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As of September 2025, the average apartment price in Dubai stands at approximately AED 1.52 million (USD 414,000), with significant variations depending on location and property type. Dubai's apartment market offers opportunities ranging from affordable studios in emerging areas like Jumeirah Village Circle starting at AED 700,000 to ultra-luxury three-bedroom units in Palm Jumeirah reaching up to AED 9.5 million, making it essential for buyers to understand the specific pricing dynamics across different neighborhoods and apartment configurations.
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Dubai apartment prices in September 2025 average AED 1.52 million, with studios ranging from AED 685,000 to AED 1.56 million and three-bedroom units from AED 2.35 million to AED 9.5 million depending on location.
Premium areas like Palm Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai command prices of AED 1,500-3,000 per square foot, while emerging areas like Jumeirah Village Circle offer more affordable options at AED 700-1,000 per square foot.
| Area Type | Studio Price Range (AED) | 1BR Price Range (AED) | 3BR Price Range (AED) | Price per Sq Ft (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium (Palm Jumeirah, Downtown) | 1,560,000 | 3,000,000 | 7,000,000 - 9,500,000 | 2,500 - 5,000 |
| Mid-Range (Marina, Business Bay) | 900,000 - 1,200,000 | 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 | 3,500,000 - 6,000,000 | 1,500 - 2,500 |
| Affordable (JVC, Dubai South) | 685,000 - 800,000 | 1,000,000 - 1,400,000 | 2,350,000 - 2,800,000 | 900 - 1,300 |
| Budget (International City) | 280,000 - 400,000 | 400,000 - 600,000 | N/A | 400 - 700 |
| Dubai Market Average | 700,000 - 1,100,000 | 1,200,000 - 2,200,000 | 2,800,000 - 4,500,000 | 1,582 (Average) |
Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert
Jean-Charles Salvin 🇫🇷
Co-Founder, Best Dubai Condos
What is the current average apartment price in Dubai?
As of September 2025, the average apartment price in Dubai stands at approximately AED 1.52 million, which equals around USD 414,000.
This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, with apartment prices rising by 8-18% year-over-year depending on the specific district. Premium areas like Palm Jumeirah have seen even higher appreciation rates of up to 23% annually.
The Dubai apartment market shows strong momentum driven by foreign investment, population growth, and infrastructure development. Completed apartments average around AED 11,450 per square meter (AED 1,070 per square foot), while off-plan developments command higher prices at approximately AED 18,950 per square meter.
Market data indicates that luxury and waterfront properties are experiencing the strongest price growth, while emerging areas maintain more affordable entry points for first-time buyers and investors.
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How do average apartment prices differ by area across Dubai?
Dubai apartment prices vary dramatically across different neighborhoods, with premium waterfront and downtown areas commanding significantly higher prices than emerging suburban developments.
Premium areas including Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina typically range from AED 1.5 million to AED 3 million or more per apartment. These locations offer luxury amenities, prime locations, and strong rental demand from both tourists and high-income residents.
Mid-range areas such as Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers, and DIFC provide apartments priced between AED 1 million and AED 2.5 million. These neighborhoods offer good connectivity, modern developments, and balanced investment potential.
Affordable and up-and-coming areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Al Barsha South, and Dubai South offer apartments ranging from AED 700,000 to AED 1.2 million. These locations provide excellent value for money with strong capital appreciation potential.
Budget-friendly areas like International City offer the most affordable options, with studio apartments starting from AED 280,000 and one-bedroom units from AED 400,000, though these areas typically have fewer amenities and longer commute times to business districts.
What are the typical prices for different apartment types in Dubai?
Studio apartments in Dubai range from AED 685,000 to AED 1.56 million depending on location and quality, with budget options in International City starting around AED 280,000.
| Apartment Type | Budget Areas (AED) | Mid-Range Areas (AED) | Premium Areas (AED) | Ultra-Luxury (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 280,000 - 600,000 | 700,000 - 900,000 | 1,000,000 - 1,300,000 | 1,560,000+ |
| 1-Bedroom | 400,000 - 800,000 | 1,000,000 - 1,500,000 | 1,800,000 - 2,500,000 | 3,000,000+ |
| 2-Bedroom | 600,000 - 1,200,000 | 1,500,000 - 2,200,000 | 2,800,000 - 4,500,000 | 5,500,000+ |
| 3-Bedroom | 900,000 - 1,800,000 | 2,350,000 - 3,500,000 | 4,500,000 - 7,000,000 | 7,000,000 - 9,500,000 |
| 4+ Bedroom | 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 | 3,500,000 - 5,500,000 | 7,000,000 - 12,000,000 | 12,000,000+ |
How do prices vary based on apartment size per square meter or square foot?
Dubai apartment prices per square foot vary significantly based on location, with premium areas commanding AED 2,500-5,000 per square foot compared to budget areas at AED 400-700 per square foot.
