16 minutes read

Written by
Rawan Haddad
Best Real Estate Companies in Dubai 2025
Updated: May 19, 2025, 09:23 AM
In recent decades, Dubai’s name has become synonymous with real estate excellence as well as a promising real estate market. According to Zawya, the value of Dubai’s Real Estate Market has surpassed AED 114 Billion in Q1 2025 with a total transaction value of AED 114.08 billion, reflecting a robust 29.19% year-on-year growth. Local and international real estate companies are striving to outdo one another by developing outstanding projects that meet the needs of all demographics. We’ve curated below the 10 most prominent players among the numerous real estate companies active in the Emirate of Dubai.
According to the Dubai Land Department (DLD), there are over 2,000 registered real estate companies in Dubai; highlighting the city's vibrant and competitive property market. With so many options; it is crucial to choose the right company to work with. A reputable real estate developer with a demonstrated track-record of success ensures the property you buy lives up to your standards and requirements. Such a company delivers on its promises in terms of construction material quality, amenities, features, fittings as well as delivery dates for off-plan properties.
Established in 1997, Emaar Properties was founded by Mohamed Alabbar. The developer has become synonymous with Dubai’s world-renowned architecture and rapid industrial growth. With a prevailing reputation for its quality, innovation, and expertise, Emaar has pioneered across every sector, delivering landmark projects like the Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Opera, and Dubai Mall. Emaar Properties is currently valued at AED 177.5 Bn (USD 48.3 Bn) in net asset value and enjoys an expanded regional presence that includes countries such as Turkey, Pakistan, India, Egypt, and Lebanon.
Emaar’s developments include multiple successful projects in various sectors, including residential, hospitality, retail, entertainment, and more.
The most popular developments by Emaar in Dubai are probably Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Arabian Ranches. Downtown Dubai is an area that has it all, from landmarks to malls, tourist attractions, high-rise buildings, villas, penthouses, commercial buildings, hotels, and much more. As one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the city, Dubai Marina is a waterfront development that includes skyscrapers, hotels, luxury apartments, restaurants, entertainment facilities, cruise tours, and shopping avenues. As for Arabian Ranches, it’s a suburban freehold area most popular for its high-end villas.
Other popular projects include:
Address: Downtown Dubai, Burj Plaza
Contact: 800-EMAAR (36227)
A visionary waterfront developer, Nakheel has risen to prominence through its unrivaled coastline developments and ambitious ventures. Founded in 2000, it remains one of Dubai’s top real estate companies, responsible for iconic projects such as Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, Jumeirah Islands, and The World Islands. Boasting a portfolio of distinguished projects, Nakheel continues to dominate across the sectors of retail, hospitality, and leisure. The developer has 15,000 Hectares in master developments and added 410 km to Dubai’s coastline, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
The most iconic development by Nakheel is probably Palm Jumeirah, which is the largest man-made island in the world, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, shaped like a palm. Similarly, the Palm Jebel Ali, which is also Palm-shaped, is anticipated to be twice the size of Palm Jumeirah once completed, with a sprawling surface of 13.4 sq. km. As for The World Islands, bearing the shape of a global map, they include 300 man-made islands featuring luxurious residences, high-end resorts, and commercial spaces. Other projects include:
Address: Emaar Business Park 1, Al Thanyah Third
Contact: +971 4 390 3333
Established in 2004 as the property development division of the Dubai Holding Group, Dubai Properties' portfolio includes some of the region's most extensive and diverse developments. From upscale family-oriented communities to luxurious waterfront residences, Dubai Properties has distinguished itself as a key player in the city’s residential and commercial landscape. The firm, currently led by its CEO Khalid Al Malik, has undertaken several high-profile projects, including Dubailand, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Business Bay, and Mudon.
With many major developments under its belt, the most prominent projects undertaken by Dubai Properties include Dubailand, Business Bay, and Jumeirah Beach Residence.
Comprising multiple communities, Dubailand is a massive residential development featuring residential, commercial, and entertainment properties. As for Business Bay, it is located alongside the beautiful waters of the Dubai Canal and constitutes both a business and residential hub with many shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Jumeirah Beach Residence, JBR, also developed by Dubai Properties, is home to The Walk and The Beach. It boasts 40 residential towers that overlook the beautiful Arabian Sea waters.
Dubai Properties portfolio includes:
Address: Vision Tower, Business Bay
Contact: 800 DPUAE (800 37823)
With several prominent projects to its name, Meraas has gained considerable recognition since its founding in 2007. Known for developing the premier entertainment venues City Walk, La Mer, The Beach, and BoxPark, this Dubai-based holding developer has also ventured into the realm of luxury real estate with the ultra-luxurious Bvlgari Hotel. Offering exclusive residences within prime locations, Meeras is further bolstering Dubai’s international appeal as a premier real estate market with its most recent projects, namely Bluewaters Island.
