I am a footwear designer and owner of Thaqafah handmade shoes. We find new designers style their clothes with our shoes to give style inspiration to those who want ideas on how to style our unique shoes
If you’re looking to buy property in Dubai, the obvious areas have already had their moment. But that doesn’t mean the window has closed, it just means the next chapter of Dubai property is unfolding in new places. These are the neighbourhoods still taking shape, and that’s the point. Get in early, and you’re ahead of the curve. Here’s where to invest in Dubai property in 2025.
Emaar Beachfront
Emaar Beachfront is already drawing in buyers who want it all, beach access, city views, and clean, modern buildings that don’t feel overbuilt. Tucked between Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, this area is hitting its stride. The 1.5km private beach, proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road, and Dubai Harbour’s cruise terminals and lighthouse make it a strong all-rounder. It’s already liveable, but still has room to grow, making it a solid pick for medium to long-term gains.
Dubai Islands
Dubai Islands are what you get when you combine beachfront living with a design brief that said “do everything.” Four man-made islands, 16 new beachfront buildings, and a lot of room to grow. It’s not all built out yet, and that’s exactly why it’s one to watch. The exclusivity and waterfront lifestyle will keep the value ticking up, especially as infrastructure fills in.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Creek Harbour is a waterfront city on the edge of Downtown that’s quietly setting itself up to become Dubai’s new urban core. Think skyline views, Ras Al Khor flamingos, and a new record-breaking tower – Creek Tower. It’s big, it’s by Emaar, and it’s designed for those who want a slice of city life without the traffic. With nine districts and a mix of apartments and villas, there’s a lot to pick from, and the price per square foot still hasn’t peaked.
Palm Jebel Ali
Palm Jebel Ali isn’t just another island, it’s the sequel to Palm Jumeirah, but with more space and more villas. It’s being developed with a high-luxury slant, from branded resorts to beachfront mansions. This one is for buyers who are planning ahead and aiming high. Expect major price jumps as infrastructure and handovers come through.
Expo City
Built on the legacy of Expo 2020, Expo City is one of the most interesting communities on this list. With new off-plan projects like Sidr Residences and Terra Heights, the neighbourhood is becoming a magnet for professionals and families who want sustainability without sacrificing comfort. Close to Dubai South, the airport, and the metro, this one’s got long-term appeal baked in.
Dubai South
Once known mainly for the airport, Dubai South is pivoting fast. With land carved out for new residential communities and budget-friendly prices still in play, this is where future-forward buyers are placing bets. It’s practical, connected, and aligns with the Dubai 2040 masterplan; which means long-term upside without the current-day premiums.
Tilal Al Ghaf
Not everyone wants skyscrapers. Tilal Al Ghaf is the quiet achiever in the property scene, laid-back, green, and well connected. The Crystal Lagoon makes it feel more like a relaxed resort than a housing development, and with townhouses, villas, and even six-bed mansions, it’s attracting everyone from young families to remote-working professionals. Sustainable living is no longer a trend, it’s a strategy
The Valley
Set along Al Ain Road, The Valley is where suburban life and city access meet in the middle. Green spaces, family parks, and community pools give it that lived-in feel, but the area is still developing, making it one to keep tabs on. Villas and townhouses are the main options here, and prices are still relatively accessible compared to more central spots.
Al Jaddaf
Al Jaddaf is often overlooked, and that’s what makes it interesting. Sitting just 10 minutes from both Downtown and Dubai International Airport, it’s central without the price tag. With the Etihad Rail connection on the way and a shift to freehold ownership, the area is getting attention from investors. It’s already got a metro, and with more development on the cards, it could be the surprise hit of 2025.
The Acres
Tucked into Dubailand, The Acres is one of those rare spots that feels calm without being cut off. Designed by Meraas, the vibe is low-rise, green, and built for families. Parks, walking trails, and a slower pace of life, but with quick access to Downtown and Marina. First handovers land in 2026, so now is the moment to get in early if you’re thinking long-term.
A contemporary 2-bedroom apartment with 1,056–1,336 sqft of living space, featuring open-concept living and dining areas, full-height windows and balcony with vista views of Dubai Marina.
