This autumn is shaping up to be Dubai’s prime season for property investment, according to global real estate platform Colife Invest.
In the first half of 2025 alone, real estate transactions in Dubai exceeded AED 400 billion — a 25% increase compared to the same period in 2024. From February 2021 to March 2025, the average price per square meter rose by more than 75%, showing a clear upward trend in investor confidence. Major international players such as Permira Fund and Blackstone have also strengthened their presence, with a USD 525 million investment in Property Finder, further signaling long-term trust in Dubai’s market.
Rental yields remain highly attractive, with residential real estate offering around 6.8% returns, and apartments fetching up to 7.2%. Seasonal demand also plays a major role: from October to April, Dubai experiences peak occupancy thanks to tourists, expats, and major business events. This surge directly impacts rental rates. For example, apartments in Dubai Marina that rent for AED 5,000–6,000 per month in the low season can command AED 8,000–9,000 during the high season. Similar rental hikes are seen in Downtown, Business Bay, and other popular areas.
Tourism is another driver of demand. Dubai welcomed over 5 million tourists in the first quarter of 2024, a 10% increase from the previous year. In January 2025 alone, nearly 2 million tourists visited, up 9% from January 2024.
Currency shifts also make Dubai more attractive. With the UAE dirham pegged to the US dollar, the pound’s recent 8% decline has made property purchases more affordable for UK buyers, who remain among Dubai’s top investors. British investment surged by 62% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Colife Invest highlights that autumn offers unique advantages often overlooked by investors:
Peak seasonal rental income: October to March can account for up to 40% of annual rental returns.
Easier exits: Selling during summer is more difficult as transaction volumes slow, often requiring discounts.
Stable entry conditions: Autumn offers favorable financing before potential interest rate hikes or currency fluctuations.
Off-plan opportunities: Investors can secure lower entry prices in developing areas before infrastructure and visa benefits boost value.
“Autumn is not just a change of season — it is a strategic moment to enter the market, when the combination of demand, price and financing conditions gives investors an edge,” explains Olga Poletskaya, CEO of Colife Invest.
With rising demand, strong yields, and global confidence, this autumn could be the perfect time to step into Dubai’s booming property market.

