Staff Report
Dubai, UAE
The branded residences sector in Dubai reached a new high with a 48,474-unit strong inventory in H1 2025, a 24 percent increase from 39,046 in H1 2024. The uptick was bolstered by 12 launches encompassing 5,510 units in the first six months, taking the project count to 144, a report by Morgan’s International Realty revealed. Current market data tells that 90 developments are under construction, with 30,374 units slated for delivery in the next few years. As many as 18,100 units across 54 branded projects are ready so far.
Catering to the wealthy population in Dubai, the branded residences sector, though a significantly smaller niche than other real estate sectors, is flourishing. Despite making up only 5.8 percent of total residential transaction volume, branded residences accounted for a remarkable 13 percent of total residential transaction value in H1 2025. Fuelled by factors like influx of high-net-worth-individuals (HNWIs), brand exposure through expansion in Dubai – the region’s focal point for premium properties, as well as attractive investment opportunities underpinned by liberal ownership policies, branded homes are mushrooming in the prime regions of Dubai.
Most of the developments are concentrated in Downtown Dubai, with 21 such residences, followed by Business Bay and Palm Jumeirah, with 17 and 16 projects, respectively.
Elias Hannoush, Managing Director at Morgan’s International Realty, said, “Dubai’s real estate market is undergoing a fundamental shift. Branded residences are no longer a niche segment; they have become a core asset class, attracting institutional investors and setting new price benchmarks.”
In terms of half-yearly transactions, sales volume dropped by a minimal three percent from 5,592 in H1 2024 to 5,440 in H1 2025. On the other hand, sales value jumped 37 percent from Dh28.86 billion in H1 2024 to Dh39.66 billion in H1 2025. Off-plan transactions dominated the space, representing 79 percent of branded deals. This was fuelled by international buyers leaning toward new developments offering payment flexibility and better price points per square foot.
Sales activity was strong in areas like Dubai Marina, which recorded 1,320 transactions – the highest in any area during this period. The Oasis topped the list of areas fetching the highest value with Dh5.68 billion from 773 sales.
Average price per square foot was recorded at Dh3,779 in the first six months. Atlantis The Royal recorded the highest price per square foot at Dh18,294 for a three-bedroom apartment. The most expensive property – a six-bedroom penthouse at Jumeirah Asora Bay – was sold at a whopping Dh164 million. Across the market, branded residences commanded an average premium of 40 percent compared to non-branded residential properties.
Branded residences managed by hotel operators now represent 38 percent of the total market, showcasing a rising preference among global HNWIs for residential privacy paired with five-star service.
Among top brands with highest number of developments were Emaar’s Address, boasting a 15-project strong portfolio, followed by Vida contributing nine projects to the sector. In terms of value, Aman Resorts, Hotels & Residences and Bulgari took the lead with Dh13,195 and Dh11,729 per square foot, respectively.
Ends
Also read: Dubai continues to reign as a global branded residence hotspot
