Sustainability Moves to the Centre of Development
January 21, 2026
With travel limited and summer at home, private pools have become a top request. How the trend is affecting villa prices and what buyers should check.
Chief Economist
PhD from London School of Economics. David's macroeconomic forecasts have guided institutional investors through three market cycles in the Gulf region.
With international travel limited this summer, many families are spending the hot months in Dubai. A private pool, once a luxury, has become one of the most requested features for villa buyers and tenants. Demand for pool villas has risen sharply since the market reopened.
Villas with pools are selling faster and, in many cases, at higher prices than similar villas without them. The supply of pool villas is limited in many communities.
Some owners are adding pools to their villas. This requires approvals from the master developer and authorities, and costs should be weighed against the value added.
Buyers should check the condition of the pool, maintenance costs, shading and safety features, as well as approvals for any modifications.
Pool villas attract strong rental demand from families and can command premium rents.
A private pool requires regular care. Cleaning, chemical balancing and equipment checks are typically needed weekly, either by the owner or a maintenance company. In summer, pool water can become very warm, so some owners install chillers to keep it pleasant, which adds to electricity costs. Pumps and filters need periodic replacement, and tiles and waterproofing must be inspected for leaks. Safety measures, such as fencing, alarms or covers, are important for families with young children. Buyers should budget for these ongoing costs and check the condition of the pool and equipment before purchase, as repairs can be expensive if problems have been neglected.
Private pools have become a key driver of villa demand. We help clients find pool villas in the right communities and assess their condition and value.