Dubai real estate: Property market follows UK model with data-driven approach

Arabian Business

18-04-2025

Dubai's real estate sector is rapidly evolving towards the standards set by the UK market, with transparency and data-driven practices taking centre stage, according to industry figures.
The UK property market, known for its transparency and regulatory structure, has become a benchmark for consumer experience.
More than 90 per cent of British buyers now begin their property search online, relying on platforms such as Rightmove and Zoopla.
How Dubai's property sector is mirroring UK transparency standards
'These aren't just listing sites – they're trusted sources for property price history, time-on-market indicators, and comparative area insights. Government data is also wide open. HM Land Registry provides granular sales data to the public, and national indices are updated monthly. Regulations now require listing platforms to disclose critical information – tenure, council tax bands, ground rents – before viewings even begin. It's not just about access to listings. It's about access to truth, and Dubai is not far behind,' Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties said.
The UK government's HM Land Registry provides comprehensive sales data to the public, with national indices updated monthly. Regulations require listing platforms to disclose critical information before viewings commence.
The Dubai Land Department has made significant progress in publishing transaction figures. Central to this development is DXBinteract, created by fäm Properties, which has emerged as the region's leading resource for property intelligence.
The platform enables brokers, investors, and buyers to analyse transaction patterns and monitor pricing shifts based on verified information rather than speculation.
'While the platform doesn't yet offer building classification metrics, it's already relied upon as the key source for broader real estate intelligence. As Dubai's regulatory and consumer landscape moves closer to UK standards, DXBinteract is set to lead that transition, supporting professionals who build credibility and serve clients through facts, not sales talk,' Al Msaddi added.
In the commercial sector, the UK market is increasingly focused on sustainability and ESG compliance.
Government regulations make it illegal to lease commercial spaces below certain energy ratings, with green-certified buildings commanding up to 12.3 per cent higher rental values, according to Knight Frank.
More than 70 per cent of new developments in key UK cities aim for BREEAM or LEED certification.
'This is not a trend, it's a shift in how value is defined, and Dubai is entering the same era. Energy-efficient buildings are gaining traction,' Al Msaddi said, adding 'global tenants now ask for sustainability metrics. Developers invest in building performance upgrades to stay relevant.'
DXBinteract is positioned to become Dubai's equivalent to UK tools like Costar and EG Radius, though with a stronger local focus.
'The UK real estate market has shown us that data, sustainability, and professional accountability are no longer optional, they are expected. Dubai is stepping into that same phase of evolution,' Al Msaddi concluded.