced by the emirate’s investment policies. According to local laws, foreigners can only acquire freehold properties in designated areas, which have become hotspots for international capital. Areas such as Dubai Marina and Business Bay, where foreign investment was first permitted, now feature some of the highest property prices in the city.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is renowned for its artificial harbour, which, upon completion, will be the largest in the world. This area is dominated by high-rise buildings, with a mix of office spaces and residential apartments. The seafront features a long promenade lined with recreational areas, restaurants, and shopping centres.
Due to its futuristic skyline and excellent infrastructure, apartments in Dubai Marina are highly sought after by foreign buyers, particularly European expatriates.
Average Apartment Prices in Dubai Marina (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
From $1,246,000
Completion in: 2029.IV Total of 226 apartments
From $470,000
Completion in: 2027.III Total of 722 apartments
From $2,641,000
Completion in: 2027.II Total of 649 apartments
From $3,186,000
Built in 2025 155 units in total
$571,000
Total area 121 m² 2 bedrooms
From $1,089,000
Built in 2021 Total of 179 apartments
From $4,660,000
Completion in: 2028.IV Total of 550 apartments
Jumeirah
Jumeirah is home to luxury residential complexes and villas, tourist attractions, landscaped beaches, and iconic skyscraper hotels. Over time, new developments have sprung up on artificial islands near Jumeirah’s coastline, such as The World Islands.
Originally, only Emirati citizens were permitted to purchase property in Jumeirah, and freehold projects remain limited. This makes Jumeirah’s properties particularly desirable, with affordable options quickly selling out.
Average Apartment Prices in Jumeirah (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
From $1,130,000
Completion in: 2026.I Total of 1265 apartments
From $458,000
Completion in: 2027.I Total of 78 apartments
From $12,524,000
Completion in: 2025.II 48 units in total
From $95,303,000
Completion in: 2029.I 6 units in total
From $95,303,000
Completion in: 2029.I Total of 29 apartments
From $471,000
Built in 2025 Total of 240 apartments
Business Bay
As its name suggests, Business Bay is Dubai’s business hub and one of the Middle East’s main financial centres. The area is predominantly used for offices, shopping centres, and other commercial real estate. However, there are also residential complexes that are popular among foreign buyers and tenants, especially those working or conducting business in the area.
Average Apartment Prices in Business Bay (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
From $10,619,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 63 apartments
From $628,000
Completion in: 2028.IV Total of 1310 apartments
From $324,000
Completion in: 2027.III Total of 41 apartments
From $589,000
Completion in: 2026.IV Total of 1400 apartments
From $3,130,000
Built in 2026 Total of 48 apartments
From $950,000
Completion in: 2027.II Total of 311 apartments
Off-Plan Dubai Real Estate Market
The number of residential properties purchased at the construction stage continues to grow in Dubai. In June 2025, off-plan real estate transactions reached a total of $7.57 billion. Since these properties are still under development, their prices are generally lower than those in already established areas. This makes investing in off-plan properties in Dubai a relatively affordable option, with the potential for property value to rise by the time construction is completed.
An additional incentive for purchasing off-plan properties is the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for two to ten years, with the option for unlimited renewal.
In MBR City, mid-rise residential projects are being developed, inspired by European architecture and neighbourhoods. These developments include schools, children’s play areas, and sports facilities. The most popular communities in MBR City, known for their well-developed infrastructure, are Dubai Hills Estate and Meydan City.
Average Apartment Prices in Dubai Hills Estate (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
Dubai Hills Estate is one of the most prestigious and eco-friendly neighbourhoods in the city. Centrally located, it is surrounded by green parks and golf courses. Unlike Meydan, Dubai Hills benefits from better infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, shopping centres, and metro links.
From $582,000
Built in 2025 Total of 304 apartments
From $11,709,000
Built in 2026 40 units in total
From $8,550,000
Built in 2026 138 units in total
From $781,000
Built in 2026 Total of 282 apartments
From $2,342,000
Built in 2022 1000 units in total
From $1,307,000
Completion in: 2028.III 12 units in total
From $5,990,000
Built in 2024 75 units in total
From $751,000
Completion in: 2027.III Total of 389 apartments
Average Apartment Prices in Meydan City (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
Meydan City is a hub for entertainment, sports, and business, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike. Located nearby is the renowned Meydan Racecourse, which hosts the world’s largest horse racing festival each year. The world’s largest shopping mall, the Mall of the World, is also planned for development here.
