Dubai real estate market gets 130 % surge in Chinese investment

As of H1 2023, Chinese investment in the Dubai real estate market has increased by 130 % compared to post-pandemic statistics. The once preferred studios and 1-bedroom apartments are now being replaced by a higher demand for spacious villas and townhouses as the Chinese are evermore looking for improved housing conditions. The locations of these investments have also shifted to more prestigious areas of Dubai, such as Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Chinese investors also prefer paying completely in cash, with nearly 80 % of all transactions taking place without the need for banks or mortgages. Considering the strong relationship between the governments of the UAE and China, these trends are predicted to be consistent and even increase as 2023 comes to a close.

During the pandemic, China closed its borders and enacted strict travel restrictions that prohibited citizens from leaving the country and, ultimately, making overseas investments. It was at that time that Russian citizens began relocating to Dubai in droves, making significant investments in the real estate market. Now that these restrictions in China have been lifted, the Chinese are returning with a vengeance, seemingly trying to make up for lost time.

The luxury real estate sector in particular has been booming, thanks to the huge demand for branded luxury residences and mega-villas by Chinese, Russian and other foreign investors.