Allsopp & Allsopp Q3 2026 Report Highlights Shift Towards Ready Homes in Dubai

The latest Q3 2026 Market Snapshot from Allsopp & Allsopp reveals a notable shift in Dubai's property market, with ready homes moving into sharper focus. While off-plan properties have dominated in recent years, secondary sales increased by 15% in Q3 2026 compared to Q2, reaching 9,540 transactions.

Ready Homes Lead in October

This trend continued into October 2026, with Dubai Land Department (DLD) data showing secondary sales rising 20% from September to 4,013 transactions, and a 26% increase in value to AED 13.90 billion. This represents 55% of the total residential value, surpassing off-plan sales for the month. Conversely, off-plan sales eased by 8% to 6,211 transactions, with its share of volume slipping to 61% from 67% in September.

Slowdown in New Launches

New off-plan launches have significantly decreased. Lewis and Carl Allsopp estimate only 15 to 18 new off-plan launches in Dubai since early August, marking a 75% reduction from the pace seen earlier in the year.

Allsopp & Allsopp's internal sales data mirrors this market shift. Their Q3 2026 sales report indicates that villa and townhouse sales were primarily driven by established communities such as Jumeirah Golf Estates, Arabian Ranches, and Damac Hills 2. In October, resale properties accounted for 94% of their total sales.

Comparing Off-Plan and Ready Homes

Comparing off-plan and ready properties requires a detailed, launch-by-launch analysis rather than a general market rule, as the price difference can vary significantly based on community, developer, home size, and market timing. The average residential price across Dubai in October was AED 1,781 per sq ft, a 1% increase from September but 7% lower year-on-year.

Key considerations for comparing properties include:

• Ready Home Benefits: Immediate occupancy, rental income from day one (for investors), and a visible track record of community maintenance and price stability.
• Off-Plan Benefits: Staged payment plans spreading costs over the construction period, new building specifications with full warranty, and potential for capital growth before handover if the market remains strong.
• Off-Plan Risks: Potential for handover delays (most Sale and Purchase Agreements (SPAs) include a 6-12 month grace period), and the risk that resale values post-handover will be benchmarked against ready homes.

Buyers are advised to compare launch prices per square foot against recent sold prices of comparable ready homes, factor in the value of payment plans, and assess the developer's track record and upcoming completions in the vicinity. DLD data indicates 12,382 homes completed in Q3 2026, a 31% increase year-on-year, adding to the ready inventory.