Dubai’s real estate market has kicked off 2025 with unstoppable energy—and there’s no doubt about it: villas are the stars of the show!

According to the latest insights from Betterhomes, villa sales in Q1 soared by a jaw-dropping 65%, while their value surged 56% . It’s clear that the demand for luxury, space, and lifestyle is hotter than ever.

A Flying Start to the Year

The numbers are in—and they’re BIG:

• Total sales transactions: 42,422 (up 23% YoY)
• Total market value: AED 114 billion (up 29%)
• Villas sold: 10,185 transactions worth AED 53.4 billion
• Apartments sold: 32,237 transactions, worth AED 60.8 billion

While apartments still dominate in volume, villas are clearly becoming the top choice for buyers looking for more space and privacy.

Buyers Are Getting Selective

Off-plan properties still lead the way, making up 59% of total transactions. But there’s a noticeable shift happening.

“We’re seeing more interest in completed, ready-to-move-in homes,” said Louis Harding, CEO of Betterhomes. “Prime off-plan deals dropped by 30%, while secondary prime sales jumped by 77%.”

Buyers are looking for turnkey luxury—homes that are ready for them now. It’s a reflection of a more mature, lifestyle-focused market.

Seasonal Dip? Villas Didn’t Get the Memo

Though the market slowed slightly from Q4 2024 (as expected seasonally):

• Transactions dipped 10% quarter-on-quarter
• Total values dropped 3%

Some segments didn’t just stay strong—they grew:

• Villa sales rose 12%
• Prime property deals increased 21%
• Sales leads surged 51%, showing buyer interest is only gaining momentum

“Q1 2025 proved Dubai’s real estate resilience,” said Christopher Cina of Betterhomes. “We’re seeing more end-users and mortgage-backed buyers, which reflects confidence in Dubai as a long-term investment and lifestyle destination.”

Rentals Are Booming Too

Not just sales—Dubai’s rental market is thriving 📈:

• Villa rentals jumped 52% quarter-on-quarter
• Apartment rental prices up 14%
• Townhouse rents up 7%
• Betterhomes saw 49% more leasing deals YoY

As more families and professionals settle into Dubai, the demand for larger, more comfortable homes continues to grow.

Buyer Enquiries Say It All

The buzz around the market is real:

• Overall enquiries: up 14% YoY, 51% QoQ
• Apartment leads: up 30% QoQ
• Villa enquiries: up 38% QoQ
• Townhouses: up a massive 64% QoQ and 30% YoY

Everyone’s looking for their slice of Dubai paradise—whether it’s a luxury villa, cozy townhouse, or sleek apartment with a view.

What’s Powering the Boom?

Analysts credit Dubai’s success to a powerful mix of:

• Economic stability
• Investor-friendly regulations
• World-class lifestyle offerings
• Global appeal to high-net-worth individuals

More buyers are securing mortgage-backed properties—a sign of long-term confidence and sustainability in the market.

What to Watch Moving Forward

Despite the strong performance, some caution is warranted:

• Rising prices may cool some off-plan interest
• Timely delivery of projects will be crucial
• Global economic shifts could influence future momentum

Still, Dubai’s fundamentals remain solid—and with the continued demand for luxury homes, villas, and family living spaces, the market outlook for 2025 stays bright.