Engel & Völkers Middle East has found that Dubai’s property market has once again outperformed expectations through the traditionally quieter summer season, with residential transactions up 22.7% year-on-year and commercial sales value climbing 31% in the third quarter of 2025.
The results reaffirm the city’s position as a global real estate powerhouse driven by investor confidence, end-user demand, and a population now surpassing four million.
“Dubai’s property market has reached a new level of maturity. We’re seeing not just investor activity, but long-term commitment from people who view Dubai as home, a place to build their lives, careers, and legacies.”
Daniel Hadi, CEO, Engel & Völkers Middle East
In the residential market, off-plan properties continued to dominate, accounting for nearly 70% of all sales, while resale activity remained brisk in established neighbourhoods where supply is tight and lifestyle appeal strong.
Apartments made up 87% of total transactions, with 47,705 units sold for AED 91.4bn – up 26.4% from a year earlier. The luxury segment also remained robust, with 1,388 transactions above AED 10m, marking the second-strongest quarter on record. Standout deals included an AED 350m off-plan villa at Jumeirah Asora Bay and an AED 173.6m apartment at Aman Residences in Jumeirah.
New off-plan communities such as Dubai Science Park, Damac Riverside, and DLRC gained traction among investors for their long-term potential, while established districts like Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai led secondary market activity.
“Dubai has demonstrated that sustainable growth is now embedded in its DNA. It is no longer just a city for investment; it is a city of belonging, ambition, and enduring value.”
Daniel Hadi, CEO, Engel & Völkers Middle East
Rising rents and a growing sense of permanence among residents are also fueling a shift from renting to homeownership, particularly among families and professionals seeking long-term stability.
Looking ahead to Q4 and beyond, Engel & Völkers expects both residential and commercial segments to maintain their upward trajectory.
