Dubai residents are staying longer in the city, signalling a shift from short-term relocation to long-term settlement, according to new research by property consultancy betterhomes.
betterhomes’ Future Living Report 2025 shows that the average length of stay in Dubai has increased to 10.5 years, up from 7.5 years in 2024. The data suggests residents are increasingly viewing Dubai as a permanent place to live rather than a temporary base.
Among tenants, the average length of residency rose from 6.7 years in 2024 to 9.9 years in 2025. Tenants now expect to remain in the city for an average of 10.7 years, compared to seven years a year earlier.
The report found that nearly 60% of residents plan to stay in Dubai for more than 10 years. This points to greater confidence in long-term stability, particularly among tenants who are planning further ahead than in previous years.
Commenting on the findings, Louis Harding, CEO of betterhomes, said: “With 59% of tenants committing to Dubai for the long term, it’s evident that people are planning their lives here with far greater confidence and clarity than we’ve seen before. This shift reflects Dubai’s continued appeal as a stable, liveable city for both families and professionals.”
City seen as home
betterhomes said the rise in both actual and expected length of stay reflects a stronger sense of belonging among residents, with more people choosing to build long-term lives in the city.
Rupert Simmonds, Director of Leasing at betterhomes, said: “The growth in tenant residency is one of the clearest indicators of Dubai’s evolution. People are choosing to stay longer, not out of necessity, but because the city supports long-term living, stability, and progression.”
The findings suggest Dubai is increasingly being seen as a long-term home rather than a transitional destination for residents.
