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  • Abu Dhabi Home Sales Rebound in April with 3,200 Transactions

    Abu Dhabi Home Sales Rebound in April with 3,200 Transactions

    Residential property activity in Abu Dhabi demonstrated resilience through March and April, with transaction volumes and values in April returning to levels seen earlier in the year, according to new market insights released by the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (Adrec).

    Data covering the past eight weeks shows that residential unit sales softened slightly in March before gathering pace again in April. Around 2,600 residential transactions were recorded in March, compared with approximately 2,700 in January and 3,100 in February. April saw more than 3,200 residential unit sales, surpassing transaction volumes from the first two months of the year.

    In value terms, April marked a strong month, with residential sales exceeding Dh13 billion, reflecting sustained buyer interest despite broader price stability across the market.

    Adrec noted that ready unit sales provide the clearest indication of near-term demand, as they reflect immediate purchasing decisions rather than forward commitments typically associated with off-plan transactions. Over the eight-week period, ready sales broadly tracked recent historical averages, with March recording 482 transactions worth around Dh1.2 billion. In April, ready sales recovered to 529 units with transaction values returning to around Dh1.6 billion, in line with earlier norms.

    Off-plan development activity remained steady over the period, with several major projects launched across the emirate. These included Modon’s Tara Park, Ohana Development’s Manchester City Yas Residences, Aldar’s Yas Park Place and Sobha City Abu Dhabi, underscoring continued confidence among developers and a steady pipeline of new supply entering the market. The Tara Park sell-out on Reem Island generated approximately AED2 billion in sales.

    On pricing, listing data suggested limited downward pressure. Roughly 90 per cent of residential listings recorded no change or posted price increases. Where reductions were made, they were generally modest, with between 85 per cent and 90 per cent of adjusted listings seeing decreases of less than 10 per cent, pointing to contained and selective repricing rather than broad-based declines.

    The rental market continued to expand, with the total number of active leased residential units rising steadily on a week-by-week basis throughout 2026. Adrec noted that while growth has moderated in line with trends seen over the past two to three years, high occupancy levels continue to underpin leasing activity across the emirate.

    The emirate’s performance follows the second-strongest quarter on record in Q1 2026, when transaction volumes in Abu Dhabi City exceeded 7,200 deals, just below the all-time peak of 7,600 recorded in Q4 2025.

    Adrec said the latest data release is part of its ongoing efforts to improve transparency and provide market participants with clearer insight into evolving real estate trends in Abu Dhabi, with transaction indicators and performance data available through its official platform.

  • Dubai Real Estate Records Dh48 Billion in April Sales

    Dubai Real Estate Records Dh48 Billion in April Sales

    Transaction volumes rose 3.5% month-on-month, while overall deal value climbed 10.7%, pointing to continued strength in higher-value segments, according to data from fäm Properties released on May 4, 2026.

    The performance comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainty, yet Dubai continues to attract strong capital inflows, supported by its reputation as a safe, transparent and well-regulated investment hub.

    Primary market dominates activity

    The primary market remained the clear driver of activity, with 10,563 transactions worth Dh35.8 billion, compared with 3,414 resale deals valued at Dh12.2 billion, according to DXBinteract. The continued strength of off-plan sales reflects investor appetite for new projects and expectations of future capital appreciation.

    “April’s performance reflects the market’s underlying strength, with steady demand across both residential and commercial segments,” said Firas Al Msaddi, noting that the emirate continues to benefit from its global positioning as a stable destination for investors.

    Apartments led the market with 11,377 transactions worth Dh24.1 billion, up 6.5% month-on-month, while plot sales surged 34.7% to Dh6.6 billion, indicating strong interest in land development opportunities. Commercial real estate also posted robust gains, with 561 transactions worth Dh4 billion, rising sharply both year-on-year and from March, signalling renewed business activity.