Designed with premium European kitchens (Siemens/Villeroy & Boch), sleek Italian cabinetry, two spacious bedrooms, and luxurious bathrooms.
Residents enjoy exclusive access to amenities including:
• an infinity pool,
•full-floor wellness deck with gym,
•yoga studio,
• steam/sauna rooms,
•virtual golf suite,
•kids’ playroom,
•conference/library facilities,
•and round-the-clock concierge services
Completion date June 2025
If you are searching for residential properties to buy either offplan or ready Properties in the UAE, we will give you options to suit your budget.
Be sure to join our investor contact list to be notified about prelaunch and first launch deals to ensure you get first advantage buying.
Contact Us for more information , to book a unit or consultation session on WhatsApp +971 55 134 8912
First Dubai rent drops show up after city’s ‘smart’ Rental Index launch in January ’25
In Some Dubai residential communities, rents are not just stabilising but actually starting to drop.
Dubai: Apartments in Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) are among the handful of locations in Dubai seeing rents drop currently – and which could extend to more mid- to upper-mid income communities in the city.
Listings show studios in Jumeirah Village Triangle at around the Dh50,000 mark, while 1-bedrooms are showing a wide range between Dh78,000 and just over Dh100,000, depending on the age of the building and whether the units come fully furnished or not.
On a 12-month basis, new lease rates at JVT are seeing a 2.64% drop. Now, that would shave off only a few thousands from a new rental contract entered into for a JVT home – but that’s still some saving.
But the key detail is that more communities in Dubai are actually seeing rent declines, according to data from GCP Properties. And at some of these places, quite substantially.
What about Jumeirah Village Circle
If the rental drop extends to Jumeirah Village Circle as well, that would be a decisive break for residents looking at housing options near enough to the main parts of the city. A studio is listing at Dh65,000, while 1-bedroom apartments are showing landlords asking for Dh75,000-Dh90,000.
Springs provide a rental break
“Homes at The Springs have seen new rent leases fall by 6.6%,” says data from GCP Properties. This is ‘much more noteworthy than the 12-month change’ seen at the upscale villa residential community.
So, current listings show a 3-bedroom unit asking for Dh200,000 and a 3-bedroom property where the landlord wants Dh245,000.
First drops since Dubai’s smart Rental Index launch
These rent declines are also the first to show up since Dubai introduced the ‘smart’ rental index at the start of 2025.
It is leading to a two-tier rental market, where certain mid-tier locations continue to see rental gains of 5%-15% on average as they level up. And there are those upscale locations where rents have peaked – and are now starting to drop.
Biggest rental drops
So far, the biggest rent drops are at The Lakes and Jumeirah Park, which are averaging 10.76% and 9.66% on an annualized basis up to end June. A 3-bedroom home at Lakes is showing up at Dh285,000, while in Jumeirah Park, 4-bedroom villa rents are from Dh370,000.
The bigger question is how soon will it be before rental declines trickle down to more communities and buildings in Dubai. And even if a rent drop doesn’t happen, even rent stability will be good enough…
In June 2025, Samana Developers recorded its best-ever monthly sales reaching a value of AED1.1 billion.
Imran Farooq CEO of Samana Developers
Dubai-based real estate developer Samana Developers has risen to the fifth position in off-plan seller volume for the first half of 2025, according to Property Monitor and Oqood. The milestone comes in the wake of a period of unprecedented growth, record-breaking sales, and new projects.
The company achieved 600% growth in 2023 and secured a 2.8% market share in off-plan sales during the same year. This expansion propelled Samana into Dubai’s top seven developers in 2024, where it now commands 4.4% market share in off-plan sales and manages a portfolio valued at over AED 17 billion.
In June 2025, Samana Developers recorded its best-ever monthly sales reaching a value of AED1.1 billion. This performance contributed towards 40% growth in sales for the first half of the year compared to the previous year, solidifying Samana’s position as the 5th among top property developers in off-plan sales for H1 2025 in Dubai. A significant factor in this success is the strong international demand, with 86% of Samana Developers’ sales attributed to foreign investors, further highlighting Dubai’s enduring appeal as a secure and high-growth investment destination.
