Highlights of the week | 11th August – 17th August 2025
Dar Global expands with DIFC finance arm and US$ 165 Million funding boost (11th August)
London-listed luxury real estate developer Dar Global is expanding its reach by acquiring a licensed financial services company in Dubai International Financial Centre, enabling access to new revenue streams. The company has also strengthened liquidity through a US$ 165 Mn facility underwritten by Emirates NBD with participation from ADCB, FAB and Zand Bank, secured by share pledges and corporate guarantees. Dar Global has additionally partnered with parent company Dar Al Arkan on new projects and acquired land in Riyadh and Jeddah, boosting its Gross Development Value to US$ 12.5 Bn. CEO Ziad El Chaar highlighted enhanced financing and the new DIFC arm as key growth drivers.
Read more at Dubai’s Dar Global expands into financial services, strengthens liquidity with $165mln facility | Zawya
Azizi hands over 53 buildings at flagship riviera project (11th August)
Azizi Developments announced that its flagship community, Azizi Riviera in MBR City, has entered its final delivery phase. To date, 53 of the 75 buildings; covering the first three phases and five buildings in Phase 4 that have been handed over. The remaining 22 are scheduled for completion by Q2 2026. Riviera features 75 mid- and high-rise buildings offering around 16,000 residences. Recent handovers include Riviera 67 and 65 in July, following Riviera 61 and 63 earlier this year. Upcoming deliveries include Azure in August and Riviera 52 in September, alongside other projects Azizi Vista and Beach Oasis I.
Read more at Azizi enters final handover phase for key Riviera projects | Zawya
Dubai records 4,049 new real estate activities in H1 2024 (11th August)
Dubai’s real estate sector saw 4,049 new activities registered in H1 2024, underlining its growing attractiveness to investors and industry providers. Enabled by an advanced regulatory framework and Dubai Land Department’s Trakheesi System which is the mandatory platform for activating core real estate services. Real estate brokerage for sales led registrations with 2,301 activities, followed by leasing brokerage with 1,279 and land/property trading with 273. Other services included property management, mortgage brokerage, valuation, consultancy, and development. The streamlined digital licensing process reflects DLD’s commitment to transparency, innovation, and Dubai’s 2033 strategy for a globally competitive real estate market.
Read more at Dubai Land Department records over 4,000 new real estate activities in H1 2025 | Zawya
China Railway 18G Middle East company reports major milestone on Dubai mega tower (12th August)
Structural work on Al Habtoor Group’s 82-storey skyscraper in Dubai has reached 65% completion, according to contractor China Railway 18G Middle East. The basement, podium and parking levels are fully finished, while installation of main entrance and lobby elevators has reached 50%. Work is progressing vertically, with construction currently up to level 68, and the amenity floor’s swimming pool now 30% complete. Located in Al Habtoor City, the tower is a landmark project for China Railway 18G Middle East, a subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), which aims to combine functionality and aesthetics in high-profile urban developments worldwide.
Read more at Work is in full swing at 82-storey Al Habtoor Tower
Aldar unveils 501-Unit Fahid beach terraces on fitwel-certified island (12th August)
Aldar has unveiled Fahid Beach Terraces, a new six-building residential community on the shoreline of Fahid Island in Abu Dhabi. The 501-unit luxury development offers a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments, duplexes, and six exclusive five-bedroom penthouses, complemented by wellness complexes, fitness studios, and lifestyle-focused amenities. Reflecting Fahid Island’s position as the world’s first Fitwel-certified island, the project prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and resident well-being. Fahid Beach Terraces is targeting a Fitwel 2-star rating, Estidama 3 Pearl certification, and LEED Gold, showcasing Aldar’s commitment to purposeful, environmentally responsible development and design excellence.
Read more at Aldar launches third residential project ‘Fahid Beach Terraces’| Zawya
UAE developers bring construction in-house to boost control and profits (13th August)
UAE developers are increasingly creating in-house construction arms to control costs, timelines, and quality amid a booming property market. Emaar, Samana, Ellington, Azizi, and Arada have launched or acquired internal contracting units, reducing reliance on external contractors. Dubai’s real estate prices surged 70% over four years, driving higher project launches but lower completions. Developers aim to secure cash flow, meet delivery deadlines, and expand operations, while tapping debt markets and managing escrowed buyer payments. Experts warn that in-house construction risks overextension, idle capacity during downturns, and management complexity, potentially leaving independent contractors to pivot to other sectors.
