Market-leading property sector

Dubai is one of the most sought-after property markets in the world. Its dynamic real estate landscape boasts world-class infrastructure, backed by a visionary approach to urban planning. The immense investment potential offered by the city’s property sector is only underscored by the recent surge in property transactions and plot sales.

In 2023, the city set a new record with the highest-ever number of real estate transactions. The total value of property deals hit US$172.6 billion (AED634 billion) from 166,400 transactions, an annual growth of 20%. New investments grew by 55%, with more than 42% stemming from non-resident foreign investors.

Growth in the Economy

International real estate developers will be increasingly interested in Dubai's real estate sector this decade as demand increases.

Learn the regulations around running a business in Dubai.

Regulated real estate market

Dubai’s real estate market is governed by firm laws, which provide a protected legislative and regulatory structure for businesses.

Tax-free investments

A property tax exemption in Dubai attracts property investors from around the world who want to diversify their portfolios.

Long-term residency

Property Investors who meet the eligibility criteria for the Golden visa residency may qualify for a 10-year residency.

Growing economic momentum

The UAE is currently the region’s second-largest construction projects market, with over US$356 billion (AED1.3 trillion) in private real estate developments, ongoing public housing and building projects. The sector is set for continued growth, anticipated to reach US$50.40 billion (AED185.12 billion) by 2029.

This growth is a testament to Dubai's rise as the 'city of the future', a pivotal gateway to the world's fastest-growing markets and a premier destination for investment and development.

Building real estate excellence

The Dubai Strategic Plan 2026 aims to position Dubai as a global real estate leader. It cultivates effective governance, innovation and cutting-edge technologies to pioneer real estate solutions, establish a data-driven ecosystem, and promote investment confidence.

With supportive regulations, a digital-first real estate sector, data collection, and professional development, the Dubai Land Department will become a world leader in attracting real estate investments.

Preparing for a growing populace

Dubai's population is projected to reach 5.8 million by the end of this decade. As a proactive response, the city has unveiled the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which promotes sustainable urban development, improving the quality of life for residents and boosting Dubai's appeal as a leisure and business destination.

Enhancing sustainability within urban spaces

Dubai plans to double its green and recreational spaces, dedicating more than half the available area to nature reserves and rural nature areas. It will also establish green corridors to seamlessly connect service areas, residential areas and workplaces, facilitating sustainable pedestrian and vehicular mobility.

Dubai is also expected to see significant growth in hotel and tourism activities, with the UAE hospitality market predicted to reach US$9.45 trillion (AED34.7 trillion) by 2028. To prepare for this, the city aims to expand the space dedicated to hotels by 134%. Education and health facilities in the city will be expanded by 25%, along with public beaches being extended by 400%.

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Design, media and entertainment

Dubai is a trailblazer in the region’s booming creative industry. Over the years, the government has invested in building a supportive framework that covers free zones, dedicated clusters for media production, design, fashion and more, as well as strong support for creative start-ups and companies.

Food and agriculture

Dubai has long operated as a pivotal trade gateway between the East and West. This also extends to food manufacturing, FMCG and agri-businesses, particularly with the focus on enabling tech innovation to satisfy customers’ evolving demands.

Retail and e-commerce

Dubai is a global and regional destination for brick-and-mortar retail and e-commerce. In 2023, more than 17 million tourists visited the city to enjoy its upscale retail experiences, making it a haven for luxury shopping.

Trade and logistics

Building on its history as a trade hub, Dubai is ideally situated at the intersection of established and emerging commercial routes, bridging East and West. This strategic nerve centre enables the seamless flow of goods, business and investments across the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia.

Dubai International Financial Centre | Group of Male Entrepreneurs

Finance and wealth

Renowned as a nexus of prosperity and innovation, Dubai's finance and wealth sector is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence. The city has a diverse economy, including well-developed non-oil sectors that significantly contribute to economic growth, making it a popular destination for investment and business.

Healthcare and pharmaceuticals

Dubai’s healthcare and pharmaceuticals sector has seen substantial annual growth in recent years. World-class healthcare infrastructure, an advanced manufacturing sector, extensive trade links and extensive logistical capabilities have attracted top healthcare providers and multinational pharmaceutical companies.

Technology and ICT

Dubai nurtures a thriving tech ecosystem, continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation in technology and ICT (Information and Communications Technology). With its commitment to initiatives like the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the city aims to become a premier hub for tech companies by 2033.

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