Samana Developers launched 12 new projects in 2024 alone. Building on this momentum, the company has set a target to launch 18 projects by the end of 2025- eight more than their target for 2024. Samana Developers has already delivered four projects to date and plans to hand over an additional four by the close of 2025, further solidifying its reputation for timely delivery and quality construction.
“Our exceptional growth, including a 40% increase in sales in H1 2025, is a direct reflection of Dubai’s robust and expanding real estate market,” Imran Farooq, CEO of Samana Developers, said in a statement. “The latest data indicates that the overall Dubai residential sales, combining villas and apartments, have risen by 38% in value in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching AED 262.7 billion. This strong market performance, fuelled by sustained investor confidence and a growing population, provides an ideal environment for our strategic expansion and commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative projects.”
Law lets owners cancel contracts and recover losses if work is abandoned
Question: Six months ago, I signed a contracting agreement with a contractor to build my villa. The contractor completed only about 30 per cent of the work, while I paid him for about 50 per cent of the work. Two months ago, the contractor left the work without any reason. What is the appropriate legal action I should take against this contractor? Should I sign a contracting agreement with a new contractor to complete the construction of the villa? Please advise.
Answer: According to Article 877 of the Civil Transactions Law, the contractor is obligated to perform the work according to the terms of the contract. If it is established that the contractor is fulfilling his obligations defectively or contrary to the agreement, the owner may request immediate cancellation of the contract if the situation cannot be remedied. Otherwise, the owner may summon the contractor to comply with the contract terms and rectify the work within a reasonable timeframe. If the contractor fails to do so by the deadline, the owner may ask the court to cancel the contract or authorise handing over the completion of the work to another contractor at the original contractor’s expense.
The appropriate course of action is to send the contractor a legal notice demanding compliance with the contract. If he fails to respond, you may replace him with another contractor at his expense and file a lawsuit to cancel the contract, recover the amounts paid, and claim compensation for losses and delays suffered. The contractor is responsible for guaranteeing the results of his work and is liable for any damage or loss caused by his negligence or breach, except when such damage results from an accident that could not be avoided.
With sales jump of 46 per cent in the first half of 2025, the villa and townhouse segment drives the growth where demand continues to exceed supply
Dubai’s secondary property market delivered an exceptional performance in the first half of 2025, and momentum is expected to continue in the coming quarters, driven by strong demand for family homes and limited supply.
However, some industry professionals warn that this rapid growth has led certain sellers to adopt “greedy” pricing strategies, seeking returns above prevailing market rates.
According to real estate firm Allsopp & Allsopp, the secondary market outperformed the off-plan segment across several key indicators in the first half of the year.
The total value of sales transactions in the secondary market increased by 46 per cent year-over-year, compared to a 25 per cent rise in the off-plan segment. Average sales prices for secondary properties climbed 15 per cent, while off-plan prices grew by just 5 per cent.
“This trend reflects a shift in buyer demand toward ready, high-quality inventory, driven largely by the ongoing shortage of available villas and townhouses across Dubai,” Allsopp & Allsopp noted.
“We’ve seen a significant shift in buyer focus towards the secondary market,” said Lewis Allsopp, Chairman of Allsopp & Allsopp. “This level of activity signals growing investor confidence. Wealthy buyers are choosing Dubai not just for its lifestyle but for long-term capital growth and investment returns. The secondary market is showing its strength, especially in the villa and townhouse segment, where demand continues to exceed supply.”
Lewis Allsopp.
In the first half of 2025, apartments accounted for 78 per cent of secondary market transactions by volume, while villas and townhouses made up 22 per cent. However, in terms of price growth and value, villas and townhouses significantly outperformed, reflecting high demand and limited availability of family-oriented homes.
Rising prices and ‘greedy’ sellers
Despite the positive outlook, some insiders say that a segment of property owners in the secondary market are inflating asking prices.
