March 23, 2026 · By Thomas Bakker
AED 54.3 Billion (€13.9bn / £11.9bn) in Property Sold in Dubai in September 2025
The Dubai property market continues to break records. According to recent data from Kelt and Co Realty, September 2025 saw a total of 20,127 transactions registered, with a total value of AED 54.3 billion (€13.9 billion / £11.9 billion).
This represents an increase of 11.3% compared to September 2024. A notable shift is occurring within market segments: apartments and plots are rising significantly, while villa sales have seen a substantial decline.
Apartments Rise, Villas Fall: A Breakdown by Segment
The average price per square foot settled at AED 1,688 (€433 / £371), underscoring Dubai's enduring appeal to international buyers.
- Apartments remained the engine of the market with 17,112 units sold, valued at AED 31.8 billion (€8.1bn / £6.9bn). This signifies a nearly 30% increase in value compared to last year. Demand remains high, particularly in affordable communities like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), partly due to average rental yields of 7.39%.
- Villas, in contrast, experienced a notable decline. Only 955 sales were recorded, valued at AED 5.2 billion (€1.33bn / £1.14bn), a drop of over 70% compared to the same month last year. Buyers may be waiting for price adjustments or shifting their preference towards more affordable apartments or land plots.
- Commercial property showed growth: 514 transactions valued at AED 1.5 billion (€384m / £329m), nearly double the figure from last year.
- Land Plots were the biggest surprise. With 1,545 sales valued at AED 15.7 billion (€4bn / £3.4bn), this segment saw a 448% increase in volume. Developers and investors are clearly focusing on future construction projects.
JVC, Dubai Hills and Business Bay Are Top Areas
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) remains a favourite among investors due to relatively low entry prices (average AED 1,236 per sq ft / €317 / £272) and high rental yields. The community offers ample greenery, schools and retail, making it attractive for families.
Dubai Hills Estate attracts buyers seeking luxury homes with golf views, modern architecture and quick connections to Downtown. Limited supply helps maintain firm prices here.
Business Bay remains popular with investors targeting capital growth and rental income. With a mix of offices, retail and apartments, it is a vibrant district attractive to professionals.
Notable Sales & Most Popular Projects
The most expensive apartment sale was in Aman Residences for AED 83 million (€21.2m / £18.1m), while a villa on The World Islands fetched AED 200 million (€51m / £43.6m).
Among the best-selling projects were:
- Binghatti Skyrise: 318 apartments sold for AED 577.8 million (€147.4m / £126.1m)
- Binghatti Aquarise: 305 sales for AED 512.6 million (€130.8m / £111.9m)
- Damac Islands - Seychelles 2: 176 villas sold for AED 531.6 million (€135.5m / £115.9m)
- Dubai World Central: 167 villas sold for AED 748.4 million (€190.8m / £163.2m)
Mortgages Decline, Rents Rise
The number of registered mortgages fell by 9.2% to 3,787, with a total value of AED 12.1 billion (€3.08bn / £2.64bn), 24.2% lower than last year. This may indicate more buyers are using equity or that banks have become more cautious.
The average annual rent for apartments rose to AED 88,000 (€22,400 / £19,150), while villas command an average of AED 190,000 (€48,400 / £41,400). Commercial properties also saw rental increases of over 10%.
What Does This Mean for Buyers and Investors?
Dubai once again proves to be a robust property market with solid returns, strong infrastructure and growing demand. Clear trends are emerging:
- Apartments and land plots are currently the most popular choices
- Villa buyers appear to be adopting a wait-and-see approach or seeking alternatives
- Project developers are making significant investments in future land for construction
- While mortgage activity has softened, rental prices continue to rise
Those considering entering the market should account for associated costs such as the property transfer fee (4%). However, purchasing off-plan can offer savings on agent commissions. With the right location and strategy, Dubai remains a market full of potential.