From $670,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 80 apartments
From $697,000
Completion in: 2025.III Total of 343 apartments
From $457,000
Built in 2024 Total of 127 apartments
From $665,000
Built in 2025 Total of 179 apartments
From $1,126,000
Built in 2025 Total of 71 apartments
From $716,000
Built in 2024 Total of 1600 apartments
From $324,000
Built in 2023 Total of 16000 apartments
Average Apartment Prices in Motor City (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
One of Dubai’s most promising up-and-coming neighbourhoods, Motor City is famous for its Formula 4 track and racing circuits. This green, residential area boasts excellent transport links and infrastructure for comfortable living.
Tranio is currently collaborating with Aqua Properties to develop a co-living centre in Motor City. As the primary construction partner, Tranio has secured the best prices for its clients. With full payment, the price per square metre in The Community Motor City co-living project starts from $2,884 — 30% lower than comparable projects.
Contact us to learn more about The Community Motor City project. We will send you a presentation with detailed profitability calculations from our analysts and answer all your questions.
Contact us
From $545,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 3420 apartments
From $197,000
Completion in: 2027.III Total of 258 apartments
From $231,000
Completion in: 2027.IV Total of 790 apartments
From $220,000
Yield 6.0% Completion in: 2028.I
From $272,000
Completion in: 2026.IV Total of 287 apartments
From $258,000
Completion in: 2026.III Total of 714 apartments
From $398,000
Completion in: 2028.II Total of 982 apartments
Average Apartment Prices in Arjan (June 2025)
per square metre (off-plan)
per square foot (off-plan)
average price per apartment (off-plan)
Arjan is a peaceful neighbourhood, just 20 minutes from Dubai Marina, popular among young professionals and affluent middle-class families. Both buying and renting property in Arjan caters to a quiet lifestyle.
The area is not oversupplied, and rents are approximately 10% higher than in neighbouring Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), with 80% fewer vacant units. By Q4 2023, Arjan ranked in the top five neighbourhoods in Dubai for property transactions.
From $199,000
Completion in: 2026.IV Total of 381 apartments
From $425,000
Completion in: 2026.IV Total of 653 apartments
From $182,000
Completion in: 2026.IV Total of 150 apartments
From $249,000
Completion in: 2028.II Total of 428 apartments
From $195,000
Completion in: 2027.I Total of 165 apartments
From $185,000
Completion in: 2027.II Total of 198 apartments
Coastal Villas: Luxury Property Prices in Dubai
Following the work-from-home trend during the COVID-19 pandemic, demand—and consequently prices—for villas and townhouses in Dubai began rising since the end of 2021. Prices for off-plan villas increased by 5.5% in 2025 compared to the same period the previous year, while completed villas saw a 14% rise.
The average price for villas and townhouses in Dubai ranges from 5.5 million to 17.5 million AED ($1.5–4.5 million), depending on location. The most expensive properties are on the Palm Jumeirah Islands, while more affordable villas can be found in newer areas like DAMAC Hills and DAMAC Hills 2.
From $543,000
Completion in: 2027.III 500 units in total
From $889,000
Completion in: 2027.IV 47 units in total
From $2,639,000
Completion in: 2028.IV 5 units in total
From $20,633,000
Completion in: 2027.I 24 units in total
From $3,186,000
Built in 2025 155 units in total
From $1,656,000
Completion in: 2027.I 75 units in total
$35,000,000
Total area 2,136 m² Land area: 1,393 m²
From $1,639,000
Completion in: 2028.IV 100 units in total
Rental Property Market in Dubai
In Q2 2025, the Dubai Land Department recorded over 40,000 newly registered lease agreements. Following a period of rapid growth, median rental rates showed signs of moderation in Q1 2025. By the end of June, median rents stood at AED 78.35 per sq ft for new contracts and AED 56.04 per sq ft for renewals.