“There’s a lot of greed from sellers – many are demanding more than what the property is actually worth,” said Murtaza Hashmi, CEO of MH Developers. “As a result, we’re likely to see some correction in the secondary market later this year. This won’t affect the off-plan segment, but it will be a healthy adjustment for secondary sales.”
Murtaza Hashmi
With fewer new villas and townhouses being delivered, many buyers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality, renovated homes in desirable communities. This has prompted a surge in property upgrades, with refurbished homes achieving strong resale values.
“Turnkey, move-in-ready homes are becoming increasingly popular with both end-users and investors, as they offer immediate utility and strong returns,” Allsopp & Allsopp added.
Momentum continues
In the Dh5 million to Dh10 million range, the brokerage reported a 50 per cent increase in sales volume during the first six months of the year. Even more striking, the ultra-luxury segment – properties priced above Dh10 million – saw a 113 per cent surge in transaction volume.
Looking ahead to the second half of 2025, Allsopp & Allsopp expects this trend to continue, with the secondary market, especially villas and townhouses, remaining the key driver of growth. Buyer demand remains robust, and the ongoing scarcity of new, ready-to-move-in homes is likely to keep upward pressure on prices.
Sobha Realty is one of the major realtors embracing this trend
In recent years, the UAE has witnessed a significant surge in mixed-use developments, reshaping the urban landscape across cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These integrated spaces — combining residential, commercial, and recreational elements — are redefining how people live, work, and socialize.
Driven by rapid urbanization, evolving lifestyle preferences, and a push for sustainable city planning, mixed-use projects are becoming central to the nation’s real estate strategy. From waterfront communities to vertical urban hubs, these developments are not only enhancing convenience and connectivity but also contributing to economic diversification and long-term urban resilience in the UAE.
Sobha Realty is one of the major realtors embracing this trend. “A live-work-play community is no longer a distant vision of luxury; it’s the new standard for discerning residents and professionals,” Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, told Khaleej Times in an interview.
Live-work-play communities are more than a trend — they’re becoming an expectation. How is Sobha designing its mixed-use developments to meet the lifestyle needs of modern residents and professionals?
As demand for mixed-use developments grows, we are not just keeping the pace but leading the way. Rooted in our legacy and ‘Art of The Detail’ philosophy, we consistently evolve to meet the expectations of modern residents, offering a holistic living experience in one place.
Sobha Hartland which was launched in 2014, is Sobha’s pioneering master development which now showcases a tried and tested model of a mixed-use development, testing the appetite of investors and homeowners alike. Even more recently, Sobha Central was unveiled, a landmark residential community on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, which brings the live-work-play vision to life by placing everything essential – and more – within walking distance. Similarly, our mega projects in Umm Al Quwain – Sobha Siniya Island and Downtown UAQ | Sobha Realty – are envisioned as self-sustaining communities where sophistication meets functionality, creating a well-integrated environment for its growing population.
These are not just places to live; they are immersive experiences that elevate how people live, work, and play in today’s fast-paced world.
These developments are also being viewed as resilient investments. How do you see their built-in diversification playing out in the UAE’s evolving economic and real estate landscape?
Mixed-use developments are inherently more resilient than traditional projects. Their built-in diversification, across asset types, attracts broader range of resident profiles and generates multiple income streams, making them a lucrative conduit for long-term value creation.
At Sobha Realty, this is evident in our flagship developments. A prime example is Downtown UAQ | Sobha Realty, our strategic joint venture with the Government of Umm Al Quwain. Spanning over 25 million square feet, it integrates residential, retail, hospitality and public spaces within a single master-planned ecosystem. The market response speaks volumes; over 50% of units in the first three towers were sold within the first week of launch, highlighting the strong appetite for this model.
As the UAE real estate market continues to diversify, mixed-use communities are gaining prominence in meeting the evolving needs of modern residents. At Sobha Realty, we pair this trend with a strong focus on quality through our Backward Integration model; overseeing design, architecture, contracting, and construction to ensure every project delivers lasting value.
Francis Alfred – Managing Director, Sobha Realty
The collaboration with the Government of Umm Al Quwain for Downtown UAQ | Sobha Realty is significant. How does this partnership reflect changing governmental attitudes toward integrated urban communities beyond Dubai?