    Regional hotspots and luxury deals

    Dubai South retained its position as the top-performing area for the second consecutive month, recording 1,171 transactions worth Dh2.7 billion, followed by Jebel Ali First and Al Barsha South Fourth. Dubai Islands emerged as a high-value hotspot, generating Dh2.8 billion in sales, reflecting rising demand for premium waterfront developments.

    Luxury transactions continued to capture attention, with the most expensive apartment selling for Dh171 million at Aman Residences in Jumeirah. Other high-end deals included Dh122 million at Baccarat Residences in Downtown Dubai and Dh118 million at Marsa Dubai, while the top villa sale reached Dh76 million at Eden Hills.

    The bulk of transactions remained concentrated in the mid-market segment, with properties priced between Dh1 million and Dh2 million accounting for 34.7% of sales. Units below Dh1 million made up 23.3%, highlighting continued demand from first-time buyers and investors targeting rental yields, while properties above Dh5 million accounted for nearly 12%.

    Signs of price moderation emerge

    Average property prices rose 16.1% year-on-year to Dh1,840 per square foot, although recent indicators suggest the pace of appreciation is beginning to ease after a multi-year rally.

    Data from ValuStrat indicates that its residential capital values index declined 3.8% in the first quarter of 2026 to 229.2 points, marking the first quarterly contraction since 2020. Market experts say the dip reflects a natural adjustment following sharp gains over the past three years rather than a downturn, as increased supply and shifting investor preferences begin to temper price growth.

    “The moderation in prices is a healthy development and points to a more sustainable growth trajectory. Transaction volumes remain strong, liquidity is robust, and the fundamentals underpinning demand — from population growth to foreign investment — are firmly intact,” a Dubai-based analyst said.

    With Dubai’s population having crossed the four million mark and new project launches continuing across emerging districts, the outlook for the sector remains broadly positive. Industry stakeholders expect the market to maintain steady momentum through 2026, supported by strategic initiatives such as the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the emirate’s expanding role as a global hub for business and investment.

    The April performance follows a strong first quarter, during which the emirate recorded over Dh180 billion in property transactions, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most resilient real estate markets.

  • Dubai Property Market Holds Steady as Buyers Prioritize Value

    Dubai Property Market Holds Steady as Buyers Prioritize Value

    Despite ongoing regional uncertainty and cautious buyer sentiment, Dubai’s real estate market continues to demonstrate resilience, with little evidence of the distressed deals many had anticipated. Recent data from leading property platforms indicates that while buyer behaviour has become more measured, underlying demand remains robust, with millions of property searches and sustained engagement from serious buyers actively progressing toward transactions.

    Industry experts say the shift reflects a more mature and balanced market rather than the onset of a downturn.

    We’re seeing a clear evolution in how buyers approach decisions. There’s more analysis, more comparison, and more negotiation — but not the kind driven by distress. Buyers want fair value, not fire sales.

    Luke Remington, Managing Director at haus & haus, explained the current market dynamics.

    Across Dubai’s most sought-after villa communities — including Dubai Hills Estate, Palm Jumeirah, and Arabian Ranches — demand continues to outpace supply. These areas, favored by end-users and long-term investors, are experiencing minimal pricing pressure, with sellers holding firm due to strong financial positions.

    On the apartment side, prime locations such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Business Bay remain highly active, particularly for one- and two-bedroom units. While some flexibility has emerged in mid-market segments with increasing inventory, price reductions remain moderate and selective.

    Negotiation has returned, but that’s a sign of a healthy market. Buyers are making offers below asking, but transactions are still closing within 5% to 15% of peak values. That’s typical of a functioning, stable environment — not a distressed one.

    Calum White, CEO and Founder of White & Co., emphasized the market’s stability.

    A key factor underpinning the market’s stability is seller behavior. Unlike previous downturns, there is limited urgency among property owners to liquidate assets. Most sellers are well-capitalized and willing to wait for the right offer, contributing to price support across key segments.

