In the third quarter of 2026, Dubai's property market kept moving. The Dubai Land Department counted 37,429 real estate transactions. The total value hit AED 92.9 billion. Developers sold more new homes than resales. The city's approach is clear: keep the property sector growing, even as global markets slow down.
S&P Global points to one main reason for this steady pace. The UAE has rolled out major visa and residency reforms. These changes have drawn in more investors. They have also brought in end-users who want to stay for the long haul. Dubai's property market used to swing up and down. Now, it feels steadier. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) links these reforms to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The goal is to make Dubai a top spot for investment and innovation.
Off-plan sales dominate market activity
Off-plan properties are leading the charge. S&P Global highlights this shift. Zawya's data shows that in Q3 2026, residential real estate deals reached AED 72.58 billion across 33,949 transactions. Off-plan sales made up AED 41.58 billion and 23,457 deals. That's about 69.1% of all residential transactions by number. The appetite for new builds is strong. But the share of off-plan sales moves around. In Q2 2026, off-plan made up 75.9% of residential deals, according to Throne Properties. The trend is clear. Buyers trust Dubai's future. Ongoing infrastructure projects and clear rules from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) help keep that trust alive.
Developers are reacting fast. They offer flexible payment plans and perks to attract buyers. In September 2026, off-plan deals made up 65.4% of all sales types. But they only accounted for 46% of the total value. The market is complex. Dubai South stands out. For seven months straight, it led primary sales. In the latest period, there were 737 off-plan deals worth AED 980.5 million, as reported by Gulf Daily News. That's a strong run.
Visa reforms reshape investor landscape
The UAE's visa and residency reforms have changed the game. It's now easier for investors and residents to secure long-term status. More buyers are sticking around. The market is shifting away from quick flips. Stability is taking hold. The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has helped too. It kept monetary policy supportive. According to Reuters coverage of CBUAE statements, this has kept liquidity flowing and boosted investor confidence.
Off-plan sales keep leading. More long-term residents are buying in. By the end of September 2026, Dubai saw AED 574.12 billion in total real estate transactions across 165,018 operations. Off-plan sales made up about AED 183.32 billion and 84,090 deals, as reported by Dubai Business Capital. S&P Global and official UAE sources agree. Dubai's property market is holding up against global headwinds. Policy changes are shaping a new landscape. For investors and end-users, one thing is clear. Dubai's residential market is changing. Those who see the impact of these reforms may find lasting value here.
