Dubai recorded 66,900 residential property sales between January and May 2026, with off-plan properties accounting for nearly three-quarters of all transactions, according to new data from property consultancy Cavendish Maxwell.
The latest figures indicate a slowdown in the emirate’s residential real estate market, with sales activity easing across both off-plan and ready property segments during May.
May sales
Around 9,500 residential transactions were recorded in May 2026, down from 17,600 in the same month last year. Sales were also 27 per cent lower than April 2026.
Cavendish Maxwell said the week-long Eid Al Adha holiday at the end of May contributed to the slowdown, resulting in an estimated 3,000 fewer transactions.
Transaction values
The total value of residential property transactions reached more than Dhs196.2 billion during the first five months of 2026, compared with Dhs217.8 billion during the same period in 2025.
In May alone, transaction values stood at Dhs22 billion, significantly lower than the Dhs54.8 billion recorded in May last year.
Market outlook
Ronan Arthur, Director, Head of Residential Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, said: “While off-plan sales remained relatively resilient during the first four months of 2026, May recorded a notable decline in both transaction volumes and values. The ready market has seen an even more pronounced slowdown, with year-on-year declines since March.
“This latest data suggests a more selective market environment, with buyers taking a measured approach amid regional and global uncertainty. While activity levels remain healthy by historical standards, the pace seen in recent months has continued to moderate.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