Our strategic partnership with the Government of Umm Al Quwain reflects a shared vision for future-ready infrastructure, economic diversification, and the creation of self-sustaining, integrated communities. Our two flagship masterplans in the emirate; Sobha Siniya Island and Downtown UAQ | Sobha Realty, are thoughtfully designed around smart-city principles and will eventually host more than 150,000 people.
The government’s proactive role, from facilitating approvals to supporting key initiatives; signals a strong and clear intent to position UAQ as a competitive emirate on the GCC map, providing reassurance on the partnership’s progress. With a focus on economic diversification, ease of doing business, and visionary governance, UAQ is emerging as a promising destination for sustainable growth and attractive returns.
Are there specific nationalities or investor profiles leading the trend around mixed-use properties?
From Jan 2024 to May 2025, Indian buyers drove ~17% of qualified sales in our mixed-use developments, while Europeans across ~35 nationalities contributed ~19.3%. This reflects a strong and sustained interest in lifestyle-driven communities that offer both residential and commercial appeal. British investors have also shown steady growth, rising from 5% in 2023 to 6% in 2025, while American and Iranian buyers each contributed around 5%, with a slight uptick observed in the American segment this year.
These patterns highlight the sustained demand from globally mobile investors who value the convenience and connectivity of integrated developments. The growing interest among Indian and British nationals, in particular, points to rising confidence in the UAE’s real estate market and in the long-term value of mixed-use communities designed for future-ready lifestyles.
Sobha Siniya Island has recorded a 20-22% price appreciation within its first year.
Tokenization has entered the real estate conversation in Dubai. How do you foresee digital asset models like tokenization shaping investment in mixed-use projects?
Tokenization is a groundbreaking initiative that broadens access to real estate by enabling more investors to enter the market with greater ease and confidence. While the tokenization approach in mixed-use projects is still maturing, the model allows investors to diversify their holdings and exposure across multiple asset classes within a single development, offering flexibility, liquidity, and access to traditionally high-barrier opportunities.
As the regulatory and technological framework continues to evolve, tokenization is poised to reshape investment strategies and unlock new value in the mixed-use real estate space.
Going ahead, does Sobha Realty consistently see mixed-use developments as the central focus of its portfolio across the UAE?
Absolutely. Mixed-use developments have always been a central pillar in Sobha Realty’s long-term portfolio strategy across the UAE, especially after being rigorously tested and developed through the initial model of Sobha Hartland. As buyer preferences evolve, today’s homebuyers and investors are no longer just looking for standalone residences; they are seeking complete ecosystems that seamlessly integrate their entire lifestyle of living, working, and leisure in an all-encompassing home.
Sobha’s master-planned communities are purposefully designed to meet this shift, combining residential, commercial, and lifestyle components within a single, cohesive environment.
A testament to this is Sobha Siniya Island, which recorded a 20-22% price appreciation within its first year, demonstrating not only market demand but also growing confidence in the mixed-use mode.
With over five decades of experience in developing master communities, Sobha Realty has evolved through different market cycles, always staying ahead of the curve. Today, governments increasingly view us as a trusted partner in shaping future cities; ones that not only well-built, but thoughtfully integrated and future-ready.
Ultra-luxury property segment in the UAE remains exceptionally strong as HNWIs invest in Dubai’s diversified economy and growing real estate sector
The UAE luxury property market is likely to evolve into a more diverse and dynamic landscape, characterized by premium offerings that cater to a discerning clientele seeking both lifestyle and investment opportunities
The UAE luxury property market in 2025 and beyond is poised for robust growth, driven by strong economic fundamentals, investor-friendly policies, and global wealth migration. Dubai, a global luxury hub, is expected to see 5-8% annual price growth, with prime areas like Palm Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai leading due to High-Net-Worth Individual (HNWI) demand, according to experts.
Leading executives, real estate experts and analysts said the UAE luxury property market is likely to evolve into a more diverse and dynamic landscape, characterized by premium offerings that cater to a discerning clientele seeking both lifestyle and investment opportunities. They said government initiatives, including golden visas and tax-free ownership, continue to attract international investors, particularly from Europe, North America, and Asia.
