Emaar, Aldar drive UAE property market boom as investor confidence climbs

The UAE’s real estate sector is on track for another record year, with more than 96,000 property transactions worth AED 322 billion (USD 87 billion) recorded in the first half of 2025. The surge spans luxury residences, waterfront villas, and landmark towers, underpinned by robust domestic and foreign demand.

“This trend is supported by robust policy initiatives, including foreign ownership reforms, which have attracted more ultra-high-net-worth individuals to the UAE than ever before,” said Josh Gilbert, Market Analyst at eToro. “Tax incentives, golden visas, and the UAE’s unmatched lifestyle continue to make the country a top destination for investors.”

The luxury market remains a standout. Aldar Properties set a record with the AED 400 million sale of a mansion at Faya Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi. Emaar Properties posted a 34% rise in net profit to AED 10.4 billion, supported by a 46% jump in property sales and a development backlog of AED 146.3 billion. Aldar reported a 24% profit increase to AED 4.1 billion, with revenues up 42% to AED 15.5 billion and a backlog of AED 62.3 billion. Aldar’s shares have gained 29% this year, while Emaar’s are up 15%, both offering attractive dividends.

Investor sentiment mirrors the rally. eToro’s latest Retail Investor Beat survey shows 52% of UAE retail investors rank real estate and construction as the most promising sectors for the next 12 months, ahead of technology.

With strong off-plan sales, high rental demand, and major infrastructure projects underway, developers are benefitting from a rare mix of growth, stability, and yield — a combination keeping UAE property firmly in the global investment spotlight.