Property Finder, the leading property portal in MENA, recently gathered top real estate industry leaders for an exclusive roundtable discussion to explore the evolving landscape of the UAE’s booming property sector.
Chaired by Michael Lahyani, Founder & CEO of Property Finder, the event welcomed key executives from BetterHomes, Engel & Völkers, Espace Real Estate, MD Real Estate, Treo Homes, and McCone Properties. The roundtable focused on emerging trends, industry challenges, and the role of innovation in shaping the future of real estate in the region.
A Booming Market with Record-Breaking Transactions
The UAE’s real estate sector has experienced unprecedented growth, contributing 7.6% to the nation's GDP in 2024, according to the Ministry of Economy. Factors such as post-pandemic urbanization, infrastructure investments, and government-backed residency programs like the Golden Visa have fueled this momentum.
2024 marked the most active year on record for the UAE property market, with transaction volumes in Dubai rising 36% and values increasing 27%. The off-plan property segment has taken center stage, now surpassing existing property sales in total transaction value. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s market has matured, with a 53.4% YoY increase in transactions, reaching AED 9.27 billion.
Key Insights from the Roundtable Discussion
1. Continued Market Strength & Growing Demand
The year started with January 2025 recording 14,238 property transactions, a 23% increase from the previous year. The total transaction value rose 24% to AED 44.4 billion. Luxury properties remain in high demand, with high-value deals such as Espace Real Estate’s AED 25 million sale setting new benchmarks.
2. Shifts in Buyer Preferences & Community Growth
- Apartments: Areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) are seeing a surge in rental interest.
- Villas: Dubai Hills has emerged as a top rental choice for families.
- Prime Communities: Established neighborhoods like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and The Meadows continue to hold strong market equity.
3. A More Diversified Investor Base
Traditionally dominated by GCC investors, the UAE’s property market is now attracting buyers from the U.S., Europe, and the UK, thanks to high-end developments and strategic marketing initiatives. Abu Dhabi is also gaining global attention as major developers like Aldar launch luxury projects.
4. Abu Dhabi’s Evolving Real Estate Market
Abu Dhabi is witnessing a shift towards ready properties, with a 33% drop in off-plan sales and a surge in secondary market transactions. Buyers are increasingly seeking immediate investment opportunities rather than waiting for project completions.
5. Technology & AI Reshaping Real Estate
The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enhancing transparency, efficiency, and decision-making in the industry. AI-driven solutions like Dubai Land Department’s Smart Rental Index 2025 and Property Finder’s advanced listing optimization tools are streamlining the home-seeking journey.
6. Addressing the Talent Challenge
As the market grows, so does the need for skilled real estate professionals. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of talent retention and training, with initiatives like Property Finder’s Super Agent ranking setting new performance standards.
A Commitment to the Future
Closing the event, Michael Lahyani reaffirmed Property Finder’s mission to drive innovation and transparency in the UAE real estate sector.
"At Property Finder, we are committed to making real estate better for everyone. By leveraging technology, collaboration, and industry expertise, we aim to create a seamless experience for brokers and home seekers alike," Lahyani stated.
As the UAE real estate market continues to break records, Property Finder remains at the forefront, shaping the industry's future through data-driven insights, AI advancements, and strong stakeholder partnerships.
