In the first half of 2025, Emirati women emerged as key players in Dubai’s real estate market. According to the Dubai Land Department (DLD), female citizens of the UAE were responsible for property transactions totaling AED 71 billion — approximately €18 billion. This record-setting figure reflects not only the growing economic power of women but also a broader shift toward financial independence and strategic investment.
Women in Real Estate: A New Market Force
DLD’s data shows that more than 15,000 women conducted over 22,000 property transactions in Dubai during H1 2025. Emirati women accounted for over 40% of the total, investing €18 billion — a 24% increase from the same period in 2024.
This trend underscores a new investment dynamic, where women increasingly view real estate as a profitable asset class. It signals a shift from passive property ownership to active, yield-focused investment strategies.
Top Areas for Female Investors
Women are investing across a range of high-growth neighborhoods, including:
- Dubai Marina – apartments priced around €6,500/m², with rental yields of 6–7% annually.
- Downtown Dubai – luxury properties from €7,800/m², popular for short-term tourist lets.
- Business Bay – a central business hub attracting professional investors, from €5,200/m².
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – an up-and-coming affordable district, starting at €3,800/m².
Investors are especially keen on studios and one- to two-bedroom apartments, as well as townhouses in gated communities with amenities.
Factors Behind the Surge in Female Investment
1. Economic Empowerment
Recent reforms have significantly expanded women’s financial rights in the UAE. Women can now independently start businesses, own assets, and execute property transactions without male guardianship.
2. Accessible Mortgage Options
Female investors benefit from attractive mortgage products. Rates range from 2.99% to 4.25% annually in dirhams (about 2.8–4% in euros), with minimum down payments starting at 15%. Emirates NBD and First Abu Dhabi Bank offer tailored loan products for women.
3. Rise of Female Entrepreneurs
Dubai Business Women Council reports that over 30% of startups launched in 2024 were founded by women. Many of these entrepreneurs are reinvesting profits into real estate.
4. Government Support
Initiatives such as Vision 2030 and Dubai Women Establishment promote female participation in all economic sectors, including real estate.
Preferred Property Types
Women investors typically seek:
- Modern apartments with full amenities (pool, gym, security);
- Short-term rental units managed via platforms like Airbnb;
- Compact commercial offices (up to 80 m²) in central locations;
- Land plots for resale or custom development.
Average prices in Dubai:
- Studio: from €150,000
- 1-bedroom: from €230,000
- 2-bedroom: from €350,000
- Townhouse: from €450,000
- Small commercial space: from €180,000
Foreign Women Investors on the Rise
While Emirati women lead the charge, many international women have joined the market. Investors from India, the UK, France, Lebanon, and China are taking advantage of Dubai’s business-friendly environment and long-term visa programs.
Foreign women accounted for around 35% of total female-led transactions in H1 2025, equating to roughly €10 billion.
Yields and Investment Attractiveness
According to Bayut and Property Finder, average rental yields in Dubai range from 5% to 8%, depending on location:
- Dubai Marina: 6.5%
- JVC: 7.2%
- Business Bay: 5.9%
- Palm Jumeirah: ~5.5%
In 2024, capital appreciation averaged 10.7%, with luxury areas seeing gains of up to 15%. These metrics make Dubai a leading destination for yield-seeking investors.
Digital Tools and PropTech Adoption
Women are increasingly leveraging digital real estate platforms. In 2025, 60% of deals were completed online via apps and websites. Tools such as ROI calculators, virtual tours, and rental performance trackers are popular among tech-savvy investors.
Success Stories
- Aisha Al Mansouri, 33, owns three units in JVC, earning 9% annual yield via Airbnb rentals.
- Maysa bint Nasser, runs a luxury rental company with a €12 million portfolio.
- Layla Haddad, purchased a commercial space in Business Bay for €310,000 and earns €1,850/month in rent.
Outlook for H2 2025
Analysts at Knight Frank and CBRE expect continued growth in female-driven investment. Group investment models — including crowdfunding and women-only investment clubs — are gaining traction. Developers are also responding by tailoring marketing and design for female buyers.
Conclusion
The €18 billion invested by Emirati women in H1 2025 is more than a statistic — it reflects a structural transformation in Dubai’s economy and society. Women are asserting themselves as independent financial agents and reshaping the real estate landscape.
With strong government backing, accessible financing, and growing investor confidence, the role of women in property is poised to expand. Dubai continues to reinforce its status as one of the world’s most dynamic and inclusive real estate markets.
