Foreign ultra-high-net-worth investors keep investing in real estate of the emirate, with sales of premium real estate exceeding $10 million (AED 36.7 million) crossing 335 in the first eight months of 2026.
Data released by the Dubai Land Department, published in the real estate report by fām Properties, emphasizes the popularity of the area as a business and lifestyle hub. During the period January to August, premium real estate valued at billions of dirhams was purchased by wealthy individuals, making the city one of the liveliest premium real estate markets in the world.
The transactions reflect the penchant of rich buyers for large detached real estate. High-end villa sales accounted for 206 total deals valued at AED 11.7 billion, while luxury apartment acquisitions reached 129 transactions totaling AED 8.67 billion over the eight-month period.
Prime waterfront enclaves remain the top destination for ultra-wealthy purchasers. Palm Jumeirah maintained its status as a premier location, ranking in the top three districts across both property types. The iconic tree-shaped island recorded 35 luxury apartment transactions worth AED 2.18 billion, averaging AED 62.2 million per home. Villa sales on the island totaled 28 transactions, generating AED 1.85 billion at an average cost of AED 66.2 million per residence.
Meanwhile, Hadaeq Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid emerged as the single highest-performing neighborhood for luxury villas by volume and total financial value, recording 48 completed transactions worth AED 2.77 billion.
Individual deals reached historic heights during this period. The most expensive apartment purchase involved a 31,201-square-foot residence at Aman Residences in Jumeirah Second, selling for AED 422 million. The top villa sale featured a 44,903-square-foot estate at La Mer in Jumeirah First, which changed hands for AED 350 million.
Industry executives note that this influx of international capital reflects long-term investor trust in the local economy, active population growth, and a rising preference among affluent families to establish long-term roots in the United Arab Emirates.
