Dubai’s property market is undergoing a significant transformation as international investors increasingly see the city not just as a tax-efficient investment destination but as a permanent home. This shift comes amidst global economic uncertainty, with a reported 37 percent rise in German investors considering emigration. According to Elio Badr, Sales Director at QUBE Development, "Dubai’s real estate market has evolved beyond bricks and mortar and is now creating genuine living spaces where people feel a true sense of belonging."
Current buyers are prioritizing developments that offer community features, sustainability elements, and wellness-focused amenities, marking a departure from previous trends where properties were primarily viewed as temporary investments. One standout project in this evolving market is QUBE Development’s Arisha Terraces. This development incorporates smart home systems, a hydroponic rooftop garden, and filtered drinking water throughout all units and common areas. Badr elaborated, "Arisha Terraces was purposefully designed to reflect this shift, blending nature, smart technology and a strong sense of community to offer residents not just a home, but a lifestyle rooted in connection and comfort to enhance everyday life."
Energy efficiency is a key focus, with solar panels incorporated into the design. The community spaces include a two-level center featuring shared workspaces, a library, a cinema lounge, and padel courts. Industry observers note that these amenities reflect the changing demands of international buyers who seek both investment returns and an enhanced quality of life, signaling a new era in luxury real estate.
Meanwhile, Emirati participants are expressing gratitude for the launch of the ‘How to Build Your Home’ program, designed to alleviate the stress associated with the construction process. Organized by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE), this initiative aims to guide citizens who have received land and either a financial grant or a housing loan worth Dh1 million. Participants are learning how to build their homes within a clear and realistic budget, as part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment’s efforts under the “Year of the Community” initiative.
Inside a hall filled with building models and floor plans, Emiratis with loans or grants gathered to gain insights into the construction process. Hamid Al Shamsi, a 33-year-old real estate consultant from Dubai, shared his motivation for joining the program: "I joined the program to learn. We’ve always heard that consultants and contractors take advantage. I wanted to see for myself." He noted that many people begin construction without explicit knowledge of the process.
Another participant, Mona Al Zarooni, expressed that the workshop helped her understand the timeline from grant approval to working with the municipality and contractor. "I thought everything would move on its own after the grant. But now I understand each step," she said. She had received a land and loan grant but was unsure about the additional costs involved. "I learned that there needs to be an extra 20 to 30 percent in the budget for internal work and design. No one explained that before," she added. Al Zarooni also explored smart home systems, noting that while they incur higher initial costs, they can lead to long-term savings on bills.
Abdulrahman Tariq Al Tamimi, another participant from Dubai who received a land grant in Al Aweer, stated that the workshop significantly reduced his concerns. "I have a basic plan for the house, but now I want to sit with my wife, explain what I learned, and decide together. This kind of information is not easy to get," he noted.
The program's sessions are being held at the New Economy Academy in Dubai and include discussions on budgeting, selecting a contractor, reviewing contracts, managing loans, and handling VAT refunds. Experts are encouraging participants to review their house plans during the sessions to identify mistakes and ensure they have the correct plans in place.
Tareq Al Hammadi, an engineer involved in the program, pointed out that several common misconceptions can drive up construction costs. These include choosing the lowest bid without verifying quality, altering designs during construction, skipping contract reviews, and not involving family members in the decision-making process. "Planning to build a house is like planning for life. Use knowledge. If you plan well, you may spend less than expected. But without knowledge, costs increase. Don’t sign anything unless you understand it," he advised.
As Dubai continues to position itself as a leading destination for both living and investment, the convergence of innovative real estate projects and educational programs like ‘How to Build Your Home’ reflects a broader trend towards creating sustainable, community-oriented living spaces. The city is not only attracting investors but also empowering its residents with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of home construction.
