Properties in Dubai that offer smooth entry and exit points are increasingly commanding premiums of up to 20 per cent, as buyers and tenants prioritise convenience in response to growing traffic challenges.
With congestion becoming a daily concern, developers are focusing on strategically located plots that ensure quicker connectivity to major highways and key destinations. These well-connected communities are not only easier to access but also more attractive for leasing and resale.
Dubai’s rapid population growth has significantly impacted commuting times, encouraging residents to seek homes closer to their workplaces or in areas with efficient road networks.
Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Properties, emphasised that location has become more critical than ever. He highlighted that while areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) offer strong lifestyle amenities such as dining outlets, mosques, and healthcare facilities, traffic congestion remains a key challenge. However, projects located near major roads like Al Khail Road and Mohammed bin Zayed Road benefit from quicker accessibility, making them more desirable.
Traffic data further supports this trend. According to TomTom Traffic, the average time for a 10-kilometre journey in Dubai increased to 19.1 minutes in 2025, compared to 13.7 minutes in 2024. This rise is largely due to population growth and the resulting increase in vehicles on the road. Additionally, average rush-hour speeds dropped slightly, reflecting worsening congestion.
Tauseef Khan, founder and chairman of Dugasta Properties, noted that the importance of location has evolved beyond convenience. Today, it directly impacts stress levels, productivity, and overall quality of life. Buyers and businesses are increasingly choosing locations based on how efficiently they can travel in and out.
He added that areas offering central connectivity, smoother traffic flow, and multiple access routes are witnessing stronger demand and can command premiums ranging from 10 to 20 per cent above market rates.
Khan also pointed out that properties located within a short distance of metro stations tend to achieve higher values. Such locations often combine accessibility with premium features like waterfront views, gated environments, and enhanced amenities—factors that further boost demand.
Developers are now prioritising plots with direct access to arterial roads and improved internal infrastructure. Master-planned communities with multiple entry and exit points and built-in congestion management strategies are performing particularly well in both sales and rentals.
Sajan added that traffic congestion remains a broader concern, especially for those commuting between Dubai and Sharjah. However, ongoing infrastructure developments by the Dubai government aim to ease traffic flow, while developers continue to build affordable housing options to attract residents closer to the city.