Dubai’s real estate market continues to break records, with off-plan property sales reaching historic highs in the third quarter of 2025. According to the latest report by Cavendish Maxwell, off-plan transactions surged to 42,000 units, making up an impressive 76% of all residential sales in Dubai. This growth highlights the strong investor confidence driving the Dubai real estate market and the rising global interest in property in Dubai.
Unprecedented Demand Fuels Developer Acceleration
Developers are responding aggressively to the booming demand by reducing construction timelines and launching projects across every price point. The report notes that the average project cycle has dropped from 1,340 days in 2023 to just 880 days—a major shift that reflects the city’s fast-paced development culture.
This rapid activity demonstrates solid market confidence but also raises important questions about long-term sustainability and delivery capacities as the market expands.
Key Market Highlights
- Off-Plan Sales at an All-Time High
42,000 off-plan units sold in Q3 2025
AED 138 billion in off-plan transaction value
Marks a 24% year-on-year increase
Off-plan now represents three-quarters of all property sales in Dubai
These numbers reaffirm that off-plan property in Dubai remains the preferred choice for both investors and end-users seeking flexible payment plans and high capital appreciation. - Expanding Project Pipeline
Despite completing 9,400 new homes in Q3, slightly below earlier expectations, Dubai’s delivery pipeline is expanding rapidly. By 2028, the city is expected to add 366,000 new units, highlighting enormous growth potential for those planning to invest in Dubai property. - Strong Price and Rental Growth
Property prices increased 16% year-on-year
Rents climbed 11%, though rental inflation is beginning to stabilize
Continued demand from residents and new expatriates supports steady rental yields
These trends reinforce Dubai’s position as one of the most resilient and profitable real estate markets globally. - Luxury Market Remains Strong
Sales of ultra-luxury homes priced above AED 50 million totaled AED 5.9 billion in Q3. This segment continues to attract high-net-worth international buyers, particularly those seeking stability, lifestyle benefits, and long-term residency options.
What’s Driving Dubai’s Real Estate Boom?
Several long-term factors are powering the continued growth of off-plan sales in Dubai:
Population growth driven by global talent inflow
Golden Visa and long-term residency reforms
Business-friendly policies and tax advantages
Foreign investment inflows at record levels
World-class infrastructure and rapid urban development
Dubai’s appeal as a safe, high-return investment destination remains unbeatable in the region.
Market Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
Cavendish Maxwell expects demand to remain strong heading into 2026, supported by investor confidence and the city’s expanding economic opportunities. However, as Dubai’s project pipeline grows, there may be gradual balancing in supply and pricing over the next two years.
For investors, this means the next two years offer a strategic window to secure high-ROI off-plan property in Dubai before new inventory stabilizes the market.
