Dubai’s Real Estate Firsts and Records

Did you know that Dubai’s freehold property law, which allows foreigners to own property outright, was launched back in 2002? This bold move changed the city’s skyline and made Dubai one of the world’s hottest property markets almost overnight.

Speaking of skylines, the Burj Khalifa isn’t just the world’s tallest building, it also holds the record for the highest residential floor anywhere on Earth. But it’s not the only giant: the Princess Tower in Dubai Marina was once the tallest residential tower in the world, and Dubai’s “Manhattan of the Middle East” nickname is well-earned thanks to the cluster of ultra-modern skyscrapers in Dubai Marina.

Jaw-Dropping Property Deals

Dubai is famous for record-breaking property sales. As of 2025, the most expensive villa ever sold in the city went for an astonishing AED 410 million! On the rental front, 2024 saw a Palm Jumeirah villa leased for over AED 4 million per year, that’s more than AED 330,000 per month. Not every property is an ultra, luxury listing, but these numbers definitely get people talking.

Leasing, The Dubai Way

Leasing in Dubai comes with its own set of quirks. Traditionally, most tenants paid rent by handing over one, two, or four post-dated cheques for the entire year, something that surprises newcomers from abroad! Digital payments are now becoming more common, but the cheque tradition remains strong.

If you’re renting, you’ve probably heard of Ejari, the official system for registering all tenancy contracts. It’s more than just paperwork: Ejari registration gives you legal protection, helps resolve disputes, and is required for connecting utilities.

You might also spot rental ads describing a property as “chiller-free.” That means air conditioning costs are included in the rent, a huge plus during Dubai’s scorching summers!

Unique Laws, Local Lingo, and Fun Facts

Dubai’s real estate scene has some unexpected rules and vocabulary. Some towers are still “no pets allowed,” so it’s smart to double, check before you move in with your furry friends. Love home makeovers? Most rental contracts require landlord approval for painting or big changes, get permission first to protect your deposit.

If you’re new to the market, here are a few handy terms:

• Ejari: The official registration of your rental contract.
• Chiller-Free: Rent includes AC costs.
• DEWA: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, your go-to for utilities.

Dubai’s Property Market in Numbers

Dubai Land Department registers property transactions worth billions of dirhams every month. Many luxury villas come with private pools or even their own beaches, while off-plan sales (buying before construction is finished) are among the most active in the world.

And innovation never stops: From underwater villas at The Heart of Europe, to rotating skyscrapers and floating homes, Dubai continues to redefine what’s possible in real estate.

Have a Fun Fact to Share?

Every home in Dubai has its own story, and every resident has a favorite piece of real estate trivia. Got a fun fact or surprising story about Dubai’s property scene? Share it in the comments, or tag us @CordovaProperty on social media!