    Many expected uncertainty to trigger a wave of discounted inventory, but that hasn’t materialised. Instead, we’re seeing a more disciplined market where both buyers and sellers are adjusting expectations without panic.

    Fibha Ahmed, Vice President of Property Sales at Bayut, noted the absence of distressed inventory.

    This recalibration is also evident in transaction dynamics. Agents report longer decision cycles, increased property viewings, and more structured negotiations. Buyers are prioritizing quality, location, and developer credibility — particularly in the off-plan segment — over short-term pricing advantages.

    The conversation has shifted from timing the market to understanding value within it. That’s a much healthier foundation for long-term growth.

    Remington added regarding the evolving buyer mindset.

    The market’s resilience aligns with broader trends documented earlier this year. Dubai’s property market recorded over Dh180 billion in Q1 2026, with ultra-luxury deals surging 62.6% year-on-year. Meanwhile, commercial property prices jumped 28% between February and March 2026 despite regional tensions.

    While some buyers continue to wait for a potential dip, current indicators suggest that Dubai’s market is stabilizing rather than softening. Pricing remains supported by consistent demand, limited distress, and a steady inflow of both local and international investors.

    As the market enters this more balanced phase, industry leaders agree that opportunities still exist — but they are driven by informed decision-making rather than market-wide discounts. In this environment, Dubai’s property sector is not retreating — it is refining, offering a clearer alignment between price, value, and buyer expectations.

  • Qatar Real Estate Trading Reaches QAR438 Million in Late April

    Qatar Real Estate Trading Reaches QAR438 Million in Late April

    The latest figures from Qatar’s Department of Real Estate Registration at the Ministry of Justice show that sales contracts reached QAR398.6 million during the reporting period, with residential units accounting for QAR39.8 million in separate bulletin transactions.

    The week-on-week decline suggests a normalization in activity following a stronger mid-April performance, though market fundamentals remain solid as demand continues across both investment-driven and end-user segments.

    Doha and Al Rayyan Lead Municipal Activity

    Transactions spanned a diverse mix of asset classes, including vacant land, residential properties, commercial shops, and mixed-use buildings. Sales were concentrated in the municipalities of Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Wakrah, Al Daayen, Umm Salal, Al Khor, Al Thakhira, and Al Shamal, with notable activity in Al Kharaej, Lusail 69, The Pearl, Legtaifiya, Al Wukair, Al Dafna 60, and Al-Gharafa.

    The geographic spread reflects balanced investor interest across both established urban centers and emerging residential zones, underscoring Qatar’s continued infrastructure expansion and housing diversification efforts.

    Strong Q1 2026 Performance Sets Foundation

    The weekly performance comes on the back of a robust first quarter, during which Qatar’s real estate sector recorded QAR9.2 billion ($2.52 billion) in sales transactions, marking a 28.5% year-on-year increase from QAR7.2 billion in Q1 2025, according to the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat).

    Aqarat confirmed that 2026 delivered the strongest first-quarter performance in recent years, reflecting a recovery in market activity and sustained demand. The authority also noted that Qatar’s rental market remained robust, with rental contracts concluded in 2025 exceeding 2024 levels across all quarters.

    The upward trend from 2023 to 2026 demonstrates the resilience of Qatar’s property sector, supported by continued government investment in infrastructure, housing initiatives, and economic diversification strategies aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.

    Market analysts point to strong fundamentals underpinning the sector, including stable employment growth, steady population expansion, and increased foreign investment in real estate following regulatory reforms that expanded property ownership rights for expatriates.

    While weekly fluctuations are expected in any mature market, the broader trajectory suggests Qatar’s property sector remains on a steady growth path, with both developers and investors maintaining confidence in long-term fundamentals despite regional economic uncertainties.