Read more at Dubai developers bring construction in-house as demand surges | Zawya
Dubai high-end office sales soar 207% in H1 2025 (13th August)
Dubai’s high-end office market is booming, with 83 properties selling above AED 10 Mn in H1 2025, a 207% jump from H1 2024, according to Knight Frank. Downtown Dubai leads with average prices above AED 5,000 per sqft, followed by Business Bay, surpassing AED 2,000 per sqft. DIFC remains the priciest leasing market at AED 400 per sqft, while The Greens, Dubai Design District, and Business Bay also see strong rents. Driven by tech, finance, real estate, and consulting sectors, demand has surged amid limited Grade-A supply. Developers plan 25.2 Mn sqft more by 2030, as companies consolidate into modern HQs.
Read more at In Dubai, offices costing Dh10m plus are the next big hit | Gulf News
New Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre rules streamline off plan Sales and Purchase Agreements terminations in Abu Dhabi (13th August)
Abu Dhabi property disputes for off plan projects no longer require court intervention, thanks to updated rules by the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC). Developers can request termination of non-compliant Sales and Purchase Agreements (SPAs) through a regulated process, while buyers’ rights are safeguarded, including verification of project timelines and proper notification. ADREC reviews all terminations, ensuring regulatory compliance before verdicts, though buyers may still pursue courts or arbitration if needed. The update also tightens advertising rules, requiring brokers to obtain ‘Madhmoun’ permits, reducing fake listings, and improving transparency. ADREC aims to further professionalize the market with regulated agent-seller agreements.
Read more at Abu Dhabi’s property investors, developers now have an option to settle legal disputes | Gulf News
Nisus Finance Investment Consultancy Dubai and BNW Developments partner on JVC residential tower acquisition (13th August)
Nisus Finance Investment Consultancy (NiFCO) Dubai has partnered with BNW Developments to acquire Esplora, a premium residential building in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) with 143 apartments and three retail units. Through its Nisus High Yield Growth Fund, registered with DIFC, NiFCO Holding 02 Ltd facilitated the acquisition. A new entity, BNW NiFCO Buying and Selling Real Estate, will manage the building’s development, marketing, and sales, focusing on move-in-ready, mid-income homes. The partnership combines NiFCO’s capital deployment expertise with BNW’s project management and sales capabilities, aiming to accelerate real estate growth, enhance asset quality, and attract international investment while supporting Dubai’s evolving property market.
Read more at Nisus joins BNW to acquire prime Jumeirah residential project| Zawya
Sharjah property market sees best month of 2025 with 11,377 deals (14th August)
Sharjah’s real estate sector recorded its highest monthly performance of 2025 in July, with AED 7.5 Bn in transactions across 11,377 deals, reflecting rising investor confidence and strong development momentum. Sales spanned 23.2 Mn sqft across 114 locations, supported by clear regulations, a stable economy, and modern infrastructure. Sales made up 13.2% of activity, mortgages 5.2% worth AED 2.8 Bn, and ownership transfers remained high. Transactions covered residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural land, with Arqoub Industrial registering the biggest sale at AED 251.8 Mn. Top trading areas included Tilal, Muwailih Commercial, Sajaa Industrial and Arqoub Industrial, emphasizing Sharjah’s growing appeal to diverse investors.
Read more at $2.04bln in real estate transactions in Sharjah in July | Zawya
Dubai commercial property prices triple in 12 months (14th August)
Dubai’s commercial property market has seen a dramatic surge in average sales prices, rising over threefold in the past 12 months to AED 14.41 Mn from AED 4.27 Mn in July 2024. The increase is driven by higher land values and property appreciation, with investors targeting premium, strategically located assets. Meanwhile, average rental rates for new commercial leases fell to AED 530,200, creating opportunities for tenants before rates rise amid growing demand and limited supply. Transaction values in July jumped 283% year-on-year, with top investors from India, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and the UK, reflecting Dubai’s appeal to relocating corporations and new businesses.
