Dubai has become the most popular global business and luxury living destination today. Many global investors and homebuyers are looking to buy apartments in Dubai for personal use and as investments. The city’s strategic location, modern infrastructure, and world-class amenities offer a comprehensive range of apartments, from affordable options to high-end luxury residences. There is much room for investors and homebuyers to find the best Dubai apartments for sale at varied budgets.
The Most Popular Areas to Buy Apartments in Dubai
Dubai’s real estate market is rich with countless communities and areas that offer a myriad of housing options from studios to various-sized apartments, townhouses, penthouses, villas, and more. There are also many location options ranging from waterfront properties to city hubs, village-like developments, and green communities. The most popular areas to buy apartments in the city are the following:
Dubai Apartments and Flats for Sale
Dubai offers many apartments for sale. These apartments often feature world-class amenities and an unparalleled lifestyle, from pristine beaches and luxurious resorts to championship golf courses.
Whether you’re looking to invest in or live in a Dubai property, many apartments in the city will suit your needs.
Dubai Apartment Price Trends
Dubai’s apartment market has shown steady movement in 2025, attracting both investors looking to buy flats in Dubai and families seeking long-term residences. Prices vary widely depending on location, apartment type, and whether the property is ready, off-plan, or classified as luxury. Investors are particularly tracking Dubai apartment price trends because the city continues to outperform global benchmarks with strong rental returns and consistent demand.
Key observations shaping the current market include:
- Affordable apartments in Dubai: Starting from AED 450,000 in communities such as International City, Al Warsan, and Dubai Silicon Oasis, making them accessible for first-time buyers.
- Mid-range properties: Apartments in Jumeirah Village Circle or Dubai Hills Estate typically start from AED 500,000 to AED 850,000, with healthy rental yields.
- Luxury apartments for sale in Dubai: Premium units in Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, and Marina often begin from AED 10 million and can exceed AED 60 million, offering exclusivity and long-term capital appreciation.
- Off-plan apartments in Dubai: These remain attractive as developers provide payment plans and early entry prices 15–25% lower than ready properties.
- Verified flats Dubai: Buyers increasingly prefer verified listings to ensure transparency, proper documentation, and hassle-free ownership transfers.
Overall, Dubai’s apartment sector remains dynamic, giving both residents and international investors a wide range of opportunities across different budget levels.
Advantages of Living in Dubai
There are many advantages to living in Dubai, including its thriving economy, safety, and reliability. Dubai strongly focuses on tourism, trade, and innovation, which boosts its economy. The city also has low crime rates and a politically stable environment — making it a safe environment for families. Finally, it boasts world-class infrastructure, such as excellent transportation, communication, and utilities.
Dubai offers significant advantages and benefits for purchasing property in the city, whether you are a UAE/GCC resident or a foreigner.
- Property Yields: Dubai has 7%% property yields as recorded in early 2025. Meanwhile, New York yields average 4.2%, and London 2.4%.
- Minimal Property Taxes: Dubai has one of the lowest rates of property fees in the world, making it one of the most affordable cities for property investments.
- Freehold or Leasehold Ownership: As a foreigner, gain complete ownership of a freehold property or ownership for a fixed time (usually 99 years) of a leasehold property.
Freehold vs Leasehold Apartments in Dubai
When buyers explore the market to buy flats in Dubai, one of the most important decisions is choosing between freehold and leasehold properties. Both ownership types are available across the emirate, and understanding the differences helps align long-term goals with the right investment. Current Dubai apartment price trends also vary depending on the ownership model.
Key distinctions include:
Freehold Apartments
- Available to UAE residents and foreigners in designated areas.
- Grants complete ownership of the apartment and the land beneath it.
- Attractive for those considering luxury apartments for sale Dubai in communities like Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, or Dubai Marina.
- Owners can sell, rent, or pass on the property to heirs.
Leasehold Apartments
Typically available for 99 years or less, depending on the contract.
- Ownership is limited to the apartment unit, while the land remains under the freeholder.
- Popular among buyers seeking affordable apartments in Dubai, particularly in growing neighborhoods.
- More common in cases of off-plan apartments in Dubai, where flexible payment plans apply.
For peace of mind, investors are now turning to verified flats Dubai listed through trusted agencies to ensure legal clarity and smooth transfers whether freehold or leasehold, Dubai offers opportunities across budgets, from modest studios to upscale penthouses.
Discover the Apartments and Flats for Sale in Dubai
Browse Driven Properties listings to find apartments for sale in Dubai. We provide thousands of listings at any given moment.
Contact one of our reputable brokers to guide you through the purchasing process. Get on your journey to acquiring your new Dubai property today!
