Activity Picks Up in Prime Dubai

After several years of moderation, Dubai's prime segment is seeing renewed activity. Wealthy buyers, attracted by prices below the 2014 peak and a wide choice of homes, are purchasing villas on the Palm, apartments in Downtown and large homes in established communities.

What is selling

• Palm Jumeirah villas: especially renovated frond villas.
• Downtown penthouses and apartments with landmark views.
• Emirates Hills and Jumeirah Islands: large family homes.
• Branded residences: with hotel services.

Why interest is returning

Prices have adjusted, sellers are more flexible and buyers see long-term value in Dubai's prime homes, particularly with Expo 2020 approaching.

Who is buying

Buyers from the Gulf, India, Europe and China are active, as are residents upgrading to larger homes.

Considerations for buyers

Prime properties vary greatly in quality and position. Buyers should value each property individually and consider maintenance and service costs.

Outlook

We expect the prime segment to remain selective, with the best properties attracting strong interest while others take longer to sell.

Timing a prime purchase

Prime properties are often bought at quieter points in the market by buyers with the patience and resources to wait for the right home. When fewer buyers compete, sellers are more willing to negotiate and buyers have more time for inspections and comparisons. The trade-off is that the best homes still attract interest and do not stay on the market long. Rather than trying to time the bottom, prime buyers usually do well by defining exactly what they want, monitoring the market closely and acting decisively when a suitable property appears at a sensible price. Over the long term, the quality of the home matters more than the precise moment of purchase.

Our view

Prime Dubai offers attractive opportunities at today's prices. We help clients identify homes with lasting appeal in the city's best locations.