Top reasons to buy off-plan property in Dubai:
| Developer | Founded | Off-plan projects in Dubai | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emaar Properties | 1997 | Emaar Farm Gardens, Raya Townhouses, Hills Park | Largest regional developer, large-scale premium projects, strong liquidity and prestige |
| Nakheel Properties | 2003 | Palm Beach Towers, Lagoon Views, Jebel Ali Village | Unique island concepts, limited supply, high investment appeal |
| Damac Properties | 1982 | Damac District, Damac Riverside Views Royal 4, Elegance Tower | Premium housing, collaborations with luxury brands like Roberto Cavalli, Fendi Casa and Bugatti, flexible installment plans |
| Meraas Holding | 2007 | Design Quarter, The Acres, Nad Al Sheba Gardens Villas | Modern districts with integrated living, retail and leisure spaces, unique concepts |
| Sobha Realty | 1976 | Sobha One Residences, Sobha Central, 360 Riverside Crescent | In-house materials production, strict quality control, green communities with developed infrastructure |
Top areas to buy off plan property for investment in Dubai include:
Foreigners seeking UAE residency can invest in any type of real estate, including off-plan projects in Dubai. An exclusive program in Dubai offers a 2-year residence visa for investments starting from AED 750,000 (approximately USD 204,000). For properties valued above AED 2 million (USD 544,500), a 10-year Golden Visa is available (in other emirates, this category of residency is valid for 5 years).
The segment of off-plan property for sale in residential projects in Dubai, UAE, includes:
Standalone villas are available in premium and luxury off plan projects in Dubai. These homes are built on private plots and feature amenities such as landscaped gardens, pools, Jacuzzis, private beaches, or waterfront access. Layouts typically include 2–3 floors, 3 to 10 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets, staff rooms, offices, and utility rooms.
Townhouses are rows of houses sharing side walls, but each has its own entrance and private yard. Some include pools, gardens, garages, or parking spaces. These homes can be 2 or 3 stories tall with 3 to 5 bedrooms.
Since the investment in luxury off plan properties in Dubai is 20–30% more affordable than completed projects, investors can expect capital appreciation even before project completion. Holding the asset longer maximizes resale profits as local property values continue to rise – in August 2025, prices increased by 15.2% year-on-year.
Rental income also allows for quicker returns. The average citywide rental yield is 6.31% annually; however, in high-demand tourist zones like Downtown Dubai and the Palm Jumeirah, it can exceed 19%.
Get assistance from an experienced advisor to help you find off-plan properties in Dubai that meet your personal goals.
Over 85% of Dubai’s population consists of expats. They are attracted by:
What is off-plan property in Dubai?
Off-plan property refers to real estate that is under construction and not yet ready for occupancy.
How does the process of buying an off-plan property in Dubai work?
The main steps when purchasing a property under construction in residential complexes in Dubai include:
What types of properties are available in Dubai's off-plan developments?
Buyers can choose from studios, one- or multi-bedroom apartments, penthouses, duplexes, triplexes, serviced apartments, townhouses and standalone villas.
What are the benefits of buying property under construction in Dubai?
Purchasing early allows you to choose your preferred layout, floor and the direction your windows face.
How much do apartments in off-plan developments cost?
In Q2 2025, the average price of off-plan apartments was approximately AED 1.3 million (USD 354,000).
What is the return on investment in off-plan real estate in Dubai?
Luxury off plan real estate is on average 20–30% cheaper than ready properties. The average rental yield for completed housing is 6.31% per year and can exceed 19% in top neighborhoods.
Can you get residency by buying off-plan property in Dubai?
Yes. An investment of AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) in off-plan property qualifies for a 2-year residence visa, while AED 2 million (USD 544,500) qualifies for a 10-year Golden Visa.
Why is it better to buy directly from developers at the construction stage?
Summary of Benefits
Daniel Costas
Property Expert