Types of Apartments Available for Sale in Dubai
There are various apartments for sale in Dubai, ranging from studios, 1-2 bedroom apartments, 3-4 bedroom penthouses, and more. Among those options, some of the common ones are:
- Off-Plan: Discounted apartments you buy before they’re built.
- Ready: Move in right away, but expect to pay a premium.
- Duplex: Two-story apartments offering more space and a house-like feel.
- Penthouse: Luxury top-floor apartments with stunning views and premium features.
Driven Properties can guide you through the various sorts of apartments in Dubai. With thousands of listings and skilled brokers, we can help you discover the perfect apartment.
Luxury vs Affordable Apartments in Dubai
Dubai’s property market is known for its variety, allowing buyers to choose between affordable apartments in Dubai and exclusive luxury apartments for sale in Dubai. The choice depends on budget, lifestyle goals, and investment plans. For many international buyers seeking to buy flats in Dubai, the contrast between these two segments is one of the most important factors when reviewing options.
Key differences between the two categories include:
Affordable Apartments
- Starting prices often range from AED 450,000 to AED 900,000.
- Popular in areas such as International City, Al Warsan, and Jumeirah Village Circle.
- Strong rental demand due to competitive pricing and accessibility.
- Frequently include off-plan apartments in Dubai, where payment plans and lower entry costs attract investors.
Luxury Apartments
- Prices usually begin at AED 10 million and can exceed AED 60 million in Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, or Dubai Marina.
- High-end features such as private pools, concierge services, and prime locations.
- Cater to high-net-worth individuals and investors seeking long-term capital growth.
- Often purchased as verified flats in Dubai to ensure authenticity and smooth ownership transfer.
These two ends of the market highlight the diversity in Dubai apartment price trends, ensuring options are available for both cost-conscious buyers and those pursuing prestige living.
Sales Trends of Apartments and Flats in Dubai
According to data from ValuStrat, Dubai’s apartment market — which contributes to 85% of homes in Dubai — is on a positive momentum in 2025. This momentum is particularly evident in the middle and low segments of the market.
In February 2025, 16,099 property transactions were recorded in Dubai with a value of AED 51.1 billion ($13.9 billion). When compared to the same period in the previous year, a 55% increase is noticed. This underscores the continued strength and appeal of Dubai's real estate sector. In detail, the best apartment performance compared to the same period last year was the following:
- Downtown Dubai: An annual growth rate of approximately 5.3% in prices.
- Palm Jumeirah: An annual growth rate of about 7.7% in prices.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): An annual growth rate of approximately 6.2% in prices.
- Dubai Marina: An annual growth rate of about 5.3% in prices.
- Dubailand: An annual growth rate of approximately 8.0% in prices.
- Al Furjan: An annual growth rate of about 7.6% in prices.
ROI For Apartments For Sale In Dubai
Dubai’s property market surpasses the majority of global markets in terms of rental yields for apartments. The global average for apartment rental yields typically range between 3-5%, while major cities might reach 6-7%.
The following areas in Dubai boast significant yields in 2025.
- Downtown Dubai: Rental yield is around 6.5%, with an average monthly rent of AED 15,000.
- Palm Jumeirah: Rental yields around 5.5%, with average monthly rents of AED 20,000.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): Rental yields around 7.0%, with average monthly rents of AED 7,500.
- Dubai Marina: Rental yields around 6.2%, with average monthly rents of AED 12,500.
- Dubailand: Rental yields around 8.0%, with average monthly rents of AED 6,500.
- Al Furjan: Rental yields around 7.5%, with average monthly rents of AED 8,000.
Why Buy An Apartment From Driven Properties?
Purchase a Dubai apartment with Driven Properties and partner with one of the city’s most reliable brokers. We offer over a decade of success for our clients, thousands of listings at any given time, and unique unlisted properties for VIP clients.
How To Buy An Apartment In Dubai?
Here is a step-by-step guide to purchasing a Dubai apartment with Driven Properties.
- Visit the Driven Properties website.
- Browse through Driven Properties’ extensive property listings.
- Choose your ideal property.
- Contact one of our reputable real estate agents.
- Communicate with the property seller.
- Sign the Real Estate Sale Agreement and pay a deposit.
- Apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
- Submit the required documents to complete the ownership transfer.
- Receive your title deed.
What To Consider When Buying An Apartment In Dubai?
- Budget: Determine your acceptable pricing range while accounting for any extra expenses.
- Location: Choose your preferred area in Dubai based on factors such as work proximity, desired amenities, and lifestyle.
- Preferred apartment type: Consider how many bedrooms and bathrooms you require, whether you prefer a ready or off-plan apartment, and whether a duplex or penthouse plan appeals to you.