“The ongoing influx of expatriates and ultra HNWIs attracted to the region’s favourable tax environment and strategic location is expected to sustain demand for upscale residences. Major developments, including iconic projects like the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower and luxurious waterfront properties, will enhance the appeal of the market,” experts said.
Marcus Andersson, Director of Sales, Penthouse.ae, said the ultra-luxury property segment in the UAE remains exceptionally strong
“We anticipate continued robust demand, primarily fuelled by a significant influx of Ultra HNWIs. This migration is a strategic move by global elites drawn to the UAE’s compelling attributes that include unparalleled political stability, business-friendly environment, attractive tax advantages and a truly world-class lifestyle offering. These factors collectively create a powerful magnet for wealth and investment, ensuring the luxury property market in the UAE will likely see sustained growth in the foreseeable future,” Andersson told BTR.
He said the first half of 2025 has been exceptional for the UAE’s luxury property market, building on the strong momentum from 2024. “We’ve witnessed record-breaking deals across the sector, significantly boosting market confidence and buyer appetite. This robust performance is largely driven by continued high demand in prime locations such as Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay, Emirates Hills and Dubai Hills.”
Additionally, he said the rise of ultra-luxury branded projects has played a crucial role in accelerating growth within this exclusive segment. The overall picture is incredibly promising, with the market set to see sustained growth.
Haider Tuaima, Managing Director and Head of Real Estate Research at ValuStrat, said premium luxury properties have attracted global investors, HNWIs and millionaires relocating to the UAE.
As of January-March 2025 quarter, the prime Value Price Index (VPI) reached a new record of 220.7 points, more than double its baseline of 100 in first quarter of 2021, signalling continued strength despite a slight slowdown in growth.
“Prime property valuations, driven by exceptional views, premium amenities, superior facilities, and well-designed layouts, rose 27.5% annually and 5.3% since fourth quarter of 2024, marking the lowest quarterly increase in the past 18 months,” Tuaima told BTR.
In 2024, he said over 1,300 properties sold for over Dh10 million, representing 2.5% of all ready home sales; by May 2025, that share had climbed to 3%.
Haider Tuaima, Managing Director and Head of Real Estate Research at ValuStrat
“The golden visa programme continues to boost investment, with 35% of sales involving properties worth over Dh2 million, the threshold for 10-year residency eligibility. The outlook for high-end prime properties points to slowing growth and market stabilisation. Villa rental increases have already tapered to single digits, and capital values are expected to follow suit,” Tuaima said.
Resilience to Continue
P.P Varghese, Head of Professional Services, Cushman & Wakefield Core, said luxury property segment is expected to show resilience during the second half of the year.
“We expect sustained resilience in the ultra-prime segment through the second half of the year and beyond. While broader residential markets may begin to normalise as new supply is delivered, the luxury segment remains structurally supported by scarcity of product, high-end global demand, and continued wealth inflows,” Varghese told BTR.
“Core waterfront locations, branded residences and limited-supply trophy assets continue to see strong appetite. Over time, pricing may moderate from the rapid growth of recent years, but the depth of demand, particularly from global capital, continues to underpin long-term stability,” he said.
To a question, he said the strong momentum from 2024 has continued into the first half of 2025, with ultra-prime market activity remaining notably high, particularly in the Dh20 million and above segment.
P.P Varghese, Head of Professional Services, Cushman & Wakefield Core
“This uptick has been driven by sustained demand from both regional and international buyers. Transactions in this price bracket recorded an 85% increase compared to the same period last year, with heightened activity concentrated in prime locations such as Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay, Palm Jebel Ali, and Dubai Hills Estate. Importantly, this segment remains overwhelmingly driven by cash buyers, which provides insulation from global financing pressures.”
Farooq Syed, CEO of Springfield Properties, said Dubai’s prime residential market remains well-positioned for continued growth. As supply remains constrained and demand from international buyers persists, we expect the luxury segment to post a 5% to 9% price increase by year-end.
