In Dubai, over half of real estate sales are now off-plan particularly for properties set to complete within a year. This trend is attracting investors seeking quick returns. Many end-users who initially intended to live in these properties are now selling due to high yields.

In the first nine months of 2024, residential transactions reached over 125,000, a 36% increase from the same period in 2023, largely driven by a 50% rise in off-plan sales.

Industry experts note that off-plan properties are appealing due to attractive pricing and flexible payment plans with their value typically rising during construction. As supply of ready homes remains limited, the demand for off-plan units continues to grow making them lucrative for investors.

Despite the increase in off-plan sales, speculation and quick flipping, common in the mid-2000s have diminished due to a more mature market and stricter developer regulations. Many developers now require significant upfront payments before allowing any resales, helping stabilize the market.