  • Modon’s Tara Park Sells Out with AED2 Billion in Sales

    Modon has completed the sell-out of Tara Park on Reem Island, marking a significant milestone as the 834-apartment development generated approximately AED2 billion in sales. The achievement reflects sustained investor confidence in Abu Dhabi’s property sector as the emirate solidifies its position as a global safe-haven investment destination.

    “Tara Park further validates Modon’s disciplined, market-driven approach, connecting a prime location and thoughtful placemaking to generate sustainable urban growth and long-term value. We continue to see strong demand across the market, which speaks to the confidence that local and international buyers continue to place in Abu Dhabi, particularly for projects where clear attention to quality of life supports future investment potential,” said Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding.

    International Buyers Drive 60% of Demand

    The development attracted significant international interest, with approximately 60% of buyers originating from overseas markets. Russia, the United Kingdom, and India represented the leading sources of demand, demonstrating the project’s broad global appeal.

    Notably, 85% of buyers were first-time investors with Modon, underscoring both the strength of the development’s positioning and its success in expanding the developer’s international investor base.

    “The sell-out Tara Park sends a clear signal. Buyers are not hesitating. Buyers are making considered, long-term decisions. Tara Park was designed with clear buyer priorities and needs in mind, and the market response has validated that approach entirely,” said Ibrahim Al Maghribi, CEO of Modon Real Estate.

    Premium Location with Integrated Amenities

    Tara Park comprises six residential towers offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. The towers are connected by an active podium that provides residents with access to a wide range of amenities and direct connectivity to Reem Mall.

    The development’s strategic location offers proximity to Fay Park, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and Repton School, alongside easy access to Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), The Galleria Mall, and the wider city center.

    The sell-out coincides with record-breaking performance across Abu Dhabi’s residential market, which delivered its second-strongest quarter on record in Q1 2026. Transaction volumes in Abu Dhabi City exceeded 7,200 deals, just below the all-time peak of 7,600 recorded in Q4 2025, according to Savills’ latest Market in Minutes report.

    As ultra-high-net-worth individuals continue to increase across the UAE, developments like Tara Park demonstrate sustained appetite for quality residential projects in prime locations. The capital’s momentum reflects broader confidence in the UAE’s economic resilience and long-term growth trajectory.

  • Dubai Removes Minimum Property Value for Residency Visas

    Dubai Removes Minimum Property Value for Residency Visas

    Dubai Land Department eliminated the minimum property value requirement for sole owners on April 30, 2026, removing the Dh750,000 threshold and relaxing conditions for jointly owned properties as the emirate opens its real estate market to a broader pool of investors and first-time buyers.

    The policy shift represents a significant departure from previous restrictions, effectively lowering the barrier to residency at the entry level while other global jurisdictions tighten their requirements.

    Industry Leaders Welcome the Move

    Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, described the update as a forward-thinking approach that builds on Dubai’s investor-friendly reputation.

    “This latest progressive move by the Dubai Land Department builds on the forward-thinking, investor-friendly approach the emirate has long cultivated. The removal of a minimum property value threshold for homeowners is particularly significant as it opens the door for a wider pool of first-time buyers and investors. Such policies strengthen demand fundamentals and deepen market maturity,”

    Alfred told Khaleej Times.

    Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties, emphasized the strategic timing of the decision. “Dubai has just done what most global property markets won’t – lowering the barrier to residency at the entry level at a moment when other jurisdictions are tightening theirs,” he said.

    Al Msaddi noted that the policy sends a clear message: “Residency in Dubai is no longer reserved for those who can write a seven-figure cheque on day one. You can now plant your stake in this city with capital that matches your stage of life, and grow your position from there.”

    Impact on Market Segments

    Luthfullah K, Director at Casagrand Dubai, said the expanded eligibility will naturally stimulate demand in the entry and mid-market segments, where rental yields and long-term capital growth remain attractive. “Many buyers today are choosing Dubai not just as an investment destination, but also as a residency hub, and this policy further strengthens that appeal,” he added.