Average prices for Apartment in Dubai
Dubai’s property market is synonymous with diversity, offering properties within different budgets. Flats for sale in Dubai differentiate their pricing based on size, location, and property type. Here are the approximate values or average prices for apartments in Dubai.
- Affordable apartments in Dubai: Apartments start around AED 450,000 for smaller studio apartments in emerging neighborhoods.
- Luxury Apartments in Dubai: Luxury properties start at AED 10 million, especially those near iconic areas such as Dubai Marina and Downtown.
- Off-plan Apartments in Dubai are a smart option for investors who want to grab the property at the best affordable rates during the initial stages of development. These properties can be affordable and offer high ROI when the project is near completion.
The table below highlights average apartment prices in major communities:
Area | Average Starting Price (AED) | Average Starting Price (USD) |
Jumeirah Village Circle | 500,000 | 136,125 |
Dubai Hills Estate | 850,000 | 231,413 |
Business Bay | 1,000,000 | 272,250 |
Dubai Marina | 1,200,000 | 326,700 |
At Driven Properties, we can assist you in finding the ideal unit within your price range.
Why Invest in a Flat for Sale in Dubai?
Dubai’s real estate market is brimming with great investment opportunities ranging from residential to retail, commercial, industrial, hospitality, services, and much more. Investing in a flat for sale in Dubai specifically constitutes a great endeavor for multiple reasons.
- Strong demand for housing: As expats flood into the city of Dubai to work and live there, demand for all types of houses is increasing.
- Rental Yields: Rental yields in certain areas in Dubai can reach 7-8% on average. This number fluctuates based on the location, property configuration and size, amenities, and more.
- Capital appreciation: Dubai’s real estate market is appreciating thanks to various factors, including increasing demand and an economic boom.
- Investment visa: Investing in Dubai’s real estate can qualify you for a UAE residency.
- Lifestyle: Having a pied-à-terre in Dubai will ensure you can benefit from the opulent, rich, and diversified lifestyle the city has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is now a good time to purchase apartments in Dubai?
2025 is a great time to purchase apartments in Dubai. There are many new upcoming developments, such as Dubai Islands, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Creek Harbour, Zabeel Park, Al Furjan, Rashid Yacht and Marina, and more.
The real estate market is also on an upward trend, breaking transactional records every month.
2. What is the average cost per square foot for an apartment in Dubai?
As of 2025, the average cost per square foot for apartments is AED 1,200.
3. Who is eligible to buy an apartment in Dubai?
Dubai has open property ownership laws. As a result, the eligibility criteria to own a property in the city are fairly straightforward.
- No nationality restrictions: UAE/GCC residents can purchase property anywhere in Dubai; meanwhile, foreigners can purchase property in designated freehold or leasehold areas.
- No age restrictions: There is no age limit to purchase a property in Dubai.
- No minimum salary requirements: There is no salary requirement to purchase a property in Dubai.
While Dubai’s ownership laws are open, other aspects such as securing financing might still involve additional criteria set by your respective banks.
4. What additional fees are associated with buying an apartment in Dubai?
Aside from the payment related to the property, there are also additional fees to consider when purchasing an apartment in Dubai.
- Government Fees
- Agency Fees
- Mortgage Fees
- Insurance Fees
- Transfer Fees
- Maintenance Fees
- DEWA Fees
- ISTA
- Legal and Documentation Fees
Contact us at Driven Properties and one of our expert brokers will guide you through the property purchasing journey. Alternatively, you can visit our blog here.
5. Can I purchase Dubai apartments through a rent-to-own program?
Yes! The Dubai Land Department (DLD) launched a rent-to-own service that allows tenants to rent a unit for a set amount of time before owning it. The rentals paid are considered the unit’s down payment.
6. Are foreigners allowed to buy apartments in Dubai?
Foreigners are allowed to purchase apartments in Dubai provided that the properties are in designated freehold or leasehold areas.
- Freehold Ownership: When a foreigner has freehold property ownership, this means they have complete control over the property and the land it’s built on. They can sell, rent, or pass it on to heirs.
- Leasehold Ownership: When a foreigner has a leasehold ownership, this means for a fixed term (usually 99 years), they have complete control over the property but not the land it’s built on. At the end of the lease period, the freeholder receives the property ownership.
7. Which area is considered the most luxurious in Dubai?
To find the most luxurious Dubai properties, search in the following areas:
- Palm Jumeirah
- Jumeirah Bay Island
- Downtown Dubai
- Tilal Al Ghaf
- Dubai Hills Estate
Contact Driven Properties for tailored answers and recommendations.
8. Is investing in Dubai property a good idea?
Dubai is a great location for real estate investments. This is because of Dubai’s many opportunities, its real estate market, luxurious amenities, and government support.
