Dubai's luxury property buyers prioritise lifestyle, privacy and architectural design
Luxury real estate investors in Dubai seek privacy, exclusivity and lifestyle amenities, according to research from MERED.
The real estate developer behind ICONIC Residences Design by Pininfarina, released its buyer insights based on engagements during the first half of 2025. The report outlines shifting preferences among high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) investing in Dubai's premium residential market.
The findings highlight a growing preference for lifestyle-led investments, functional layouts, and wellness-driven design, particularly among a younger generation of investors from sectors such as tech, digital finance, and crypto.
Luxury Dubai real estate trends
The report identifies the top factors influencing purchase decisions among Dubai's premium buyers:
Privacy and exclusivity – 65 per cent
Architectural quality and design – 60 per cent
Location and connectivity – 55 per cent
Long-term investment value – 50 per cent
Lifestyle amenities and services – 45 per cent
Capital appreciation potential – sought by nearly all investors
Demand is strongest for one and two-bedroom layouts, which offer greater flexibility and are well suited to both personal use and short-term rental strategies.
Purchases are becoming more purpose-driven, with 45 per cent buying for self-use, 30 per cent for investment, and 25 per cent opting for a hybrid model that combines both.
Buyers aged between 40 and 50 still make up the majority of the market from diverse professional backgrounds, including finance, private equity, trading, legal, and healthcare.
However, a growing number of younger buyers are entering the Dubai real estate market, said MERED.
More than 85 per cent of buyers asked about amenities in their initial conversations, pointing to increasing demand for lifestyle-enhancing features:
Private terraces, padel courts, yoga studios, and indoor cinemas
Ice-spas, kids' play areas, and wellness-focused design
Medical-grade air filtration and ultra-purified water systems
Wooden flooring and heated bathrooms
Michael Belton, CEO of MERED, said: 'Today's generation of investors is sophisticated and discerning, expecting timeless architecture, wellness integration, and a genuine sense of community. At MERED, we see this as an opportunity to set a new benchmark with projects that speak to ambition, identity, and the way people want to live and invest in their future.'
The MERED analysis highlighted four key motivations that consistently influence final purchase decisions:
Around 40 per cent of buyers are most drawn to the architectural quality and design pedigree of the project
Another 30 per cent cite long-term investment value and returns as their primary driver
A further 20 per cent are motivated by lifestyle and the surrounding sense of community
10 per cent are focused on the developer's track record
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
14 minutes ago
- Gulf Business
Abu Dhabi population rises 7.5% in 2024, exceeds 4 million
Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes The population of Abu Dhabi grew by 7.5 per cent in 2024 to reach 4,135,985 people, according to new data released by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi (SCAD). The latest figures underscore the emirate's rising appeal as a hub for global talent and investment, with growth outpacing that of major international financial centres. The emirate's population has expanded by 51 per cent over the past decade, increasing from 2.7 million in 2014 to over 4.1 million in 2024. The demographic expansion coincides with a period of sustained economic growth. Emirate's GDP rises to 3.8 per cent In 2024, Abu Dhabi's GDP rose 3.8 per cent to an all-time high of Dhs1.2tn, driven by a 6.2 per cent increase in non-oil sectors, which now contribute 54.7 per cent of total output. 'Abu Dhabi's sustained population growth reflects the government's success in creating an environment that attracts international talent and investment,' said Ahmed Tamim Hisham Al Kuttab, chairman of the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi and chairman of SCAD. 'The 7.5 per cent population growth validates Abu Dhabi's talent-first strategy.' Abu Dhabi's demographic profile supports its transition toward a knowledge economy, with 54 per cent of residents aged between 25 and 44 — their peak productive years. The emirate's workforce expanded by 9.1 per cent in 2024, including a 6.4 per cent rise in professional roles, particularly in sectors such as AI, financial services, and advanced manufacturing. Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as the world's first AI-native government As part of its digital transformation, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as the world's first AI-native government under the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025–2027. The strategy includes implementing predictive analytics and data-driven governance, generating demand for new roles in digital governance, service design, and technology integration. The emirate's attractiveness has also supported growing investment inflows. The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) surpassed Dhs3tn in market capitalisation, placing it among the world's top 20 stock markets. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) reported a 245 per cent increase in assets under management in 2024, along with a 32 per cent rise in operational entities. Capital's FDI on the rise Foreign direct investment has grown 300 per cent since 2011, while 2024 saw a 16 per cent increase in economic licenses issued. Construction activity totalled Dhs107.4bn in value last year, reflecting ongoing efforts to build infrastructure that supports a globally competitive workforce. The Population statistics are subject to revision under SCAD's Statistical Revision Policy. The revised population figure for 2023 now stands at 3,847,585, following improvements in data quality and methodology. Detailed figures are available through the
Khaleej Times
16 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE approves robo-advisory services for licensed portfolio management firms