Completed apartments across Dubai average approximately AED 1,070 per square foot (AED 11,450 per square meter), while off-plan developments typically cost around AED 1,760 per square foot (AED 18,950 per square meter). The higher cost of off-plan properties reflects expected appreciation and modern specifications.
Premium waterfront locations like Palm Jumeirah can reach AED 5,000 per square foot for luxury units with private beach access and five-star amenities. Downtown Dubai properties typically range from AED 2,000-3,500 per square foot depending on building quality and views.
Mid-range areas such as Dubai Marina and Business Bay average AED 1,500-2,500 per square foot, offering good value with modern amenities and metro connectivity. Emerging areas like JVC and Dubai South provide excellent value at AED 900-1,300 per square foot.
The median market price across all Dubai apartment types stands at AED 1,882 per square foot as of September 2025, representing strong growth from previous years while remaining competitive compared to other global cities.
What are the most expensive areas for apartments in Dubai right now?
Palm Jumeirah stands as Dubai's most expensive apartment location, with ultra-luxury properties reaching AED 5,000 per square foot and three-bedroom units selling for AED 7-9.5 million.
1. **Palm Jumeirah**: Studios start at AED 1.56 million, while luxury three-bedroom apartments can exceed AED 9.5 million. The artificial island offers private beaches, five-star amenities, and exclusive lifestyle attractions.2. **Downtown Dubai**: Home to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, this area commands premium prices due to its iconic status and central location. Apartments benefit from strong rental demand and consistent capital appreciation.3. **Dubai Marina**: This waterfront development offers high-end living with marina views and yacht access. The area maintains strong investment appeal due to tourist demand and lifestyle amenities.4. **DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)**: As the region's financial hub, DIFC apartments cater to high-income professionals and offer premium specifications with business district convenience.5. **Bluewaters Island**: This newer development features luxury apartments with Ain Dubai views and beach club access, positioning itself among Dubai's most exclusive residential addresses.Don't lose money on your property in Dubai
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Which areas are considered up-and-coming with more affordable apartment prices?
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) leads Dubai's affordable apartment markets with strong growth potential, offering studios from AED 700,000 and three-bedroom units around AED 2.4 million.
Dubai South represents a major growth area with new infrastructure development including Al Maktoum International Airport expansion and Expo City. Apartments here offer excellent value with significant appreciation potential as the area develops.
Al Barsha South provides affordable housing options with good connectivity to major business districts. The area benefits from ongoing metro extension projects and new community amenities, making it attractive for both investors and end-users.
International City offers the most budget-friendly options with studios starting at AED 280,000, though buyers should consider the longer commute times and fewer luxury amenities when evaluating these properties.
Dubai Studio City and Sports City provide mid-range affordable options with themed community concepts, good amenities, and potential for steady rental income from young professionals and families.
Can you give example purchase prices for apartments in popular neighborhoods?
Here are specific apartment purchase examples across Dubai's most popular neighborhoods as of September 2025, showing the range of options available to different budget levels.
| Neighborhood | Property Type | Typical Price (AED) | Size (Sq Ft) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Jumeirah | 2BR Apartment | 5,500,000 - 7,000,000 | 1,400 - 1,800 | Private beach, marina access |
| Downtown Dubai | 1BR Apartment | 2,200,000 - 3,200,000 | 800 - 1,100 | Burj Khalifa views, mall access |
| Dubai Marina | Studio | 1,100,000 - 1,400,000 | 500 - 650 | Marina views, metro access |
| JVC | 2BR Apartment | 1,600,000 - 2,000,000 | 1,000 - 1,300 | Family-friendly, good value |
| Business Bay | 1BR Apartment | 1,800,000 - 2,400,000 | 700 - 950 | Business district, canal views |
| International City | Studio | 280,000 - 350,000 | 350 - 450 | Budget option, basic amenities |
| Dubai South | 1BR Apartment | 950,000 - 1,250,000 | 650 - 850 | New development, airport proximity |
What additional costs should buyers expect beyond the purchase price?
Dubai apartment buyers face several mandatory costs beyond the purchase price, with the largest being the 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) fee typically paid by the buyer.
Registration fees range from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 plus VAT depending on the property value, while mortgage registration costs 0.25% of the loan amount plus administrative fees for financed purchases. These government fees are non-negotiable and must be budgeted into the total acquisition cost.
Service charges represent ongoing costs ranging from AED 3-30 per square foot annually depending on building quality and amenities. Luxury developments with extensive facilities typically charge AED 15-30 per square foot, while basic buildings may charge AED 3-8 per square foot.
Additional costs include real estate agency fees (typically 2% of purchase price), property insurance, utility deposits with DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority), and legal fees if using a lawyer for the transaction. Buyers should also budget for home inspection costs and potential renovation expenses.
Housing fees equal 5% of annual rental value and are primarily applicable to tenants, though owner-occupiers pay this charge through DEWA billing. International buyers may also face currency exchange costs and international money transfer fees when bringing funds into the UAE.
