Emaar and Aldar Lead UAE’s Real Estate Market

Emaar Development PJSC, the UAE’s premier build-to-sell property development company and majority-owned subsidiary of Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM: EMAAR), reported revenue of AED 22.2 billion (US$ 6.0 billion), up 26% year-on-year, EBITDA of AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion), up 28%, and net profit after tax of AED 10.8 billion (US$ 2.9 billion), up 24%, during the first nine months of 2026 (January to September).

Supported by continued project execution and a substantial revenue backlog, the Company maintained solid financial fundamentals. Construction and handovers advanced across its master-planned communities, converting the backlog into revenue and completed homes, while robust customer collections reinforced cash generation and balance sheet strength. New launches were aligned with market conditions, and investment decisions remained focused on delivery commitments and future development opportunities. Emaar Development’s strong presales pipeline positions it well to navigate market variability and capitalise on opportunities as conditions normalise.

Key Highlights of the Results

• Property Sales: Emaar Development recorded property sales of AED 26.2 billion (US$ 7.1 billion) during the first nine months of 2026. While property sales volumes reflected a measured pace in response to evolving geopolitical dynamics, the Company maintained strong pricing integrity and customer confidence across its master-planned communities and strategically timed project launches.
• Revenue Backlog: Revenue backlog stood at AED 119.8 billion (US$ 32.6 billion) as of 30 September 2026, providing visibility for future revenue recognition and supporting the Company’s long-term development plans.
• Revenue: Revenue reached AED 22.2 billion (US$ 6.0 billion), up 26% over the corresponding period of 2025, supported by construction progress and revenue recognition across ongoing developments.
• Profitability: EBITDA rose by 28% to AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion), with a margin of 52%. Net profit after tax amounted to AED 10.8 billion (US$ 2.9 billion), an increase of 24% year-on-year, representing a net profit margin of 49%. 
• Development Activity: During the first nine months of 2026, construction across all ongoing projects progressed in line with or ahead of schedules, underscoring the Company’s disciplined execution, strong governance, and continued focus on timely delivery. More than 85% of active projects were ahead of schedule as of 30 September 2026. The Company also handed over more than 4,800 residential units.
• Development Investment: Emaar Development awarded 23 main works contracts valued at AED 13.5 billion and multiple infrastructure works contracts worth AED 4.3 billion during the first nine months of the year, supporting construction and infrastructure delivery across its communities.
• Strategically Positioned Land Bank: Emaar continues to benefit from one of the region’s largest and most diversified master-planned land banks, comprising approximately 285 million sq. ft. of mixed-use development opportunities as of 30 September 2026. This reserve provides capacity for future launches and flexibility in planning the next phases of its master-planned communities. During the first half of the year, Emaar also announced plans for an AED 200 billion masterplan, adding to its long-term development pipeline.
• Customer Experience: Emaar Development continued to prioritise quality developments, digital engagement and service improvements throughout the home-buying and ownership journey. In July, the Company announced a collaboration with ADCB to provide financing solutions for eligible buyers of ready and off-plan properties, including annually renewable mortgage pre-approval for off-plan customers until handover.
• Operational Excellence: Emaar Development maintained its focus on cost management, disciplined project execution and technology-enabled processes across its development activities.
• Sustainability: The Company continued to integrate responsible planning, resource-efficient design and environmental considerations across its developments. Progress during the first nine months of 2026 included expanding rooftop solar PV capacity to a total of 1.08 MWp across The Greens, The Views and Dubai Hills Estate, the implementation of an Energy Savings Performance Contract in Downtown Dubai under the Energy Management Programme, and a landfill diversion rate of 67.7% as of August 2026, supporting the UAE’s long-term sustainability ambitions.

Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar, said: “Our nine-month results reflect the progress we are making in turning plans into completed communities. People buying a home are making a decision about their future, and they expect us to deliver on every part of that promise. Our focus is on the details that shape their daily lives: the quality of their homes, the spaces around them and how their communities develop over time.”

He added: “The UAE leadership’s long-term vision gives businesses the confidence to invest ahead. As Dubai grows, we will continue to plan carefully, invest in infrastructure and create communities that serve the city for generations.”

Cityscape Qatar ended this year’s edition on a successful note recording a total real estate sales of QR1 billion ($269 million) across the exhibition, thus, representing a 100% increase compared with the previous year.

Together, the Forum and exhibition welcomed 16,000 visitors to the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC) over three days, reflecting the momentum and ambition driving Qatar’s real estate sector.

It brought together investment opportunities and showcased the priorities that are shaping the future of its communities, said the event organisers.

The final day also saw high-profile visits from Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, and Sultan bin Saad bin Sultan Al Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, who toured the exhibition and explored the developments on display, they stated.

New project launches and strategic partnerships took centre stage on the exhibition floor, with Barwa Real Estate Group unveiling Barwa Bay in Lusail and signing agreements covering investment advisory and buyer financing.