The new lease premium — the pricing gap between new and renewed contracts for comparable units — reached 40% in Q2 2025. This marks an increase from 23% in 2023 and a slight uptick from 39% in 2024, highlighting landlords’ growing pricing power in a tight rental market.
Gross rental yields remain attractive, exceeding 6.7% on average. According to C&W, apartments currently generate a gross yield of 7.2%, while villas yield 5.2%, underscoring continued investor appetite for income-generating residential assets across the UAE.
The cost of rental housing in Dubai depends not only on the quality (total area of housing, comfort level), but also on the location of the rental property, with the highest price exceeding the lowest 10 times.
Average Rental Costs in Dubai in 2025
- The average rent for an apartment in Dubai rose to $18,785 per year for new leases.
- The most popular rental areas in 2025 were Jabal Ali First, Al Warsan First, Dubai Marina, Al Nadha Second, Al Barsha South Fourth, and Business Bay.
- In the villa segment, average annual rents increased to $50,006 in 2025, up 2% compared to the previous year.
$10,200 per week
6 bedrooms 12 guests
$8,500 per week
Total area 550 m² 4 bedrooms
Price on request
Total area 550 m² 4 bedrooms
$10,500 per week
4 bedrooms 8 guests
$9,800 per week
Total area 560 m² 4 bedrooms
$8,400 per week
4 bedrooms 8 guests
$2,350 per week
2 bedrooms 5 guests
$11,200 per week
5 bedrooms 10 guests
Dubai Property Prices Forecast for 2026
The UAE remains an attractive and accessible market for foreign investors due to its ease of capital movement and reliability. While European markets impose restrictions on external investment—combined with high taxes and inflationary concerns—investors are increasingly drawn to the Middle East’s real estate market.
Foreign investors are also attracted by the UAE’s commitment to maintaining neutrality, ensuring the free flow of capital, and safeguarding the personal data of property owners and account holders. Additionally, owners of qualifying Dubai property can apply for a two-year residence permit in Dubai; DLD states no minimum value for individually owned property and AED 400,000 for an applicant’s share of jointly owned property.
The Dubai Land Department reports a steady increase in real estate transactions over the past three years. Developers have resumed work on projects previously halted due to the pandemic, and new developments are drawing significant interest. Notably, the construction of the «Arabian Wonders of the World» continues, with MBR City, District 2020, and the artificial Octagon archipelago leading the way.
According to Property Monitor’s analysis, Dubai’s post-pandemic recovery has been robust, and further price growth is expected for residential properties across Dubai and other Emirates where foreign ownership is permitted.
FAQ
In Q2 2026, the median price per square metre for Dubai off-plan apartments was approximately $5,129, based on AED 1,750 per square foot.
The median price for a studio is around $195,000, for a one-bedroom apartment it's $385,000, and for a two-bedroom apartment, it's $675,000.
The median price for townhouses is AED 1.8 million ($490,000), while villas in Dubai have a median price approaching AED 3.1 million ($843,000). In general, the price range for villas and townhouses in Dubai is between AED 5.5 million and AED 17.5 million ($1.5-4.5 million). The most expensive properties are located on the Palm Jumeirah islands, while the cheapest villas can be found in the still-developing Damac Hills 2.
Demand for off-plan properties in new areas with innovative architectural and urban planning solutions is steadily increasing. MBR City, established in 2012, now holds the highest number of transactions in Dubai’s primary real estate market.
Property prices in developing neighbourhoods are generally lower than in more established areas, making off-plan investments an attractive option with potential price growth upon project completion. Popular areas among foreign investors include Jumeirah, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Creek Harbour.
The price of an apartment in Dubai depends on the location of the development and its proximity to the coastline, business districts, and tourist centres. The architecture and standard of the property, as well as the quality of amenities and resident services (such as a swimming pool, spa, gym, or children’s playroom), also play a significant role.
Additionally, factors like the view, layout, quality of finishing materials, and interior design influence the price. For rental properties, the services offered by the management company can affect costs—while apartments may be priced lower than the market average, higher commissions and stricter conditions might apply to rental property owners.
We will send you a content digest not more than once a week