Dubai’s real estate market recorded 87,800 property transactions worth Dhs291.7 billion during the first half of 2026, with off-plan properties accounting for 71% of all deals, according to figures cited by international real estate developer MERED.
The company said the strong performance reflects continued buyer confidence in Dubai’s development pipeline, supported by the emirate’s regulatory framework, infrastructure growth and appeal as a global investment and lifestyle destination.
Market growth
Dubai added around 121,000 new residents during the first six months of 2026, helping sustain demand for housing, the company said.
The city’s residential pipeline includes more than 31,000 luxury units scheduled for delivery by 2030, representing about 8% of total new housing supply. Developers are increasingly focusing on design, architecture and lifestyle features to differentiate new projects.
Average property prices rose 9% during the first half of 2026, while Dubai recorded 296 home sales above $10 million, generating $5.1 billion. Transaction volume increased 16% year-on-year and sales value climbed 14%, reflecting continued international demand for high-end homes.
Branded residences
Dubai remains the world’s leading market for branded residences, with 64 completed developments and another 87 projects in the pipeline. Branded homes also command an average 64% price premium over non-branded properties, according to the data shared by MERED.
Michael Belton, CEO of MERED, said: “Off-plan property buyers commit before they can experience the finished product, so confidence must be earned through architectural quality, functionality and delivery credibility. As Dubai’s off-plan market continues to expand, these are the qualities that will define the next generation of luxury residences and reinforce Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most desirable places to live and invest. With ICONIC Residences Design by Pininfarina, MERED is responding to a more selective market by turning early promise into lasting value beyond handover.”
MERED’s flagship ICONIC Residences Design by Pininfarina is a 66-storey luxury residential tower in Dubai Internet City. Construction has reached approximately 125 metres and Level 22, with completion scheduled for the third quarter of 2027.
The project involves international firms including Pininfarina, Hirsch Bedner Associates, SERA Group, Currie & Brown and Bond Interiors. Located between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab, the tower will offer views of the Arabian Gulf and access to key destinations across Dubai.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
