Dubai Commercial Real Estate Enters a New Growth Cycle

Dubai’s commercial real estate sector recorded a sharp rise in activity last year, highlighting sustained confidence among local and international investors. Figures from the Dubai Land Department show that commercial property sales rose by an astonishing 79.3% during the first 11 months of 2025, reaching approximately AED 15.42 billion ($4.2 billion) across 5373 transactions. This is in stark contrast to the AED 8.6 billion achieved over the same period in 2024. 

The growth, spanning office and retail assets, reflects Dubai’s expanding business ecosystem. Economic diversification, a population increase and the emirate’s status as a regional headquarters for multinational firms continue to strengthen its appeal as a global commercial hub. 

Office Rents and Occupancy High 

The office market remains a key beneficiary. Recent reports have indicated that average office rents are rising while occupancy levels remain near record highs. Limited availability of Grade A space has pushed occupancy in the segment to approximately 95%, while citywide levels are close to 92%. 

Premium areas like DIFC, Business Bay and Dubai Internet City continue to dominate due to their infrastructure, prestige and proximity to international business activity. At the same time, areas including JLT, Dubai South, Mohammed bin Rashid City and Dubai Harbour are attracting technology, digital media and e-commerce tenants seeking competitive rents, scalable layouts and strong connectivity. 

Evolving Trends 

There is a growing demand for turnkey offices with flexible lease structures, reflecting the shift towards hybrid working. Owners are responding with plug-and-play spaces, shorter lease terms and smart office solutions. Wellness-focused design, including natural light, biophilic elements, advanced air filtration and shared amenities, is also increasingly standard. 

Grade A commercial assets, meanwhile, will remain a constantly popular trend especially attractive to long-term capital due to strong rental performance, supply constraints and consistent occupancy.