Dubai investors recalibrate choices in commercial realty

‘investor capital is becoming more targeted in Dubai’s commercial property market as rising rents, tighter supply and regulatory stability reshape portfolio strategies for 2026.

- Issac John

Dubai's commercial market continues to benefit from a business-friendly regulatory environment that supports corporate mobility across free zones and mainland jurisdictions.

(REUTERS FILE)

Off-plan offices, logistics hubs and community retail centres are emerging as the preferred asset classes, reflecting a shift toward income stability and long-term fundamentals rather than speculative volume-driven buying.

Dubai Land Department (DLD) data shows the emirate’s total real estate transactions crossed Dh760 billion in 2025, with commercial and industrial assets accounting for an estimated Dh90 billion to Dh100 billion of deal value, underscoring growing _institution-al and private investor interest beyond the residential segment. Transaction volumes in business districts and industrial zones rose alongside leasing activity, pointing to strengthening occupier demand and rising asset turnover.

Dubai’s commercial market continues to benefit from a business-friendly regulatory environment that supports corporate mobility across free zones and mainland jurisdictions. While flexible working models persist globally, most UAE commercial licences still require a physical office presence, helping sustain baseline demand for workspace. The emirate’s population exceeded 3.7 million in 2025, according to Dubai Statistics Centre data, providing further structural support for office, retail and industrial absorption.