As Dubai’s real estate market marches steadily through the second quarter of the year, we reflect on some of the key trends that defined Q1. The momentum that has been driving the market over the past few years shows no signs of abating, with a 50% year-on-year increase in transaction volume across the city.
Performance in the super prime sector of the market was comparatively muted, with an 8.8% increase in transaction numbers for properties priced at AED 50 million and above. If we consider properties valued at AED 100 million and above, the number of transactions was unchanged, but there was a 35% increase in transaction values. Most notably, the top three sales in this quarter were each priced significantly higher than the most expensive sale in Q1 2024.
The Market Charts a Steady Path
Chris Whitehead, Managing Partner at Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty, saw few surprises at the start of the year.
“The market had a strong performance, as expected, and transaction volumes increased, “ he said. “The appetite for the properties priced at a higher tier did reduce, but that was only slightly noticeable. In general, we have almost doubled in transactions and do not see a slowing.”
Scarcity is one of the main factors that has been plaguing the top end of the market for years, and has played a major role in driving up property values. There was a slight softening on that front as more high-end properties came on to the market within roughly the same time frame.
“There have not been any significant price changes seen for Q1, but as anticipated, some sellers have been more conservative with their pricing compared to Q1 2024, “ said Chris. “This was predominantly fuelled by a high volume of renovated properties and new builds that were recently handed over. Additionally, there is a lower wealth segment of buyers currently active.”
Rising Demand, Evolving Tastes
Dubai continues to be a magnet for homebuyers and investors from across the world who are drawn to the lifestyle the city provides, its excellent infrastructure, and its attractive tax and visa incentives. Buyers are also more discerning than before about the type of property they want, with communities such as Dubai Hills Estate and Palm Jumeirah proving to be extremely popular.
Said Chris: “The demand for quality properties has increased immensely, and this is due to the influx of affluent international buyers and high-net-worth families who have high expectations which they have harboured from the residential standards they are used to across Europe.”
For both developers and current homeowners, adapting to changing buyers trends will be crucial as that will inform both marketing and pricing strategies to ensure quicker, smoother transactions.
Driven by Relationships
As Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty only focuses within the super prime segment, there has been consistent interest from a diverse segment of buyers. The firm’s business model, as outlined by Chris, is built on long-term relationships and robust networking, and the interest in brand partnerships is at an all-time high. This has been especially beneficial in the marketing of properties and has allowed for buyers to be effortlessly connected to the right properties.
“The largest number of transactions have been seen in beachfront, new build and renovation properties with the highest sale being a record-breaking AED 330 million villa sale on Jumeirah Bay Island,” he added.
All Eyes on Tariffs
The second quarter started off on a tumultuous note with the announcement of reciprocal tariffs by US President Donald Trump. Uncertainty around the enforcement of the tariffs and their impact on global trade led to international stock markets taking a sharp downward turn. For industries such as real estate, the immediate impact is quite positive.
“The hard fall in the markets midway through the quarter pushed many investors away from stocks and back to tangible assets,” said Chris of the current situation, underlining that the long-term impact is yet to be felt. “Generally, Dubai has an answer to these global challenges and I am confident this will continue.”
No Summer Vacation for Real Estate
It is typical for the top end of the market to move at a gentler pace over the summer. Potential buyers and sellers would be more inclined to travel and put off any major life decisions until after temperatures drop again. However, Chris anticipates a strong volume of demand among entry-level and mid-level offerings within the prime segment.
He said: “There is a consistent influx currently from the United Kingdom and surrounding European countries, fueled by significant taxation changes and low confidence driven by the US tariffs.”
Chris also believes there will be higher interest in super prime property across the Abu Dhabi market, which is emerging as a key player. The high-end rental segment is also expected to be very active as individuals and families who are looking to relocate may want to ‘test drive’ a community for a few months before locking in a purchase. Ultimately, all of the above factors will reap immense benefits for Dubai and the UAE in general as it continues to attract those who are seeking new lifestyles and a more dynamic environment.
