Dubai’s real estate sector continues its upward trajectory with Dhs431bn in sales and over 125,000 transactions recorded so far this year. This represents a 25 per cent increase in transaction value compared to the same period last year, underlining the emirate’s rising stature as a global investment and lifestyle destination.

According to industry insiders, the growth is being fueled by sustained demand across luxury, branded, and emerging lifestyle communities, with a growing number of international investors relocating and setting up roots in the city.

Read-Dubai property is booming: What every investor should know

While investors from the UK, India, and Russia have long held a strong presence in the Dubai property market, their motivations and preferences have continued to evolve.

“Across the board, there is a demand for quality, design, and lifestyle upgrades. However, each buyer segment has distinct preferences,” said Patrick Rouse, Chief Development Officer at Deyaar Development.

“UK investors often look for well-managed communities and rental yield potential. Indian buyers prioritise location, family-friendly amenities, and long-term residency prospects. Russian buyers tend to favour larger units and luxury finishes in prestigious locations,” Rouse added.

Importantly, Dubai’s appeal has broadened well beyond these core markets. “Thanks to its global positioning and strategic reforms, we are now seeing buyers from all over the world,” Rouse noted.

The city’s evolution into a full-fledged relocation destination has also gained momentum post-pandemic. A growing number of high-net-worth individuals and families are making Dubai their primary base, rather than investing remotely.

“Relocation is undoubtedly on the rise,” Rouse confirmed. “The pandemic shifted global preferences, and many people now view Dubai not just as an investment market but as home. Our conversations with clients show a clear uptick in people moving their businesses, enrolling their children in local schools, and choosing Dubai as their main residence.”

Investor-friendly policies powering global confidence

A key factor underpinning Dubai’s property boom is its pro-investor regulatory landscape. From 100 per cent foreign ownership in many sectors to simplified visa options tied to real estate investment, Dubai has created an ecosystem designed to welcome and protect global capital.

“Add to that no property tax, transparent regulations through RERA, and a mature escrow system, and you have a market that not only attracts but protects investors,” said Rouse.

He also pointed to the Smart Rent Index by Dubai Land Department (DLD), which has helped stabilise rental pricing and curb inflation. “This ecosystem is crucial in building trust and repeat investment,” Rouse reiterated.

Five landmark developments leading the market

Against this backdrop of confidence and growth, real estate consultancy Whitewill has spotlighted five standout freehold projects offering long-term value, prime locations, and lifestyle-centric living.

Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers: Branded living in Dubai’s skyline

Rising next to the iconic Museum of the Future and adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road, the Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers is a project developed by Meraas in collaboration with Jumeirah Group.

Set within Dubai’s financial district, the twin towers, spanning 59 and 56 floors, will deliver 754 branded residences in 1 to 4-bedroom layouts.

Prices start at Dhs3.5m, with sky residences reaching up to Dhs25m.

Rental yields are projected between 6–8 per cent, with capital appreciation potential of 35–50 per cent upon handover in 2030.

Offering seamless integration with the Emirates Towers Hotel, this project is tailor-made for executives, diplomats, and high-net-worth individuals seeking a five-star lifestyle in the city’s skyline.

PASSO by BEYOND: Iconic beachfront on Palm Jumeirah

Positioned on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, PASSO by BEYOND brings two wave-inspired towers, Avita and Bella, alongside six beachfront villas, representing one of the new beachfront launches on the Palm.

Comprising around 625 branded residences (1–4 bedrooms, penthouses, and mansions), prices start from Dhs4.1m, with premier units priced up to Dhs 28 million. Projected rental yields are 6–7 per cent, while off-plan appreciation is estimated between 8–12 per cent annually. Completion is expected in H2 2029.

With private beach access, cascading rooftop pools, panoramic views of Atlantis and Burj Al Arab, and curated wellness pavilions, PASSO stands out as a lifestyle-first beachfront address.

Selvara at Grand Polo Club & Resort: Equestrian living in Dubai South

In a move to redefine luxury suburban living, Emaar introduces Selvara, located within Dubai South’s Grand Polo Club & Resort. Built around a vast 5.54 million square metre masterplan, Selvara features over 790 villas, each four-bedroom home offering more than 3,800 square foot of living space.

Starting at Dhs6.2m, Selvara promises gross rental yields of 6–8 per cent.

Phase one is scheduled for handover in Q2 2029.

With Spanish-inspired architecture, expansive stables, 340,000 square metre of polo fields, and seamless access to Expo City and Al Maktoum Airport, Selvara offers a distinctive equestrian lifestyle combined with strategic connectivity.

Lumena by Omniyat: Grade-A commercial tower with a statement

Redefining Dubai’s commercial skyline, Lumena by Omniyat will soar 260 meters over Business Bay, offering 91 prime office units along Sheikh Zayed Road.

Designed by renowned GAD Architecture, the tower features floor plates from 4,000 square foot to full-floor 16,000+ square foot configurations.

Prices begin at Dhs23m, with yields estimated at 7–9 per cent.

Completion is slated for Q4 2029.

Notable features include a Sky Theatre, executive wellness suites, and Omniyat’s proprietary business club concept. The tower targets top-tier certifications, including LEED and WELL Platinum, marrying prestige and sustainability.

Baystar by Vida: Affordable waterfront living

At the heart of Rashid Yachts & Marina, Baystar by Vida offers lifestyle-focused waterfront living through two mid-rise towers, marking the first Vida-branded residential project in this district.

Housing 319 residences (1–4 bedrooms), starting from Dhs2.1m, the project promises rental returns of around 8 per cent per annum, with handover expected in Q4 2029.

Residents will enjoy direct access to a superyacht marina, a 500-metre canal pool, infinity pools, yoga decks, and a vibrant retail promenade. Baystar delivers a luxury marina lifestyle at an accessible entry point.

Dubai’s real estate market is increasingly defined by scarcity of prime supply, rising rental demand, and government-backed stability. These five developments embody that convergence of design, investment, and lifestyle.

From branded residences in the heart of the skyline to equestrian enclaves and iconic waterfront living, Dubai offers something for every investor class. With transparent policies, strong infrastructure growth, and a global influx of capital, the city remains one of the most attractive real estate destinations worldwide.