“In 2024, listings across Dubai’s key luxury communities declined by 52%, while the availability of ultra-prime homes, priced above $10 million, fell by 65%. With little new stock entering the pipeline at this level, we anticipate sustained upward pressure on prices into 2026.”
To a question, he said the market demonstrated strong resilience. In first quarter of 2025, Dubai recorded 111 transactions above $10 million, with a total value of $1.9 billion; a 5.7% increase on the same period in 2024. “This follows a record-breaking 2024 in which Dubai led global markets with 435 ultra-prime transactions, totalling $7.1 billion, outpacing traditionally dominant cities such as London and New York.”
HNWIs Play Key Role
Varghese of Cushman & Wakefield Core said the appeal for premium luxury property is multi-faceted. “Political and regulatory stability, full foreign ownership, long-term residency programmes such as the golden visa, and Dubai’s zero income tax environment continue to attract capital. Equally, the UAE’s positioning as a global business hub, supported by infrastructure investments like DIFC 2.0 and the Al Maktoum Airport expansion, adds depth to long-term demand. Lifestyle factors — high quality healthcare, education, safety, and global connectivity — reinforce the decision for many high-net-worth individuals who view Dubai as both a residence and an investment destination,” he said.
Varghese said agrees that migration of HNWIs and millionaires have a positive impact on premium luxury properties in the UAE. “This remains one of the most significant structural drivers of the luxury segment. The UAE is projected to attract 7,100 new millionaires in 2025, the highest net inflow globally. Much of this capital finds its way into luxury real estate, particularly in limited-supply assets with long-term wealth preservation characteristics. Beyond individual purchases, we’re also seeing greater activity from family offices and wealth platforms allocating capital across both personal use and investment-led trophy assets.”
Syed said Dubai has increasingly positioned itself as a preferred destination for globally mobile capital. The city offers a compelling combination of lifestyle, connectivity, and long-term financial security, underpinned by a regulatory environment that supports both individual and institutional investment.
“In this context, we continue to see high-net-worth individuals acquiring properties not purely as speculative assets, but as primary residences, second homes, and multigenerational holdings. This behavioural shift is particularly evident in the ultra-prime segment. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Dubai recorded 111 transactions above $10 million, with the average deal size reaching approximately $17.1 million (Dh63 million). These figures speak to the depth of demand and the continued appeal of Dubai’s most sought-after residential enclaves,” he said.
As global wealth continues to diversify across regions, Dubai’s ability to attract and retain capital of this calibre reinforces its emergence as a permanent home for international investors,” he added.
Major Catalyst
Andersson said the surge in demand for premium luxury properties in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, is fuelled by several factors.
“We’re seeing a significant inflow of global wealth, drawn by the visionary golden visa programme and the region’s strong political stability. Add to that the attractive tax advantages and an exceptionally business-friendly environment and you have the perfect mix of incentives for UHNWIs. As Dubai continues its rapid growth as a global hub, it naturally attracts more and more UHNWIs, directly propelling the ultra-luxury segment upwards,” he said.
He said the influx of HNWIs and millionaires is undeniably acting as a powerful catalyst, significantly boosting investments in premium luxury properties across the UAE, especially in Dubai. “This migration isn’t just a trend; it’s creating a positive loop: the more affluent individuals who establish roots here, the more others are encouraged to follow.”
The rise of ultra-luxury branded projects has played a crucial role in accelerating growth within this exclusive segment.
He said these discerning investors are consistently impressed and drawn by the UAE’s compelling offerings, which include favourable tax advantages, a highly business-friendly environment and an ultra-luxury lifestyle that’s second to none. Furthermore, the availability of some of the world’s best schools and healthcare systems adds to the emirates’ appeal as a comprehensive destination for global elites.
“A key driver within this segment has also been an increasing number of premium branded luxury properties. These developments offer a unique blend of exclusivity, world-class amenities and trusted brand prestige, making them particularly attractive to HNWIs. As more of these affluent individuals choose Dubai, we expect this momentum to continue, further solidifying the UAE’s position as a global hub for luxury living and investment,” he said.