As an established real estate company in the United Arab Emirates, Meraas’ portfolio includes many successful projects. Bluewaters Island constitutes one of its most popular projects. It boasts Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, as well as two hotels, a retail strip, and residential buildings. City Walk, also developed by Meeras, spreads over 900,000 sq. m. of land and includes mid-rise upscale residential buildings and commercial projects. Port de la Mer, located on one of the most prestigious waterfront areas in Dubai, includes residential properties such as apartments, penthouses, and townhouses as well as exclusive restaurants, leisure activities, and resorts.
Meeras’ developments include:
Address: City Walk Phase 2, Building 09
Contact: 800 MERAAS (800-637227)
As one of the strongest emerging Dubai real estate developers, Lamar Development is known for crafting high-quality residential communities that blend contemporary design with functional living. The company mainly focuses on innovation, sustainability, and premium finishes to craft luxurious homes that cater to those who are looking for ultra-luxurious residences. Lamar Development aims to deliver thoughtfully designed properties that promise residents a modern lifestyle.
Lamar Development projects are strategically located in prime areas, offering residents exceptional convenience, connectivity, and long-term value. As an emerging developer in Dubai, Lamar Development is committed to excellence and continues to grow its presence in the UAE’s competitive real estate market by delivering homes that reflect both elegance and practicality. The company’s most noteworthy project is the large-scale development “Sea Mirror Villas” on Jumeirah Bay Island, which offers luxurious 5-bedroom villas designed to cater to discerning clientele. Lamar Development collaborates with renowned architects and designers to deliver projects that blend global design aesthetics with luxury living, reinforcing its reputation as a key player in Dubai's real estate landscape. Lamar Development projects include the Muse 22.
Address: 2nd Floor, Building 4, Bay Square, Business Bay, Dubai
Contact: +971 04 429 7040 - +971 04 429 6024
Since its inception in 1976 by Indian entrepreneur PNC Menon, Sobha Realty has developed a reputation for delivering quality craftsmanship in Dubai’s luxury property market. Having launched numerous projects in the last decade spanning 130+ million sq. ft., the group is best known for its upscale Sobha Hartland community, along with other major developments in Dubai Harbor and Meydan. The company also enjoys a presence all over the world, including UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Brunei, and India.
Sobha Realty’s flagship development is Sobha Hartland which includes multiple sub-projects. Sobha Hartland Waves is a 35-storey modern architectural marvel overlooking the Dubai skyline. As for Sobha Hartland Waves Opulence, it is a prime residential project still under construction and expected to be handed over in 2025. Creek Vista Heights is another major residential project, anticipated by this developer and enjoying an uninterrupted 360° view of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.
Here are a few other projects by Sobha Realty:
Address: Sobha Hartland, Sales Gallery 2, Nad Al Sheba 1
Contact: +971 800 999 999
Developing esteemed projects since 2002, DAMAC Properties caters to a wide range of demographics, offering affordable comfort as well as luxury estates, including skyscrapers, communities, and branded residences. With over 26,000 projects to their name, the group’s diversified portfolio consistently ranks them among the top real estate companies in Dubai, delivering 47,000 homes and planning to deliver 33,000 more. From designer apartments to family-oriented villas, some of their best-known properties include DAMAC Hills, DAMAC Hills 2, DAMAC Lagoons, and DAMAC Bay. In 2025, Damac Properties was awarded the best developer of the year by the UAE Realty Awards.
DAMAC Properties’ portfolio includes many successful projects, and many bear the name of the company. DAMAC Hills, previously known as Akoya by DAMAC, is a popular golf community and freehold area that includes luxury villas and apartments. DAMAC Hills 2, formerly known as Akoya Oxygen, is a self-sufficient and eco-friendly community, considered to be Dubai’s first green residential development of villas, townhouses, and apartments. DAMAC Lagoons is still under construction and will include 3 to 5-bedroom townhouses and 6-bedroom villas in eight clusters inspired by the Mediterranean.
The company’s portfolio also includes:
Address: DAMAC Executive Heights, Barsha Heights (Tecom)
Contact: 800 DAMAC
Since its establishment in 2007, Meydan has gained widespread recognition for its role in spearheading the Mohammed Bin Rashid City project. Best known for developing the world-renowned Meydan Racecourse, the group has also built a robust real estate portfolio of luxurious modern residences, hospitality, equine, and free zones. With several high-end properties in desirable locations, Meydan’s projects offer great potential for profit-driven investors or prospective homeowners.