    Tauseef Khan, Founder and Chairman at Dugasta Properties, highlighted Dubai’s commitment to accessibility. “This update highlights Dubai’s dedication to making property ownership accessible and investor-friendly. The removal of the minimum property value requirement for sole owners and the introduction of practical conditions for jointly owned assets open the door for a wider range of buyers.”

    Annuj Goel, chairman of Golden Light Group, emphasized the structural change. “What changed today isn’t a number — it’s a barrier. By moving away from a fixed investment threshold and instead focusing on ownership structure, the UAE has made the market far more accessible,” Goel said, noting that the buyer pool widens overnight, especially in the mid-market segment where most genuine end-users sit.

    Broader Market Context

    The policy update comes as Dubai’s property market maintains strong momentum, with sales crossing Dh180 billion in Q1 2026 and luxury home prices jumping 25% in 2025.

    The removal of minimum thresholds aligns with Dubai’s broader strategy to attract global talent and maintain its position as a premier destination for long-term living and investment. Industry experts suggest the measures support a more balanced and resilient real estate ecosystem, driven by genuine ownership rather than short-term speculation.

    The policy strengthens the connection between ownership and residency, reinforcing one of Dubai’s biggest competitive advantages in the global property market.

  • Meraas Awards Dh2.4 Billion Contracts for 557 Dubailand Villas

    Dubai Holding Real Estate’s flagship developer Meraas has committed Dh2.4 billion to expand its villa communities in Dubailand, awarding major construction contracts as demand for spacious homes maintains momentum across the emirate.

    The contracts, split between United Engineering Construction (UNEC) and GCC Contracting, will deliver a combined 557 villas ranging from three to seven bedrooms across The Acres and The Acres Estates developments.

    UNEC will construct 371 villas at The Acres, featuring three- to five-bedroom homes alongside community infrastructure including roads, utilities and shared amenities. GCC Contracting will handle The Acres Estates, positioned as the more exclusive offering with 186 larger homes spanning five to seven bedrooms.

    “This award reflects both the strength of demand for premium villa communities in Dubai and our continued investment in meeting that demand with quality and distinction,” said Khalid Al Malik, CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate.

    The developments are designed around nature-focused living, with The Acres centered on Halo Loop Park—a landscaped green space serving as the community anchor. The Acres Estates elevates the concept with larger plots, exclusive architectural designs, and premium features including landscaped waterfront areas and swimmable lagoons.

    “We are focused on efficient execution and maintaining the highest construction standards throughout the project lifecycle,” said Eng. Abdul Halim Muwahid, Chairman of UNEC. Bipin Chandran, CEO of GCC Contracting, described The Acres Estates as “a high-specification residential development” requiring “precision and technical expertise.”

    Located in Dubailand with connectivity through Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street and Emirates Road, the communities offer proximity to Global Village, Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, and Hamdan Sports Complex—factors developers say enhance long-term appeal for residents and investors.

    The contracts represent a significant addition to Dubai’s villa pipeline as the emirate’s property market recorded over Dh180 billion in transactions during Q1 2026. The expansion aligns with broader market trends, with luxury home prices jumping 25% in 2025 as Dubai strengthens its position as a global wealth destination.

  • Abu Dhabi Residential Market Posts Second-Strongest Quarter on Record

    Abu Dhabi Residential Market Posts Second-Strongest Quarter on Record

    The capital’s property sector maintained robust momentum through January and February before moderating in March as regional geopolitical tensions, Ramadan observance, and school holidays influenced activity levels.

    Off-plan sales continued to dominate the market in Q1 2026, accounting for 81 percent of all transactions, up from 80 percent in Q4 2025. Demand was supported by major launches, including Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana Development, which generated AED6 billion in sales within 72 hours.

    Apartment activity reached unprecedented levels, with a record 5,200 apartment transactions in the quarter, representing 73 percent of all sales, up from 67 percent in 2025. This marked the third consecutive quarter with apartment volumes above 4,000.

