Dubai tenants aren't waiting for lower prices: 57% still plan to buy soon

Dubai’s real estate market remains full of opportunity, as potential price shifts aren’t keeping buyers on hold. Many Dubai tenants are not putting their plans to buy on hold, even when they expect prices to come down. According to the betterhomes Future Living Report 2026, 57% of tenants who expect prices to adjust still plan to buy a home within the next one to three years. Rather than trying to time the market perfectly, these residents are focusing on long-term stability and when they want to settle into a home of their own.

Key takeaways

• 57% of tenants expecting prices to soften still plan to buy a home within three years.
• 55% of surveyed tenants plan to buy within one to three years, matching the 2025 figure.
• Long-term residence in Dubai is the top reason for buying, cited by 71% of intending buyers.
• Apartments lead buyer preferences at 41%, and 67% of intending buyers expect to use a mortgage.

What does the survey reveal about tenant buying plans?

The betterhomes Future Living Report 2026 surveyed 1,714 Dubai residents about their housing plans and property expectations. Among the tenants surveyed, 55% plan to buy a home in Dubai within the next one to three years. This figure matches the 2025 result, despite changes in expectations about future property prices.

The breakdown by price expectations reveals an interesting pattern.

Source: betterhomes Future Living Report 2026.

Less than one percentage point separates tenants who expect prices to fall. Buying intent was lower at 47% among tenants who expect prices to remain unchanged.

These figures show what tenants plan to do. They don't predict which way Dubai's property market will actually go.

Why do tenants want to buy despite their price expectations?

Renters have different reasons for wanting to own a home. Some want a property where they can settle for years, while others see real estate as an investment or a source of rental income.

The survey asked tenants who plan to buy about their reasons for purchasing a home.

Source: betterhomes Future Living Report 2026.

Long-term residence topped the responses at 71%. Property investment followed at 52%, and 40% wanted to earn rental income. The results show that buyers have personal and financial reasons for buying a home in Dubai.

Moving from renting an apartment in Dubai to owning one can completely change a household's finances. Buyers need to budget for a deposit, mortgage repayments, service charges and maintenance. Investors planning to rent out a property also need to account for vacancy periods and expenses that can reduce returns.

What types of property do buyers prefer?

Apartments were the most popular choice among intending buyers, although townhouses and villas attracted similar levels of interest.

Source: betterhomes Future Living Report 2026.

Apartments led at 41%, followed by townhouses at 30% and villas at 29%.

Demand for larger homes has also grown. 23% of buyers want four bedrooms or more, up from 15% in 2025. The report does not say why, though many respondents are families, with 59% living with a partner and children. A household with children may need extra bedrooms or outdoor space, while a single professional may prefer a smaller apartment near work. Buyers should compare the purchase price and ongoing expenses against the space they actually need.

How do mortgage plans affect tenant buying decisions?

Saving enough for a deposit can be one of the biggest hurdles for renters who want to buy. Among tenants planning to purchase within three years, 67% expect to use a mortgage, up from 61% in 2025.

A mortgage pre-approval lets you set a realistic budget and estimate monthly repayments before you begin your property search.

Before applying for a mortgage, check a few important details:

• Deposit requirements: Set aside enough cash for the deposit and additional purchase fees.
• Mortgage eligibility: Talk to a bank to confirm how much you can borrow and what your repayment terms will be.
• Ownership costs: Budget for recurring expenses such as community service charges and general property maintenance.
• Property suitability: Ensure the building, neighbourhood, and overall layout fit your lifestyle.
• Purchase timeline: Allow enough time for mortgage approval, paperwork and final handover.

Off-plan projects in the UAE need extra checks because construction may not be complete at the time of purchase. Review the payment schedule, contract terms and the developer's handover history before signing an agreement.

What should tenants consider before buying in Dubai?

Tenants ready to take the next step should look closely at the property itself, the purchase expenses, and their plans for the coming years.

Compare prices for similar properties

Keeping up with the latest Dubai real estate news is a smart way to gauge market trends, but it won't tell you whether a particular property is fairly priced. Sale prices can differ by location, property condition, floor plan and building quality.

Compare recent transactions for similar properties before relying on an advertised price. Buyers should also review service charges and ask about any planned maintenance work that could add to future expenses.

Understand the full purchase cost

The asking price doesn't tell you the full amount you'll need to pay. Buyers should budget for the initial fees and check the recurring expenses that come with owning a property.

Upfront purchase fees: Buyers need to budget for the 4% Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee, the agency fee (2% of the purchase price), mortgage registration (0.25% of the loan amount plus AED 290), and property valuation (AED 2,500 to AED 3,500). The total can reach roughly 7% to 8% of the purchase price, depending on the transaction and applicable charges.

Air conditioning and service charges: When renting, your landlord might cover the AC/chiller fees. When you buy, you become responsible for these utilities, along with the annual service charges. Always ask to see the most recent service charge statements and confirm how cooling is billed before signing.

Consider residency and future plans

Once you've worked out the costs, think about how buying a property fits your plans for the coming years.

Residency visa options: Depending on the property's value and current eligibility rules, a buyer may qualify for a Dubai property investor visa or a Golden Visa. Check the latest official criteria before treating visa eligibility as a reason to buy.

Exit strategy: Career plans and family needs can change. Before buying, consider how the property could serve its purpose if you need to relocate in five years. You could rent it out or sell it later, but rental income and resale demand are never guaranteed.

Get the right advice before signing

Experienced real estate agents in Dubai can explain available properties and guide buyers through the transaction process. A bank can confirm mortgage eligibility and estimate repayments based on the proposed loan.

Review all fees and contractual terms before signing. Check the sale agreement carefully and consult a qualified legal professional when the terms or obligations are unclear.

Final thoughts

Most tenants planning to buy are not waiting for prices to settle. 55% plan to buy within one to three years, unchanged from 2025, and that intent barely moves whether they expect prices to rise or fall. Plans can change with jobs and family needs, and the survey reflects the residents who took part, not every tenant in Dubai. But it shows that for many renters, buying is about settling in Dubai rather than timing the market.

Before you make an offer, find out what a home is worth with a property valuation in Dubai from betterhomes.