Expert Insights: Exploring Dubai's Thriving Real Estate Market
Expert Insights: Exploring Dubai's Thriving Real Estate Market
In this article, prominent members of the real estate sector within EurAsia Gulf share their expert insights on Dubai's dynamic real estate market. From the surging commercial property sector to the opportunities available for foreign investors, their perspectives highlight the city's remarkable growth trajectory and investment potential. Whether you're exploring Dubai's commercial real estate boom or seeking guidance on buying property as a foreign investor, this article provides valuable viewpoints and actionable advice from industry leaders Nawroz Mamdani, Ainur Umarova, and Sumer Singh Adhana. Dive into their analyses to better understand why Dubai remains a top destination for property investment and what lies ahead for this thriving market.
Nawroz Mamdani
Email: nawroz@banke.ae
Mobile: +971556120796
Is Dubai’s Commercial Real Estate the Next Big Thing?
Picture a city that turned a crisis into a launchpad. In 2020, while the world faltered, Dubai locked down early, vaccinated swiftly, and reopened fast—thanks to the UAE government’s sharp moves. I still marvel at their speed. That’s when the commercial real estate market ignited, and it’s been roaring ever since.
The past four years have been a whirlwind. During COVID, Dubai CommerCity tapped the e-commerce surge, while firms escaped endless lockdowns elsewhere, planting roots here.
In 2023, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum unveiled the Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 (D33)—a bold, public blueprint for a decade of growth, rare for any city.
In 2024, the UAE issued over 200,000 commercial licenses, per the Dubai Chamber. Globally, commercial real estate is rebounding—JLL reports a 10% rise in investment volumes in the Americas and 17% in EMEA for 2024—and Dubai’s market is riding this wave.
Cushman & Wakefield’s 2024/2025 Dubai Market Update pegs office occupancy at 92%, with Altus Group forecasting a 5-7% rise in commercial property values for 2025. Early Q1 2025 trends suggest Dubai’s commercial sales and leases are tracking this growth, fueled by demand for premium office and industrial spaces.
Expo City Dubai is buzzing with giants like Nestlé, Siemens, and Samsung grabbing space —while Dubai South Business Parks leased more than half million square feet in the last couple of months.
Standouts like Brookfield Place, Innovation One in DIFC, and Uptown JLT? Leased out before handover.
With 186 Fortune 500 firms here and 511 Greenfield projects clinched in 2023 (topping Singapore), Dubai’s pull is undeniable.
Rents are soaring—Business Bay’s up 180% since COVID, per Inside Realty—and new projects vanish at stunning prices.
What’s ahead? Tech’s pushing smart offices—imagine AI-run buildings — while Al Quoz industrial rents spike 20%.
The 2040 Urban Master Plan and D33 signal 5-10 more years of this. Supply’s tight — 4.2 million square feet of offices due by 2028 won’t cut it. Singapore’s edging back in FDI, adding spice to the race.
Is it time to invest? The signs shout yes: 4.7% GDP growth in 2024 (JLL), climbing rents, and a global spotlight. Q1 2025’s early pulse aligns with 2025’s projected commercial upswing. Sure, Riyadh’s rising too, but Dubai’s commercial real estate is a juggernaut. If you’re eyeing a piece, now’s when the tale’s heating up.
Ainur Umarova
Email: ainur.umarova91@gmail.com
Mobile: +971 54 236 46 82
A Guide to Buying Property in Dubai as a Foreign Investor
By Ainur Umarova
Thinking about investing in property in Dubai but not sure where to start? You’re not alone! With its sunny skies, modern lifestyle, safety and investor-friendly policies, Dubai continues to attract people from all over the world who want to own a piece of this dynamic city. Whether you’re dreaming of a holiday home, planning to move, or just looking for a smart investment — this guide will walk you through the basics of buying property in Dubai as a foreigner.
1. Yes, You Can Buy Property in Dubai!
Since 2002, Dubai has opened its real estate market to non-residents. Foreigners can buy property in specially designated freehold areas — and that includes some of the most iconic locations like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and more. You’ll have full ownership rights and can sell, rent, or live in the property freely.
