The Dubai real estate market’s performance is being supported by continued population growth, with approximately 121,000 new residents joining Dubai during the first half of 2026
Dubai’s real estate market recorded 87,800 transactions worth AED291.7 billion during the first half of 2026, with off-plan properties accounting for 71 percent of all transactions. The sustained off-plan demand and the growing pipeline of landmark developments are raising expectations for the next generation of luxury residences across the city.
According to real estate developer MERED, this concentration of activity in the off-plan segment reflects continued confidence in Dubai’s development pipeline and its long-term growth prospects. The segment’s strength also highlights the market’s ability to attract buyers at an early stage of the development cycle, supported by the emirate’s robust regulatory environment, expanding infrastructure and reputation as an international destination for investment and lifestyle.
Population growth continues to drive housing demand
Alongside strong off-plan demand, the Dubai real estate market’s performance is being supported by continued population growth, with approximately 121,000 new residents joining Dubai during the first half of 2026, creating sustained demand for housing and reinforcing the city’s appeal as a global destination for investment, business and talent.
As confidence in Dubai’s future growth continues to strengthen, the off-plan market is also influencing how luxury residential developments are conceived and delivered.
The city’s pipeline has over 31,000 units scheduled for delivery by 2030, representing 8 percent of total new residential supply. Developers are differentiating their projects through world-class architecture, internationally recognized design partnerships and lifestyle-led experiences, transforming residential developments into destination-driven communities that contribute to Dubai’s evolving global identity.
“Off-plan property buyers commit before they can experience the finished product, so confidence must be earned through architectural quality, functionality and delivery credibility. As Dubai’s off-plan market continues to expand, these are the qualities that will define the next generation of luxury residences and reinforce Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most desirable places to live and invest,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED.
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Dubai property prices rise 9 percent during H1 2026
The market’s momentum is also reflected in pricing, with average property prices increasing by 9 percent during H1 2026, signaling sustained demand across residential segments while reinforcing confidence in Dubai’s long-term investment outlook.
Buyers are placing greater emphasis on developments that combine exceptional design, long-term value and a distinct sense of place. Dubai recorded 296 home sales above $10 million during H1 2026, generating $5.1 billion and setting a new first-half record. Transaction volume increased 16 percent from H1 2025, while sales value rose 14 percent, reflecting continued international demand for the city’s most distinctive residential assets.
Dubai has ranked as the world’s leading city for branded residences, with 64 completed developments and another 87 in the pipeline. Branded homes in Dubai also command an average 64 percent premium over non-branded properties. As buyers gain greater choice, developers are under pressure to create projects that offer genuine value and quality of delivery rather than relying on location or branding alone.
As Dubai continues to attract international investment, businesses and talent, the combination of sustained off-plan momentum and an expanding pipeline of architecturally distinctive, design-led developments is expected to reinforce the emirate’s position among the world’s most active real estate markets.