Dubai's real estate market continued its powerful upward trajectory in the first half of 2026, recording AED 286.44 billion ($78 billion) in property sales across more than 86,000 transactions, according to fresh data from the Dubai Land Department. This performance marks the second-highest H1 result ever recorded, reinforcing Dubai's position as one of the world's most resilient and investor‑friendly property markets. The surge in activity reflects strong demand across both ready and off‑plan segments, driven by population growth, global investor inflows, and sustained confidence in Dubai's long-term economic outlook.

The market's momentum was supported by a balanced mix of ready and off‑plan sales. Ready properties generated AED 146.7 billion ($40 billion) from over 27,200 transactions, highlighting continued appetite for completed homes, especially in prime waterfront and luxury districts. Off‑plan sales contributed AED 139.8 billion ($38.1 billion) from nearly 58,800 deals, underscoring the strength of Dubai's development pipeline and the appeal of flexible payment plans offered by leading developers. The off‑plan segment's dominance in transaction volume reflects investor confidence in future supply, master-planned communities, and branded residences.

Beyond sales, Dubai recorded AED 102 billion ($27.8 billion) in mortgage activity from more than 22,000 transactions, demonstrating strong end-user participation and long-term commitment to property ownership. Gift transactions added another AED 31.4 billion ($8.6 billion) across 4,501 deals, often linked to family wealth transfers and corporate restructuring. In total, Dubai's real estate sector achieved AED 419.94 billion ($114.3 billion) in combined activity during H1 2026, representing more than 112,850 transactions and confirming the market'ss exceptional liquidity.

The second quarter alone delivered AED 110 billion ($30 billion) in sales from 38,300 transactions, supported by new launches in areas such as Dubai South, Business Bay, Palm Jebel Ali, and Dubai Creek Harbour. Luxury demand remained robust, with high-net-worth investors targeting villas, waterfront penthouses, and branded residences. Meanwhile, mid-market communities continued to attract expatriate families seeking long-term stability and competitive pricing.

Dubai's strong H1 performance highlights the city’s evolution into a mature, globally competitive real estate market. Strategic government policies, visa reforms, infrastructure expansion, and sustained economic diversification continue to attract international investors. With major master communities, waterfront districts, and luxury developments scheduled for release in the second half of the year, analysts expect momentum to remain strong through 2026.