    Average sales rates across Abu Dhabi increased sharply during the period. Off-plan rates rose 39 percent quarter-on-quarter, from AED16,540 per square meter at the end of 2025 to AED23,067 per square meter in Q1 2026. The ready market also improved, with average rates rising 2.66 percent to AED15,480 from AED15,087 in Q4 2025.

    “The market showed remarkable resilience, delivering near-record transaction volumes in Q1 despite regional geopolitical developments and seasonal factors,” said Ali Ishaq, Head of Residential Agency Abu Dhabi at Savills Middle East.

    March showed a shift in off-plan market composition, with resale off-plan transactions rising from 4 percent to 15 percent of total activity, indicating growing investor-led activity and reassignment transactions. Monthly transaction volumes in March declined 16 percent month-on-month, though reporting lags may not fully capture underlying trends.

    Developer confidence remained strong in Q1, with approximately 20 projects launching around 4,000 units, 80 percent of which were apartments, compared with 3,400 units launched in Q4 2025. Modon Properties launched Tara Park on Al Reem Island in March, demonstrating resilience despite the uncertain backdrop.

    Key completions during the quarter included Fay Al Reeman Phase 2 and The Gate Residence in Masdar City. Q1 2026 accounted for 35 percent of full-year 2025 transaction volumes, underlining the sustained depth of demand across the market.

    Ishaq noted that underlying demand fundamentals remain intact, with supply constraints, limited near-term handovers, and continued investment in major infrastructure and cultural assets supporting a strong medium-term market case.

    The emirate’s broader growth story, supported by ADGM’s expansion, new cultural attractions on Saadiyat Island, and the opening of Disneyland Abu Dhabi, is expected to keep driving wealth migration and prime market demand over the medium term. The UAE’s ultra-wealthy population growth continues to underpin luxury residential demand across the capital.

    Savills cautioned that headline figures should be read with consideration, as transaction data, especially in March, may reflect deals initiated in January and February and may not yet fully capture current market conditions shaped by regional developments.

  • Dubai Real Estate Sales Cross Dh180 Billion in Q1 2026

    Dubai Real Estate Sales Cross Dh180 Billion in Q1 2026

    The emirate’s real estate sector delivered exceptional performance between January and March 2026, with residential sales accounting for Dh143.1 billion across 44,743 transactions—a 22.2% increase compared to the same period last year—while commercial transactions reached Dh37.9 billion from 3,619 deals, according to Engel & Völkers Middle East.

    The standout feature of the quarter was the sharp rise in high-end activity, with 2,148 property transactions valued above Dh10 million representing one of the highest quarterly totals on record. Several landmark deals illustrated investor appetite at the ultra-prime level, including a Dh422 million off-plan residence at Aman Residences, a Dh350 million villa at Jumeirah Asora Bay, and a Dh340 million villa on Jumeirah Bay Island.

    “Dubai’s real estate market continues to demonstrate exceptional depth, particularly at the luxury end, where demand remains highly resilient,” said Daniel Hadi, chief executive of Engel & Völkers Middle East. “What we saw in March was a natural pause linked to evolving regional conditions, but also a transition towards a more mature phase where buyers and investors are increasingly focused on value, quality and long-term fundamentals.”

    Prime demand remained concentrated in established communities such as Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate, while master-planned destinations including The Oasis Dubai and Nad Al Sheba gained traction alongside emerging waterfront developments such as Palm Jebel Ali and La Mer.

    The commercial property sector mirrored the broader market’s strength, with office assets emerging as a standout performer. A total of 1,565 office transactions were recorded during the quarter, representing a 74.5% increase year-on-year, while average office prices rose to Dh3,047 per square foot as demand strengthened for Grade A workspaces.

    Business hubs such as Business Bay, Al Sufouh and Dubai Maritime City accounted for a significant share of off-plan office activity, reflecting continued expansion by multinational companies and professional services firms establishing regional headquarters in the emirate.

