The residential property market in the United Arab Emirates is showing resilience despite regional uncertainty and rising supply. A recent survey found that nearly 45 percent of respondents plan to purchase property within the next year, while 32 percent remain undecided, indicating longer decision timelines rather than weakening demand. Population growth and the country’s appeal as a global business and lifestyle hub continue to underpin interest.

Although a significant wave of new housing units is expected to be delivered in Dubai between 2026 and 2028, demand has remained steady. Most current owners plan to hold or expand their portfolios, with only a small minority considering selling, helping to support prices even as buyer and seller expectations diverge.

Buyers are becoming more selective, favoring completed homes over off plan projects due to greater certainty on pricing and delivery. More than 80 percent of respondents expect prices to stabilize or decline over the coming year, particularly in the apartment segment where supply is more abundant, while villas and townhouses are seen as more resilient.