Dubai Residential Property Transactions Hit AED 55.18bn in January 2026 (+43.9%)

Dubai’s residential property market recorded a strong start to 2026, with transaction values reaching AED 55.18 billion in January, marking a 43.9% year-on-year increase, according to recent market data.

The sharp rise highlights continued confidence among investors and end-users, supported by robust demand, active off-plan sales, and steady population growth across the emirate.

Transaction Growth Reflects Strong Buyer Confidence

The year-on-year increase in transaction value underscores sustained momentum in Dubai’s residential sector. Buyers remain active across apartments, villas, and townhouses, driven by:

• Attractive payment plans

• Continued project launches

• Confidence in long-term market fundamentals

Both new developments and secondary market transactions contributed to January’s strong performance.

Off-Plan Activity Remains a Key Driver

Off-plan sales continued to play a major role in overall transaction volumes, reflecting buyer appetite for new projects in well-planned communities. Competitive pricing, flexible construction-linked payment plans, and modern amenities have helped maintain high absorption rates across multiple developments.

Developers with strong delivery track records continued to attract the bulk of buyer interest.

End-User Demand Adds Market Depth

Alongside investor activity, end-user participation remained solid, supported by:

• Population growth

• Employment expansion

• Lifestyle-driven relocations

This balance between investors and owner-occupiers has contributed to a more stable and resilient residential market.

Positive Start Sets Tone for 2026

January’s performance suggests that Dubai’s residential property market has entered 2026 with strong momentum. While transaction growth may normalise in certain segments, underlying demand drivers are expected to continue supporting activity levels.

Analysts note that disciplined supply, regulatory transparency, and sustained buyer interest are likely to remain key pillars of market stability.

Conclusion

Dubai’s residential property sector has begun 2026 on a strong note, with transaction values rising sharply compared to last year. The January surge reinforces the city’s position as one of the region’s most active and attractive real-estate markets, supported by broad-based demand and long-term confidence.