The numbers for August 2025 are in, and they send a clear signal. Off-plan property activity in Dubai jumped an impressive 25% year-on-year, confirming that the city’s real estate sector is not just recovering; it's expanding at a remarkable rate.

Overall, Dubai’s property market logged 18,564 transactions last month, totaling a significant AED50.7 billion. That's a 15 percent increase in the number of deals and a 7 percent rise in their value compared to last year. These figures reinforce the city's position as a stable and attractive global investment hub.

Off-Plan is Driving the Growth

While the entire market shows strength, the off-plan sector is the clear leader. This segment, where properties are bought from developers before completion, saw its transaction volume grow by 25 percent and its value by 11 percent.

This kind of growth points to serious long-term confidence. Investors are committing capital to projects that are months or years away from delivery, betting on Dubai's continued economic strength. The secondary off-plan market, where investors trade existing off-plan contracts, tells an even stronger story. It grew by 59 percent in volume and an enormous 69 percent in value.

Certain areas are becoming major focal points for this activity. Business Bay, for instance, accounted for 11 percent of the city's total transaction volume and 12 percent of its total value.

As one Senior Investment Strategist at 'Global Property Insights' states, "Dubai's consistent double-digit growth in transaction volume, especially in off-plan, positions it as a resilient hub, attracting capital seeking stability and robust returns in an otherwise volatile global economy."

A New Type of Buyer is Entering the Market

The numbers only tell part of the story; who is buying matters just as much. The data reveals a clear rise in demand for smaller units, specifically studios and one-bedroom apartments. This isn't just a trend towards smaller living spaces. It signals a fundamental shift in the buyer profile.

This trend is driven by a new wave of participants:

Young professionals building their careers.
International digital nomads seeking a base.
Savvy first-time expatriate investors.

These buyers want a foothold in one of the world's most dynamic cities. They see property not just as a home but as a strategic asset in a tax-friendly jurisdiction. This diversification is creating a more durable market foundation, less prone to speculation.

The Foundation for Sustainable Growth

The crucial question is whether this growth can be sustained. The data suggests the market is maturing in a healthy way. The secondary market for ready properties is also performing exceptionally well, generating AED22.6 billion from 6,458 deals. This represents a 15 percent annual increase in value.

The combined strength of both off-plan and ready property markets points to a balanced and healthy ecosystem. The influx of new buyers focused on smaller units shows that growth is fueled by real housing needs and long-term investment strategies, not just speculation at the high end. For investors, the message from Dubai's August numbers is direct: this market is hitting its stride.