Dubai Emerges as a Long-Term Home with Resident Tenure Reaching New Highs
Monday, 29 December 2025
Dubai is rapidly transforming into a long-term home for residents, with new data showing a significant rise in average residency tenure and growing confidence in the emirate’s stability, lifestyle, and future opportunities.
Key Highlights:
- Average length of residency in Dubai increased to 10.5 years in 2025, up from 7.5 years in 2024, marking a major behavioural shift.
- Nearly 60% of residents plan to stay in Dubai for more than 10 years, reflecting long-term confidence in the city.
- Tenant residency duration rose sharply, with renters now expecting to remain for an average of 10.7 years, compared to 7 years previously.
- The trend highlights a deeper emotional and financial commitment, with residents planning careers, families, and investments in Dubai.
- Dubai Land Department recorded 125,538 property transactions worth AED431 billion in H1 2025, a 25% increase in value year on year.
- Investor participation surged, with 94,717 investors entering the market, including nearly 59,000 first-time buyers.
- UAE residents accounted for 45% of new investors, underlining a strong shift from renting to homeownership.
- Residential supply continues to expand, with over 17,200 homes delivered in H1 2025 and 61,800 units under construction.
- Property prices rose steadily, supported by strong demand, while rental rates showed signs of stabilisation, indicating a balanced and maturing market.
