UAE buyers tilt the market toward ownership in 2025
Sales interest outpaced rentals on a leading portal in 2025, underscoring a shift from leasing to buying across the United Arab Emirates. New figures from Property Finder show sales listing impressions reached 49% last year, up from 47% in 2024, while rental impressions fell to 51%. In parallel, seven in ten residents plan to buy within six months, indicating sustained intent.
What the platform data shows
“Listing impressions” measure how often users view for-sale or for-rent listings. A higher sales share signals stronger buyer focus. In 2025, buyer activity rose in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, according to Property Finder’s Market Pulse. The firm reports 70% of respondents intend to purchase within six months, reinforcing the pivot to ownership.
Why more renters are turning buyers
Longer-term residency options and ownership-linked incentives have improved visibility for households planning to settle. Local market analysts also point to supportive financing and stable employment. In Dubai, the Dubai Land Department launched the First-Time Home Buyer Program, offering priority access to units, flexible fee payment plans and bank partnerships to ease first purchases.
Dubai vs Abu Dhabi: demand patterns
Apartments still account for most transactions thanks to wider supply and relative affordability. Villas remain tight on stock and show firmer price gains in popular areas. Emerging off-plan hubs attract younger buyers seeking space and amenities. Broader press and analyst coverage describe a mature yet selective market, with strong end-user demand and closer scrutiny of speculative activity.
What to watch next
Property Finder’s latest brief highlights two near-term markers. First, whether sales impressions hold above the 2025 level as new supply arrives. Second, whether intent (70%) converts into transactions through mid-2026 amid financing costs. Continued updates from the portal and regulators will show if ownership momentum persists.
In sum, 2025 data points to a market leaning toward ownership. Sales listing impressions climbed to 49% as renters became buyers, and policy tools such as Dubai’s first-time buyer scheme aim to keep that pathway open.
