The real estate platform «Property Finder» revealed what it described as stunning results for December 2025, capping a continuous period of monthly record successes in the last quarter of the year in the Dubai real estate market. December marked the end of an «exceptional year» with monthly sales valued at 64 billion dirhams. The platform confirmed that the high performance in December 2025 was a key factor in Dubai recording a record year in terms of sales value and transaction volume. It is noted that as sales values rise at a faster pace than their increase, the real estate sector is starting 2026 with confidence within a market supported by genuine demand factors and sustainable activity. «Property Finder» attributed this performance to the rise in price per square foot, as average prices recorded an 8.4% increase during 2025 compared to 2024 levels. Sales in the fourth quarter of 2025 reached a record 187.47 billion dirhams, with December (64 billion dirhams) continuing the upward trajectory of November (64 billion dirhams) and October (59 billion dirhams), which resulted in the highest quarterly sales performance ever and closing the year at record levels. According to «Property Finder», prominent residential areas in December continued to support the momentum of the real estate market, with prominent neighborhoods like «Palm Jumeirah», «Dubai Marina», and «Downtown Dubai» capturing a large share of transaction value, supported by high price levels that enhance transaction value, limited supply, and strong demand from international buyers. «Property Finder» explained that meticulously planned projects across Dubai are helping to establish a real estate market that provides real value to a wide range of buyers. As for mid-tier residential communities, such as «Jumeirah Circle Village», they continue to prove their attractiveness to buyers looking for more cost-effective options, especially in the «off-plan» project market, which is witnessing increasing competition. In the rental sector, «Property Finder» data revealed that 80% of searches focused on residential apartments, compared to only 20% for townhouses and villas. A deeper analysis of rental search data shows a year-on-year increase in the share of studios and one-bedroom apartments, indicating that rental increases during 2025 drove a larger number of individuals and small families towards smaller, more price-suitable homes. «Property Finder» data also shows a strong performance for apartments in terms of sales, accounting for 61% of total search volume, compared to villas (39%). This clearly reflects the prevailing trend in both buying and rental demand in Dubai. Within the apartment category, 85% of searches are for studio units and one- and two-bedroom units, reflecting buyers' preference for small to medium-sized options with lower costs. Sherif Sulaiman, Chief Revenue Officer of «Property Finder», said: «The fourth quarter of 2025 marked a strong conclusion to a very successful year, supported by high transaction values, rising prices per square foot, and notable activity across various residential communities. As we enter 2026, we look forward to a promising phase where market momentum will be driven by the broadening and diversification of the demand base and pricing flexibility, rather than short-term investment moves aimed at quick gains». He added: «These developments are positive news for buyers, sellers, and investors, as the market presents opportunities that suit various segments of those seeking housing in Dubai».
