Dubai’s Thriving Real Estate Market: May 2025 Report
Record-Breaking Transactions
May 2025 marked a historic moment for Dubai’s real estate sector, with Property Finder revealing a staggering AED 66.8 billion in sales transactions across 18,700 deals. This remarkable achievement not only signifies a 44% year-over-year rise in transaction value but also a healthy 6% increase in volume. These figures reflect strong market confidence and a deep, sustained appetite for property investments within the emirate.
A Surge in Primary Ready Sales
The primary real estate market, comprising ready and off-plan sales, saw an explosive growth, with figures surpassing expectations. Primary ready sales experienced an unprecedented growth surge of 314% compared to May 2024, reaching AED 17.9 billion across approximately 2,400 transactions. This growth represents a striking 145% increase. Such numbers underscore the appeal of newly developed properties as buyers flock to capitalize on the opportunities available.
Secondary Market Resilience
The secondary ready sales market also reached new heights, reflecting a robust demand for resale properties. With 6,078 transactions valued at AED 24 billion, the secondary market recorded an 8% increase in volume and a remarkable 21% rise in transaction value year-over-year. This demonstrates an ongoing confidence among consumers, reinforcing the notion that existing properties remain highly appealing investments.
A Glimpse at Consumer Behavior Trends
Consumer preferences continued to evolve steadily over the past year. Apartments dominated the market, making up 78% of rental searches and 60% of buying interest. Within this category, one-bedroom units led the charge, attracting 35% of purchase searches and 38% of rental searches. Interestingly, studios captured 21% of rental interest but only 15% of buying interest. This discrepancy suggests budget-conscious renters often gravitate towards studios, while buyers prefer larger units, valuing long-term livability and potential investment returns.
Strategic Investment Hotspots
Business Bay stood out as a prime investment area, securing 5% of total primary transaction value with only 3% of the volume—a clear indication of high-value investment activity. Al Barsha also showcased strong market interest, achieving 2% of total value while representing 5% of transaction volume. A notable AED 1.5 billion land transaction in Palm Deira further highlighted institutional trust in Dubai’s long-term growth potential.
Drivers of Growth
Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, emphasized that just when the market thought April was the peak with AED 62.1 billion in transactions, May surpassed that with AED 66.8 billion. The ongoing growth trend can be attributed to several factors: Dubai’s blossoming population—welcoming nearly 1,000 new residents daily—and a transformative digital landscape, notably with the recent launch of the region’s first licensed tokenized property investment platform.
Future Perspectives
Market leaders participating in Property Finder’s recent roundtable expressed confidence in sustained transaction activity throughout 2025, as international interest in Dubai’s real estate amplifies. The combination of a thriving off-plan sector and vibrant luxury resale segment underscores the city’s enduring allure, even in the face of global uncertainties.
Empowering Investors and Buyers
As Dubai continues to define the future of real estate, platforms like Property Finder play a pivotal role in helping buyers and investors navigate this dynamic market. The platform provides essential insights and tools, allowing prospective homeowners and investors to make informed decisions with confidence.
For those interested in the latest property listings and community insights, Data Guru by Property Finder is available for access on their website or through their mobile app, making the journey of property acquisition more accessible than ever.
About Property Finder
Founded in 2007, Property Finder has established itself as a leading property portal in the MENA region, connecting millions of property seekers with real estate professionals daily. With a mission to reshape living and drive innovation, Property Finder remains committed to redefining the real estate landscape in the Middle East and North Africa.
