Indian nationals remained the largest group of international property investors in Dubai during the first half of 2026, accounting for an estimated 20.6 percent of total real estate purchases, according to a new report by Harbor Real Estate based on data from DXBinteract.
British investors ranked second with a 13.3 percent share of transactions, followed by Egyptians at 12.6 percent. Americans represented 9 percent of purchases, while Pakistanis accounted for 6.9 percent. Saudi Arabian and Australian buyers each held 5.7 percent, with Germans, French and Canadians completing the top ten international investor groups.
The report highlights Dubai’s continued appeal to overseas investors, supported by long-term residency initiatives such as the Golden Visa and regulations allowing 100 percent foreign ownership in designated freehold areas. These policies have helped attract investors seeking stable returns, lifestyle opportunities and long-term residency.
Apartment sales remained particularly strong during the period. Dubai Islands recorded the highest apartment transaction value at Dh8.4 billion, followed by Airport City with Dh7.2 billion and Business Bay at Dh6 billion.
In the villa and building segment, Al Yalayis 1 led the market with Dh10.6 billion in transactions. Wadi Al Safa 3 and Saih Shuaib 1 followed, each recording around Dh1.4 billion in sales.
Land transactions were also robust, with Me’aisem Second topping the category at Dh10.1 billion. Al Yalayis 5 generated Dh7 billion in sales, while Al Ruwayya 1 recorded Dh6.3 billion.
Smaller residential units continued to dominate buyer demand. One-bedroom apartments accounted for 27,590 transactions, representing 34.9 percent of total sales. Studio apartments followed with 18,471 transactions, making up 23.4 percent, while two-bedroom units represented 20.7 percent of transactions. Three- and four-bedroom homes accounted for 8.7 percent and 8.1 percent respectively, with larger units making up the remaining share.
Harbor Real Estate said the continued preference for studios and one-bedroom apartments reflects demand from both investors and end-users seeking properties with competitive prices, attractive rental yields and strong resale potential.
The report noted that Dubai’s property market has entered a more balanced stage after several years of rapid expansion. While price growth has moderated as new developments enter the market, demand continues to be supported by population growth, international business expansion, corporate relocations and an increasing number of high-net-worth individuals moving to the emirate.
More than 160,000 residential units are scheduled for delivery during 2026, although the report expects actual completions to fall well below that figure. Around 85 percent of the planned supply consists of apartments, while villas account for 14 percent and hotel apartments and branded residences make up the remaining share.
Harbor Real Estate Chief Executive Dr. Mohanad Alwadiya said Dubai’s market is increasingly driven by long-term economic fundamentals rather than speculative activity. He added that a larger housing supply should help moderate price growth without causing a sharp market correction, creating a healthier environment for developers, investors and homebuyers alike.
