Dubai Real Estate sector recorded an exceptional first quarter in 2025, achieving a total of 45,474 property transactions valued at AED 142.7 billion. As per the latest Q1 Insights report from Property Finder, this marks a 22% increase in transaction volume and a 30% growth in value compared to the same period in 2024.
Ready Property Segment Delivers Best Performance to Date
The completed homes segment demonstrated remarkable growth, with 20,034 deals amounting to AED 87.5 billion. This reflects a 21% rise in transaction numbers and a substantial 34% year-on-year increase in value, signifying strong buyer confidence in move-in-ready properties.
Off-Plan Market Continues to Lead
Off-plan properties maintained their dominance, making up 56% of all sales activity. With 25,440 transactions totaling AED 55.2 billion, this category registered a 24% increase compared to the first quarter of the previous year.
Abu Dhabi Market Shows Preference for High-Value Ready Homes
In Abu Dhabi, the focus shifted towards high-value existing properties. The capital witnessed around 2,496 total transactions valued at AED 9.6 billion. The number of ready property transactions rose by 9%, while the total value soared by 75% year-on-year—indicating a growing appetite for established homes among buyers.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Experts from Property Finder, commented on the positive trajectory of the UAE’s property market. Attributed Dubai’s strong momentum to sustained investor trust in long-term capital growth and noted an increasing preference in Abu Dhabi for premium, ready-to-occupy residences.
From a global standpoint, The currency fluctuations, particularly the weakening US dollar, and shifting international policies are driving foreign interest in UAE real estate.
Strategic Developments Boosting Market Appeal
Initiatives like the formation of the Dubai Real Estate Alliance and the collaboration between the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) are paving the way for a more inclusive and technologically advanced property landscape. These measures are contributing to an environment that is increasingly favorable for investment.
Rental Market Trends Drive Homeownership Shift
Dubai’s surge in ready property sales also hints at a behavioral change among residents. With rental prices continuing to climb, many are now exploring the benefits of purchasing over renting, which could signal a broader transition towards homeownership.
Residential Properties Dominate Abu Dhabi’s Existing Market
In Abu Dhabi, residential real estate led the way, accounting for 88% of the total volume and 60% of the total value in the existing property market during Q1 2025. Transactions involving completed residential units rose by 5% in volume and 33% in value compared to the previous year, underlining steady demand for move-in-ready homes.
Source: https://www.arabianbusiness.com/industries/real-estate/dubai-real-estate-property-sales-hit-record-39bn-in-q1-2025-says-new-property-finder-report