Dubai’s real estate sector remains one of the nation’s most reliable pillars of strength. Sustained growth, strong economic connections, and rising housing demand have reinforced its role as a foundation of stability. This was evident in September 2025, when property sales reached $14.8 billion (AED54.61bn), reflecting an 11.3% increase in transactions compared with the same month last year.
Recent data shows that 20,324 property transactions were recorded in September, highlighting Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most active real estate markets. The total value of sales rose by 21.2% compared to last year, with the average price per square foot reaching AED1,689 ($460).
Apartments remained the driving force of activity, with 17,112 transactions worth $8.7bn, reflecting robust demand across the mid- and high-end segments. Plots also saw remarkable growth, with 1,545 sales worth $4.3bn, a sharp rise from just 282 sales in September 2024.
Apartments and plots continued to drive activity, while villa sales recorded a sharp decline, falling to 955 transactions worth $1.4bn from more than 3,200 sales worth $4bn in the same period last year. In contrast, commercial properties showed stronger demand, with 514 sales valued at $408m, reflecting increased investor interest in income-generating assets.
Investor hotspots
Key communities continued to draw buyers and investors seeking both rental income and long-term appreciation:
- Jumeirah Village Circle: The top-performing area with yields averaging 7.39% and prices around AED1,238 per sq ft, making it attractive for both investors and residents.
- Dubai Hills Estate: Known for its premium residences, golf lifestyle, and strong rental demand.
- Business Bay: A thriving commercial and lifestyle hub offering opportunities for capital growth and steady rental yields.
Mortgage trends
Although sales remained strong, mortgage activity weakened in September. The number of registered mortgages fell to 3,787, down 9.2% from a year earlier. Mortgage lending values also dropped 24.2% to AED12.1bn ($3.3bn), indicating a shift toward direct purchases rather than financed deals.
The market also saw headline-grabbing transactions, underscoring Dubai’s appeal to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The most expensive apartment was sold for AED83m ($22.6m) at Aman Residences, while the priciest villa changed hands for AED200m ($54.5m) on The World Islands.
Among ongoing projects, demand was led by:
- Binghatti Skyrise: 318 apartment sales worth $157.3m
- Binghatti Aquarise: 305 apartment sales worth $139.5m
- Damac Islands – Seychelles 2: 176 villa sales worth $144.7m
- Dubai World Central: 167 villa sales worth $203.8m
A foundation that endures
Dubai’s real estate market is not defined by short-term gains but by long-term resilience. Its scale, consistent contribution to GDP, strong demographic demand, and rising international interest position it as a durable asset class. For investors seeking stability alongside growth potential, the fundamentals are firmly established.
