What is an off-plan property in Dubai?

An off-plan property is purchased before construction is completed. It typically offers lower prices and flexible payment plans.

Is buying off-plan property safe in Dubai?

Yes, buying off-plan in Dubai is safe when dealing with RERA-regulated developers like Emaar, DAMAC, and Sobha Realty.

Can foreigners buy off-plan properties in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners are allowed to buy off-plan properties in designated freehold areas, and may qualify for residency visas depending on investment amount.

What are the payment plans for off-plan properties?

Most developers offer flexible payment plans over 2 to 5 years, with low booking fees and sometimes post-handover options.

Can I sell an off-plan property before it is completed?

Yes, many developers allow assignment sales after a certain percentage of the payment is made, typically around 30–50%.

Renewing Your Rental Contract in 2026? Here’s What to Expect

Dubai’s rental market is heading into 2026 on more stable ground. While rents are still expected to increase, the pace of growth is likely to slow compared to the sharp rises seen over the past two years. As the property market matures, both tenants and landlords are gaining clearer expectations and more room to negotiate.

Steady Growth, But at a Moderate Pace

Market experts anticipate steady rental growth through early 2026, supported by continued population growth, strong business activity, and an influx of high-income professionals relocating to Dubai.

However, demand is no longer rising evenly across all areas. As new supply enters communities such as Meydan and JVC, rental performance is becoming more segmented. Newer, premium developments are outperforming older buildings, while aging properties are beginning to stabilise.

Importantly, current growth is being driven by genuine demand and economic fundamentals rather than speculative activity a sign of a healthier, more balanced market cycle.

What Tenants Should Keep in Mind

If you’re renewing your lease in 2026, understanding the rules will be essential. Tenants should review RERA’s rental index and compare similar listings in their area before entering negotiations. Rent caps remain in place to prevent sudden or unfair increases, offering a layer of protection.

It’s also important to clarify maintenance responsibilities, payment schedules, and notice periods before signing a renewal contract. Many landlords now prefer longer-term stability, meaning tenants who demonstrate reliability — or commit to 12-month or multi-year agreements — may gain stronger negotiating power.

Landlords Offering Greater Flexibility

With more properties entering the market, landlords are increasingly focused on retaining tenants rather than pushing for short-term gains. In some developments, renters may find more flexible payment terms, including multiple-cheque options or added incentives to secure longer leases.

This shift reflects growing competition and a broader effort to maintain occupancy levels as supply expands.

Older Properties Stabilise While New Developments Lead

The gap between older and newer properties continues to widen. Older buildings, particularly those with aging infrastructure or fewer amenities, are seeing rental prices stabilise. Meanwhile, modern developments with energy-efficient designs, updated layouts, and lifestyle amenities continue to command premium rents.

The market is becoming increasingly quality-driven. Tenants are showing a clear willingness to pay more for well-managed communities that align with their lifestyle expectations.

Affordability Driving Relocation Trends

Affordability and space remain major decision-making factors. Many tenants are relocating from central districts like Downtown and Business Bay to emerging communities such as Meydan, JVC, Dubailand, and Dubai South.

These areas are benefiting from improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and community-focused planning. This decentralisation trend supports Dubai’s long-term vision of balanced, multi-nodal urban growth.

2026 Outlook: Stability Over Speculation

As Dubai moves into 2026, the rental market is shifting toward stability and long-term value. For tenants, this means better negotiation opportunities and more predictable increases. For landlords, the focus is increasingly on quality, tenant retention, and sustainable growth.

The next phase of Dubai’s rental market will not be about chasing rapid price spikes. Instead, it will centre on building lasting value, trust, and stability between landlords and tenants — setting the foundation for a more mature property landscape.