United Development Company introduced Perlita Gardens on The Pearl Island and a limited-time sales offer at Crystal Residence on Gewan Island, while Qatari Diar and Qetaifan Projects highlighted the country expanding portfolio of residential and mixed-use destinations, it stated.

Organised by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) and Informa Tharawat in partnership with Cityscape Qatar, the 4th Qatar Real Estate Forum explored investment, regulation and urban development under the theme ‘Stability as an Asset Class’.

On the final day, discussions turned to what makes cities attractive places to live and invest, exploring the role of infrastructure, healthcare, education and connectivity in shaping long-term urban development.

Joining the conversation, Jan Vapaavuori, Chairman of Finnvera and former Mayor of Helsinki, highlighted Doha’s stability and world-class infrastructure as key strengths.

Vapaavuori said: “When I was Mayor of Helsinki, we developed a new strategy for the city. Even before Covid, I predicted that a reliable, predictable and functional city might become a luxury in today’s world. I see many similarities between that vision and Doha’s approach, where stability and world-class infrastructure are clear strengths. But long-term success is not just about being attractive today, it is about creating opportunities for everyone to lead an inspiring life.”

Complementing the Forum’s focus on what makes cities attractive to residents and investors, the Innovation Stage explored how those priorities can be reflected in the homes themselves.

During the session ‘The Future of Housing in Qatar: How Will We Build and Live?’, Eng. Ahmed Al-Sumaiti, Vice President of Qatar Society of Engineers, discussed how technology, resource efficiency and long-term maintenance can improve residential development.

Al Sumaiti said: “The future of housing in Qatar will depend on how effectively we integrate technology, resource efficiency and long-term performance into building design. From using solar energy and reusing greywater to applying artificial intelligence in design and smart-home systems, these solutions can help improve building efficiency and reduce operating costs. Equally important is considering maintenance from the outset to ensure homes remain efficient and sustainable over time,” he added.

Reflecting on the success of the three-day event, Alexander Heuff, Group Director, Cityscape, said: “A strong real estate market isn’t built through project launches alone. It depends on whether development plans are matched by the right financing, infrastructure and an understanding of what residents and investors need. That is what stood out at Cityscape Qatar this year: the opportunity to discuss the bigger picture with the people shaping it. The real measure of success now is how those conversations inform decisions and deliver value beyond these three days.”

During the Innovation Stage’s concluding discussion, Mohammed Makki, Director of Real Estate Investment at Aqarat, reflected on Qatar’s recent market performance and its growing appeal to international investors.

Makki said Qatar’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate stability and attract interest from both local and international investors.

“We have seen encouraging market activity, with a strong recovery in sales in the third quarter following the first half of the year, alongside sustained interest from international buyers,” he stated.

“Africa has also emerged as a notable source of investor interest, reflecting the growing international reach of Qatar’s real estate market. These developments highlight the depth of the market and the opportunities it offers for long-term investment,” he noted.

Cityscape Qatar brought together today’s investment opportunities and the priorities shaping Qatar’s future communities. With the three-day event concluded, attention now turns to how these projects, partnerships and ideas will take shape beyond the exhibition.

Aldar Properties reported a 21% increase in quarterly net profit after tax to AED 2.25 billion, alongside a 16% rise in revenue, supported by continued property development activity and strong rental income. However, new UAE property sales declined 45% year-on-year, shifting investor attention towards the company’s sales performance in the final quarter of 2026.

According to Nagham Hassan, Market Analyst at etoro, Aldar’s latest results reflect the strength of its existing development pipeline, with approximately three quarters of revenue generated from the construction of previously sold properties.

The company’s rental business also delivered solid growth, with adjusted EBITDA increasing 27% and occupancy remaining close to full capacity. Meanwhile, its hospitality portfolio faced challenges as regional travel disruptions weighed on hotel occupancy.

Despite the slowdown in new sales, Aldar launched seven projects during the third quarter, helping bring year-to-date sales above AED 20 billion. Its development sales backlog remained steady at AED 71.6 billion, providing visibility over future earnings.

Aldar also reported AED 38 billion in available liquidity, including undrawn credit facilities, supporting its continued investment in land acquisitions and development projects. The company added AED 5.3 billion in land during the year, including new plots in Dubai.

Hassan noted that while Aldar’s existing backlog is expected to support profitability over the coming years, sustained growth will increasingly depend on the company’s ability to generate new sales.

“The bar now moves to new sales, because a backlog that stops growing today means slower earnings growth further out, and investors will want to see the third-quarter pickup carry through to year-end,” Hassan said.

The Middle East is an increasingly important market for global steel, underpinned by nearly $2 trillion in infrastructure and industrial projects and a market forecast to grow from $44 billion in 2026 to $60 billion by 2031.

At a time when steel producers worldwide are navigating shifting trade flows, evolving decarbonisation requirements and ongoing market uncertainty, leaders from across the steel value chain will gather at Fastmarkets’ Middle East Iron & Steel (MEIS) 2026 in Dubai this November to assess the region’s growth, trade and investment outlook.

