The United Arab Emirates is witnessing a surge in its luxury real estate market, driven significantly by the burgeoning sector of branded residences. According to the latest report from CBRE, a prominent global real estate services firm, this trend is reshaping the high-end property landscape across key emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.

The UAE’s economic resilience, characterized by a robust GDP growth forecast of 5.3% for 2025, has created fertile ground for the expansion of branded residences. This growth is underpinned by the non-oil sector’s expansion, increasing tourism, and the steady influx of high-net-worth individuals seeking investment opportunities in the region. These factors collectively bolster investor confidence in luxury, brand-led residential projects.

Dubai: A Mature Market with Rising Premiums

Dubai stands out as the most developed market for branded residences in the region. The emirate recorded a 26% year-on-year increase in transaction volumes during the first nine months of 2025. Over 7,700 branded units were sold, with the total sales value soaring by 51% to nearly AED 50 billion. Buyers in Dubai are paying an average premium of around 64% for branded homes compared to their non-branded counterparts, a figure that significantly surpasses global averages.

This growth is predominantly fueled by the ultra-luxury villa segment, which includes high-profile launches associated with global automotive and lifestyle brands. While hospitality-linked projects continue to dominate the market, there is a noticeable rise in non-hospitality branded residences, which adds diversity in terms of price points and buyer profiles. Notably, more than 80% of branded transactions in Dubai are off-plan, highlighting investor eagerness for early access to flagship developments.

Abu Dhabi: Exclusivity Drives Growth

In contrast, Abu Dhabi’s growth trajectory is shaped by exclusivity and scarcity rather than sheer scale. The capital saw branded residence transaction volumes increase by 126% year-on-year in the first nine months of 2025, primarily driven by new launches on Saadiyat and Yas islands. Buyers in Abu Dhabi are paying average premiums of about 87%, reflecting the limited supply and strong brand appeal, coupled with the integration of cultural and leisure infrastructure.

Branded homes are expected to constitute up to 18% of Abu Dhabi’s residential deliveries by 2029, indicating a sustained demand for these exclusive properties. The emphasis on cultural and leisure amenities makes Abu Dhabi a unique player in the branded residences market, appealing to a niche segment of affluent buyers.

Ras Al Khaimah: The Emerging Luxury Hotspot

Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly emerging as the UAE’s fastest-growing branded residences market. This growth is supported by the emirate’s strategic repositioning towards luxury tourism and leisure. The development pipeline is heavily concentrated around Al Marjan Island, where branded units are projected to comprise 54% of new supply by 2030. The announcement of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort has been a significant catalyst, drawing international brands and investor interest.

Recent project launches in Ras Al Khaimah have achieved record-breaking sales, underscoring the emirate’s increasing appeal to both regional and international buyers. The focus on luxury tourism and leisure is transforming Ras Al Khaimah into a sought-after destination for high-net-worth individuals looking for premium investment opportunities.

Wealth Migration and Investment Trends

The rise of branded residences in the UAE is closely linked to global wealth migration trends. High-net-worth individuals and “everyday millionaires” are drawn to the stability, long-term value, and lock-and-leave investment options that branded residences offer. As global brands continue to expand their footprint in the UAE, and with significant new supply scheduled through to 2030, branded living is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the country’s luxury property market.

Overall, the UAE’s branded residences market is a testament to the country’s dynamic real estate sector, which continues to attract global attention and investment. With its blend of economic growth, strategic development, and luxury branding, the UAE is setting new benchmarks in the global luxury real estate market.

Source: the original article