Dubai's secondary sales market is quietly outperforming expectations. According to an article from Arabian Business, the resale segment posted AED 25.9 billion across 7,718 transactions in October 2025, a 2% year-on-year increase in value and 1% in volume, even as primary off-plan sales cooled by 8% in value.

Secondary Off-Plan Resales Lead Growth
The standout driver was secondary off-plan resales, which surged 15% in value and 8% in volume. This reflects a growing preference among buyers for units with nearer handover dates or already completed properties, reducing construction risk and delivery uncertainty.

Al Barsha South Fourth emerged as a top performer, recording 687 transactions worth AED 1.4 billion, up from AED 768 million in October 2024. Burj Khalifa saw transaction values climb 17% year-on-year, underscoring sustained appetite in established, high-visibility locations.

Why the Secondary Market Matters Today
The 2% growth in secondary sales is modest but consistent and comes at a time when primary transaction values fall and mortgage buyers are shifting toward smaller, more affordable units. Apartments now represent 57% of buyer interest, with studios and one-bedroom units outperforming larger formats.

This points to a market where end users are prioritizing certainty over speculation. Ready properties offer immediate occupancy, transparent pricing, and no construction delays which is a key factor for residents looking to hedge against rent inflation or secure long-term housing stability.

What to Watch
With over 100,000 units scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2027, how quickly off-plan projects convert into secondary inventory and at what price will shape liquidity and affordability across Dubai's resale market. Communities like Nad Al Sheba, Al Barsha, and Al Yelayiss 1 are likely to see increased secondary activity as handovers accelerate.

The secondary market's resilience suggests Dubai's property cycle is maturing: less hype, more fundamentals. Having watched this market evolve over the years, I can say the secondary segment is no longer the afterthought; it’s the heartbeat of genuine, end-user demand.

If you’re weighing a move or investment in 2026, keep your eye on ready properties in emerging communities,  they’re where the smart money is heading.