Dubai’s residential property market posted another stellar performance in May 2025, with AED 54.48 billion in sales transactions, marking an 18% month-on-month increase, according to the latest data from Betterhomes.
The city recorded 17,504 sales transactions, up 15.1% from April, as both investor and end-user demand continued to accelerate. The average price per square foot rose to AED 1,808, reflecting a 4.5% growth.
Off-plan deals dominated the market with a 57% share, while ready property sales accounted for 43%, indicating a rising demand in both segments. Mortgage and cash buyers were nearly evenly split at 52% and 48%, respectively, with investors making up 64% of all purchasers. Dubai Hills Estate, The Springs, and Jumeirah Village Triangle led buyer preferences.
Emaar emerged as the top-performing developer, clocking AED 3.76 billion in off-plan and AED 10.49 billion in title deed sales.
Leasing Market Also on the Rise
Leasing activity jumped 15.3% in May, recording 33,917 lease contracts. Notably, new rental agreements surged to comprise 42% of total leasing activity, up from 34% in April. Key areas such as Bur Dubai and Damac Hills 2 saw monthly rent hikes of 7.5% and 4%, respectively.
Betterhomes reported a 10% rise in tenant leads. Average annual rents stood at AED 141,250 for apartments, AED 198,000 for townhouses, and AED 405,000 for villas, with 1–4 cheque payments remaining the standard.
“Dubai’s property market is demonstrating a remarkable level of depth and resilience,” said Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes. “This isn’t just short-term momentum. It reflects long-term confidence in the city’s economic direction, quality of life, and global appeal. We’re seeing demand from both seasoned investors and new residents who see Dubai as a place to build their future. The fundamentals are strong, and the appetite for quality homes, both to own and to rent, continues to grow.”
With double-digit growth across both sales and rentals, Dubai continues to reinforce its reputation as one of the most dynamic and resilient real estate markets globally.
