Dubai’s property market is projected to achieve a “nice balance” in 2027, driven by a significant influx of new supply. This outlook comes from Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar Properties, who also acknowledged a potential 5 to 10 per cent softening in the broader real estate sector due to ongoing geopolitical developments.
Despite regional uncertainties, Alabbar emphasized Emaar’s robust financial standing, characterized by strong cash reserves and low debt, positioning the company for expansion rather than retrenchment. “I don’t look at it as a crisis. I think it’s adjustment time. With the cash position that we have, with the low debt we have, it’s time to expand,” Alabbar stated, highlighting a proactive approach to market adjustments and future growth.
Emaar’s financial performance underscores this confidence. The developer reported a 9 per cent increase in second-quarter profit for 2026, followed by a substantial 37 per cent surge in third-quarter profit, both attributed to higher revenues. This financial strength supports Emaar’s ambitious development pipeline, which currently includes approximately 90,000 units under production across 18 global markets.
A cornerstone of Emaar’s expansion strategy in Dubai is an “extraordinary” Dh200 billion (approximately $55 billion) megaproject, unveiled in June 2026. This master plan, spanning over 4.5 million square metres, is designed to accommodate nearly 150,000 residents. The comprehensive development will feature a diverse array of offerings, including residential towers, villas, and mansions, alongside Grade-A commercial office spaces, retail outlets, luxury hospitality options, and various other amenities, signaling a long-term commitment to Dubai’s urban expansion and economic diversification.
Alabbar reiterated his firm’s readiness for future market cycles, noting, “We all know going back [to history] that crises have two years, three years, [and] we need to be preparing for the day after.” This perspective informs Emaar’s strategy of launching large-scale projects, even during periods of market adjustment, to capitalize on anticipated recovery and sustained demand in Dubai.