The leasing market in Dubai is entering a more selective phase as rental listings continue to increase and tenant behaviour shifts, according to a recent report by betterhomes. While the market remains active overall, leasing outcomes are now being strongly influenced by realistic pricing, property presentation, and landlord flexibility.
Recent insights from the brokerage reveal that tenant lead volumes are currently about 30–40% lower compared to the same period last year. However, activity has shown signs of recovery since early March, with enquiries rising around 20% week-on-week and briefly matching last year’s mid-March levels.
Search activity across major property portals indicates that tenant demand is currently strongest in communities such as Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Jumeirah Village Circle, reflecting continued interest in well-connected mid-to-premium neighbourhoods.
Data comparing March 2025 to March 2026 highlights a notable shift in market balance, with rental listings increasing by 23%, while tenant enquiries declined by 16%. This growing inventory is encouraging landlords to adopt more competitive pricing strategies and improve property presentation to attract tenants.
According to Rupert Simmonds, both landlords and tenants are increasingly focused on understanding demand trends and pricing expectations. He emphasised that despite changing dynamics, the leasing market remains active, but success now depends more on aligning pricing with market realities and responding to evolving tenant preferences.
Overall, Dubai’s leasing sector continues to adjust to changing supply-demand conditions, signalling a transition toward a more balanced and data-driven rental environment.