Emaar founder boldly reveals why Dubai’s property market has ‘nothing to fear’ amid Iran and US-Israel war

Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar Properties, has told investors that Dubai’s real estate market "has nothing to fear" despite heightened regional tensions tied to the Iran–US–Israel conflict and an anticipated surge in new housing supply in 2026 and 2027. Alabbar made the remarks as Emaar reported record property sales and strong revenue growth, underscoring sustained demand for residential and luxury developments across the emirate. (Updated: Mar 08, 2026, 02:33 IST)

"Nothing to fear," Alabbar said, framing the upcoming wave of inventory and geopolitical uncertainty as manageable for Dubai's property sector.

Context and market dynamics

Alabbar’s comments come amid volatility in UAE financial markets linked to regional security concerns. Analysts have warned that prolonged geopolitical risks could test Dubai’s reputation as a safe investment hub, and some fear that a large increase in supply could soften prices. Emaar, however, points to several structural strengths that it says underpin the market’s resilience.

• Emaar reported record property sales and strong revenue growth, driven by demand for residential and luxury projects across Dubai.
• Developers and market observers note a major wave of new supply slated for 2026 and 2027; Alabbar described the inventory rise as healthy and stabilizing for price growth.
• High-end transactions continued during recent tensions, with the ultra-luxury segment recording apartment sales "exceeding hundreds of millions of dirhams," according to coverage of recent deals.
• Alabbar highlighted the UAE’s stable leadership, long-term planning and strong economic fundamentals as protective factors for international capital and property investors.

In public comments summarised by TOI World Desk, Alabbar contended that additional inventory will ensure sustainable expansion rather than trigger destructive short-term price spikes. He framed new launches as "a natural part of the property cycle" and argued that balanced growth, not speculation, should be the sector’s aim. The developer also pointed to Dubai’s policy environment — tax advantages, modern infrastructure and investor-friendly measures — as continuing to attract global buyers.

Outlook

Market participants say the sector is not immune to downside risks. Some analysts warn that prolonged geopolitical instability or a decline in foreign investment could slow momentum in the coming years. Nonetheless, industry commentators and Emaar’s financial performance suggest that demand for luxury and waterfront projects remains robust, even under regional pressures.

For Alabbar and other industry leaders, the prevailing message is one of long-term resilience: maintain balanced supply, rely on Dubai’s economic fundamentals, and the property market can withstand the shocks associated with the Iran–US–Israel tensions while continuing to play a central role in the UAE’s economic growth.