Dubai leads real estate market as Ras Al Khaimah attracts AED 2.89 billion
Dubai's population reached 4.81 million by the end of September 2026, an increase of 230,000 since January, while Ras Al Khaimah recorded real estate transactions worth AED 2.89 billion in the first half.
The UAE real estate sector has entered a new phase of growth, with Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah following distinct yet complementary paths, according to a report by Khaleej Times. Dubai benefits from population expansion and market depth, while Ras Al Khaimah attracts investors seeking an emerging destination undergoing rapid transformation in tourism, housing, and mixed-use developments.
Dubai's population reached 4.81 million people by September 2026, following an increase of around 230,000 people since the beginning of the year—more than 800 residents daily—according to ValuStrat data. The ValuStrat Price Index for freehold residential properties stood at 218.6 points in the third quarter, while approximately 33,000 homes were completed by the end of September, with a delivery pipeline of around 108,134 units in 2026 and over 376,000 units under construction through 2030.
Dubai Islands emerges as one of the most prominent waterfront growth drivers, spanning around 18.6 square kilometers across five islands. It is planned to accommodate over 230,000 residents across nearly 62,000 homes, alongside over 11,000 hotel rooms, 4,000 branded residential units, and 57 kilometers of coastline, including 21 kilometers of beaches. The islands recorded around AED 18.8 billion in residential sales across 5,035 transactions in the 12 months ending September 28, according to Dubai Land Department data.
On the other hand, Ras Al Khaimah recorded real estate transactions worth AED 2.89 billion in the first half of 2026, amid the expansion of tourism, residential, and mixed-use projects. Sugee Group and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts announced a partnership to develop the world's first project under the Vienna House Residences by Wyndham brand on Al Marjan Island, a fully furnished hotel-residential project offering short-term rental units. The report considers Dubai to remain the benchmark market in the UAE, while Ras Al Khaimah establishes itself as a reliable investment alternative expanding the country's real estate growth story.
What do these terms mean?
Real Estate Price Index: A figure that measures changes in residential property prices over time, used to compare market performance across quarters and years.
Delivery Pipeline: The number of real estate units planned for delivery within a specific period, providing insight into future market supply.
Branded Real Estate: Residential units developed in partnership with a well-known hotel or commercial brand, offering services and management under that brand's name.
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