    Official figures from Dubai Land Department reinforced the strength of the broader trend, showing total real estate transactions reached Dh252 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a 31% increase year-on-year across more than 60,000 deals. Foreign investment alone climbed 26% to Dh148.35 billion, highlighting sustained international confidence despite regional volatility.

    Although the market entered the year with strong momentum, activity became more measured toward the end of the quarter following regional tensions in late February, with some buyers extending decision-making timelines. However, analysts describe this as a temporary adjustment in sentiment rather than a structural slowdown in demand.

    The emirate’s population growth remains a key structural driver of demand, with Dubai’s resident base surpassing four million last year as professionals, entrepreneurs and investors continue relocating under long-term residency programmes and business-friendly policies.

    With rental yields still averaging between 6% and 8% in many communities and total property sales already reaching a record Dh686.8 billion in 2025, the strong start to 2026 suggests Dubai’s real estate sector is entering a more selective and globally institutional phase. The first-quarter performance reflects Dubai’s growing appeal to global high-net-worth individuals seeking secure assets, residency advantages and long-term lifestyle investments.

  • RAK Property Market Records Dh12.4 Billion in 2025 Sales

    RAK Property Market Records Dh12.4 Billion in 2025 Sales

    The emirate’s property sector maintained steady price growth despite a year-on-year decline in total sales volume, driven primarily by fewer new project launches compared to 2024. Off-plan sales fell 17.2%, while ready property transactions dropped 18.7%, according to the property consultant’s annual analysis.

    Rental rates demonstrated consistent upward momentum throughout 2025, with annual apartment leases increasing 10.2% and villa rents rising 8.7% against a backdrop of continued business formation and investment activity across the emirate.

    At year-end, the average cost of an off-plan unit stood at Dh1.98 million, while ready homes averaged Dh1.16 million, reflecting a significant premium for under-construction properties as buyers positioned themselves ahead of future delivery.

    Yousir Habib, associate director at Cavendish Maxwell, noted that despite the moderation in transaction volumes, the emirate’s “underlying fundamentals stayed strong, with prices rising for both sales and rentals, reflecting continued investor and end-user interest in the emirate’s expanding portfolio of waterfront developments, branded residences, lifestyle offerings and competitive pricing.”

    Supply Pipeline Accelerates Through 2028

    The emirate delivered 1,200 new homes in 2025, with another 1,300 units scheduled to enter the market in 2026. Supply is projected to accelerate significantly in the coming years, with 1,900 properties planned for 2027, followed by a sharp increase to 5,200 new units in 2028. In total, 8,400 residential units are scheduled for delivery over the next three years.

    Habib attributed the robust development pipeline to continued enhancements in the emirate’s infrastructure, connectivity, and amenities, which are attracting and retaining residents. “The Wynn Al Marjan Island, scheduled to open in spring 2027, is expected to be key to demand by boosting tourism, creating new jobs and generating additional demand for housing,” he said.

    Construction on the Dh18.7 billion integrated gaming resort resumed after a brief pause during the start of the US-Israel-Iran conflict in early March. The US-based operator confirmed the project remains on schedule to open early next year after topping out in the fourth quarter of 2025.

    Strong Economic Fundamentals Support Market

    Despite the decline in transaction volumes, macroeconomic conditions across Ras Al Khaimah remained strong throughout 2025, with robust GDP performance and continued growth in free zone license issuance supporting the residential sector’s pricing power.

    The emirate’s property market performance reflects a maturing sector where pricing stability and rental growth take precedence over transaction volume as developers focus on quality projects aligned with long-term demand rather than speculative launches.

    With the substantial supply pipeline scheduled through 2028 and the upcoming opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s residential market is positioned for continued evolution as the emirate strengthens its position as an attractive destination for investors and end-users seeking value relative to neighboring markets.