By the way, did you know that Dubai’s population grew by more than 169,000 people in 2024 alone? That brought the total to over 3.8 million residents, marking the highest increase in six years. This growing population fuels strong demand for housing — which is great news for investors!
2. Freehold vs Leasehold — What’s the Difference?
- Freehold means you fully own the property and the land it stands on.
- Leasehold gives you the right to use the property for a fixed period (usually 99 years), but the land belongs to the government.
Most foreign buyers prefer freehold options and Dubai is opening more areas to choose.
3. Finding the Right Property
Before jumping in, take a moment to think about what you really want:
- Are you buying to live in Dubai or just to invest?
- Do you want a beachfront view, city vibes, or something quieter?
If you’re looking for strong rental income, areas like Dubai Marina or Business Bay are popular. For capital appreciation, keep an eye on newer communities with lots of development happening.
A good, licensed real estate agent can help guide you through this — and save you a lot of time and stress.
4. Flexible Payment Plans — A Big Plus!
One of the things that makes Dubai’s real estate market so accessible is the wide range of developer payment plans. Many off-plan projects offer flexible schedules, such as:
- 10–20% down payment
- Followed by monthly or quarterly installments during construction
- And a final payment on handover — or even post-handover payment plans, where you continue paying after you get the keys
This makes it easier to invest without needing the full amount upfront — and it’s a great way to spread the cost over time.
5. What About Mortgages?
Good news: you don’t have to pay everything upfront. Many UAE banks offer mortgages to foreigners, typically covering 60% of the property value. You’ll need:
- A 40% down payment.
- Some additional costs, like:
- 4% Dubai Land Department fee
- 2% agent commission
- Registration/admin fees (around AED 5,000–10,000)
6. Legal Stuff Made Simple
Make sure your property is registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), and always sign contracts through official channels.
7. Can Buying Property Get You a Visa?
Yes, it can!
- Spend AED 750,000 or more, and you may qualify for a 2-year residency visa.
- Invest AED 2 million or more, and you could be eligible for Dubai’s 10-year Golden Visa.
Owning a property can be more than an investment — it can open doors to a new lifestyle.
8. What About After You Buy?
Don’t forget to factor in:
- Service charges (these vary depending on the building or community)
- Maintenance and repairs
- Property insurance
- Property management (if you’re renting it out)
The good part? Rental returns in Dubai can be quite attractive — many investors enjoy 5–8% annual yields, which is higher than in many global cities.
To Wrap It Up…
Dubai makes it surprisingly easy and straightforward for foreigners to invest in real estate. With the right support and a clear idea of your goals, buying property here can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re looking for a vacation spot, your future home, or just a great investment, Dubai has something for everyone.
And remember — the best time to invest is when you’re ready. And if you need help, I’m always happy to share insights!
Sumer Singh Adhana
Founder and CEO at Adhana Properties
Why Dubai Remains a Top Destination for Property Investment.
Dubai has long stood as a symbol of ambition, innovation, and opportunity. Always moving with the VISION, also Once a modest trading port, it has transformed into a global hub of luxury, commerce, and real estate excellence. Today, investors from across the world are drawn to Dubai’s dynamic property market—and for good reason. With its investor-friendly policies, strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and consistent development, Dubai continues to shine as one of the top global destinations for property investment. I have listed more reasons below to know more about it in detail and make a smart move to invest in the Dubai Property market.
1. Strategic Geographic Location
Dubai’s location is unmatched. Positioned between the East and West, it acts as a gateway connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. This strategic positioning has made it a major transit hub, drawing international businesses and expats. Its centrality makes it ideal for investors who want to tap into multiple markets while owning a property in a city that’s globally connected.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) consistently ranks among the busiest airports in the world for international passengers. This accessibility is key for global investors and residents who travel frequently for business or leisure.
2. Tax-Free Environment
One of the most attractive aspects of investing in Dubai real estate is the tax-free income. Unlike many global cities, Dubai offers zero income tax, no capital gains tax, and no property tax on most residential properties. For investors, this means that rental income and capital appreciation are not diminished by heavy tax burdens, significantly increasing overall returns.
