Dubai’s Property Market in 2026:
Off-Plan Continues to Dominate New Sales
Jan 21 2026
If you’re considering buying property in Dubai in 2026, one segment is impossible to ignore: off-plan real estate.
After dominating the market throughout 2025, off-plan properties are expected to strengthen their position this year, driven by sustained investor demand, new project launches, and long-term confidence in Dubai’s real estate cycle.
Off-Plan Continues to Drive Dubai’s Property Market
According to industry data cited by Betterhomes, off-plan sales were the main engine of Dubai’s residential market in 2025 and are set to remain so in 2026. More than 70% of all property transactions last year came from off-plan developments, highlighting strong buyer appetite for new supply and future-ready communities.
This momentum continues to be supported by large-scale launches from major developers, attractive payment plans, and strong capital appreciation potential.
Why Investors Are Choosing Off-Plan
Industry insights from Metropolitan Premium Properties indicate that off-plan properties in Dubai have consistently delivered higher returns for investors compared to ready properties. As projects move closer to completion, prices typically increase, allowing investors to benefit from capital gains even before handover.
At the same time, ready properties remain appealing for end-users looking to save on rental costs. However, for growth-focused investors, off-plan continues to be the preferred choice.
Key Numbers Behind the Off-Plan Boom
Based on figures reported by Betterhomes and Cavendish Maxwell:
Off-plan transactions accounted for 65% of total deals and 53% of total transaction value in 2025
Apartment sales led the segment, rising 29% to Dh325 billion
Villas and townhouses contributed Dh221 billion, marking a 26% increase
Nearly 145,000 new off-plan units entered the market in 2024, averaging around 400 units per day
Overall market activity reached four times pre-Covid levels, underlining sustained demand
Where New Supply Is Coming From
Major developers accelerated off-plan launches in the second half of 2025. According to industry tracking by Betterhomes:
Binghatti led the market with over 13,000 units launched
Damac Properties followed with 6,588 units
Emaar introduced 6,262 units
High-growth corridors such as Dubai South, Dubai Islands, and emerging master-planned communities continue to attract both developers and buyers as new supply comes online.
What This Means for Buyers in 2026
Insights from Espace Real Estate suggest that off-plan sales could increase by 10–15% in 2026, supported by sustained demand across apartments, villas, and commercial assets. Transaction volumes remained resilient through the second half of 2025, reinforcing confidence heading into the year ahead.
For buyers planning early, off-plan offers the flexibility of phased payment plans and the potential to benefit from price appreciation before project completion.
Source: Khaleej Times