The UAE's Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) on Tuesday allowed licensed portfolio management firms to offer robo-advisory services, marking a strategic step toward establishing a secure digital investment environment in the country. The regulator said it approved the regulation of the robo-advisor service, allowing firms to provide services through digital platforms that utilise artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and advanced algorithms to deliver automated investment recommendations. To ensure investor protection, the SCA's regulatory framework sets mandatory independent IT audits, rigorous cybersecurity standards, regular reviews of algorithms and systems, and full disclosure of the service's costs and risks. Portfolio management services are typically provided by large banks and financial firms to their high-net-worth clients and private companies, enabling them to grow their wealth and achieve their financial goals. These firms provide tailored investment strategies, asset allocation and ongoing management of investment portfolios. According to Boston Consulting Group's Global Wealth Report 2024, the UAE's net wealth reached $2.9 trillion in 2023 as financial wealth grew by 10 per cent from 2022 to 2023. These services uphold high standards of governance, transparency, and investor protection within the approved portfolio management frameworks, whether discretionary or non-discretionary and in accordance with client agreements. Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, CEO of the SCA, said this project reinforces the UAE's position as a world-class financial centre by advancing continuous innovation and implementing dynamic regulatory frameworks designed to address future market challenges. 'The integration of artificial intelligence into investment decision-making is not merely a technological development, it is a transformative turning point that enhances portfolio management efficiency and unlocks unprecedented opportunities to empower investors with smart, sustainable, and secure financial solutions,' said Al Awadhi. The robo-advisor services will advance the competitiveness of the UAE's financial markets, accelerate digital adoption, and contribute to the UAE's 'We the UAE 2031' vision of building a knowledge-based, competitive, and sustainable economy. The Securities and Commodities Authority said robo-advisory services are part of its initiative to advance financial inclusion by broadening access to intelligent and secure investment solutions.
Khaleej Times
31 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Summer travel: Etihad offers up to 25% off; Air Arabia fares start at Dh149
As summer rolls in and schools go on a two-month holiday, airfares are getting out of hand for families planning to fly out. However, Etihad Airways has launched a welcome reprieve for travellers looking to explore the world without breaking the bank. The airline has unveiled its Summer Sale, offering up to 25 per cent off on round-trip economy fares to some of the world's most popular destinations. This limited-time offer is designed to help last-minute holidaymakers book their summer getaways at a significantly reduced price, all while enjoying Etihad's signature comfort and hospitality. Key details of the Summer Sale Etihad's Summer Sale runs for five days only, from June 29 until 11.59pm on July 3. The discounted fares are valid for travel between July 20 and September 12, a perfect window for summer escapes. The promotion applies to a wide network of destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Etihad has confirmed that all listed round-trip fares are inclusive of taxes and fuel surcharges, with the detailed breakdown shown during booking. Travellers can expect attractive pricing and flexible itineraries, but seats are limited and subject to availability. Terms and Conditions As with all promotional fares, certain terms and conditions apply: Visas and travel documents remain the responsibility of the passengers. Fares may be subject to blackout periods, weekend surcharges, and peak travel supplements. Airport taxes are dynamic and may change without prior notice. Any changes to booked tickets will result in a recalculation of fares based on the best available rates at the time. Bookings must be made online at or through Etihad's official call centres. The airline reserves the right to modify or withdraw the offer at any time. Abu Dhabi stopover deals Etihad's summer sale also ties in with its Abu Dhabi Stopover Programme, which allows travellers to extend their journey with a short stay in the UAE capital. Under this program, passengers can enjoy: Up to two nights of free accommodation, or Three to four nights at discounted rates at select hotels. Each stopover night is limited to a 24-hour stay, and the hotel may charge for any additional hours beyond the offer. This option adds extra value for those wishing to explore Abu Dhabi's culture, cuisine, and iconic landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Mega Air Arabia sale Sharjah-based budget airline Air Arabia has rolled out a limited-time mega sale, offering one-way fares starting at just Dh149. Booking and travel window The offer is valid for bookings made between June 30 and July 6, with the travel period extending from July 14 to September 30, a perfect window for summer escapes before the school term begins. Deals on GCC routes Travellers flying out of Sharjah can enjoy discounted fares to popular Gulf destinations: Bahrain, Muscat – From Dh149 Dammam, Riyadh, Salalah, Kuwait – From Dh199 Abha, Tabuk, Yanbu – From Dh298 Doha – From Dh399 Jeddah, Medinah – From Dh449 Taif – From Dh574 These fares make regional travel more affordable than ever for both leisure and business travellers. Discounted fares to South Asia Air Arabia is also offering special fares to major cities across South Asia: These competitive prices offer a valuable option for the South Asian diaspora and tourists alike. Sharjah–Damascus route Air Arabia has also announced the resumption of direct flights between Sharjah and Damascus, effective July 10, 2025. The route will operate with a double daily frequency, offering enhanced connectivity between Sharjah International Airport and Damascus International Airport. This move reflects Air Arabia's commitment to expanding its network and delivering affordable, reliable travel options across the region.
