Dubai’s real estate market remained robust in March 2025, with off-plan sales accounting for 62.5% of total transactions, continuing to dominate market activity despite a slight dip compared to previous months. The emirate recorded a total sales value of AED 64.6 billion across 18,815 transactions, showcasing strong investor confidence in both off-plan and ready property segments.
Off-plan transactions contributed AED 1.19 billion, or 62.5% of the market’s activity in March. Apartments dominated this segment, accounting for 68.3% of off-plan sales, followed by villas at 26.6%, and commercial properties at 4.6%. Hotel apartments and rooms held a minor share of 0.5%.
The continued preference for off-plan properties is driven by attractive payment plans, lower entry costs, and high potential for capital appreciation. Emerging developments like Palm Jebel Ali and The Oasis have further fueled interest in this segment, particularly among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking exclusivity and long-term returns.
Ready Market: Steady Demand from End-Users
The ready property market accounted for 37.5% of total transactions, with sales totaling AED 713.7 million. Apartments led the category with 59.3% of sales, followed by villas at 30.9%, commercial properties at 8.9%, and hotel apartments at 0.9%
Ready properties continue to appeal to end-users and investors seeking immediate returns through rental income or occupancy, particularly in established areas like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina.
Dubai’s luxury real estate market also saw significant activity in March, with ultra-luxury properties priced over AED 10 million witnessing a steady rise in demand. Developments like Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate remain hotspots for affluent buyers, while branded residences continue to command premiums.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
- Price Growth: The average price per square foot (PSFT) for off-plan apartments rose to AED 1,800, while villas averaged AED 1,300 PSFT.
- Investor Confidence: Daily transaction peaks, such as AED 5.4 billion on March 17, highlight robust institutional activity and strategic acquisitions.
- Sustained Momentum: Experts predict that Dubai’s real estate sector will maintain its positive trajectory throughout 2025, supported by demand across both luxury and mid-market segments.
Conclusion: A Balanced Market with Strong Investor Appeal
While off-plan sales experienced a slight dip in March, they continue to dominate Dubai’s real estate market, reflecting sustained investor interest in new developments. With rising demand across both off-plan and ready property segments, Dubai remains a global hotspot for real estate investment in 2025.
Credit: This article is based on information from LinkedIn Insights, Big News Network, fam Properties Blog, and Eslam Hegazy’s Real Estate Overview.