Regional host sponsor EMSTEEL’s Group CEO, Eng Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, will be joined by senior industry figures including Ahmed Ezz, CEO of Ezz Steel; Sharjeel Azhar, CEO of Al Ittefaq Steel Products; Dr Salam Al Sharif, Chairman of Al Sharif Metals Group & BMR; Sanjay Roychoudhury, CEO of UNICOIL and Jose Noldin, CEO of GravitHY.

Region’s momentum

The region’s momentum is reflected in production. According to Fastmarkets analysis, GCC crude steel output reached 21.6 million tonnes in 2025, up 9.5% year over year. Electric arc furnaces account for approximately 95% of regional crude steel production, giving the Middle East a strong position in the transition to lower-carbon steelmaking.

“The past year has been challenging for many parts of the steel industry, making it more important than ever to focus on where real opportunities are emerging,” said Raju Daswani, CEO of Fastmarkets. “The Middle East combines significant investment, growing demand, ambitious industrial development and a strong position in lower-carbon steelmaking. MEIS brings the industry together to build relationships, identify commercial opportunities and better understand where this market is heading.”

“The Middle East is moving from ambition to delivery, supported by major investments in infrastructure, manufacturing and industrial development,” said Eng Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO of EMSTEEL. “At EMSTEEL, our focus is to support this growth with reliable, high-quality steel while accelerating the transition towards lower-carbon production. The region has the resources, capabilities and determination to play an increasingly important role in the future of the global steel industry.”

Forces reshaping regional steel markets

MEIS 2026 will examine the forces reshaping regional steel markets, including major infrastructure and industrial projects, steel demand, trade flows, tariffs, carbon regulation and the security of supply for key raw materials such as scrap, DR-grade iron ore, pellets, DRI and HBI.

Middle East Iron & Steel 2026 takes place from November 16 to 18 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.

Nakheel, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded Parkway International Contracting LLC a construction contract valued at more than AED 950 million for Phases 2 and 4 of Bay Grove Residences on Dubai Islands.

The contract covers 617 homes ranging from one to four-bedroom across eight residential buildings, together with basement works, associated infrastructure and amenities including swimming pools, sports courts and fitness centres. Phase 2 comprises 360 homes across four buildings, with main construction works expected to be completed by late 2028. Phase 4 comprises 257 homes across four buildings, with completion anticipated in the second quarter of 2029.

The award builds on Nakheel’s earlier contract of more than AED 800 million for 537 homes across seven buildings in Phases 1 and 3. Together, the two contracts represent more than AED 1.75 billion in main construction awards and cover all 1,154 planned homes across Bay Grove Residences’ 15 buildings.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said: “This award marks another important step in the delivery of Bay Grove Residences, establishing a clear construction pathway for a further 617 homes. Together with the contract already awarded for Phases 1 and 3, it represents a substantial investment in the community and the long-term development of Dubai Islands. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality homes, amenities and public spaces that will create a distinctive waterfront community for residents.”

Tarek Zoabi, Managing Partner of Parkway International Contracting LLC, said: “We are pleased to partner with Nakheel on the next stages of Bay Grove Residences. Our team is focused on safe, disciplined delivery across both phases, with close attention to build quality, coordination and the agreed programme.”

Bay Grove Residences is planned as a waterfront community with landscaped communal spaces, walking and cycling routes and access to Crystal Beach.

Located off the coast of Deira, Dubai Islands is a five-island waterfront destination spanning 18.6 square kilometres. Its master plan includes residential neighbourhoods, hospitality, parks, leisure and cultural destinations as part of Dubai’s longer-term urban development.

In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to develop advanced, resilient and world-leading infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of the stormwater drainage system to meet the emirate’s future growth requirements, Dubai Municipality has awarded contracts for four new projects under Phase 3 of the ‘Tasreef’ Programme to develop Dubai’s stormwater drainage network. With a total value of AED3 billion, the projects will involve the construction and extension of approximately 100 kilometers of main stormwater drainage lines, with diameters of up to 3 metres, further enhancing the resilience of the city’s drainage network.

The new projects are distributed across vital areas representing key economic, commercial, industrial and tourism corridors across the emirate, covering nearly 100 square kilometers. They include the development of stormwater drainage systems and networks in Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Safa, Al Manara, Al Quoz, Al Barsha, Al Wasl, Za’abeel, Al Bada’a, Al Satwa and Al Marmoom, connecting these areas to Dubai Municipality’s main stormwater drainage network. The projects will increase the network’s water-flow capacity, enhance operational resilience and support sustainable urban growth.

The third package of projects represents an integrated extension of the Tasreef Programme, one of the UAE’s largest strategic and transformational infrastructure projects. The programme is classified as the largest integrated stormwater collection programme in a single system in the region and one of the most operationally efficient. Implemented by Dubai Municipality at a total cost of AED30 billion, it will provide a highly resilient and advanced drainage system capable of meeting Dubai’s future requirements.

The program will enhance the city’s readiness and preparedness to address climate-related changes, increase stormwater drainage capacity by 700 percent, and reduce costs associated with the construction of pumping stations and operations and maintenance by 20 percent. It will also extend the lifespan of the network and support the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy.

Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, said, “Dubai Municipality continues to implement the phases of the ‘Tasreef’ Programme, one of Dubai’s largest strategic infrastructure projects, enhancing its efficiency and resilience, making it more sustainable and strengthening its ability to address both future climate change and accommodate population and urban growth.

Our objective is to build a comprehensive and integrated model for a leading future city, characterized by a sustainable urban system and advanced infrastructure that serve people, enhance their quality of life and well-being, and strengthen their safety and security. At the same time, it provides a stable and enabling environment for the growth of businesses and economic, commercial and tourism activities, reinforcing Dubai’s position as the world’s best city to live, work, invest and visit.”

Eng. Adel Mohammed Al Marzouqi, CEO of the Waste and Sewerage Agency at Dubai Municipality, said, “The third phase of the Tasreef Programme’s projects will serve areas that represent vital arteries across the emirate, marking another pivotal step in developing Dubai’s stormwater drainage system as well as making it more resilient and efficient in managing rainfall under different conditions and future climate changes. We are committed to ensuring that these projects advance the broader objectives of the Tasreef Programme by reducing water accumulation, protecting residents and assets, improving the quality of services, enhancing the city’s readiness and traffic flow, and safeguarding the sustainability of its resources.”

The Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim Stormwater Drainage Network Development Project is one of the largest projects under the third phase of Tasreef. It aims to enhance infrastructure readiness along key strategic corridors across the two areas, serving communities extending from Umm Suqeim 1, 2 and 3, and Umm Al Sheif to Jumeirah 3, Al Safa 1 and 2, and Al Manara along the Dubai Water Canal.

The project includes the construction of approximately 42 kilometers of main stormwater drainage lines, enhancing the resilience, efficiency and capacity of the drainage system.

The Stormwater Drainage Network Development and Capacity Enhancement Project between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road focuses on developing resilient and sustainable infrastructure capable of accommodating residential and urban growth and enhancing the city’s readiness and resilience.

The project includes the construction of 14 kilometers of main stormwater drainage lines in accordance with the highest international standards.

It will serve several of Dubai’s key strategic corridors and vital areas, including the Al Khail Road interchange towards Umm Suqeim, Umm Suqeim Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, in addition to First Al Khail Street, Al Marabea Street, Al Waha Street, Al Zumurrud Street and the connecting secondary roads.

The project will cover Al Quoz Industrial Areas 1, 3 and 4, as well as Al Barsha 1.

The Development of Main Stormwater Drainage Lines along Al Wasl Road Project aims to serve areas east of the Dubai Water Canal, including Za’abeel 2, Al Wasl, Jumeirah 1 and 2, Al Bada’a, Al Satwa, and Dubai World Trade Centre 1 and 2, covering an area of up to 25 square kilometers.

The project includes an integrated stormwater drainage network comprising main and secondary conveyance lines and associated infrastructure, with a total length of 21 kilometers. This will enable the drainage and management of large volumes of water flow with operational flexibility, helping to prevent water accumulation.

As part of the third phase of the Tasreef Programme, Dubai Municipality will develop an integrated and sustainable stormwater drainage network in Al Marmoom, serving vital areas by implementing 23 kilometers of stormwater drainage infrastructure. This will ensure continuity of services and enhance the quality of the area’s urban infrastructure.

Dubai Municipality continues to implement strategic projects in accordance with approved timelines and operational plans, reaffirming its commitment to developing an integrated and resilient drainage system that contributes to reducing the risks associated with water accumulation, enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of infrastructure, and strengthening Dubai’s readiness to respond effectively to climate change.

These efforts further support Dubai’s ambition to be recognized globally for the quality of its infrastructure and public services.

Delayed approvals and slow responses, Information fragmentation and administrative workload have been identified as the top project delivery hurdles facing construction teams as activity across the UAE continues to grow.

PlanRadar, a leading platform for digital documentation, communication and reporting in construction and real estate projects, in its Construction Survey Report 2026: Managing Project Changes in the Age of AI surveyed 1,728 construction professionals responsible for on-time and on-budget delivery across 14 countries in Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The findings were also explored in PlanRadar’s webinar, Managing Mid-Project Changes in the Age of AI.

Ability to manage changes

The research comes as UAE construction output is projected to reach $130.8 billion by 2029, up from a record $107.2 billion in 2024, according to Knight Frank. As project volumes and stakeholder complexity increase, the ability to manage changes, approvals and project records efficiently will remain central to delivery performance.

One of the clearest concerns identified in PlanRadar’s research is the impact of delayed approvals and slow responses. These were the most common pain points reported in the management of mid-project changes, including RFIs, change orders and variation requests.

Nearly three-quarters of respondents said approvals are often received after agreed timeframes, while one in four estimated that delayed approvals typically add more than a month to project timelines.

Among teams where approvals are almost always late, month-long project delays were more than twice as likely as among those where late approvals are rare.

