Where it is best to buy an apartment in Dubai in 2025

Dubai's real estate market enters 2025 with record demand as well as price growth.
But the difference between an average and premium location can mean a difference in returns of up to 4-6% per annum.

This overview is based on Latest data from Dubai Land Department and Property Monitor,
and focuses on six quarterswhich combine growth in value, liquidity and stable rental income.

Dubai Creek Harbour — a new icon of the city

• Price: 2,200 — 2,600 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 6 — 7%
• Udvikler: EMAAR
• Type of investor: long term, premium

Creek Harbour represents the “new Downtown”.
Offers premium living with views of Dubai Creek Tower, quick connections to metro and future highest density of infrastructure outside the center.
The advantage is low saturation -- prices have room to rise as the area continues to develop.

Business Bay — Stable Market with High Occupancy

• Price: 2,200 — 2,800 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 6 — 7%
• Developer Dominance: DAMAC, Omniyat, Binghatti
• Type of investor: short-term rentals, mid-high segment

Business Bay holds its position Dubai's most active areas.
Downtown's proximity and 95% occupancy rate makes this location one of the strongest markets for Airbnb and corporate tenants.

Dubai Islands — the new northern magnet of capital

• Price: 1,600 — 2,000 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 7 — 8% (projection)
• Udvikler: Nakheel
• Type of investor: Growth portfolio early-stage

Dubai Islands is the new megaproject of Nakheel.
The region will include luxury hotels, port and residential zones with direct access to the sea.
Investments here are currently at an early stage, meaning highest capital growth potential to 2028.

Dubai Hills Estate — Stable Premium Segment Security

• Price: 2,400 — 2,900 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 5 — 6%
• Udvikler: EMAAR
• Type of investor: family, conservative

Dubai Hills has long been considered a “safe haven” of the real estate market.
Combines premium infrastructure, education, golf course and quiet environment.
The ideal choice for those who want low risk and long term holding.

Dubai Marina — a liquid classic with a sure return

• Price: 2,800 — 3,500 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 6 — 7%
• Developer Dominance: Select Group, Emaar, Damac
• Type of investor: short-term rentals, high-demand

Marina is evergreen.
Combines tourist attractiveness, excellent transport accessibility and a strong short-term market.
The advantage is high liquidity — unit can be sold within 30 days due to constant demand.

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) — a profitable mix of residential and commercial

• Price: 1,700 — 2,100 AED/sqft
• WHIP: 7 — 8%
• Developer Dominance: DMCC, Sezionare Grupo
• Type of investor: revenue-oriented, mid-segment

JLT holds highest ROI among established areas of Dubai.
The combination of apartments, offices and lakes creates a vibrant environment with long-term rental demand.
Investors are also appreciating low service charges in front of Marina.

Comparative table ROI by location

Summary

2025 brings a clear message to the Dubai market:
The importance of sites with a combination of infrastructure, transport and limited supply is growing.

In terms of strategies:

• Growth investments: Dubai Islands, Creek Harbour
• Stable yield: JLT, Business Bay
• Long-term holding: Dubai Hills Estate
• Premium Liquidity: Dubai Marina

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