Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the UAE Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Dubai's property market is included in our pack
Dubai's apartment market offers opportunities from budget-friendly studios in International City to luxury penthouses in Downtown Dubai.
As of June 2025, the average price per square meter for apartments in Dubai is approximately AED 11,840 (USD 3,220), with significant variations based on location, size, and amenities. The market has seen strong growth, with apartment prices increasing by 24.8% in 2024 and continuing to rise in 2025.
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Dubai apartment prices vary dramatically by location, from AED 6,400 per square meter in International City to over AED 30,000 per square meter in Downtown Dubai.
The market remains strong with positive growth forecasts, making it attractive for both investors and residents seeking property ownership.
| Area | Price per sq.m (AED) | Example Properties |
|---|---|---|
| International City | 6,400-7,000 | Studio: 300,000-400,000 |
| Jumeirah Village Circle | 9,000-10,000 | 2-bed: 1,070,000 |
| Dubai Marina | 14,000-18,000 | 1-bed: 1.2-1.6M |
| Downtown Dubai | 25,000-30,000+ | 2-bed: 3-4M+ |
| Palm Jumeirah | 28,000-30,000 | Premium apartments |
| Dubai Silicon Oasis | 7,500-8,000 | Mid-range options |
| Dubai Sports City | 8,700-13,000 | Varies by building |
Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert
Jean-Charles Salvin 🇫🇷
Co-Founder, Best Dubai Condos
What's the current average price per square meter for apartments in Dubai?
The average price per square meter for apartments in Dubai is AED 11,840 (approximately USD 3,220) as of June 2025.
This figure represents typical pricing for 1-2 bedroom apartments in prime areas across Dubai. However, the actual price per square meter varies significantly depending on the specific location and building quality.
In high-demand neighborhoods, prices can range from AED 1,250 to AED 1,737 per square foot, which converts to approximately AED 13,450 to AED 18,700 per square meter. These higher prices are typically found in areas like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lake Towers, and newer developments in Business Bay.
The Dubai apartment market shows clear segmentation, with budget areas starting around AED 6,400 per square meter and luxury locations exceeding AED 30,000 per square meter. Most mid-tier areas fall within the AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 per square meter range.
As we reach mid-2025, the market continues to show strength with steady demand from both local and international buyers driving these price levels.
How do prices vary between studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and larger apartments?
Studio apartments generally offer the lowest price per square meter, though they may have less investment appeal in certain areas due to limited rental demand.
One-bedroom apartments typically command slightly higher prices per square meter than studios, especially in popular areas like Dubai Marina and JLT. These units often provide the best balance between affordability and rental potential for investors.
Two-bedroom apartments frequently offer the best value per square meter in terms of both livability and investment potential. They attract families and professionals, making them easier to rent and potentially more stable in value appreciation.
Larger apartments (three-bedroom and above) may have higher total prices but can sometimes show lower price per square meter in certain communities, particularly where demand favors smaller units. However, in luxury areas like Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, larger units command premium prices per square meter.
Recent transaction data shows studios in budget areas like International City can cost AED 7,000-8,000 per square meter, while the same area's larger units may cost AED 6,400-6,700 per square meter due to different demand patterns.
Which areas in Dubai have the highest and lowest average prices per square meter for apartments?
Downtown Dubai commands the highest apartment prices per square meter, exceeding AED 30,000 per square meter for premium units.
| Area Category | Price Range (AED/sqm) | Notable Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Prices | 25,000-30,000+ | Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah |
| Premium Areas | 14,000-18,000 | Dubai Marina, JLT |
| Mid-Tier Areas | 9,000-12,000 | JVC, Dubai Hills Estate |
| Emerging Areas | 8,000-10,000 | Dubai South, The Valley |
| Budget Areas | 6,400-8,000 | International City, Silicon Oasis |
What are the typical total purchase costs for apartments in Dubai, including taxes, fees, and agency charges?
Total upfront costs for purchasing apartments in Dubai typically range from 25% to 35% of the purchase price, including down payment and various fees.
The down payment requirement is 20-25% for completed properties and 30-50% for off-plan properties. First-time buyers and investors generally face the lower end of this range, while subsequent property purchases may require higher down payments.
Mandatory fees include a 4% transfer fee paid to Dubai Land Department, 2% agency fee if using a broker, and 0.25% registration fee. Additional costs include maintenance fund contributions, mortgage processing fees, and legal fees.
