Dubai’s real estate sector is undergoing a clear transformation, evolving into a dual-track market where homes are no longer viewed solely as places to live, but as lifestyle-driven assets.
According to Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of the Keturah luxury brand, developers are shifting focus away from high-volume construction toward thoughtfully designed communities that emphasise quality, wellbeing, and long-term value.
Looking ahead to 2026, the market is expected to split further. Conventional developments may face slower sales and tighter margins, while distinctive, experience-led projects continue to outperform due to stronger demand and investor confidence.
“The UAE real estate market is entering a more mature and selective phase,” Talal explains. “There is a clear transition from volume-based development to value-driven, wellness-integrated, and purpose-led projects.”
Today’s buyers and investors are placing greater importance on environments that support longevity, mental wellbeing, and overall lifestyle enhancement. Wellness is no longer an added feature—it is now embedded into design, materials, air quality, acoustics, and community planning.
Demand is increasingly centred on developments that offer privacy, preserve land value, and ensure long-term liveability. As a result, exclusivity and scarcity are emerging as key drivers of value, rather than scale.
A prime example of this approach is Ketura Reserve, located in Mohammed Bin Rashid City’s District 7. The AED 5.7 billion bio-living community features a limited number of residences, including townhouses, villas, and apartments, designed to prioritise quality and foster a strong sense of community instead of maximising density.
Talal also highlights a broader shift in investor mindset. Dubai is no longer seen as a short-term trading destination. Instead, global investors—from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East—are focusing on capital preservation, legacy planning, and lifestyle integration.
Buyers are becoming more selective, favouring developers with a clear vision, proven execution, and strong ethical positioning. The UAE’s stable regulatory framework continues to attract institutional investors, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals seeking transparency and long-term security.
As this evolution continues, residential real estate is increasingly behaving like a lifestyle asset class. Meanwhile, commercial spaces are being reimagined to support wellness-driven, human-centric work environments, and investment decisions are shifting toward long-term, risk-adjusted returns rather than short-term gains.
