Dubai's property market had a record-breaking year in 2023, with over 117,000 deals signed. It was the highest number ever recorded. But here's the strange part: nearly nine out of ten expats in the city are still renting.

This gap reveals a major shift happening right now across the UAE. A new study from ORA Developers looked into this, showing that while 75% of Emiratis own their homes, the idea of ownership has felt distant for most expats. That is starting to change, and quickly.

The New Wave of Buyers

The research points to a huge group of new buyers entering the market. A full 75% of all property purchasers today are first-timers. This signals a powerful, pent-up demand from people who are ready to plant permanent roots in the Emirates.

For years, the reasons for buying property here have been personal. The ORA study found that motivations often break down by background:

Western expats: Typically chase a premium lifestyle.
Arab expats: Often view property as a primary financial asset.
Asian expats: Tend to prioritize long-term stability.

Despite different starting points, one theme unites them all: a deep desire for stability, security, and comfort. For a growing number of expats, a simple rental contract just doesn't cut it anymore. This has created a generation of financially smart buyers who are looking at deals more closely than ever.

From Renter to Owner: The New Checklist

So how does that 90% make the leap? The answer is a new set of financial priorities that are making developers rethink their entire strategy.

The deciding factors for today's first-time buyers are no longer just about a good location or fancy amenities. They are zeroed in on:

Flexible payment plans
A clear return on investment (ROI)
Manageable ownership costs
And, most importantly, trust in the developer

This practical mindset is reshaping the market in real time.

As the Head of Property Market Insights at the 'Gulf Economic Forum' puts it, this is a profound change. "The growing expat community is smarter with its money. Developers in Dubai must innovate beyond just luxury. They have to focus on value, long-term returns, and ownership structures that actually work for people."

Beyond Downtown: Where the Smart Money Is Going

This shift isn't just theoretical; it's redrawing the map of the UAE. As buyers hunt for real value, emerging areas are grabbing the spotlight and giving the old-school, expensive hubs a run for their money.

Ghantoot is the prime example. It is a strategic spot located between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Once a quiet piece of coast, it's now home to ambitious projects promising a unique mix of lifestyle and investment potential. Developers there are targeting first-time buyers with incentives and master plans that established areas can't easily match.

These new communities are designed from scratch to meet modern needs. They integrate green spaces and smart infrastructure, all while offering a much more attractive entry price.

The paradox in Dubai property is clear: a booming market where most residents have been on the sidelines. But the gap between renting and owning is finally closing, driven by a new generation of determined buyers and a market that is slowly learning to meet their demands. For the millions of expats who call the UAE home, the opportunity is no longer a dream but a reality taking shape on the horizon.