Dubai’s off-plan property sector, which has been the main driver of the emirate’s real estate growth, is expected to expand further in 2026, according to industry insiders. Off-plan properties, which are sold before construction is completed, accounted for a significant share of transactions in 2025 and continue to attract investors seeking higher returns compared to ready properties.
Industry experts report that off-plan transactions represented more than 70 percent of all residential real estate deals in Dubai last year, with apartments driving much of the activity. Himanshi Trivedi, deputy director for off-plan sales at Metropolitan Premium Properties, said the momentum is expected to increase as major developers launch large-scale projects across high-growth areas such as Dubai South, Dubai Islands, and new master-planned phases by Emaar and Damac. Trivedi projected that off-plan unit sales could rise by 10–15 percent in 2026.
“Demand is clearly tilting toward new supply, especially in the apartment segment,” noted Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes. Data from the company showed that off-plan activity dominated in 2025, accounting for 65 percent of total transactions and 53 percent of total market value. Apartment sales reached Dh325 billion, up 29 percent from the previous year, while villas and townhouses contributed Dh221 billion, a 26 percent increase.
The trend reflects a broader pattern in Dubai’s real estate market, which has seen strong growth since the pre-Covid period. In 2024, developers introduced nearly 145,000 off-plan units, averaging about 400 units per day. Sales during that year were four times higher than levels before the pandemic, according to data from Cavendish Maxwell.
Leading developers have played a key role in sustaining this momentum. In the second half of 2025, Binghatti launched more than 13,000 off-plan units, followed by Damac Properties with 6,588 units and Emaar with 6,262 units. The robust launch activity contributed to a resilient market across both residential and commercial segments. John Lyons, managing director at Espace Real Estate, said transaction volumes remained strong throughout the latter half of 2025, supported by steady demand for off-plan, ready, and commercial assets.
While off-plan properties continue to attract investors seeking high returns, completed or ready-to-move-in projects have seen price increases, offering potential capital gains. At the same time, residents purchasing ready properties can save on rental costs, presenting a balance between investment and immediate living needs.
Experts predict that the combination of new project launches, strong investor interest, and high demand for apartments will ensure that off-plan sales remain the driving force of Dubai’s real estate market in 2026, solidifying its role as a key contributor to the emirate’s economic growth.
