The UAE’s real estate sector made headlines in March 2026, with key developments taking place across different emirates. From an increase in transactions to new regulatory initiatives to property project upgrades, the UAE real estate news from March 2026 reflects a sector that continues to embrace innovations.
UAE Property News March 2026
Some of the key headlines that made it to the March 2026 edition of the UAE property market news include:
Dubai Brokerage Sector Released 2025 Transaction Data and Broker Statistics
Dubai’s real estate brokerage sector experienced significant growth in 2025, with commissions rising 31% to AED 13.59 billion and broker-led transactions increasing 54% to 96,440, according to the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The sector also saw high female participation, with women completing 28,909 transactions (up 49%) and generating AED 2.98 billion in commissions (up 83%). Total registered brokers reached 32,294, including 11,371 women, while new entrants grew 38% to 13,083, reflecting the sector’s increasing appeal.
Dubai Releases 2025 Real Estate Services Sector Data and Statistics
Dubai’s real estate services sector recorded significant growth in 2025. The number of registered valuers reached 133, with new registrations rising 50% to 33, while valuation offices increased to 68, reflecting growing demand for specialised expertise. Real estate permits climbed 24% to 26,044, driven largely by digital advertising and supported by AI-powered governance platforms. Meanwhile, registration and trustee service offices expanded to 32, with transactions rising to 282,661 and customer numbers growing 7% to 563,920.
Dubai Municipality Released Q1 2026 Construction Permits and Activity Data
Dubai Municipality reported strong construction-sector performance in Q1 2026, issuing 10,776 building permits, a 12% year-on-year increase. Structural inspections reached 10,855, while concrete supply hit 824,381 cubic metres, highlighting active project execution across the emirate. The total permitted built-up area surged 48% to nearly 3.9 million sqm, alongside 3,154 building completion certificates.
Dubai’s City Walk Phase 3 to Receive 17,500 RT Cooling from Empower
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) has signed an agreement with Meraas to supply over 17,500 refrigeration tonnes (RT) of district cooling to City Walk Phase 3 and the Verve Building. The City Walk Phase 3 project features luxury residential units and integrated urban amenities, aligning with Dubai’s vision for modern, sustainable and comfortable living. Empower’s total connected capacity now reaches approximately 1.7 million RT, serving around 1,750 buildings.
Real Estate Developers’ Endowment Received Record Contribution from Reif Properties
Reif Luxury Real Estate Development (Reif Properties) has made the largest contribution to Dubai’s Real Estate Developers’ Endowment initiative, pledging 100 residential units valued at approximately AED 100 million. The endowment is managed by Awqaf Dubai in collaboration with Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy (MBRGCEC) and DLD. It aims to channel returns, estimated at AED 7–9 million annually, toward charitable projects including health, education and community support for orphans, widows and people of determination.
Scheduled for delivery within five years across areas such as Dubailand and Dubai Production City, this contribution underscores Reif Properties’ commitment to sustainable growth, social responsibility and the integration of investment with humanitarian impact.
DIFC Completed DIFC Square Offering 600,000 sq. ft. of Office Space
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has completed DIFC Square ahead of schedule, offering 600,000 sq. ft. of premium office space. With 100% pre-leasing prior to handover, the development caters to both new international firms and expanding existing tenants such as Bank of Singapore, Deutsche Bank and Moody’s.
Built to LEED standards and featuring interconnected glass façade buildings, retail outlets and dedicated parking, DIFC Square enhances Dubai’s position as a top-four global financial centre. The project provides scalable office solutions in the Gate District and Gate Village, forming part of DIFC’s broader plan to deliver 1.6 million sq. ft. of commercial space in 2026–2027.
Abu Dhabi Released 2025 Urban Development and Permit Statistics
Abu Dhabi saw a sharp rise in urban development in 2025, with nearly 75 million sqm of approved Gross Floor Area (GFA), marking a 137% year-on-year increase led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport. Housing dominated with around 190,000 planned units, including homes for UAE nationals, while industrial, technology and tourism projects, including 5,000 new hotel rooms, supported diversification.
The AI-driven BINAA platform improved efficiency by reducing permit times, resubmissions and cutting approval cycles by 60 days. With over 11,000 permits issued and continued investment in digital systems and workforce upskilling, Abu Dhabi is fast advancing as a globally competitive, investment-driven urban hub.
Department of Municipalities and Transport Launched Al Ain Urban Development Survey
The Department of Municipalities and Transport has launched the ‘Al Ain Survey: The Future of Urban Development,’ inviting residents, visitors and businesses to help shape the future of Al Ain. Open until April 20, 2026, the survey gathers input on the city’s identity, heritage and development priorities, which will feed into long-term planning frameworks and the Wasat Al Madina Revitalisation Plan.
FAQs
How is Dubai’s real estate brokerage sector performing?
Brokerage activity is rising, with commissions up 31% and broker-led transactions up 54% in 2025. Female participation is also increasing.
What major construction developments occurred in Dubai?
Dubai issued over 10,700 building permits in Q1 2026, with nearly 3.9 million sqm of built-up area approved and thousands of structural inspections conducted.
How is Abu Dhabi advancing its urban development?
Abu Dhabi accelerated approvals with AI-driven platforms, issued over 11,000 permits and reopened Khalidiyah Park with a modern community-focused design.
These are key headlines that made the UAE real estate market news from March 2026. Noteworthy developments, such as rising transactions and progressive initiatives, highlight the sector’s growth. Those looking to enter the market can browse these properties for sale in the UAE to find an ideal investment opportunity.
Stay connected with dubizzle’s property blog for the latest updates and insights on the UAE real estate market.