Clearer ownership, predefined approval routes

Ibrahim Imam, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of PlanRadar, said: “In a market delivering projects at the UAE’s current pace, small delays in decision-making can quickly become much larger delivery problems. Going into 2027, companies need clearer ownership, predefined approval routes and faster access to the information decision-makers need. The aim is not to eliminate change—change is inevitable—but to ensure every change is visible, traceable and acted on before it affects programme or cost.”

PlanRadar’s findings also show the financial impact of unmanaged changes. Two in three respondents said that mid-project changes lead to budget overruns in many or most of their projects. However, the research indicates that stronger process control can improve outcomes: four in five respondents using a central digital tool to track changes reported an improved ability to control costs or protect project margins.

Information fragmentation is another challenge. Nearly eight in ten respondents said that at least half of their project documentation is spread across unconsolidated channels, including emails, messages, phone calls and verbal instructions. Among those who could easily locate documentation, 70% felt confident that their records clearly showed responsibility for delays and cost impacts—double the proportion among those who found documentation difficult to locate.

Administrative workload

Administrative workload compounds these pressures. Nearly half of respondents reported spending 11 or more hours each week on administrative tasks. Among those using a central digital tool with integrated AI functionality, two in three said they save at least two hours per week, per project, on administration and coordination.

Andrey Belogortsev, Regional Manager for Mena and APAC at PlanRadar, said: “The immediate opportunity for construction teams is to build reliable, connected workflows around the information already being generated on site. When changes, approvals and supporting evidence are captured in one accessible record, teams can identify issues earlier, engage the right people faster and maintain accountability throughout the project lifecycle.”

“AI can add real value when it is applied to repetitive, time-consuming work within those controlled workflows. It should support professional judgement—not replace it—by giving project teams more time to focus on decisions, risks and exceptions that require their expertise.”

AI can reduce workload

The survey found that 58% of respondents believe AI can reduce workload across their biggest day-to-day challenges, while 65% believe it can streamline major administrative tasks.

Building on this need, PlanRadar has introduced AI Agents, allowing customers to create agents in plain language or use ready-made options to complete defined actions. Each action is logged, attributed and limited to the permissions of the user who created the agent, enabling teams to automate routine work while retaining oversight and control.

The value of real estate investments in Dubai has grown steadily over the past few years, rising nearly five-fold from AED148 billion ($40.2 billion) in 2021 to more than AED680 billion ($185 billion) in 2025, said top UAE brokerage W Capital Real Estate, adding the number of investments have jumped from 72,000 to 259,000 over the period.

This surge extended beyond the volume of capital invested. It was accompanied by a substantial expansion in the number of investors and investments, greater diversity in capital sources, it stated.

Based on annual reports and data published by the Dubai Land Department, the study found that this surge extended beyond the volume of capital invested. It was accompanied by a substantial expansion in the number of investors and investments, greater diversity in capital sources and a wider range of locations attracting funds.

The study traced a five-year upward trajectory during which the number of investors rose from 52,415 to approximately 193,100, while the number of investments increased from 72,207 to around 258,600.

The comparison also showed that investment value grew faster than participation, adding a qualitative dimension to the assessment of market performance beyond aggregate sales and real estate transactions, it stated.

The market began the period with investments of AED 148 billion in 2021, followed by AED 264.15 billion in 2022, approximately AED412 billion in 2023 and around AED 526 billion in 2024, before exceeding AED 680 billion in 2025.

Global capital, differing investment preferences

Based on approximate annual values, growth stood at 78.5% in 2022, 56% in 2023, 27.7% in 2024 and 29.3% in 2025. This trajectory demonstrates that investment inflows continued, although their rate of increase varied from year to year, it stated.

W Capital explained that these developments reflect the expansion of the market’s annual investment base: the value recorded in 2025 was more than 4.5 times the 2021 level. This comparison uses the real estate investment indicator, which is distinct from the total value of property transactions or sales.

The geographic origins of investments in 2025 revealed a strong international presence. Asia and Europe together accounted for AED496 billion, including AED308 billion from Asia and AED188 billion from Europe, stated the report.

Investments from North America reached AED54.63 billion, while Africa accounted for AED41 billion. At the subregional level, South Asia led with AED123 billion, followed by the Middle East at AED96 billion and Northern Europe at AED56 billion, according to figures published in the 2025 market review.

W Capital said that the widening range of markets supplying investment capital provides Dubai’s real estate demand with multiple international sources and creates more diverse requirements, spanning homeownership, rental yields and asset diversification.

The study did not make a year-on-year comparison of continental growth because the classification basis for certain geographic groupings differed between the 2024 and 2025 datasets.

Purchasing preferences differ

Purchasing preferences also differed markedly in 2025: 83.7% of non-resident investments went into off-plan properties, compared with 16.3% in ready properties, stated the W Capital Real Estate study.

Among residents, 51.2% of investments went into off-plan properties and 48.8% into ready properties.

The study attributes this divergence to differences in investment objectives and time horizons, including the desire to benefit from project development versus the need for a property ready for occupation or rental, it added.

