The UAE property market is moving at two speeds. According to CBRE Middle East's Q3 2026 review, Dubai rents fell 7% year-on-year and prices slipped about 1%, while Abu Dhabi apartment prices rose 13%. Here's what changed and what it means for your next move.
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Dubai Property Prices and Rents in Q3 2026: A More Balanced Market
Dubai prices held broadly steady through the quarter, ending around 1% below last year, while average rents dropped 7%. Buyers became more selective and developers slowed launches. Just one quarter earlier, prices were still 1.9% higher year-on-year, so this marks a clear shift from rapid growth to balance. Values remain well above pre-pandemic levels.
Where Dubai Rents Fell the Most
Q3 2026 data shows the sharpest apartment rent drops in Dubai Marina (12.8%), Business Bay (12.2%) and JVC (10.4%). Among villas, Arabian Ranches 3 fell 15% and Damac Lagoons 13.4%. Quarterly changes were small, though, hinting that rents are starting to stabilise.
Why Dubai Rents Are Easing
New supply is the main reason. Savills expects 75,000 to 85,000 homes to be delivered in 2026, giving tenants more choice. Developers have responded by launching about 64% fewer units this year, and buyers are favouring ready homes, with ready sales value rising to Dh25.1 billion in Q3.
Abu Dhabi Apartment Prices Rise 13% as Demand Holds Strong
Abu Dhabi apartment prices climbed 13% year-on-year and transactions grew about 5%. Owner-occupiers and investors are drawn to new master-planned communities, and careful supply management has kept values moving up. Growth is slower than the 25%-plus gains of 2025, but still among the strongest in the region.
UAE Commercial Property: Offices and Logistics Lead
Offices remain the standout performer. Dubai office rents rose 12% with occupancy near 95%, led by DIFC, Business Bay and Dubai Internet City. In Abu Dhabi, rents jumped 20% with 96% occupancy, driven by ADGM's continued expansion.
Retail is holding firm, with occupancy at 97% in Dubai and 96% in Abu Dhabi. Industrial and logistics rents rose 12% in Dubai and 6% in Abu Dhabi as e-commerce and logistics firms compete for limited modern warehouses.