For a typical AED 1.5 million apartment purchase, buyers should budget approximately AED 375,000 to AED 525,000 for total upfront costs. This includes the minimum down payment plus all associated fees and charges.
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How much does it typically cost per square meter in budget-friendly areas versus up-and-coming or luxury neighborhoods?
Budget-friendly areas in Dubai offer apartment prices starting from AED 6,400 per square meter, providing excellent entry points for first-time buyers and investors.
International City and Dubai Silicon Oasis represent the most affordable options, with prices ranging from AED 6,400 to AED 8,000 per square meter. These areas offer high rental yields but may have limited capital appreciation potential compared to premium locations.
Up-and-coming areas like Dubai South, The Valley, and Mudon fall in the AED 8,000 to AED 12,000 per square meter range. These neighborhoods offer good growth potential as infrastructure develops and connectivity improves.
Luxury neighborhoods command AED 20,000 to AED 30,000+ per square meter, with Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina leading the premium segment. These areas offer prestige, prime locations, and historically strong value retention.
The price differential between budget and luxury areas can be 4-5 times, reflecting the significant variation in amenities, location, and investment potential across Dubai's apartment market.
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What are some example prices for apartments recently sold or listed in different parts of Dubai?
Recent apartment transactions in Dubai show clear price segmentation across different areas and property types.
In International City, studio apartments are selling for AED 300,000 to AED 400,000, representing approximately AED 7,000 per square meter. These properties offer the most affordable entry point into Dubai's property market.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) shows strong mid-market activity, with 2-bedroom apartments selling for around AED 1.07 million, equating to approximately AED 9,000-10,000 per square meter. This area attracts both end-users and investors seeking balanced returns.
Dubai Marina demonstrates premium pricing with 1-bedroom apartments selling for AED 1.2 to AED 1.6 million, representing AED 14,000 to AED 18,000 per square meter. The area's waterfront location and amenities justify the higher prices.
Downtown Dubai transactions show 2-bedroom apartments selling for AED 3 to AED 4 million and above, with prices reaching AED 25,000 to AED 30,000 per square meter for prime units with Burj Khalifa or fountain views.
How have apartment prices changed in Dubai over the past 5 years and the past 12 months?
Dubai apartment prices have experienced a remarkable recovery over the past 5 years, rising over 50% since the pandemic lows of 2020-2021.
The market saw a significant dip from 2016 to 2019, followed by a sharp recovery beginning in 2021. This recovery was driven by economic revival, Expo 2020 impact, and increased global demand from international buyers and investors.
In the past 12 months, apartment prices increased by 24.8% in 2024, representing one of the strongest annual growth rates in recent history. This growth continued into 2025, with Q1 2025 showing an additional 5.6% increase.
Luxury and mid-tier segments have led the price gains, with areas like JVC, Dubai Marina, and newer developments in Business Bay showing the strongest appreciation. Budget areas have also seen growth, though at more modest rates.
The consistent upward trend reflects strong demand fundamentals, limited supply in prime areas, and Dubai's growing appeal as a global real estate investment destination.
What are the short-term, medium-term (5 years), and long-term (10 years) price forecasts for apartments in Dubai?
Short-term forecasts for Dubai apartments predict moderate growth of less than 10% annually as supply begins to catch up with demand.
As of June 2025, market analysts expect the rapid price appreciation seen in 2024 to moderate as new supply comes online and affordability concerns begin to impact buyer behavior. However, strong economic fundamentals and continued population growth should support positive price trends.
Medium-term forecasts over the next 5 years suggest 15-25% total appreciation for premium branded apartments in prime locations, while generic luxury properties in secondary locations may see 8-15% appreciation. These projections assume continued economic stability and infrastructure development.
Long-term 10-year forecasts project 30-40% appreciation for ultra-luxury properties in irreplaceable locations like Palm Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai. The broader apartment market is expected to track economic and population growth, though with potential volatility during economic cycles.
It's something we develop in our UAE property pack.
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.
How does the price per square meter for apartments in Dubai compare to similar global cities like Singapore, London, or Miami?
Dubai apartment prices remain significantly more affordable than Singapore and London, while being comparable to or slightly higher than Miami for luxury properties.
