By 2025, Dubai will continue to lead the global branded real estate market. The influx of millionaires to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the main driver of growth. The average cost per square foot in branded residences is 3,779 dirhams, almost 40% higher than the cost of properties without a well-known operator. This difference can be attributed not only to the location and quality of construction, but also to the opportunity to experience a 5-star hotel lifestyle with access to exclusive services.
Where are branded projects concentrated?
To date, 54 projects have been completed in Dubai, comprising approximately 18,100 apartments and villas. The most prestigious areas are Downtown Dubai, with 21 complexes; Business Bay, with 17 projects; and Palm Jumeirah, with 16 projects. Another 90 properties are under construction, and more than 30,000 new housing units will enter the market in the coming years.
Residences managed by international hotel brands are attracting particular attention. These residences already account for 38% of the total market, and this figure continues to grow. This confirms the global trend of wealthy buyers looking not only for housing but also a special lifestyle with luxury services.
Record deals and new brands
The first half of 2025 was a turning point when 12 new projects were launched, adding over 5,500 properties and increasing the total volume of the branded real estate market to 48,474 units.
Record deals attracted the most attention. For instance, the priciest apartment sold in the Jumeirah Asora Bay area went for 164 million dirhams, with a maximum price per square foot of 18,294 dirhams. Dubai Marina saw the sale of more than 1,300 branded properties for a total of 3.3 billion dirhams, while Downtown saw sales exceeding 5.6 billion dirhams.
The debut of the Aman Hotels & Resorts brand deserves special attention. Its residences immediately took leading positions in terms of price, averaging 13,195 dirhams per square foot. This makes them the most expensive and prestigious properties on the market.
Why is Dubai becoming a global center for branded real estate?
According to forecasts by Henley & Partners, around 9,800 new millionaires will arrive in the UAE by 2025. For these individuals, Dubai is not only a place with low taxes and a favorable business environment, but also a city that sets the standard for luxury living. Here, a residence is a status symbol and part of a global lifestyle, not just real estate.
Branded residences have long ceased to be a niche product. Today, they are a distinct asset class, comparable in importance to the world's leading investments.