Market News

Landmark UAE Real Estate Market Sentiment Survey

A definitive view of UAE real estate market sentiment, informed by high-net-worth investors and active market participants.

Words by Christie's International Real Estate Dubai in Market News · Apr 21st, 2026

In a market shaped not only by data, but by the decisions and sentiment of those active within it, Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai’s Market Sentiment Survey captured real-world perspectives at a moment of notable global economic and geopolitical flux.

Respondent Profile

81% of respondents indicated ownership of one or more properties in the UAE, the majority held for investment purposes. This reflects a credible, high-net-worth audience with direct financial exposure to the UAE real estate market.

Bar chart showing survey results on property ownership in the UAE, with the majority of respondents indicating they own property

Selling Appetite

Of those having indicated ownership of property, only 5.8% said they are actively selling. None of the sellers expressed a willingness to significantly reduce their asking price in order to secure a transaction. There is no evidence of distressed selling behaviour, sudden sell-offs, panic-driven exits, or a meaningful shift in owners' pricing convictions.

Strategic Opportunity

While global uncertainty has introduced a more considered approach, it seemingly has not diminished investor intent. Instead, the data reveals a market characterised by selective, opportunity-driven engagement.

Bar chart showing survey responses on recommended actions in current market conditions

  • 57.2% of respondents recommend actively acquiring assets or exploring opportunities under current market conditions
  • Only 3.2% would recommend a full exit

  • 71.4% agreed or strongly agreed that period of global uncertainty create strong investment opportunities

  • 57.1% indicated that they are actively seeking or open to distress opportunities

Bar chart illustrating survey responses on whether global uncertainty creates strong investment opportunities, with most respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing

Ready vs Off-Plan Assets

Respondents indicated to believe that ready properties present a stronger opportunity than off-plan assets. This could mark a significant inflection point from a historically off-plan-driven market.

Interest Outside of the UAE

73.1% of respondents said recent global developments had not increased their interest in investing outside the UAE, or were taking a wait-and-see approach before considering alternatives, reflecting a persistent confidence in the UAE as a primary investment destination.

Bar chart showing survey responses on whether current market conditions have increased UAE investors’ interest in investing outside the U.A.E.

The Outlook

When asked how they envisage the UAE real estate market evolving over the next one to two years, respondents were notably resolute in their outlook. Among the perspectives shared:

“I feel it will strongly bounce back over the medium and long term.”

“I think that 2026–2027 is about precision, not timing. The UAE remains one of the strongest real‑estate‑backed investment environments globally.”

The data contained in this report has not been independently verified. Christie's International Real Estate Dubai accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or representativeness of individual responses submitted.

The findings presented reflect the views of survey respondents only and should not be interpreted as representative of wider market sentiment, the position of Christie's International Real Estate Dubai, or the views of Christie's International Real Estate globally.

This report does not constitute financial, investment or legal advice. Nothing contained herein should be relied upon as the basis for any investment decision. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own independent due diligence and seek appropriate professional advice before making any investment or financial commitment.