Dubai Real Estate Market in August 2025: Off-Plan Surge and Secondary Growth

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The Dubai real estate market continues to showcase remarkable resilience and growth, attracting both local and international investors. In August 2025, the city recorded property transactions worth Dh50.7 billion, according to Property Finder. This represents a 15 per cent increase in volume and a 7 per cent rise in value compared to the same month in 2024.

Such performance highlights Dubai’s position as one of the most dynamic property markets in the world. Both the primary and secondary markets played a key role, with off-plan transactions in particular fueling this upward momentum.

Off-Plan Transactions: The Main Growth Driver

One of the most striking aspects of August 2025 was the 25 per cent surge in off-plan sales. Investors and end-users alike are increasingly drawn to off-plan opportunities, thanks to flexible payment plans and the promise of modern, design-forward communities.

In fact, secondary off-plan transactions recorded Dh4.1 billion across 1,978 deals. This marked an impressive 59 per cent increase in volume and a 69 per cent rise in value compared to August 2024. Clearly, off-plan properties remain a cornerstone of Dubai’s housing market.

The Primary Market: Business Bay Leads Performance

The primary market in Dubai accounted for the majority of property activity, with 12,106 transactions in August 2025. This figure represents a 20 per cent increase year-on-year. Notably, primary off-plan deals dominated, making up 91 per cent of all primary transactions.

While the overall value growth in this segment stood at a more modest 4 per cent, certain communities posted record-breaking results. Business Bay, for example, emerged as a leading performer. It contributed 11 per cent of total sales volume and 12 per cent of value, representing astonishing growth of 377 per cent in transactions and 290 per cent in sales value compared to the same period last year.

Similarly, Dubai Investment Park proved to be another hotspot, accounting for 9 per cent of overall sales and value. These results demonstrate how strategic locations with strong infrastructure continue to attract investors seeking long-term capital growth.

Secondary Market: Dh22.6 Billion in Transactions

Alongside primary activity, the secondary market in Dubai real estate also delivered strong results. In August 2025, this segment registered Dh22.6 billion in sales across 6,458 transactions. Compared to August 2024, this marked a 15 per cent increase in value and a 7 per cent rise in volume.

What drove this growth? Emerging communities played a crucial role. For instance:

• Wadi Al Safa 4: Recorded Dh786 million in sales, a massive leap from just Dh26 million in August 2024.
• Al Barsha South Fourth: Sales values increased by 154 per cent, while transaction volumes rose by 142 per cent year-on-year.

These numbers highlight the rising importance of Dubai’s newer communities, as buyers look for affordable yet promising investment opportunities beyond traditional hotspots.

Changing Consumer Preferences: Smaller Units in Demand

When it comes to buyer and tenant behavior, apartments remain the preferred choice. In August 2025, they accounted for nearly 80 per cent of rental searches and 59 per cent of buyer interest.

Interestingly, smaller units such as studios and one-bedroom apartments are gaining more traction:

• Studios: 22 per cent of rental searches, though only 16 per cent of buyer demand.
• One-bedroom units: 36 per cent of buyer searches and 40 per cent of rental interest.

This shift reflects a growing demand for affordable housing. Many tenants are moving toward ownership of smaller homes, aiming to offset rising rental prices and secure long-term value. For investors, this trend offers a clear opportunity to target high-demand segments with steady rental yields.

Expert Insights: Dubai’s Market Resilience

Industry experts underline that August’s performance reflects both confidence and structural strength. Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, explained:

“August’s figures clearly show the strength of the Dubai real estate market. Off-plan sales are driving growth, while secondary activity remains consistently healthy. Communities like Business Bay and Wadi Al Safa 4 are outperforming broader trends, which highlights strong investor confidence.”

He also pointed out broader market signals. For example, Emaar’s 33 per cent rise in H1 2025 profits illustrates growing demand in high-end segments. Additionally, developers are increasingly bringing construction in-house to speed up delivery, ensuring they meet the needs of both investors and end-users.

Why Dubai Real Estate Remains Attractive

Several factors explain why the Dubai property market continues to thrive:

1. Government policies: Investor-friendly regulations and residency visas keep attracting global buyers.
2. Infrastructure growth: New transport links, community facilities, and mega-developments add long-term value.
3. Investor diversity: Demand comes from both regional and international buyers, providing stability.
4. Market segmentation: With choices ranging from luxury villas to affordable apartments, Dubai appeals to every budget.

These elements combine to make Dubai a safe, profitable, and sustainable market for real estate investment.

Looking Ahead: The Outlook for Dubai Real Estate

As we move into the final quarter of 2025, the outlook for the Dubai housing market remains positive. Demand for off-plan projects is expected to stay strong, particularly in emerging communities that offer value and modern living.

Secondary sales should also maintain momentum, especially in areas where family homes and upgraded apartments are in short supply. For investors, the opportunity lies in identifying communities where demand consistently exceeds supply.

At OPlus Realty, we believe Dubai will continue to lead the global property stage. With its blend of lifestyle, strong returns, and strategic planning, the city is well-positioned to deliver growth well into 2026 and beyond.

Final Thoughts

The Dubai real estate market in August 2025 proves once again why the city remains a global hub for property investment. With Dh50.7 billion in monthly transactions, a booming off-plan sector, and strong secondary sales, Dubai continues to offer unmatched opportunities.

Whether you are an investor seeking long-term capital growth or a buyer searching for a home, Dubai’s diverse property landscape has something for everyone.

At OPlus Realty, our mission is to guide you through this thriving market, ensuring you make the smartest and most profitable choices.