Dubai’s real estate has long been associated with its iconic skyline, defined by ambitious high-rise developments. Yet, a quieter transformation is underway. The demand for villas and townhouses is rising steadily, fuelled by families seeking permanent residences and investors drawn to thoughtfully designed communities. Leading this shift are two major developers: Damac Properties and Emaar.
According to figures from Savills Middle East, more than 50% of the villas and townhouses expected to be launched in Dubai by 2027 will be delivered by just two developers. This level of market share underscores both the scale of their upcoming supply and a broader realignment in the city’s residential development priorities.
Damac Leading the Pipeline with Scale and Strategy
Damac Properties is currently the most prominent force in the upcoming villa and townhouse segment. With 6,018 units scheduled for delivery by 2027, the developer accounts for approximately 34% of the total future supply. This figure positions Damac as the single largest contributor to the low-rise market in Dubai over the next two years.
Emaar Market Stability Through Consistent Delivery
In contrast to Damac’s rapid build-up, Emaar’s approach reflects balance and continuity. With 2,744 units already delivered by mid-2025 and another 3,468 in the pipeline, Emaar maintains a strong position representing 20% of all upcoming supply.
The Rise of New and Returning Players
Beyond the strong presence of Damac and Emaar, the villa and townhouse sector is undergoing a wider shift. A number of other developers are expanding their activity in response to expectations of continued demand.
- Nakheel is making a strong comeback, with plans to deliver 2,182 new units — almost four times more than what it completed in early 2025. This shows a clear shift in focus toward low-rise homes, a change for a developer mostly known for its large coastal and island projects.
- Reportage Real Estate, a relatively new entrant to the market, is projected to deliver 1,517 townhouses, accounting for 9% of the upcoming supply. While the developer has not recorded any completions in the current cycle, its development pipeline points to increasing investor interest in alternative players that combine competitive pricing with contemporary design.
- Dubai South Properties is advancing its projects through a gradual, well-structured approach, with 1,123 units already delivered and 792 more planned.
The Road Ahead
As the real estate landscape in Dubai continues to develop, the most significant projects in the coming years are likely to be those guided by strategic vision and a focus on community, rather than height alone. In this new phase, low-rise housing is playing a pivotal role, quietly but firmly redefining the direction of residential growth in the city.
One Investments is built on the belief that Dubai has strong long-term growth potential. The portfolio is guided by clear principles, transparency, global standards, and a smart understanding of the city’s changing real estate market. Each investment opportunity is carefully chosen, focusing on areas in Dubai that offer strong growth and lasting value.