Commenting on the findings, Walid Al Zarooni, Chairman of W Capital Real Estate Brokerage, said Dubai had not simply multiplied its real estate investments; it had also reshaped its investor base over five years.

The significance of this transition, he noted, lies in stronger capital flows alongside the entry of new investor segments and continued activity among existing investors.

“Investment decisions are no longer based solely on a property’s price and location. They are increasingly linked to net returns, operating costs, liquidity and long-term growth potential. New developments and a wider range of locations give investors more options for building balanced real estate portfolios,” explained Al Zarooni.

The emergence of new investment destinations alongside established locations confirms the expanding range of opportunities, he added.

Egypt’s Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities Randa El-Menshawy discussed plans to establish a real estate investment fund to maximize the economic and investment returns from assets owned by the New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA), according to a ministry statement on Wednesday.

The proposed fund aims to attract domestic and foreign capital, provide new sources of liquidity and financing, and build a diversified real estate portfolio capable of generating attractive investment returns and sustainable revenues.

The discussions focused on exploring innovative investment mechanisms to improve the management of NUCA’s real estate assets, increase their economic value and generate additional funding for development and urban projects.

El-Menshawy stressed the importance of studying various investment models to maximize returns from the authority’s real estate assets, taking into account the characteristics and potential of each asset, as well as available development opportunities.

She added that diversifying investment and financing mechanisms was an important step towards improving asset management efficiency and generating additional resources to support urban development plans and keep pace with the expansion of projects across Egypt’s new cities.

The meeting was attended by Walid Abbas, Deputy Minister of Housing for New Urban Communities, along with officials from the ministry and NUCA.

Major infrastructure projects worth billions of dirhams are expected to reshape Dubai’s real estate market by improving connectivity, supporting urban expansion and increasing the appeal of emerging residential and commercial districts, according to a leading UAE brokerage study by W Capital Real Estate Brokerage.

The study identified four major projects – the AED128 billion ($34.9 billion) expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, the AED20.5 billion Dubai Metro Blue Line, the Fourth Federal Corridor and Etihad Rail – as potential drivers of property demand and investment across Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates.

Property and land values around Dubai Metro Blue Line stations could rise by up to 25%, according to projections by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The project is also expected to generate more than AED 56.5 billion in economic, social and environmental benefits by 2040.

The findings underscore the growing importance of transport links and infrastructure in shaping real estate investment decisions, as developers and investors look beyond established property districts towards communities connected to new economic centres.

Metro expansion could support property demand

The AED 20.5 billion Blue Line will extend 30 km and include 14 stations, connecting established and emerging districts including Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Silicon Oasis, International City, Mirdif and Al Warqa.

The line is expected to serve communities with a combined population of more than one million people. Daily ridership is projected to reach 200,000 passengers by 2030 and approximately 320,000 by 2040.

Historical data cited in the study from property consultancy CBRE showed that residential properties within a 15-minute walk of Dubai Metro Red Line stations recorded average price growth of 26.7% between 2010 and 2022, compared with 24.1% across Dubai’s wider residential market.

W Capital said improved public transport access could support property values, although future performance would also depend on supply, demand, construction quality and the availability of community services.

Airport expansion puts Dubai South in focus

The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport is another potential driver of long-term real estate demand, particularly in Dubai South and surrounding districts.

The AED 128 billion project is designed to accommodate up to 260 million passengers annually and includes plans for five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates.

The development is expected to strengthen Dubai’s position as an aviation and logistics hub, potentially supporting employment growth and demand for residential, commercial and mixed-use properties.

Abu Dhabi is entering a major growth phase with the development profile of a far more established branded residences market, with 92% of projects in its pipeline now standalone, according to The Brand Standard, the inaugural annual report from specialist advisory firm Global Branded Residences (GBR).

The findings come as the global branded residences sector reaches 1,972 schemes across more than 100 countries, comprising 848 completed developments and 1,124 in the global pipeline.

The Brand Standard also finds that branded residences now achieve an average price premium of 44% compared with equivalent non-branded residential products globally.

Abu Dhabi now has 31 branded residence projects, comprising five completed developments and 26 in the pipeline. This makes the UAE capital the sixth largest city market globally by total project numbers, while its pipeline ranks joint third alongside Cairo and behind only Dubai and Miami.

What distinguishes Abu Dhabi from many other emerging branded residence markets is the speed at which it has shifted towards standalone development, where branded residences are developed without an operating hotel on site, stated the top advisory firm.

Standalone schemes account for 92% of Abu Dhabi’s pipeline and 83% of its total market, compared with 37% of branded residence projects globally.

GBR says the model typically becomes more prevalent as markets mature and buyers, developers and brands become increasingly comfortable with a branded residential proposition that does not rely on a hotel operating alongside it.

Abu Dhabi’s proximity to Dubai has helped accelerate that progression. Dubai is the largest branded residence market in the world and has one of the sector’s most developed standalone markets, with standalone projects accounting for 77% of its pipeline by development type.

