Dubai’s real estate market has kicked off 2026 with an unprecedented surge, achieving the highest monthly transaction value in the emirate’s history. According to data released by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), total real estate transactions in January reached Dh107.96 billion, nearly double the Dh57.89 billion recorded in the same month last year. This historic performance underscores the emirate’s sustained appeal to both domestic and international investors.
Record-Breaking Market Performance
January witnessed an 86.5% year-on-year increase in total transaction value, with the number of real estate deals rising 17.27% to 21,884, compared with 18,661 in January 2025. Sales activity alone accounted for Dh70.05 billion, marking the highest monthly sales value ever recorded in Dubai.
A total of 16,858 sales deals were completed, up 20.38% from 14,003 transactions a year earlier. Mortgage activity remained robust, registering Dh32.04 billion across 4,160 transactions, while property gifts contributed Dh5.87 billion through 826 deals. The diversity of transaction types demonstrates a balanced and resilient market, driven by both end-users and investors.
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Top Performing Areas
The strongest-performing areas by sales value in January included:
- Al Rowaiyah 1: Dh6.31 billion
- Meydan 2 (Me’aisem 2): Dh6.04 billion
- Al Yalayis 1: Dh4.6 billion
- Business Bay: Dh3.51 billion
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens: Dh3.26 billion
Other areas exceeding Dh1.7 billion in sales included Umm Suqeim First, Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai Investment Park Second, and Palm Deira, reflecting widespread demand across premium and family-oriented residential communities.
Market Transformation and Investor Confidence
Ahmed Al Dawla, chairman of On Plan Real Estate, observed that the data reflects a structural shift in Dubai’s real estate landscape. “Dubai is no longer a temporary stop or short-term tourism destination,” he stated. “It has emerged as a city of long-term residence, attracting individuals and families from across the globe.”
Key drivers include Dubai’s safety, robust infrastructure, and economic stability, complemented by investor-friendly policies that enhance confidence. Large-scale developments, particularly in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), continue to support demand for high-end residential units and family-focused housing, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a sustainable and strategic real estate hub.
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Rising Prices and Market Outlook
Al Dawla anticipates that property prices will continue to rise in the near term, supported by limited land availability, robust demand, and the participation of international developers. The total real estate transaction value in 2025 approached Dh917 billion, a level initially projected for 2033, indicating the market may soon exceed Dh1 trillion annually.
Dubai’s real estate sector demonstrates resilience across both luxury and mid-market segments, offering consistent capital appreciation and strong investment potential. Analysts suggest that this momentum is likely to continue, driven by strategic locations, lifestyle-oriented communities, and integrated developments.
Investment Insights
January’s record performance reinforces Dubai’s status as a leading global real estate destination. Investors are particularly focused on areas offering connectivity, lifestyle amenities, and long-term growth potential. From premium waterfront projects to well-planned family communities, Dubai provides a diverse investment landscape with opportunities for both high returns and sustainable asset growth.
The data signals that 2026 is poised to be another landmark year for the emirate’s property market, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a stable, strategic, and high-performing real estate hub on the global stage.
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Conclusion
Dubai’s exceptional start to 2026 highlights the strength and maturity of its real estate market. Record transaction values, broad-based demand, and rising investor confidence reflect a sector driven by long-term fundamentals rather than short-term cycles. With sustained momentum, limited supply, and strong policy support, Dubai is well positioned to reinforce its standing as a globally competitive and resilient real estate investment destination.