The UAE real estate market has showcased remarkable strength, with property transactions exceeding AED239 billion in the first quarter of 2025. This impressive figure reflects growing investor confidence, favorable regulations, and an expanding array of projects that characterize the UAE real estate sector. As the market continues to flourish, it positions itself as a magnet for homebuyers and investors alike, enhancing the country’s appeal as a premier destination for living and investment opportunities.
During the first three months of 2025, a total of 94,719 sales, purchase, and mortgage deals proliferated across five emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah. This surge signals a robust start to the year for the UAE’s property sector, showcasing the region’s resilience and growth potential.
According to Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer at Aldar Properties, “The UAE’s real estate boom is fueled by the country’s broader economic and cultural progress, making it one of the world’s most attractive destinations for living, working, and investing.” His insights were reported in a statement by the Emirates News Agency (WAM). Aldar recorded an impressive AED8.9 billion in sales during Q1, illustrating a significant 42 percent year-on-year increase, with portfolio occupancy rates surpassing 95 percent by quarter’s end.
Dubai Property Market Leads UAE
By far, Dubai has taken the lead, accounting for approximately AED193 billion in property transactions from 58,039 deals. This reflects a robust 16.2 percent growth in value and a remarkable 31.5 percent increase in volume compared to 2024. The Dubai Land Department reported that sales alone hit AED142 billion from 45,077 deals, marking a dramatic 30 percent surge in value from the previous year.
Additionally, mortgage transactions contributed AED41 billion through 10,949 deals, indicating a 27 percent rise in volume. The remainder of the transactions included grants and property exchanges, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a dominant player in the UAE real estate landscape.
Abu Dhabi’s Impressive Growth
Abu Dhabi’s real estate market also made significant strides, with total transactions reaching AED25.3 billion—an impressive 34.5 percent increase compared to Q1 2024. This included 3,819 sale deals worth AED15.51 billion, showcasing a 26.7 percent rise, alongside 3,077 mortgage transactions totaling AED9.8 billion, representing a remarkable 49 percent increase. These statistics highlight the growing appeal of Abu Dhabi as an investment destination in the UAE real estate market.
Growth Across Sharjah and Ajman
In Sharjah, property transactions reached AED13.2 billion across 24,597 deals, reflecting a substantial 31.9 percent year-on-year increase, according to data from the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department. Ajman also recorded noteworthy growth, with total transactions hitting AED5.55 billion—a 29 percent increase. This figure comprises AED3.69 billion from 3,132 sales and purchase deals, as well as AED905 million from 498 mortgage transactions, with the remainder made up of grants and exchanges.
Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate activity has also been notable, as residential off-plan sales surpassed AED2.4 billion from over 1,300 transactions. A report by CBRE highlighted increasing demand within the northern emirate’s housing market, exemplifying the broad appeal of the UAE real estate sector.
As the first quarter of 2025 wraps up, the overarching narrative is one of growth and opportunity within the UAE real estate market. With property transactions hitting over $65 billion, the sector is poised for a dynamic year ahead, fueled by continued investor interest and evolving market conditions.