Riyan Itani, Founder of Global Branded Residences, said: “Abu Dhabi has the world’s largest branded residences market next door, where developers, brands and buyers have already had significant exposure to the product and to the standalone model in particular.

“That experience is transferable. Abu Dhabi has been able to move much more quickly towards a development model that, in many markets, only becomes commonplace after branded residences have been established for a considerable period of time.”

The emirate’s pipeline spans both major hospitality groups and a growing field of non-hotel brands. Brands represented across Abu Dhabi’s completed and future projects include Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, St. Regis, W, Waldorf Astoria, Elie Saab, Jacob & Co., Henge, BRABUS and SHA.

Marriott is the most active parent group in Abu Dhabi with five developments, all of them in the pipeline, followed by Accor with three. At individual brand level, Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons have two projects each, while Elie Saab is the largest non-hotel brand with two, both in the pipeline.

Abu Dhabi’s expansion forms part of a much wider growth story across Mena, which The Brand Standard identifies as one of the major centres of global branded residential development.

The region now has 426 branded residence projects, including 118 completed developments and 308 in the pipeline. MENA accounts for more than 27% of the global branded residence development pipeline, said the top advisory firm.

The UAE remains the region’s largest market, with 260 projects, including 185 in the pipeline. Saudi Arabia has 60 projects, of which 51 are in development, while Egypt has 46 projects, including 41 in the pipeline, it added.

Oman’s construction sector is poised for solid growth, supported by a project pipeline worth $120 billion through 2030 covering major sectors including infrastructure, tourism and industrial development, with industry opportunities set to take center stage at the Project Oman 2026 event, which kicks off next month in Muscat.

To be held at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) from November 2 to 4, the fifth International Construction Technology, Infrastructure and Building Materials Exhibition, will serve as a key business platform connecting global solution providers with decision-makers in Oman’s rapidly evolving construction market.

Organized by IFP Group in partnership with Al Nimr International Exhibition Organizers, the three-day event aims to connect international technology and solution providers with decision-makers and industry stakeholders in Oman’s construction market.

Growing construction market with high demand

Oman’s construction sector is driven by major investments in infrastructure, tourism, logistics and industrial development. Large-scale projects across transport networks, smart cities, and mixed-use developments are fueling demand for innovative construction technologies, building materials, and sustainable solutions, stated the organizers.

Project Oman 2026 will showcase a comprehensive range of products and services across the construction value chain, including building materials, construction equipment, HVAC systems, water technologies, smart building solutions, and green building innovations.

Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, Project Oman contributes to national priorities focused on economic diversification, infrastructure expansion, and sustainability.

The exhibition highlights solutions that enhance efficiency, promote digital transformation, and support environmentally responsible construction practices, they stated.

By bringing together industry leaders and innovators, the event plays a vital role in advancing knowledge exchange and strengthening the competitiveness of Oman’s construction sector, they added.

High-impact business features

Project Oman 2026 is designed to maximize business engagement through a range of high-value features. The B2B Matchmaking Platform enables exhibitors and visitors to pre-schedule meetings, connect efficiently with targeted partners, and generate qualified business opportunities during the exhibition, said the organizers.

The Specialized Conference will bring together industry experts, policymakers and professionals to share insights on market trends, emerging technologies, sustainability and the future of construction in Oman and the wider region.

Together, these features enhance networking opportunities, facilitate partnerships, and create a results-driven environment for all participants.

With its strategic location, stable economic outlook, and ambitious development plans, Oman continues to position itself as a key investment destination in the region. Project Oman 2026 offers international companies a unique opportunity to access this growing market and engage with stakeholders shaping the country’s future.

As the sultanate advances its infrastructure and urban development projects, Project Oman remains a leading platform for driving innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.

The Modern Buildings Summit, taking place on 14–15 October 2026 at Dusit Thani, Dubai, will bring together professionals, innovators and decision-makers shaping the future of the built environment across the GCC.

The summit will examine how buildings can become smarter, more sustainable, efficient and resilient, with discussions covering green building strategies, low-carbon development, energy efficiency, sustainable materials, water management and technologies that support the transition towards net-zero buildings.

The programme will explore the practical application of smart building technologies, AI, digital twins, building automation, HVAC efficiency, lighting, façades, solar technology, EV charging, security and advanced construction solutions. Sessions will also address the modernization of existing buildings through retrofitting, adaptive reuse and improvements that can extend building life while reducing energy use and environmental impact.

Sustainability will remain a key focus throughout the summit, with discussions on net-zero buildings, water reuse, sustainable construction materials, carbon-positive assets and resource-efficient building operations. The event will also look at how technology and better design can improve performance while supporting long-term environmental and operational goals.

The summit will bring together developers, building owners and operators, architects, designers, consultants, MEP contractors, facility managers, government representatives, sustainability professionals, engineers, procurement teams and technology providers, creating a platform for knowledge exchange, industry connections and new business opportunities.

14–15 October 2026 | Dusit Thani, Dubai, UAE

NEAT Development has entered Egypt’s real estate market as a new brand under an investment group operating in real estate development and contracting, with plans to develop four projects with targeted investments of around EGP 10bn.

The company is backed by six founders and partners with more than 13 years of experience in developing and executing real estate projects.

NEAT plans to launch three of its projects in November, followed by a fourth project in January.

The company’s strategy focuses on self-financing land acquisitions and starting excavation and construction before launching units for sale, allowing it to establish construction progress ahead of commercial launches.

Mahmoud Tolba, CEO of NEAT Development, said the company is initially focusing on Sheikh Zayed and 6th of October, with plans to expand into East Cairo.

He said the founders have participated in developing and delivering more than 25 projects comprising over 2,000 residential, commercial, medical, and administrative units, with previous sales exceeding EGP 10bn.

NEAT’s project pipeline includes Business Lab, a commercial and administrative development near Gezira Sporting Club, with investments of about EGP 1.6bn. The project covers 3,500 square metres and has a built-up area of 10,000 square metres, with excavation and construction already underway.

The company is also preparing a villa-only residential project in Sheikh Zayed’s Green Belt, with investments of nearly EGP 1bn on a 14,000-square-metre plot.

Another project, El Nozha, is located opposite Al Ahly Sporting Club in Sheikh Zayed and will combine hospitality, commercial, and residential uses. The project will be developed on 3.5 feddans, with investments of around EGP 3bn, including 80 hotel rooms and 130 residential units.

The fourth project, located opposite Sheikh Zayed Specialized Hospital, will combine medical and commercial uses, with investments approaching EGP 2bn.

Tolba said NEAT aims to complete and deliver its projects within 24-30 months of land acquisition, with construction and sales activities proceeding in parallel.

The company is working with Hafez Consultants, Azure Planning and Architecture, and SEGMENTS Architects, while Gateway Financial Services has been appointed as its financial and investment adviser.

A bold 1950s home in Palm Springs, California, adorned with eight colorful murals by the late artist Shawn Savage, is coming to market ahead of the city’s annual Modernism Week.

The white stucco home on El Camino Way, built in 1954 and recently renovated, has an asking price of $2.295 million. Its staggered facade features three playfully abstract murals on either side of double-height hot pink doors.

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The sellers are Los Angeles-based partners John Freeman and Mathieu Faure, who knew it was “the one” when they saw it after several months of searching in the winter of 2023. “It’s a happy house,” Freeman said. “We really liked the feel of the house: the uniqueness, the openness, the brightness—and the art.”

Located in the Mesa neighborhood of Palm Springs, which backs up to the San Jacinto Mountains, the 2,237-square-foot house features three bedrooms, an angled bonus room and a yard with a pool, desert mountain views and another colorful mural running alongside the pool.

“I never thought in my life I would have a house with pink doors,” said Faure, a producer at Apple TV who is originally from Paris. “It’s so colorful, it’s so different. And so Palm Springs.”

The layout of the home creates a smooth flow from the front doors through the open-plan common area—a foyer, bar, and living and dining room—into the kitchen around a fireplace wall and out to the yard. A corridor leads to a private bedroom wing, where the primary suite has floor-to-ceiling windows and the primary bath is only a tad smaller than the bedroom.

Faure has filled the home with Jonathan Adler furniture, rugs and accessories, riffing on the energetic California vibes of the house to create an aesthetic of “modern American glamour,” he said.

“It was enjoyable for me to play with different types of furniture and make this house ‘happy chic,’ as I describe it,” he said.

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“He did a fantastic job,” said Freeman, who is an attorney and consultant. “It does kind of bring a smile to my face whenever I walk into the house.”

Since the furniture and decor were chosen for the particularities of the space, the couple is open to selling them with the home. Their West Hollywood house is already furnished; the collection doesn’t match the vibes of a Houston loft they bought near family; and Faure can’t imagine these pieces in New York—where he’s lived in the past—he said.

The duo bought the Palm Springs house for $1.925 million in 2024, according to property records, and will list the home Monday. They are represented by Stewart Smith, Patrick Jordan and Kevin Stanley of Bennion Deville Homes/Luxury Portfolio International.

The previous owners had purchased the home in 2021 for $975,000 and then spent more than two years and $700,000 on the renovation, according to Realtor.com. They commissioned Savage, a local Palm Springs artist and painter known for his joyful abstract work, to decorate the home.

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Savage, who died in 2024, lived in the Coachella Valley from 2003, and his work can be found in various local institutions and is on exhibit at the Illumine Gallery in Palm Springs. “Some artists pass through a place. Shawn Savage became a part of it,” the gallery’s description states.

Unsurprisingly, the murals invite lots of friendly conversations, as well as guided tours and interested lookers, but never to a degree that it disturbed the peacefulness of their home or the neighborhood, the sellers said. “It felt like living in an art gallery, and you have the exterior that you would share with the world,” Faure explained.

The neighborhood also played a role in their decision to buy, because of its access to the hiking trails of the San Jacinto Mountains, the lack of through-roads and the neighborly environment.

“It’s a very friendly place,” Faure said.