The surge in demand is not anticipated to cause a substantial increase in property prices, as a wave of handovers in key master communities is expected soon.
Dubai’s secondary housing market is projected to thrive this year, surpassing demand for off-plan properties due to a rise in expat family relocations, driving interest in ready-to-move-in homes, according to industry experts.
The increased demand is unlikely to result in significant price hikes, as upcoming handovers in communities such as Dubai Hills Estate and District One will provide the market with much-needed supply.
Prices in the secondary market’s prime and super-prime segments are expected to experience moderate growth in the coming months, owing to limited supply, experts noted.
“In the last two weeks, I’ve seen heightened activity, particularly from buyers from the UK and Europe,” said Jason Barrowclough, senior global property consultant at Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty. “About 70 percent of these buyers are new to Dubai, relocating with families and seeking homes near top schools.”
“This trend highlights Dubai’s growing appeal as a long-term destination for families, not just an investment hub,” he added.
Barrowclough also stated, “With more families relocating to Dubai this year, the highest demand in 2025 will likely be for turnkey properties – homes ready for immediate occupancy.”
Farooq Syed, CEO of Springfield Properties, said the secondary market is expected to stabilize in 2025, maintaining steady demand for ready-to-move-in homes in established areas. “Communities like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina remain popular among end-users for their immediate occupancy options and strong rental yields,” Syed explained.
Dubai is quickly positioning itself as a safe and family-friendly destination.
Industry experts predict that Dubai’s secondary housing market will not only thrive but may surpass off-plan activity this year, driven by the influx of expat families.
These families, often with significant wealth, are driving demand for ready-to-move-in homes, fueling growth in the secondary market, experts said.
The senior consultant from Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty remarked that Dubai has solidified its reputation as a secure, family-oriented city, offering top-tier education and a tax-free environment that rewards hard work.
“In 2024, we saw an influx of off-plan project launches, which will add substantial supply to the market between 2027 and 2028. However, the current demand is focused on immediate housing needs,” Barrowclough said.
He added, “After four years of consistent market growth, 2025 will likely convert many hesitant individuals into residents, further boosting demand in the secondary market.”
Experts believe the increased availability of ready-to-move-in properties will ease demand pressures and help prevent significant price spikes in the segment.
“This added supply will create balance in the market and provide buyers with more choices,” Barrowclough explained.
However, he pointed out that supply for niche segments like prime and super-prime properties will remain limited, meaning prices will still reflect exclusivity but at more moderate levels than seen in 2024.
Syed noted that investor-friendly initiatives, such as visa reforms and tax incentives, continue to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global real estate investment hub.
“These measures, coupled with Dubai’s strategic location, multicultural environment, and world-class infrastructure, attract expat families seeking long-term value,” he said.
“Additionally, Dubai’s stable regulatory environment attracts both regional and international investors looking for reliable returns,” Syed added.
Demand for branded residences in Dubai is expected to remain strong in 2025.
Industry professionals say the demand for turnkey homes will also drive growth in legacy areas like Emirates Hills and Palm Jumeirah, alongside newer developments such as Mohammed Bin Rashid City and emerging areas like Dubai South and Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).
The senior consultant at Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty highlighted that the demand for branded residences, including high-end developments like Baccarat, Bulgari, and Four Seasons, is set to continue in 2025.
“These residences are sought after for their brand value and the hotel-style, serviced lifestyle they offer,” he said.
Barrowclough added, “Branded residences are particularly appealing to busy professionals who value convenience and efficiency.”
“Whether it’s concierge services, top-notch wellness facilities, or indulgent amenities like cigar lounges and gourmet restaurants, today’s professionals prioritize convenience,” he explained.
