Dubai's Luxury Property Market Breaks Records
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Dubai's Luxury Real Estate Market Hits New Record
In 2024, Dubai once again demonstrated its emergence as one of the world's leading luxury real estate markets. The relentless growth in demand for ultra-premium properties led to a new record: during the year, 435 properties valued over 10 million dollars were sold, surpassing the 434 transactions in 2023.
Factors Behind Growing Demand
According to the latest analysis by the global real estate advisory firm Knight Frank, Dubai's appeal lies not only in business opportunities but also in quality of life. MENA region's research head pointed out that the city's economic stability, tax advantages, and modern infrastructure attract international affluent segments as if magnetically, even unaffected by global macroeconomic challenges.
"In 2024, Dubai's population exceeded 3.8 million, an increase of approximately 170,000 or 4.6% compared to the previous year. This pace creates further demand for residential properties across all price categories," he explained.
Price Increase and Villa Dominance
In 2024, property prices rose by 19.1%, while demand for villas saw even stronger growth: these experienced a 20.2% increase in value over the year, nearly doubling since the first quarter of 2020. It's not surprising that villas accounted for 68.5% of sales, as the international elite increasingly turns to spacious, private residences.
Palm Jumeirah: Dubai's Luxury Sales Hub
In 2024, Palm Jumeirah remained the focal point of Dubai's luxury real estate market. A total of 127 properties over $10 million changed hands here, making up 29% of all transactions. The total sales value exceeded $2.3 billion, accounting for 32.5% of Dubai's entire luxury market turnover.
Palm Jebel Ali, which has undergone rapid developments in recent years, secured the second place with 36 transactions. In terms of value, Emirates Hills held the second position with a $514.5 million turnover, while Jumeirah Bay Island, District One, and Dubai Hills Estate also significantly contributed to the market's expansion.
Developer Dominance: Omniyat, Nakheel, and Emaar's Role
More than half (52%) of the sales took place in the primary, or off-plan market, showcasing investors' confidence in Dubai's future growth prospects. Omniyat, Nakheel, and Emaar Properties were responsible for 46% of sales, reinforcing their positions as major players in the market.
The head of Knight Frank's luxury residential department in the UAE noted, "Dubai is now the world's leading luxury real estate market. This is a remarkable achievement for a relatively young market. The city's rapid rise is due to the influx of ultra-wealthy residents and businesses seeking not only investment opportunities but a livable, safe, and dynamic environment."
Challenges: Supply Shortages Amid Rising Demand
While demand continues to grow, the decrease in luxury property supply presents a challenge. Since mid-2023, developers have struggled to keep pace with the increased demand, further driving up prices. This trend is expected to continue into 2025, especially if Dubai's population keeps growing.
Conclusion
Dubai's luxury real estate market soared to new heights in 2024, showing no signs of slowing down. The city's role as a global hub, its attractive economic environment, and sustained demand for quality of life continue to strengthen its position in the international luxury market. Palm Jumeirah and Emirates Hills remain dominant, but new developments like Palm Jebel Ali highlight the continuous growth and expansion of Dubai's luxury market.