The Dubai Real Estate market recorded steady and consistent activity in May 2026. Based on raw transaction data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and official economic reports, the market generated AED 28.51 billion across 10,218 total deals. This period reflects sustained demand across both residential and commercial sectors, shifting away from rapid post-pandemic spikes toward mature, sustainable growth.
May 2026 Sales Performance Overview
The residential sector anchored the market, reaching AED 22.01 billion through 9,507 sales. The commercial sector also maintained reliable performance, generating AED 6.50 billion across 711 transactions. This commercial activity points to ongoing business expansion, new company formations, and a strengthening corporate footprint in the emirate.
Sales Breakdown by Property Type
The following data outlines the capital allocation and transaction volume across the distinct sectors of the market:
| Property Category | Total Transactions | Total Value (AED) |
| Residential (Total) | 9,507 | 22.01 Billion |
| Off-Plan Residential | 7,079 | 14.18 Billion |
| Secondary Residential | 2,422 | 7.74 Billion |
| Commercial (Total) | 711 | 6.50 Billion |
| Commercial Offices | N/A | 2.52 Billion |
| Whole Buildings | N/A | 1.77 Billion |
Off-Plan Properties Drive Transaction Activity
Off-plan properties continue to lead the residential sector. In May 2026, off-plan sales accounted for 7,079 transactions valued at AED 14.18 billion. Buyers are actively securing assets in upcoming communities, taking advantage of flexible payment structures and structured development timelines.
The secondary market, comprising ready and completed homes, recorded 2,422 transactions worth AED 7.74 billion. This indicates steady, reliable demand from end-users and long-term residents transitioning from renting to owning within established neighborhoods.
Top-Performing Areas by Volume in May 2026
Transaction volume was concentrated in established residential centers and emerging corridors. Connectivity, practical layouts, and infrastructure development remain the primary drivers for buyer interest.
| Area | Primary Property Focus | Buyer Appeal |
| Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) | Apartments, Townhouses | Consistent rental demand and accessible entry prices |
| Business Bay | High-Rise Apartments, Offices | Central location and corporate proximity |
| Madinat Al Mataar | Off-Plan Developments | Proximity to Al Maktoum Airport expansion |
| Dubai Land Residence Complex | Emerging Residential | Direct highway access and modern layouts |
| Majan | Mixed-Use Projects | Strategic position in the Dubailand corridor |
Market Activity Across Key Communities
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) remains a reliable choice for investors and tenants looking for practical living spaces with established community amenities. Business Bay continues to attract working professionals seeking proximity to major corporate centers and Downtown Dubai.
For long-term growth, buyers are focusing on areas with planned infrastructure. Madinat Al Mataar has seen increased activity due to its proximity to the expanding airport infrastructure. Similarly, Dubai Land Residence Complex and Majan provide practical, emerging options for families and investors targeting the developing Dubailand district.
Top-Performing Areas by Value
While volume highlights where the most transactions are occurring, capital allocation indicates where higher-tier investments are landing. The luxury and premium sectors maintained their valuations throughout May.
Top-Performing Areas by Value
| Area | Market Focus | Primary Value Driver |
| Palm Jumeirah | Ultra-Luxury Villas, Penthouses | Waterfront exclusivity and limited supply |
| Downtown Dubai | Premium Apartments | Iconic landmarks and centralized tourism |
| Dubai Hills Estate | Villas, Mid-Rise Apartments | Integrated golf course and family community |
| Mohammed Bin Rashid City | Luxury Mansions | Large plots and central connectivity |
| Dubai South | Commercial, Off-Plan | Long-term logistics and aviation infrastructure |
Strategic Market Outlook for H2 2026
The performance patterns recorded throughout May 2026 point toward a highly selective and mature market environment for Dubai real estate. As reported by Arabian Business and monitored via Construction Week Online, the broad-based capital acceleration of previous quarters is giving way to a localized, infrastructure-driven growth phase where asset selection is paramount for long-term value retention.
Key Drivers Shaping the Second Half of 2026
- Infrastructure-Led Asset Value: Long-term capital appreciation is increasingly tied to major master plan expansions. Communities positioned near central growth corridors, such as Madinat Al Mataar near Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Land Residence Complex, and Majan, are continuing to draw substantial interest due to their clear structural roadmaps and mid-market appeal.
- Sustained Institutional Confidence: Official data published by Gulf Today confirms that current market volumes are supported by real underlying demand rather than short-term speculative play. The steady rollout of strategic infrastructure projects and progressive regulatory framework updates continue to safeguard market accessibility and sustainability.
- The Flight to Quality: Well-connected residential districts like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and core commercial hubs like Business Bay continue to demonstrate robust yield resilience. Property cohorts built by tier-one developers with verifiable delivery track records remain highly insulated against global macroeconomic fluctuations.
The data confirms that the market is moving forward with a strong emphasis on insight-led decision-making. As Dubai continues to advance its economic agendas, attract regional corporate footprints, and welcome fresh international capital, the underlying market fundamentals provide a highly stable and reliable foundation for the remainder of the year.
Official Data Sources
To review the verified public registries, institutional transaction statistics, and independent economic analyses used to compile this report, please refer to the official, non-competitor platforms below:
