Developer Credibility Is Reshaping Dubai’s Luxury Property Market
Jan 26, 2026
Dubai’s luxury real estate market is evolving, and buyer behaviour is becoming more sophisticated. According to recent insights shared by the MENA Fintech Association, developer credibility and delivery track record have emerged as the most important factors influencing luxury property investment in Dubai. For real estate agents, this marks a clear shift in how high-net-worth buyers evaluate opportunities in the market.
Why Developer Reputation Matters More Than Ever
Based on a survey of 1,100 brokers representing 150 real estate agencies in Dubai, industry professionals report that buyers are moving away from speculative purchases and focusing on long-term value and execution.
Key findings show:
36% of brokers say developer reputation and delivery history are the top factors in closing luxury property deals
24% highlight master planning and amenities
20% point to pricing relative to comparable Dubai real estate projects
Only 16% say short-term capital appreciation is the main driver
This signals a more mature Dubai luxury property market, where trust outweighs hype.
End Users and Long-Term Investors Are Driving Demand
Buyer profiles are also shifting. According to brokers:
45% of buyers are end users planning to live in the property
40% are long-term investors holding assets for at least five years
This reinforces Dubai’s position as a wealth-preservation and lifestyle-led real estate market, rather than a short-term flipping destination.
What Luxury Property Buyers in Dubai Actually Want
Lifestyle quality is now central to purchasing decisions in Dubai luxury real estate:
21% prioritise larger living spaces
21% value privacy and low-density communities
19% focus on wellness-oriented developments
19% prefer nature-led and lifestyle-driven design
These preferences underline the growing importance of community planning, amenities, and long-term livability in Dubai’s high-end residential market.
Data and Transparency Are Shaping Buying Decisions
Brokers also report that accurate market data and transparency now influence nearly every purchasing decision. Buyers are conducting deeper due diligence and relying on verified insights rather than speculative narratives.
This shift highlights the rising importance of credible developers, reliable data, and informed advisory in Dubai real estate transactions.
What This Means for Real Estate Agents
For agents operating in the Dubai luxury property market, the takeaway is clear:
today’s buyers are informed, selective, and focused on proven delivery.
Success now depends on guiding clients toward credible developers, well-planned communities, and data-backed opportunities, rather than short-term trends.
Source: Ketura survey (MENA Fintech Association)