This financial freedom is especially appealing for high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors looking to maximize yields while maintaining ownership in a stable, pro-business jurisdiction.
3. High Rental Yields and ROI
Compared to other major cities like London, New York, or Singapore, Dubai offers significantly higher rental yields. While prime cities globally deliver rental yields of around 2–4%, Dubai offers net yields of 8-12%, with some areas even surpassing that. For investors focused on generating cash flow, these numbers are compelling.
Popular areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai Marina, Business Bay, and Dubai Land Residential Complex (DLRC) consistently attract tenants due to their location, amenities, and lifestyle offerings. Moreover, demand continues to grow, particularly among young professionals and families relocating to Dubai for work.
4. Booming Tourism and Business Hub
Dubai has successfully diversified its economy beyond oil. It is now a global center for tourism, trade, logistics, finance, and real estate. Hosting millions of tourists annually, the city’s hospitality and short-term rental market is booming. Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com have opened a new avenue for property owners to generate income through holiday rentals, especially in tourist hotspots like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Creek.
5. Residency and Golden Visa Opportunities
In recent years, the UAE government has introduced long-term residency programs aimed at attracting global talent and investors. The 10-year Golden Visa is available to real estate investors who meet specific criteria—typically with a minimum property investment of AED 2 million. Now with updated rules we can get the golden visa once 20% is paid.
This initiative offers long-term stability and peace of mind to investors and their families, making Dubai not just a place to invest but a place to live, work, and build a future.
6. Modern Infrastructure and World-Class Living Standards
Dubai is synonymous with futuristic living. The city boasts some of the most advanced infrastructure in the world: wide highways, smart city planning, top-tier healthcare, international schools, efficient public transport, and a high standard of safety and cleanliness.
From luxurious waterfront communities to vibrant downtown living, the city offers something for every lifestyle. Projects like the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan promise continued development in green spaces, public beaches, and sustainable communities—ensuring long-term livability and consistent value appreciation for property owners.
7. Strong Government Regulation and Transparency
Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and Dubai Land Department (DLD) have implemented robust regulatory frameworks that protect investor interests. These include escrow accounts for off-plan properties, mandatory registration of real estate brokers, and transparent ownership laws.
The introduction of the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) system, digital property registration, and property transaction tracking has brought clarity and security to the market. This transparency builds trust, especially among international investors unfamiliar with the region.
8. Diverse Investment Options
Dubai’s real estate market caters to a wide spectrum of investors—from budget-conscious buyers to ultra-luxury connoisseurs. You can invest in:
- Studios and one-bedroom apartments starting from AED 750,000
- Family villas and townhouses in growing suburban communities
- Waterfront luxury penthouses in areas like Palm Jumeirah or Dubai Marina
- Off-plan properties from reputed developers with attractive payment plans
- Commercial and hospitality units that deliver consistent returns
whether you’re looking for capital appreciation, rental income, or portfolio diversification Dubai has it all under one roof.
9. Continued Population Growth and Expanding Economy
Dubai’s population is growing steadily, fueled by favorable immigration policies, job creation, and quality of life. According to government projections, the population is expected to reach 5.8 million by 2040, up from around 3.6 million in 2024. This organic growth increases the demand for housing, especially in well-connected, community-centric developments..
10. Safe Haven for Global Investors
Amid global political and economic uncertainty, Dubai has positioned itself as a safe, neutral, and stable environment. The city is politically secure, well-managed, and recognized for its safety—ranking among the safest cities in the world for residents and investors alike.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s unique blend of opportunity, innovation, and luxury continues to set it apart from other property markets around the world. Whether you’re a first-time investor, a seasoned developer, or an end-user looking for a second home, the value proposition in Dubai is clear.From high rental yields and tax advantages to modern infrastructure and long-term residency options, Dubai offers a compelling case for investment—today, tomorrow, and for decades to come.
For those who believe in vision, growth, and global opportunity, Dubai is not just a destination—it’s a decision.
