Global spotlight. Rising demand. Dubai property market is at the top of its game

If you’ve been keeping even half an eye on the Dubai property market, this won’t come as a shock, but now there’s data to back it. According to a new global index by Savills, Dubai ranks in the top three cities in the world for growth in prime residential property values for the first half of 2025. Prices are still going up, and demand isn’t slowing down. Whether you’re investing, relocating, or just watching from the sidelines, this city is still one of the biggest property stories on the planet.

Dubai joins Tokyo and Berlin at the top

The World Cities Prime Residential Index tracks capital value growth in 30 major cities. Tokyo topped the list with 8.8%, Berlin came second, and Dubai clocked in at 5%. That’s not just strong, it’s way above the global average of 0.7% for the same period.

What’s fuelling the growth?

Three key things: immigration, investor confidence, and low supply. Dubai continues to attract high-net-worth residents, long-term expats, and international buyers. At the same time, there’s not much prime stock available, especially in established neighbourhoods like Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay, and Dubai Hills. So prices are holding and rising.

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Transactions are up, and so are the stakes

According to the Dubai Land Department, real estate transaction volume hit 125,538 in the first half of 2025, up nearly 26% year-on-year. Those deals were worth a total of around Dh431 billion, and over 59,000 new investors entered the market. That’s a huge inflow, and it shows how much attention Dubai is getting from buyers looking for growth, flexibility, and security.

More accessible than you’d think

Buying prime property in Dubai isn’t as out of reach as it sounds. UAE nationals can buy with as little as 15% down, while expats typically need 20%. Mortgage terms often run from 15 to 30 years, and there’s no property tax. Compared to cities like London or New York, the barriers to entry here are far lower, and returns are often higher.

Still room to grow

Savills expects prime residential prices in Dubai to climb another 4% to 5.9% by the end of the year. Even as other major cities flatten or slow down, Dubai continues to trend upward. With a mix of policy support (like long-term visas), steady infrastructure development, and strong rental demand, the market shows no signs of slowing anytime soon.