How do mortgage options and monthly repayments look for apartments in Dubai?
Dubai mortgage interest rates for apartments range from 3.9% to 4.99% in September 2025, with both fixed and variable rate options available from major banks and financial institutions.
Resident buyers can access mortgages with 20% minimum down payments, while non-residents typically require 25-30% down payments. UAE residents generally qualify for better interest rates and terms due to their established income and credit history in the country.
Mortgage terms typically range from 5 to 25 years, with most lenders offering pre-approval processes to help buyers understand their purchasing power. Banks consider salary certificates, bank statements, and existing debt obligations when determining loan amounts.
For a typical AED 1.5 million apartment with a 20% down payment (AED 300,000), a 25-year mortgage at 4% interest results in monthly repayments of approximately AED 6,340-6,500. This calculation assumes a loan amount of AED 1.2 million with standard terms and conditions.
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We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in the UAE versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
Which apartment purchases make the most sense for different investment strategies?
Short-term rental investments perform best in tourist-heavy areas like Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina, where properties can generate annual returns of up to 12% but require active management and regulatory compliance.
| Investment Strategy | Best Areas | Expected Annual ROI | Property Type | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Rental | Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Marina | 8% - 12% | 1-2BR furnished apartments | High management, tourism demand |
| Long-Term Rental | JVC, Dubai Land, Al Barsha | 7% - 9% | 1-3BR family apartments | Stable income, lower management |
| Capital Appreciation | Dubai South, off-plan projects | 8% - 15% annually | New developments | Market timing risk |
| Owner-Occupier | Business Bay, DIFC, Marina | N/A (lifestyle value) | 2-3BR quality apartments | 5+ year ownership recommended |
| Mixed Use | Mid-range areas with growth | 6% - 10% | Flexible 1-2BR units | Balanced risk-return |
How have apartment prices changed compared to five years ago and one year ago?
Dubai apartment prices have increased dramatically over the past five years, with current values standing 73% higher than post-pandemic lows recorded in 2020-2021.
Year-over-year growth from September 2024 to September 2025 shows apartment prices rising by 8-18% across different districts. Premium areas like Palm Jumeirah experienced exceptional growth of 23% annually, while emerging areas like JVC saw increases around 15%.
The five-year trend shows Dubai apartments recovering strongly from the COVID-19 impact and surpassing previous peak values. Areas with new infrastructure development and population growth have experienced the strongest appreciation, particularly Dubai South and Al Barsha South.
Luxury and waterfront properties have outperformed the general market, driven by foreign investment and lifestyle demand. New supply in emerging areas has somewhat moderated price growth in those locations while premium areas with limited supply continue to see strong appreciation.
Market analysts attribute the sustained growth to UAE residency visa reforms, population growth, business expansion, and Dubai's position as a global business and tourism hub attracting international investment capital.
What are the forecasts for apartment prices in Dubai for one, five, and ten years ahead?
Dubai apartment prices are forecast to increase by up to 10% by the end of 2025, driven by continued population growth, infrastructure development, and strong investor demand.
Five-year forecasts predict steady growth with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) near 8.4%, outpacing many global peer cities but moderating from current high growth rates as new supply enters the market. This represents continued strong performance while becoming more sustainable.
Ten-year projections suggest Dubai apartment prices will continue appreciating at above-inflation rates, supported by Vision 2071 infrastructure projects, Expo legacy developments, and the emirate's strategic position as a global business hub. However, growth rates are expected to moderate to 5-7% annually as the market matures.
Compared to global cities, Dubai offers attractive growth potential with lower entry prices and no property taxes. While cities like New York and London show modest 2-3% annual growth, Dubai's dynamic economy and population growth support higher appreciation rates.
Market supply dynamics will influence future growth, with areas experiencing new construction likely to see moderated appreciation while established premium areas with limited supply potential continue outperforming the broader market.
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Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Dubai's apartment market in September 2025 offers diverse opportunities across all price ranges, from budget-friendly studios in International City starting at AED 280,000 to ultra-luxury three-bedroom units in Palm Jumeirah reaching AED 9.5 million.
With average prices at AED 1.52 million and strong growth momentum supported by infrastructure development and population growth, Dubai apartments provide attractive investment potential for both rental income and capital appreciation strategies.
Sources
- Imtilak Real Estate - Apartment Prices in Dubai
- Al Mardinli - Dubai Apartment Prices 2025 Guide
- Driven Properties - Cheapest Areas in Dubai
- Aeon Trisl - Affordable Properties in Dubai
- Bayut - Dubai Studio City Apartments
- Excel Properties - Most Expensive Areas in Dubai
- Property Finder - 3BR Apartments Dubai Studio City
- APIL Properties - Dubai Property Prices 2025
- FAM Properties - Dubai vs Global Cities 2025
- Consultancy ME - Dubai Property Prices 2025 Trend