Dubai's residential real estate market saw a notable decline in activity in H1 2026 compared to the record levels of the previous year: the number of off-plan purchase transactions fell, primarily in the apartment segment, while the number of villa transactions almost halved. The key change of the period is that the seller's market has given way to a buyer's market.

Despite regional tensions, the volume of residential completions over the half-year rose year-on-year to 3.3 million sq m, with major villa communities providing the main contribution. Developers responded in different ways: some postponed sales launches to the autumn, yet new launches continued. The luxury segment maintained strong activity, and brands continue to announce projects in collaboration with well-known names.