Dubai’s off-plan apartment market continued to post solid growth in March 2026, signalling sustained investor confidence despite heightened regional and global volatility. Moreover, sales momentum has remained strong in the weeks following the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran, reinforcing Dubai’s appeal as a long-term property investment destination.
Off-plan apartment sales rise to AED17.5 billion
Off-plan residential apartment sales in Dubai reached AED17.5 billion ($4.8 billion) in March 2026, representing a 12.9% increase compared to the same period last year, based on Dubai Land Department data. Additionally, transaction volumes in the off-plan segment rose 2.3% to 7,983 deals, indicating continued demand from buyers.
Market activity remained concentrated in areas such as Madinat Al Mataar and Dubai Islands. Furthermore, analysts linked the rise in sales to demand in the ultra-luxury segment and strategic development activity near Al Maktoum International Airport.
Ultra-luxury segment supports market performance
High-value transactions contributed significantly to overall sales growth. One of the developments, Aman Residences, recorded a landmark deal after a buyer purchased an apartment for AED422 million. As a result, premium demand continues to play a major role in supporting market performance.
However, the analysis did not include villa sales or transactions involving secondary and completed properties. Therefore, the overall market picture may be broader than the off-plan apartment segment alone.
Ratings agency expects safe-haven status to hold
The conflict has raised questions among analysts about Dubai’s safe-haven appeal, particularly following drone and missile-related incidents in the UAE. Nevertheless, S&P said Dubai is unlikely to lose its safe-haven status or face a property crash similar to 2008, citing government reforms that have shifted the buyer base toward long-term investors.
S&P said, “We believe that the UAE government’s visa reforms will create a degree of stability and stickiness for residents and home/property owners … initiatives such as the Golden Visa grant long-term residency to investors,” the ratings agency said.
The agency also noted that damage to impacted real estate assets has “not been to a degree beyond repair.” Moreover, it said that while some investors initially moved toward liquidity, others are increasing exposure to tangible assets in Dubai as a hedge against currency instability across the wider region.
