Dubai’s real estate market continues to exhibit remarkable resilience and growth, as evidenced by a 2.5% increase in property prices in November. This surge underscores a broader trend of rising buyer confidence, setting a promising stage for the market as it heads into 2026. According to the latest data from Betterhomes, the average property price reached AED1,950 per square foot, reflecting a sustained upward trajectory throughout the fourth quarter.

Off-Plan Sales Lead the Charge

November’s market activity was characterized by a significant volume of transactions, with 17,812 sales amounting to AED46 billion. Despite a minor seasonal dip of 2.9% in transaction volume, the market’s vitality was evident. Off-plan projects dominated the landscape, comprising 12,429 deals and accounting for 70% of the total market share. Emaar, a leading developer, spearheaded activity across both off-plan and title-deed transactions.

The demand for properties in Dubai remains robust, with a 3% increase in buyer interest. This interest is particularly concentrated in established apartment communities such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Business Bay, and Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT). Additionally, villa destinations like Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Land, and Mohammed Bin Rashid City continue to attract significant attention.

Louis Harding, CEO at Betterhomes, noted, “November showed strength without the noise. With prices up 2.5%, AED46 billion transacted, and buyer leads growing 3%, the sales market is moving with confidence driven by real demand and well-positioned projects.”

Leasing Market Demonstrates Stability

Alongside the buoyant sales market, Dubai’s leasing sector also displayed stability in November. The city registered 45,771 rental transactions, with renewals constituting 59% of all contracts. This trend indicates a preference among tenants to remain in their current residences as the year draws to a close. New rental agreements accounted for 18,873 of the transactions.

Rental prices varied across the city, with Dubai Festival City villas experiencing a 4.5% rise and Dubai Hills Estate seeing a 2% increase, driven by sustained family demand. Flexible payment options continue to be a hallmark of the market, with four-cheque leases making up 34% of contracts and single-cheque payments accounting for 27%.

Demand for rentals is concentrated around popular apartment hubs such as JVC, Business Bay, and Dubai Silicon Oasis, as well as villa communities including Dubai Hills Estate, Damac Hills 2, and The Valley. Rupert Simmonds, Director of Leasing at Betterhomes, remarked, “The leasing market moved with clarity and consistency in November. With renewals making up nearly 60% of all activity and strong interest across our core communities, tenants are prioritizing neighborhoods that support everyday living as we head into the new year.”

Outlook for 2026: A Stable Foundation

As Dubai’s real estate market looks forward to 2026, the steady performance in both sales and leasing provides a stable foundation. This stability is bolstered by ongoing population growth, market liquidity, and active engagement from developers and tenants across the city’s most sought-after districts.

The resilience of Dubai’s property market amidst global economic fluctuations is a testament to its strategic positioning and the confidence it inspires among investors and residents alike. With a focus on well-positioned projects and real demand, the market is poised to continue its upward trajectory into the new year.

In conclusion, Dubai’s real estate market is thriving, driven by strong buyer confidence and a robust leasing sector. As the city prepares for 2026, the ongoing trends suggest a stable and promising future for both investors and residents. With strategic developments and a focus on community-centric living, Dubai continues to solidify its status as a leading global real estate hub.

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