Al Maktoum Airport fuels Dubai South realty boom

Property prices in Dubai South are forecast to increase by a further 15-20 per cent in the near term, as the Dh128 billion ($35 billion) expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South is fuelling a major real estate boom in the area, data shows.

- Somshankar Bandyopadhyay [e-mail]

According to data from Betterhomes, property transactions in the area have already exceeded Dh15 billion in the first five months of 2025.

Investor interest in Dubai South is accelerating, driven by competitive pricing, strong rental yields, and ongoing infrastructure development.

Rental rates have risen 20 per cent year-to-date, with a sharp increase in both off-plan and ready property sales. Betterhomes has also recorded over 20 per cent monthly growth in buyer and tenant inquiries, while institutional capital is entering the market, most notably a $1 billion investment partnership between a major Abu Dhabi-based asset manager and Brookfield.

The $35 billion terminal expansion in Dubai South is set to create employment and housing opportunities for over one million people, with far-reaching effects across multiple sectors. As job creation increases, population growth is expected to follow, driving greater demand for housing and supporting broader economic development.