Read more at Dubai commercial property values in 3-fold increase to an average Dh14.4 million |Gulf News
Dubai Municipality conducts 25,000+ inspections to boost construction standards (14th August)
Dubai Municipality has significantly boosted construction regulation in H1 2025, conducting over 25,000 inspections, a 36% rise from last year, covering 18,800 projects spanning 36 Mn sqm. Compliance rates reached 96%, reflecting strong adherence to safety, quality, and sustainability standards. The period saw 1,669 building completion certificates issued, adding nearly 2 Mn sqm of residential, commercial, and industrial space. The Municipality promoted green construction, using 1.5 Mn cubic metres of eco-friendly concrete and recycling 16.4 Mn cubic metres of soil. These efforts advance Dubai’s vision of a sustainable, innovative, and investment-friendly construction sector, enhancing global urban development standards.
Read more at Dubai Municipality reports 36% surge in construction field inspections in H1 2025 | Gulf News
DMDC expands operations to Abu Dhabi with Four Seasons project (14th August)
DMDC, a Dubai-based construction and interior design firm, is expanding its operations to Abu Dhabi with a luxury renovation project at the Four Seasons Residences. The move follows the launch of DMDC Estates, the company’s property investment arm. After four years operating in Dubai, the firm is entering Abu Dhabi’s growing real estate market, responding to rising demand for bespoke residential and interior solutions. The Four Seasons project will be the first in a series of planned developments in the capital, reflecting the company’s intention to establish a steady presence and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s evolving property landscape.
Read more at DMDC enters Abu Dhabi with Four Seasons Residences project | Zawya
Damac Launches Capri One waterfront apartments at Riverside views (15th August)
Damac Properties has launched Capri One, a new phase at its Riverside Views development in Damac Riverside, Dubai Investments Park. Offering stylish one- and two-bedroom waterfront apartments, the project blends urban living with tranquil riverside views. Positioned near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai, the community provides easy access to major roads while promoting a peaceful lifestyle. Residents will enjoy world-class amenities such as a clubhouse, floating restaurant, Zen spa, hydroponic farm, fitness areas, and unique wellness features. With prices from AED 993,000 and attractive 0.25% monthly payment plans, Capri One targets first-time buyers, young couples, and investors.
Read more at Damac unveils new phase at Dubai master community development | Zawya
Lamcy Plaza returns to auction block at reduced AED 185 Million Price (15th August)
Once a bustling shopping landmark, Dubai’s Lamcy Plaza is back on the auction block with a base price of AED 185 Mn and a bid deadline of August 20. The mall, closed since a 2017 fire and was previously offered in April 2024 at AED 210 Mn, but attracted no bidders. Like the Palazzo Versace Dubai hotel that another high-profile property repeatedly offered at auction with price cuts. Lamcy Plaza has struggled to draw buyers despite its strong past performance. The mall was once known for heavy footfall and a popular mid-range food court. While surrounding residential and commercial areas remain in demand, attempts to revive Lamcy Plaza have yet to succeed.
Read more at Dubai’s Lamcy Plaza up for auction – asking price slashed | Gulf News
Meraki hands over the haven in Dubailand on schedule (15th August)
Meraki Developers has completed the on-schedule handover of The Haven, a contemporary residential community in Majan, Dubailand. Designed for urban convenience and tranquil living, the development features spacious layouts, premium interiors, and modern amenities including wellness facilities, co-working spaces, adult and kids’ pools, solar-powered parking, and recreation areas. Developed under Meraki’s vertically integrated model across design, engineering, and construction, The Haven marks a milestone in the company’s commitment to quality, timely delivery, and resident-centric planning. The project has earned praise from Dubai Municipality for enhancing the city’s residential landscape with design-led, sustainable communities, reinforcing Meraki’s growing presence in the UAE market.
Read more at Meraki starts handover of landmark residential handover in Dubailand | Zawya
Al Jaddaf emerges as Dubai’s newest freehold investment hotspot (17th August)
Al Jaddaf is emerging as Dubai’s latest freehold hotspot following the government’s decision to convert select plots from leasehold to freehold ownership. The move is expanding affordable options for end-users and investors seeking value compared to Downtown, Business Bay, or Sheikh Zayed Road. Developers such as Azizi are launching new projects like “Azizi David”, priced from AED 1.24 Mn for one-bedroom units, on plots now open to all nationalities. With strong metro connectivity and proximity to key hubs, industry forecasts expect a 15–30% rise in Al Jaddaf property values.
Read more at Al Jaddaf Emerges as Dubai’s Newest Freehold Investment Hotspot | Gulf News