The name of Meydan has become synonymous with Mohammed bin Rashid City (MBR City), which was announced in 2012 by the ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and is estimated to cost AED 30 billion. This development includes apartments, villas, and mansions as well as the world’s largest man-made lagoon. Other popular developments by the company include:
Contact: +971 800 MEYDAN
Distinguished by its signature aesthetics and exclusivity, Omniyat is one of Dubai’s leading luxury property developers. Since its landmark Opus project, designed in collaboration with Zaha Hadid, the group has remained a pioneer in architectural design and modern living. With a curated portfolio of 18 bespoke residences valued at US$ 10 Bn, some of their best-known properties include AVA at Palm Jumeirah, ORLA, ORLA Infinity, and Vela. In addition to Zaha Hadid, the company has collaborated with other major names such as Norman Foster and Dorchester.
The Opus, designed by the architectural icon Zaha Hadid, is one of the most popular developments by Omniyat. It includes 96 residences and 8 F&B outlets. ORLA by Omniyat is another collaboration with Dorchester Collections. This ongoing project is located in Palm Jumeirah and is expected to be finished in 2026. Vela by Omniyat is a 31-storey residential building, still under construction on the Dubai Water Canal, promising world-class amenities.
Address: One by Omniyat, Business Bay
Contact: 800 666
Founded in 2014 by Robert D Booth, Joseph Thomas, and Elie Naaman, Ellington Properties specializes in luxury residences that combine exceptional design with all-encompassing amenities. Since its first flagship development, Belgravia 1, the group has launched a host of exclusive bespoke residences across JVC, Business Bay, MBR City, and Palm Jumeirah. The company’s activity also encompasses services offered to investors and landowners for asset management and consultation. Ellington Properties’ portfolio also includes some ongoing projects, namely Playa del Sol, Ellington Villa Collection, and others.
Belgravia 1, Belgravia 2, Belgravia 3, and Belgravia Square are four popular residential buildings developed by Ellington Properties and are all located in District 14 in JVC. These elegant buildings offer residents many convenient amenities as well as a central location. Arbor View is another ongoing development by the firm located in Arjan. Once completed, it will provide 171 residential units such as studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments.
Below are a few other developments by Ellington Properties:
Address: Burlington Tower, Business Bay
Contact: 800 8288
With its emphasis on sustainable and vibrant community living, Nshama has rapidly become one of the top developers in Dubai’s real estate landscape. Its debut residential development, Town Square, boasts spacious apartments, modern townhouses, and plenty of amenities at affordable prices.
Town Square is the most popular development of the company. In addition to multiple residential buildings of different configurations; the area encompasses community parks, play areas, health centers, malls, restaurants, retail stores, hotels, cafes, educational institutes, and more.
Address: Warda Apartments, Town Square
Contact: +971 (4) 4328888
Developer | Average Starting Price | Typical Project Locations | Specialties |
Emaar Properties | AED 1.5M – AED 5M | Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, Creek Harbour | Master-planned communities, iconic towers, luxury & family living |
Nakheel | AED 1.2M – AED 6M | Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Islands, Dubai Islands | Waterfront developments, innovative island projects, retail-integrated living |
Dubai Properties | AED 1M – AED 3.5M | JBR, Business Bay, Mudon, DubaiLand | Affordable luxury, community living, family-oriented homes |
Meraas | AED 1.3M – AED 4.5M | City Walk, Bluewaters, Port de La Mer, Jumeirah | Urban lifestyle communities, beachfront living, retail and hospitality synergy |
Lamar Development | AED 11M – AED 54M | Jumeirah Bay Island, Dubai Canal | Ultra-luxury villas, boutique developments, architecture-driven exclusivity |
Sobha Realty | AED 1.3M – AED 6M | MBR City, Sobha Hartland | High-quality construction, green spaces, luxury finishing |
DAMAC Properties | AED 850K – AED 4.5M | DAMAC Hills, Akoya Oxygen, Business Bay | |
Meydan | AED 1.8M – AED 7.5M | MBR City, Meydan Avenue, Dubai Water Canal | Mixed-use developments, racecourse proximity, villa communities |
Omniyat | AED 1.5M – AED 78M | Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Maritime City | Ultra-premium, design-led properties, branded residences |
Ellington Properties | AED 1M – AED 4.5M | JVC, Palm Jumeirah, Business Bay, MBR City | Boutique, design-focused, high-spec apartments and lifestyle communities |
Dubai is a rich tapestry of communities each offering its residents a distinct lifestyle. Some developers usually prefer certain communities to others; and thus we see that their projects are concentrated there. Others have projects in various communities and areas. Let’s take a look at the various areas, see which developers are active there and what do these areas offer.
