The Growing Preference for Completed Homes Over Under Construction Units

The Dubai real estate market is growing exponentially with the changing dynamics of the buyers as well. Even though off-plan projects are still popular among buyers; there is a growing trend of buyers now looking at completed homes. This trend shows the increased desirability for certainty, usability, and stability of returns from Dubai real estate as it evolves as an industry.

New data from 2024 and 2025 suggest that resale properties are displaying stronger price resilience than some under-construction properties; particularly in the areas of well-established communities.

Market Data Illustrating the Change

• From 2025 Dubai's total real estate transaction value rose above AED 680 billion representing one of the strongest years of all time.
• First half of 2025 resale transactions surpassed 34,000 transactions & their total value was just under AED 120 billion
• The Median price for resales per square foot increased by 10% or more year-over-year growth in multiple residential districts

These numbers indicate a significant movement away from off-plan property investment in Dubai, particularly for buyers who need a property they can immediately use as their home.

Why Buyers are Preferring Completed Homes

• New occupants can move immediately into their homes or rent them out as soon as they are finished.
• Begins generating rental income sooner, which decreases holding costs.
• Buyers will avoid construction deterioration and handover risk at the end of the building process.
• A buyer can see how a property appears, the layout, and ongoing service charge obligations.

As buyers become more aware of value and more aware of risk within the Dubai real estate market, these elements are becoming more important.

Support for Rental Yield of Completed Properties

• Average rental yield from completed apartments was between 6 to 8% in 2025
• Ownership for established communities has continued to be at or near 100% for all months.
• Increased demand for rental-ready homes due to the demand increase from the population growth and the increase in workforce growth.

The stability of rental yield has strengthened the complete home option as a viable and safe choice for income-focused buyers who want Dubai real estate investment with a predictable return.

Dubai Areas Leading to Completed Home Purchase Demand

• Dubai Marina remains a target for home buyers due to its waterfront living, strong rental demand, and established transport systems.
• Downtown Dubai remains a target for luxury apartments due to their proximity to business and leisure centres.
• Jumeirah Village Circle is quickly becoming a high-resale area due to their affordable prices and high rental yields.
• Business Bay has an attractive blend of uses, in conjunction with its steady tenant demand.
• Arabian Ranches and Jumeirah Communities appeal to end users looking for villa living in established communities.

Three Buyer Groups Influencing the Market Trend

• Customers want houses already built, so they do not have to stay in temporary housing while waiting for house completion.
• Investors want the property to produce income immediately.
• International buyers prefer Finished Housing to enter into the Dubai Market quickly.

All of these customer groups are driving demand for real estate investment in Dubai by balancing current benefits with the potential for growth.

Investor Demand for Premium Finished & Lifestyle Properties

• Residential properties located on the waterfront and branded properties are experiencing increased resale activity.
• Purchasers have been willing to pay above-market prices for immediate access to their lifestyle and the associated privacy.
• Those looking for high-end turnkey luxury options, including beachfront duplexes for sale in Dubai, will likely attract both lifestyle-oriented buyers as well as long-term buyers

The scarcity of these types of product and the benefits of location continue to drive demand in this segment of the market.

Off-Plan Is Still Popular, But Buyers Are Much More Particular

• Flexible payment plans are still one of the main selling factors
• Long-term capital appreciation will continue to attract certain types of investors
• In addition, buyers are becoming more discerning about the reliability of developers and delivery timelines

This has been a catalyst for creating a more balanced decision-making pattern among buyers interested in property for sale in Dubai.

A Closing Perspective on the Market

The increasing interest in buying fully completed homes is indicative of a more mature buyer. Although there continues to be a substantial requirement for an influx of new supply through the construction of off-plan properties, completed homes are being favoured to a greater extent because of their relative stability, transparency and potential to generate an income.

This change in demand patterns is shaping the real estate market of Dubai in terms of developing a structured framework based on contemporary buyer preferences and preferences to purchase completed homes.