The UAE real estate market is entering a new phase of maturity, attracting a surge of private capital, institutional investors, and family offices from around the world. As per recent estimates, the value of real estate assets in the UAE has crossed $680 billion (Dh2.5 trillion), and this figure is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
According to Amit Goenka, Chairman and MD of Nisus Finance, this growth is partly driven by trade dynamics such as the US-China trade tensions, making the UAE—and particularly Dubai—a strategic hub for manufacturing, logistics, and light industrial operations.
“With competitive tariffs and a central location, the UAE is positioned to attract global businesses and a diverse talent pool, creating a consistent demand for residential properties,” Goenka shared.
Over the past few years, the property market has shown strong momentum: from Dh300 billion in 2021 to Dh634 billion in 2023. In 2024, the total value of property transactions is projected to hit a staggering $270 to $280 billion.
Bridging the Real Estate Funding Gap
With an estimated funding gap of $100 billion in the sector, capital is pouring in from various sources. However, only about $30 billion is currently met through banks and funds, leaving a significant $70 billion opportunity for private credit, equity, and off-plan sales.
This presents a great opportunity for investors and developers alike. For example, you can explore prime off-plan investments like:
Digital Transformation and Tokenisation
The UAE is also spearheading innovation through tokenisation and virtual asset integration. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has initiated a pilot project for real estate tokenisation, expected to reach a value of Dh60 billion by 2033, which would account for 7% of all real estate transactions.
Platforms like Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM) are creating the digital infrastructure necessary for token-based real estate investment, crowdfunding, and blockchain-enabled title deeds.
Nisus Finance is among the leaders driving this innovation. “We are launching a $1 billion fund focused on real estate opportunities in the UAE,” Goenka revealed. The company is also actively exploring cryptocurrency, fractional ownership, and other emerging trends in property investment.
Generational Shift in Wealth & Investment
Another shift is the transformation of family-held real estate portfolios. With new regulations in DIFC and ADGM, younger generations are embracing new technologies, virtual assets, and sustainable investments.
The UAE is no longer just a trading hub—it is becoming a magnet for long-term global investments. As the ecosystem matures, so does the opportunity to capitalize on off-plan and new-age real estate projects that define the future.