Singapore city center apartments average USD 22,955 per square meter, making them nearly 3 times more expensive than Dubai's average of AED 11,840 (USD 3,220) per square meter. Even Dubai's luxury areas at AED 30,000 (USD 8,200) per square meter remain below Singapore's average.
London prime areas command USD 15,000 to USD 25,000 per square meter, placing them well above Dubai's pricing even for premium locations. This makes Dubai attractive for buyers seeking luxury amenities at relatively affordable prices.
Miami's prime real estate areas range from USD 7,000 to USD 12,000 per square meter, making it comparable to Dubai's mid-to-high-end market. However, Dubai often offers newer construction and better amenities at similar price points.
This positioning makes Dubai attractive for international buyers seeking luxury living with strong rental yields and capital appreciation potential at more accessible price points than traditional global cities.
What are the best apartment investment strategies in Dubai today: living in, renting short-term, renting long-term, or flipping for resale?
Long-term rental strategies currently offer the best risk-adjusted returns in Dubai's apartment market, providing steady income with 7-9% rental yields in high-demand areas.
- Long-term rental: Offers steady income, lower risk, and capital appreciation potential. Areas like JVC, Arjan, and Dubai Hills Estate provide strong rental yields with good tenant demand.
- Short-term rental: Can generate higher returns in tourist areas but requires active management and may face regulatory changes. Best suited for properties near attractions or business districts.
- Buy-to-hold for personal use: Suitable for those seeking residency or long-term stability, particularly in family-friendly areas with good schools and amenities.
- Flipping for resale: Offers high profit potential but requires market timing expertise and renovation skills. Best suited for experienced investors in rapidly appreciating areas.
- Mixed-use strategy: Combining personal use with occasional short-term rentals can maximize both lifestyle and investment benefits.
What are the average mortgage rates, down payment requirements, and monthly costs for financing an apartment in Dubai?
Mortgage rates in Dubai range from 3.5% to 6% for both fixed and variable rate loans, with terms typically extending up to 25 years.
Down payment requirements are 20-25% for completed properties and 30-50% for off-plan properties. UAE residents and non-residents face similar requirements, though non-residents may need to provide additional documentation and meet higher income thresholds.
For a typical AED 1.5 million apartment with 25% down payment, 4% interest rate, and 25-year term, monthly mortgage payments would be approximately AED 6,000 to AED 7,000. This excludes service charges, insurance, and property management fees.
Additional monthly costs include service charges (typically AED 5-15 per square foot annually), building insurance, and utilities. These costs can add AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 to monthly expenses depending on the property size and amenities.
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Which apartment locations and types are considered the smartest buys right now based on ROI, value growth, or rental demand?
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) currently offers the best combination of ROI, value growth potential, and rental demand for apartment investors.
JVC provides 7-9% rental yields with strong tenant demand from young professionals and small families. The area offers good connectivity, amenities, and relatively affordable entry prices around AED 9,000-10,000 per square meter.
Dubai Hills Estate represents excellent value for growth-oriented investors, offering newer construction, family-friendly amenities, and strong capital appreciation potential as the area develops. Properties here typically range from AED 10,000-15,000 per square meter.
Arjan and Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT) provide strong rental yields of 8-10% with good tenant demand, making them attractive for income-focused investors. These areas offer affordable entry points with good connectivity to business districts.
For luxury investors, Dubai Marina and JLT offer stable rental demand from executives and professionals, with good capital appreciation potential despite higher entry costs. These areas provide 5-7% rental yields with strong value retention.
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 offers diverse opportunities for both investors and residents, with clear price segmentation across different areas and property types.
The market's strong fundamentals, continued growth, and attractive pricing compared to other global cities make it an appealing destination for property investment and ownership.
Sources
- DXB Interact - Dubai Real Estate Market Analysis 2025
- Dubai MLS - Average Price per Square Foot in Dubai
- Bayut - Average Prices per Square Foot Dubai
- Top Luxury Property - Dubai Property Prices Last 10 Years
- LinkedIn - Dubai Property Market 2025 Trends
- MetaHomes - Dubai Apartment Prices Have Risen
- Numbeo - City Price Rankings
- LinkedIn - Which Dubai Location Has Highest ROI 2025
- StashAway - Mortgage Home Loan Rates Dubai UAE
- ValuStrat - Dubai Apartment Prices Rise