Dubai property market records growth in March despite regional conflict

Property market updates | 17.04.2026 | Leanne Ruscoe

For those eyeing the current real estate landscape, it is good news to know that the "buy or wait" dilemma is being replaced by a sound strategic approach. The post-war effect might have slowed many real estate processes, but it was just a pause, not the end! According to a recent insight, we are now entering a "more considered market". This does not mean that the market has stopped moving; in fact, the buyer's demand recently spiked 38% week-on-week, but it does not indicate that the impulsive, panic-buying era has cooled in favour of a more analytical, data-driven environment.

Even during the phases when people pay closer attention to global events, property activity across Dubai continues to rise steadily. In March alone, 9,552 residential property transactions were completed. with some 24-hour periods seeing over 500 homes sold, and peak activity crossing 700 transactions in a single day.

If you are looking to buy a property today, here is what would matter most in this more measured market:

1. Data over hype: The rise of the informed buyer

In a fast-moving market, buyers often feel pressured to make offers within hours of viewing. In a considered market, the power returns to those who have already done their research. Buyers are no longer just looking at the sticker price; they are analysing "Days on market" and historical sales data.

If a property has been on the market for more than a month, it's usually a sign that it's overpriced relative to its actual value. For you as a buyer, this is actually great news; it means the seller might be willing to lower the price. By checking official sales records or using online valuation tools, you can see the correct prices nearby and avoid overpaying just because of the "hype'

2. The sudden shift from speed to strategy

Speed used to be the only factor that mattered. Now the strategy has replaced it. A considered market indicates you have the breathing room to conduct a thorough "comparative analysis"

So, before committing, know that:

• The layout factor: Does the floor plan actually work for long-term living, or was it just staged well?
• Value-add potential: In a market where inventory is rising, properties with unique upgrades or energy-efficient features (such as solar integration or modern HVAC systems) retain their value far better than "cookie-cutter" units.
• The invisible costs: Are you factoring in the 2% agency fee, the 4% DLD transfer fee and the potential 0.25% mortgage registration fee?

3. Generating revenue: Renting vs selling for profit

During 2022 and 2023, many people bought homes with the intention of selling them quickly and for a huge profit. But now the game has changed. 2024-2026 brought a phase of "rental stability". Since there are more homes available now, renters can be a bit choosy or picky.

Communities like Dubai South (677 transactions) and Damac Islands 2 (652) deals, along with Motor City, Arjan, Jumeirah Village Circle and International City, have reported steady activity, attracting both tenants and long-term buyers.

If you're an investor, try looking for "safe" areas like Dubai Marina or Downtown Dubai. These places stay full of tenants even when the rest of the market slows down, making sure that you get a steady paycheck at the end of every month.

4. Ignoring the "rumours"

You might see scary headlines in the news about the market going up and down, but don't let the panic affect your decisions. Dubai is still growing fast, thousands of people move here every month, and they are still looking for a good place to live.

In fact, transaction volumes remain consistent across both off-plan (6,712 deals) and ready properties (2,840 transactions), showing that demand continues across segments.

The only way is to "ignore the noise" or gossip mongering, and to look at the bigger picture. Also, remember that every neighbourhood and area is different and generates different yields. Just because prices dropped in one faraway area doesn't mean they'll have the same result in the area you want. An expert property agent like Benham and Reeves can help you identify the difference and locate the best area for you.

5. You are at a higher power to bargain

Sellers used to have a "take it or leave it" attitude, but now the tables have turned! Today, they are much more willing to make a greater deal to get the sales done!

At the same time, buyers are taking more time to review financing, property conditions and recent sales, while mortgage approvals and ownership transfers continue to position itself across the market each day.

You can now ask for factors like:

• Help with costs: Sellers might help pay for your mortgage fees or registration costs.
• Better payment plans: Paying some of the money after you move in
• Home inspections: You can now ask for professional help or a check-up of the house before you officially sign the papers.

Major takeaways

• In March, Dubai recorded 9,522 residential transactions, highlighting strong and consistent market activity
• Buyer demand rose sharply, witnessing a 38% week-on-week increase, signaling renewed market confidence
• Daily sales momentum remained high, with 500+ homes sold in 24-hour periods and peaks crossing 700 transactions in a single day
• The market showed up balanced demand, with 6,712 off-plan and 2,840 ready property transactions completed
• March marked a clear shift from panic-buying to a more data-driven, conscious approach, where buyers rely on research over urgency
• The market also transitioned from seller dominance to increased buyer negotiating power, along a shift from short-term flipping to rental focused investment strategies

Today's market is about buying something quality-centric rather than buying fast! People aren't rushing into bad apartments just to step in the door anymore! They are looking for homes that are well-maintained and in great neighbourhoods.

So don't just rush or panic! Take help from Benham and Reeves in using the data and check the real value of properties! And also remember, the best deal isn't the one that you wind up the fastest, but the one that makes you happy and retains value for years to come.