Dubai Real Estate Remains Resilient as 85% of Landlords Hold Firm Amid Regional Uncertainty

Dubai’s residential property market has shown remarkable resilience amid rising geopolitical tensions across the Middle East, with PropertyNews.ae reporting on March 24, 2026 that roughly 85% of landlords are choosing to retain their assets rather than sell. Transaction activity has remained strong: the market recorded $12.36 billion in sales in February, weekly volumes have topped Dh3.2 billion, and notable deals have included a $115 million transaction in Jumeirah.

“85% of landlords hold firm,” PropertyNews.ae reported, reflecting a broad seller reluctance even as buyer behaviour grows more selective.

Industry metrics published across PropertyNews.ae’s March coverage underline the dual dynamics of robust liquidity and cautious sentiment. The site noted Dh3.8 billion in transactions at the start of one week in mid-March, and referenced a historic single-day sales peak of Dh15.6 billion recorded earlier in the market’s recent run. The rental sector also posted strength, with the rental market hitting Dh126 billion in 2025 as demand remained elevated.

Developers and market participants named in PropertyNews.ae’s reporting have adapted to shifting demand: several stories in late March highlighted that developers are offering more flexible payment and leasing plans to sustain buyer interest, while listings and search activity show a surge in “deal hunters.” At the same time, seller firmness is keeping supply tight in certain segments.

Key figures and industry moves

• $12.36 billion — value of Dubai property sales in February, according to PropertyNews.ae (March 19, 2026).
• Dh3.2 billion — weekly transaction volume cited in mid‑March, including a $115 million Jumeirah deal (March 18, 2026).
• Dh126 billion — size of Dubai’s rental market in 2025, as reported on the site.
• Dh13.1 billion — Dubai office market sales in 2025, described as an 11‑year peak.
• $545 million — investment value for Therme Dubai, unveiled by Sheikh Hamdan, described as the world’s tallest well‑being resort.

Major names and projects referenced across the coverage include Jumeirah Group transactions, Blue Square’s UAE debut with Vayla Residences on Dubai Islands, and announcements involving Midad Real Estate, JCDC and Kerzner International in neighbouring Saudi developments. PropertyNews.ae also tracked regional volatility, noting that the market “holds steady amid Iran conflict” while buyers and tenants seek value and flexibility.

Looking ahead, PropertyNews.ae pointed to forecasts and seasonal expectations that underpin cautious optimism: activity was projected to grow by 8–12% during Ramadan 2026, and several pieces signalled a likely stabilisation of rents by year‑end as new supply rebalances demand. With sellers largely unwilling to liquidate holdings and developers adjusting terms, Dubai’s property sector appears poised for measured, stable growth rather than abrupt correction.