“Property Finder” has unveiled remarkable results for the real estate sector in Dubai for December 2025, marking the conclusion of a series of consecutive months of record success in the last quarter of the previous year. The impressive performance in December was a key factor in Dubai achieving a record-breaking year in terms of sales value and transaction volume throughout 2025.
Fourth-quarter sales reached a staggering 187.47 billion dirhams, with December alone accounting for 64 billion dirhams in sales. This represented a continuation of the upward trajectory seen in November, which also recorded sales of 64 billion dirhams, following October’s 59 billion dirhams. This trend has resulted in the highest quarterly sales performance ever, culminating the year with unprecedented levels.
With sales values increasing at a pace that surpasses their volume, the real estate sector enters 2026 with strong confidence, supported by genuine demand and sustained activity. This performance can be attributed to a rise in price per square foot, with average prices up by 8.4% in 2025 compared to 2024 levels.
Residential Areas
In December, prominent residential areas continued to underpin the momentum of the real estate market, with key neighborhoods like Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai capturing a significant portion of transaction value. This demand was fueled by high price levels, limited supply, and robust interest from international buyers.
Well-planned projects across Dubai are reinforcing a real estate market that offers genuine value to a wide range of buyers. The Business Bay area, known for its mixed-use design, remains a trusted destination for investors, thanks to its comprehensive amenities and central location. Conversely, Dubai Hills Estate attracts balanced demand for both villas and apartments, all set within a well-integrated and mature planning and development landscape.
Moreover, middle-class residential communities like Jumeirah Village Circle continue to appeal to buyers searching for more cost-effective options, particularly in the increasingly competitive off-plan market.
Surge in Apartment Demand
In the rental sector, data from “Property Finder” indicates that 80% of search activity is focused on residential apartments, compared to only 20% for townhouses and villas. A deeper analysis of rental search data reveals an annual increase in the share of studio and one-bedroom apartments, highlighting that rental price hikes in 2025 have led more individuals and small families to opt for smaller, more affordable living spaces.
Additionally, there is a strong performance for apartments in sales, making up 61% of total searches as opposed to 39% for villas. This clearly reflects the prevailing trend in both buying and rental demand in Dubai.
Within the apartment category, 85% of search activity is concentrated on studio units, as well as one- and two-bedroom options, once again highlighting the preference for smaller to medium-sized homes that come with lower costs compared to larger alternatives.
Outstanding Monthly Performance
Sharif Suleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at “Property Finder,” remarked that December 2025 was a standout month for Dubai’s real estate market, confirming that market performance is built on clear fundamentals and actual demand. The fourth quarter rounded off a highly successful year, supported by high transaction values, rising price per square foot, and noticeable activity across various residential communities.
He continued, stating that as we enter 2026, we anticipate a promising phase where market momentum is driven by a broad and diverse demand base and flexible pricing, rather than short-term investment moves aimed at quick gains. These developments are good news for buyers, sellers, and investors alike, as the market presents opportunities that cater to various housing seekers in Dubai.