Among Dubai’s opportunities include its strategic location in the Middle East, thriving economy, low crime rates, and political stability.
Its real estate market is also one of the most impressive in the world. Dubai is one of the most affordable cities for real estate investments and it also boasts high property yields.
Dubai has many luxurious amenities and infrastructure whether you’re looking for world-class resorts, family-friendly attractions, or a vibrant cultural scene.
Finally, the government has various initiatives that support investors. These include the Golden Visa via real estate investment and freehold and leasehold properties.
9. What is the cheapest flat price in Dubai?
The cheapest flats for sale in Dubai start from AED 280,000 in International City, , AED 350,000 in Al Warsan, and AED 450,000 in Dubai Silicon Oasis. These prices vary depending on the location and apartment size. Studio apartments are comparatively the most affordable flats in Dubai.
10. Can someone buy a flat in Burj Khalifa?
Yes, it is possible to buy apartments in Burj Khalifa, but prices are very high due to the building’s iconic status and prime location in Dubai. Penthouses may cost up to AED 100 million.
11. Is it safe to buy a flat in Dubai?
Yes, It’s completely safe to buy apartments in Dubai as they are well-regulated by the laws for buyers and investors, making it a secure destination for property investments.
12. What are the upfront costs of buying an apartment in Dubai?
When buying an apartment in Dubai, there are several upfront costs you need to consider in addition to the property's price. Here's a breakdown of these expenses:
- Down Payment:
- For UAE Residents: Minimum 20% of the property price (for properties below AED 5M)
- For Non-Residents: Minimum 25% of the property price
- Luxury Properties (Above AED 5M): 30% or more
- Dubai Land Department (DLD) Fees: 4% of the purchase price (plus AED 580 admin fee)
- Real Estate Agent Commission: 2% of the property price
- Mortgage Registration Fee: 0.25% of the loan amount + AED 290 admin fee
- Property Valuation Fee: AED 2,500 – AED 3,500
- Oqood Fee (For Off-Plan Properties): 4% of the purchase price
- Trustee Office Fees: AED 2,000 - AED 4,000
13. Does Buying an Apartment in Dubai Provide a Residence Visa?
Yes, you might be eligible for a residence visa if you buy property in Dubai. Here are the most notable visas:
- A 2-year Property Investor Visa when buying property valued at a minimum of AED 750,000.
- A 10-year Golden Visa when buying property valued at a minimum of AED 2 Million.
- A 5-year Retirement Visa when buying property valued at a minimum of AED 1 Million.
14. What is a Luxury apartment in Dubai?
A luxury apartment in Dubai is a high-end residential unit. These properties usually offer premium features and world-class amenities, and they are also located in prime areas of the city. High-net-worth individuals and investors usually seek these properties for their exclusivity, superior design, and prestigious lifestyle. You can find these apartments in Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Address Residences), Palm Jumeirah (One at Palm Jumeirah, Serenia Residences), Dubai Marina (Jumeirah Living Marina Gate), Business Bay (Volante, Dorchester Collection), Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) (1 JBR, The Address JBR), and Bluewaters Island (Bulgari Residences, Bluewaters Residences) to name a few.
15. Is it worth buying an apartment in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai continues to show strong demand from both residents and investors. Rental yields average 6–8%, which is higher than many global cities. Buyers can choose between affordable apartments in Dubai and premium luxury apartments for sale in Dubai depending on budget. For those seeking long-term appreciation, even off-plan apartments in Dubai are proving attractive with flexible payment plans.
16. How much deposit do I need to buy an apartment in Dubai?
The deposit depends on residency and property value:
- UAE Residents: 20% minimum for properties below AED 5 million.
- Non-Residents: 25% minimum for properties under AED 5 million.
- Luxury properties (AED 5M+): 30% or more.
This applies whether you’re looking to buy flats in Dubai for personal use or investment. Always check with banks for updated rules on verified flats Dubai.
17. How much does it cost to buy a 1-bedroom apartment in Dubai?
On average, Dubai apartment price trends show 1-bedroom units range between AED 750,000 and AED 1.5 million, depending on location and amenities.
- In Jumeirah Village Circle, prices start from around AED 700,000.
- In Dubai Marina or Downtown, prices usually start at AED 1.2 million.
Some off-plan apartments in Dubai are priced lower, making them suitable for first-time buyers.
18. Can Expats Get Mortgages in Dubai?
Yes. Expats can secure mortgages through local or international banks operating in the UAE. Eligibility often requires:
- A minimum salary (usually AED 10,000–15,000 per month).
- Down payment between 20–25% depending on residency status.
- Proof of employment or business income.
Expats interested in buying flats in Dubai should also prioritize verified flats Dubai to ensure smooth financing approvals.
