Dubai Real Estate Momentum Surges: 24 Projects Completed, 726 in Progress in H1 2025
Dubai continues to assert its position as a global real estate powerhouse, with the Dubai Land Department (DLD) reporting the completion of 24 real estate projects worth AED 4.5 billion (USD 1.2 billion) in the first half of 2025. This milestone highlights the emirate’s accelerated construction pace, geared to meet the surging demand for high-quality residential developments.
As of June 2025, 726 projects are under construction across Dubai, reflecting heightened investor confidence and growing demand for both standalone units and integrated community living. The DLD emphasized this dynamic as a signal of strong market absorption and long-term urban development planning.
Growing Demand for Villas and Integrated Communities
According to DLD’s H1 data, a total of 90,337 new real estate units were registered, representing a market value of AED 151 billion. A notable shift in buyer behavior is evident, with over 7,167 villas sold for more than AED 28 billion. This trend signals a clear preference for low-density living and well-planned community ecosystems.
The shift is further reinforced by top-tier developments in areas such as Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Emirates Hills, and Dubai Creek Harbour, where developers are responding with flexible payment plans and high-quality masterplans designed for long-term livability.
Government Initiatives Fueling Homeownership
Dubai’s proactive policies continue to fuel its real estate boom. In July 2025, the DLD and DET launched the First-Time Home Buyer Programme aimed at providing UAE residents and Emiratis—who do not currently own freehold property—an accessible entry point into homeownership.
This initiative offers:
- Priority access to new and off-plan units
- Special pricing and discounts
- Flexible payment plans
- Improved mortgage terms with participating banks
The program is expected to welcome an additional 5,000 investors into the property market by year-end, bolstering demand in mid-tier and premium property segments.
Rental Market: Steady Growth Amid High Demand
Dubai’s rental market also witnessed robust activity, with 465,738 lease contracts registered in H1 2025, up from 462,657 in the same period last year. The value of lease contracts climbed to nearly AED 42 billion, reflecting a 5% annual growth.
New leases alone surged by 7% to reach 232,928 contracts, highlighting Dubai’s continued appeal as a destination for both permanent residents and expatriate professionals seeking flexible rental options.
Record-Breaking Sales and Market Outlook
Property consultancy Knight Frank reported over 51,000 homes sold in Q2 2025 alone, marking a 22.8% year-on-year increase. With 94,000 transactions already completed by mid-year, Dubai is on track to exceed the record 169,000 transactions registered in 2024.
The synergy between Emaar, Sobha Realty, and Nakheel—Dubai’s leading developers—has been instrumental in shaping the emirate’s growth narrative. Their focus on smart cities, wellness communities, and sustainable design resonates strongly with evolving buyer preferences.
Abu Dhabi-Dubai Cross-Zone Integration
In a move to foster national investment integration, Masdar City’s free zone companies in Abu Dhabi are now eligible to purchase real estate in Dubai. This cross-emirate synergy signals a stronger push towards unifying the UAE’s real estate market under an innovation-driven framework.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s real estate landscape is entering a mature growth phase, powered by forward-looking government policies, high investor confidence, and strategic partnerships. Whether it’s affordable options for first-time buyers or premium villas in waterfront communities, the emirate continues to deliver unmatched value and long-term opportunity.
With 726 projects currently underway and supportive initiatives like the First-Time Home Buyer Programme in place, Dubai is not only building homes—it’s shaping the future of urban living in the region.
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