The Surge of Indian Buyers in Dubai’s Luxury Property Market
A New Trend in High Net Worth Investments
In an intriguing shift within the luxury real estate market, super-rich Indians have emerged as the second-largest group of buyers for high-end properties in Dubai, trailing only behind Saudi High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs). According to the latest report from global property consultancy Knight Frank, this trend underscores how affluent Indians are increasingly drawn to Dubai, a thriving hub for luxury living.
Who Are the Buyers?
The Knight Frank report reveals that Saudi HNWIs have set a high bar with an average property budget of USD 45.7 million. Indian buyers follow closely with an average budget of USD 44.6 million, indicative of their growing economic strength and willingness to invest in premium real estate. In third place are British citizens, with an average budget of USD 30 million. Notably, Asian HNWIs have the lowest average budget among the respondents, yet still boast a substantial USD 23 million.
Hotspots in the Dubai Luxury Market
When it comes to choosing locations, global investors have made it clear that Dubai Marina is the crown jewel, being the preferred choice for 28% of those surveyed. Following closely are Dubai Hills Estate at 24% and Emirates Hills at 23%. These areas showcase Dubai’s allure, boasting stunning architecture and a vibrant lifestyle that appeals to affluent buyers.
Insights from Market Experts
Shehzad Jamal, a Partner in Strategy & Consultancy for the MENA region at Knight Frank, elaborated on this trend. He noted that for HNWIs with a net worth exceeding USD 50 million, interest in Dubai Marina peaks at 43%. This reaffirms Dubai Marina’s status as a long-standing favorite among ultra-wealthy buyers. Dubai Hills Estate (30%) and Emirates Hills (22%) complete the top three luxury locations for this segment, illustrating the signaled preference for premium, secure living spaces.
Robust Growth in Property Values
The 2025 edition of the Destination Dubai report brings favorable news for the Dubai real estate scene. The residential market demonstrated impressive performance in 2024, with property values skyrocketing by 19.1%, reaching an average of AED 1,685 per square foot (psf). This surge places prices 13.3% above the previous peak in 2014, highlighting an ongoing trajectory of value appreciation.
Villa Sales on the Rise
The report further details that villa sale prices experienced a remarkable growth of 19.6% in the year leading up to Q1 2024, now averaging AED 2,088 per square foot. This showcases a staggering 107.6% increase since Q1 2020, confirming that the demand for stand-alone villas and beachfront properties remains robust.
The Appeal of the Dubai Lifestyle
This sustained growth in the luxury sector reflects not only an upward trend in property value but also highlights what draws buyers to Dubai in the first place: a lifestyle that blends luxury, comfort, and access to world-class amenities. Branded residences offering immediate access to a vibrant lifestyle contribute significantly to this appeal, making Dubai a prime destination for wealthy investors seeking both a home and an investment.
Conclusion
As super-rich individuals continue to flock to Dubai for luxury properties, the market dynamics reflect a blend of global wealth distribution and localized preferences. The insights from Knight Frank paint a promising picture of Dubai’s luxury real estate market, characterized by high budgets, coveted locations, and remarkable growth trajectories.