Popular for projects developed by Emaar Properties, DAMAC Properties, Dubai Properties, Omniyat, Sobha Realty, and Ellington Properties, Downtown Dubai is home to iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. It is a vibrant mixed-use area attracting both residents and tourists.
Popular for projects developed by Emaar Properties and Sobha Realty, Dubai Marina is known for its waterfront living and the world's largest man-made marina. It offers a blend of residential, leisure, and dining options.
Popular for projects developed by Nakheel Properties, Omniyat, and Ellington Properties; Palm Jumeirah is an iconic man-made island, renowned for its luxury villas, apartments, and resorts. It offers beachfront living with panoramic views.
Popular for projects developed by Dubai Properties, DAMAC Properties, Omniyat, Ellington Properties, and Sobha Realty; Business Bay is a central business district featuring a mix of commercial and residential buildings. It enjoys a strategic location near Downtown Dubai.
Popular for projects developed by Emaar Properties and Meydan Group, Dubai Creek Harbour is a waterfront development, located along the historic Dubai Creek. It blends modern urban living with natural beauty, featuring luxury residences, retail, and leisure.
Look for a developer that has a demonstrated track-record of successful projects and timely delivery. A developer who enjoys a good history is trustworthy and reliable to work with.
We’d advise you to take the time to visit existing projects by the developer you decide to work with; this way you can acquaint yourself with the quality of their work and the overall vibes of their developments.
Nothing is better than hearing from those who have already worked with this developer. Look on the internet for reviews and testimonials to have a clearer idea of how previous transactions went.
Developers offer payment plans for off-plan projects and sometimes ready-to-move projects as well. To draw up a realistic financial plan that suits your means, look into the payment plan they offer and choose the developer accordingly.
It’s important to know that the developer you choose will be reachable and helpful after you buy the property. Ask about their after-sales support and what they can offer in that regard.
The real estate market in Dubai is never stagnant; it shifts, changes, and adapts to the population’s needs and international trends. It is even reputed to be a trendsetter for the international market. With so much investment flocking into this sector, experts foresee major trends that will gain ground and shift the Dubai real estate market.
A shift towards sustainable housing is evident as developers increasingly adopt green and eco-friendly practices. AI and technology are further infiltrating the construction sector amid higher and more pronounced demand for smart homes.
Luxurious real estate is still in high demand as developers compete to build finer and finer homes that cater to the most discerning of clients. In contrast, shared living and affordable housing is also gaining ground among the different demographics of the country.
In a market as prolific and booming as the Dubai real estate market; choosing the right developer is of paramount importance to ensure you get the right value for your investment and to enjoy a hassle-free purchase. We’ve listed our top picks for developers and shared some insights on what they specialize in. Keep in mind that our team at Driven Properties can also help narrow down your search and find you the ideal property.
Choose wisely and enjoy Dubai living!
Many Dubai construction companies cater to discerning clients looking for luxurious homes in the Emirate. Currently, the most renowned real estate developer offering ultra-luxurious homes is Lamar Development.
Dubai's real estate market in Q1 2025 demonstrated robust growth, with total transaction volumes increasing by 22.8% and total value rising by 28.9% compared to the same period in 2024. The off-plan sector led this momentum, experiencing a 33.4% rise in transactions and a 34.4% increase in value. Secondary market activity also remained strong, with a 4.6% growth in volume and an 18.3% rise in value. Top communities such as Jumeirah Village Circle, Emaar South, Business Bay, and Dubai Marina led in transactional volume, pointing to a persistent investor interest.
Dubai’s real estate market is never lacking in luxurious and opulent developments that meet the taste of the most discerning clients. Many Dubai real estate developers strive to provide outstanding projects that epitomize high-end luxury, state-of-the-art technology, and world-class architecture. Here are the top 5 luxury projects we’ve curated:
Client testimonials are invaluable when choosing a real estate developer. They offer firsthand insights into the developer's performance, agent expertise, and overall client experience. Positive testimonials build trust and confidence, while negative feedback highlights potential red flags. It's essential to read a variety of reviews to get a comprehensive picture of the developer's reputation.
A strong market reputation and industry accolades are the anchors of a credible real estate developer. A proven track record of successful transactions and satisfied clients is essential for building trust. Industry awards serve as tangible evidence of a firm's expertise, commitment to excellence, and ability to deliver exceptional results. This combination of factors significantly influences a consumer's decision when selecting a real estate partner.