Golden Visa Impact
Andersson said golden visa programme is one of the major reasons for investment in the luxury property segment. “Yes, without a doubt, the golden visa programme is one of the most significant driving factors behind the surge in luxury property investment in the UAE. Its ease and direct link to property acquisition make it an exceptionally attractive proposition for global investors.”
“It’s truly unique — very few places in the world offer such a straightforward path to long-term residency by simply purchasing a property. The ability to secure a 10-year golden visa that’s both easy to obtain and simple to renew, coupled with the security of freehold property ownership, makes the UAE one of the most investor-friendly environments globally. The fact that investors don’t even need to permanently reside in the country to maintain the visa further enhances its appeal, making it a compelling incentive for HNWIs looking to secure their future and assets in a stable and thriving market,” he said.
Varghese said the golden visa is certainly a contributor — it offers residency stability that allows investors to take a longer-term view. However, it is one component within a broader set of motivations. “For many high-net-worth buyers, their decisions are ultimately shaped by the UAE’s combination of capital preservation, political neutrality, lifestyle quality, and policy clarity. The golden visa framework enhances Dubai’s global competitiveness but is not the sole driver.”
Syed acknowledged the benefits of the golden visa programme and said it attracted significant investment in luxury property segment. “Yes, the golden visa has been a fundamental enabler of long-term commitment. By offering 10-year renewable residency through real estate investment, the programme has moved Dubai from a speculative destination to a permanent residence for many global investors,” he said.
While the golden visa continues to serve as a key policy lever, the market’s strength is equally anchored in supply-side constraints, consistent international demand, and Dubai’s evolving position as a primary residence destination. These fundamentals, rather than one-off incentives, are what underpin the long-term stability of the luxury segment,” he added.
Auresta Tower rises gracefully above Dubai’s skyline, standing as more than just a residential building it is a symbol of aspiration, achievement, and architectural excellence.
Developed by the visionary minds at Tiger Properties, this iconic 63-story structure is a bold statement of modern luxury and innovation, located in the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle one of Dubai’s most vibrant communities.
Auresta Tower masterplan by Tiger Properties is a striking addition to the Jumeirah Village Circle masterplan, rising 63 stories within this vibrant, master-planned community. As a part of the larger project masterplan, Auresta Tower delivers a modern lifestyle experience through intelligent design and a wide range of upscale amenities. This architectural landmark offers contemporary residential units with access to lush green spaces, wellness zones, and social hubs. Designed for convenience and elegance, it caters to residents seeking both tranquility and connectivity in one of Dubai’s most well-located neighborhoods.
Aurestais not merely a place to live, but a complete lifestyle experience that blends contemporary design with smart living, offering a range of world-class amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness center, a dedicated kids’ pool and play area, sauna and steam rooms, sports courts, jogging and cycling tracks, yoga and meditation decks, lush garden zones, an elegant indoor lounge, 24/7 surveillance, and BBQ areas—creating a daily living experience that truly exceeds expectations.
Amenities:
•24×7 security & CCTV surveillance •Fully equipped fitness center & gymnasium •Outdoor swimming pool with jacuzzi •Kids’ pool & play area •Sauna & steam rooms •Sports courts & cycling/jogging tracks •Yoga & meditation decks •Landscaped gardens & BBQ areas •Indoor lounge & community spaces •Smart high-speed elevators & covered parking
Please Note: The prices listed here are the starting prices and there is no guarantee that units in this project at the lowest starting price listed will still be available when you inquire.
Be sure to join our investor contact list to be notified about prelaunch and first launch deals to ensure you get first advantage buying.
It offers easy access to major roads and key economic hubs, including Al Maktoum International Airport, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road
Dubai South Properties has announced the launch of Hayat, a new master-planned community spanning 10 million square feet
The development is located in the Golf District at Dubai South, near the existing terminal of Al Maktoum International Airport. Hayat by Dubai South will feature approximately 2,500 residential units.
Strategically located, Hayat offers easy access to major roads and key economic hubs, including Al Maktoum International Airport, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road, Jebel Ali Free Zone, and Dubai South Free Zone.
The first phase of the development is scheduled for completion in Q2 2028.
Philly2dubairealtor 