Top 10 Real Estate Developers in Dubai

Overview of Dubai's real estate market

Before reading about the top real estate developers in Dubai, it is important to gain a foundational understanding of the city’s dynamic property market. 

Dubai boasts diverse residential and commercial properties which include villas, apartments, office spaces, industrial parks, retail space, and more.

Despite the pandemic and a global economic slowdown, Dubai’s real estate market has continued growing. A report by Gulf Business stated that Dubai’s property market recorded a growth of over 30% during the first half of 2024 - with May being a record breaking month for property sales. 

One major factor for these statistics is the consistent arrival of people to work and live in Dubai, as well as growing interest from investors across the globe -  increasing the demand for Dubai real estate. And the city’s top real estate developers continue meeting those demands. 

Importance of choosing the right developer

While this article will outline the top real estate developers in Dubai, it is important to conduct further research and opt for the right developer for you. 

Once you understand the developer’s past projects, whether they completed them within the stipulated deadlines, whether they had any outstanding debts, and what existing property owners have to say, you can determine the right option for you. 

The right real estate developer will provide a well-constructed property to you, which, apart from normal wear and tear, will not pose problems for you in the future. 

Top Real Estate Developers in Dubai

Here is a list of Dubai’s top 10 real estate developers: 

1. Emaar Properties

Established in 1997, Emaar Properties has established itself as Dubai's number one real estate developer. The company has created renowned projects in the residential, retail, hospitality, and commercial sectors. It is prominent in Dubai and the UAE and has projects across the Middle East and North Africa. 

Iconic projects

• Burj Khalifa: This is the world’s tallest building. 

• Dubai Mall: One of the world’s largest malls. 

• Dubai Opera: The UAE’s first dedicated opera house. 

• Dubai Fountain: A creatively curated and choreographed fountain display that is very popular with tourists and locals. 

Key achievements

What makes Emaar Properties one of Dubai’s top real estate developers is their diverse project portfolio, which includes:

• Downtown Dubai 

• Emaar Beachfront 

• Dubai Marina 

• The Meadows 

• Arabian Ranches 

• The Springs 

• The Greens 

• Emirates Hills

Customer reviews

People who have either invested in or bought a property from Emaar Properties remain highly impressed with the developer’s pristine projects, fantastic amenities, and noteworthy locations. 

2. Nakheel

Nakheel is a commonly known name for those familiar with the Dubai real estate market. It is renowned for having a tremendous impact on Dubai’s property market by building breathtaking projects such as hotels, residential and commercial properties, waterfront destinations, and other high-ticket properties. 

Notable developments

The jewel of Nakheel’s projects so far happens to be Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island that houses some of Dubai’s and the world’s most exclusive and expensive properties. Other notable developments of Nakheel include:

• Jumeirah Islands

• Palm Jebel Ali

• Discovery Gardens 

• Jebel Ali Village 

• The Gardens 

• Nad Al Sheba Villas 

• Jumeirah Village Circle

Impact on Dubai's landscape

Nakheel is responsible for some of Dubai's most famous landmarks. It is no exaggeration when people say that Nakheel literally expanded the city through infrastructure. The construction of Palm Jumeirah added over 300 kilometers of land to Dubai’s coastline. 

Customer feedback

It is no surprise that Nakheel is one of the top real estate developers in Dubai because of its extensive projects. Customers acknowledge the clean finishes of the property, the multifaceted amenities, and the spacious units. 

3. DAMAC Properties

Since it was established in 2002, DAMAC Properties has rapidly risen the ranks to become one of the top real estate developers in Dubai and globally. The company’s impressive project portfolio spans Dubai, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, and the UK. 

Luxury offerings

DAMAC Properties is known for its luxurious properties, chief amongst them being DAMAC Hills - a premium gated golf community that offers an exclusive selection of villas, apartments, and townhouses along with other world-class facilities. 

Signature projects

Other notable projects by the real estate developer include:

• DAMAC Towers 

• Ghalia Constella 

• DAMAC Hills 2 

• Damac Lagoons

The developer has a very impressive real estate portfolio. 

Market reputation

DAMAC Properties has a stellar market reputation with a record for delivering high-quality projects to investors and homebuyers alike. One of its unique selling points is capturing the essence of luxury in its properties.

4. Meraas

A Dubai-based holding company with notable real estate developments across several sectors, Meraas is also known as one of the top real estate developers in Dubai. The company has a vast portfolio that spans F&B, real estate, healthcare, hospitality, and entertainment. 

Innovative developments

Some of Meraas’s most innovative developments include: 

• Bluewaters Island

• City Walk 

• Jumeirah Bay

• Port de la Mer 

• Bvlgari Resort 

Key contributions to Dubai

As one of Dubai’s top real estate developers, Meraas is known for not only great-quality commercial, residential, and recreational properties but also for innovating brilliant recreational spaces for both residents and tourists in Dubai. 

Client satisfaction

Meraas’ clients praise the developer for attention to detail, modern projects that align with changing design and construction trends, and for creating iconic lifestyle destinations.

5. Sobha Realty

One of the oldest and top real estate developers in Dubai, Sobha Realty was established in 1976 with a promise to implement quality and craftsmanship in its projects. The developer has amassed many clients in Dubai and across the world with its presence in Oman, Dubai, India, Brunei, and Bahrain. 

Quality and craftsmanship

Sobha Realty is regarded for its attention to quality and impeccable, timeless craftsmanship in its projects. Its luxury properties across Dubai echo class and elegance thanks to unique designs and strong construction. 

Prominent projects

From premium apartment and residential properties to the world’s largest man-made crystal lagoon, some of the developer’s prominent projects include: 

• Sobha Hartland 

• Hartland Gardenia Villas 

• Sobha Seahaven 

• Sobha Reserve

• Verde 

Several of these projects are based in Meydan, an excellent area to buy an apartment in Dubai or other kinds of properties. Many investors and entrepreneurs are eyeing Meydan due to its excellent location close to Downtown Dubai.

Buyer experiences

Sobha Realty is not only investor-friendly, but also a great choice for those who want to buy an apartment or villa in Dubai. With diverse property types across its projects, buyers can also find a great option for them with Sobha.

6. Dubai Properties

Dubai Properties was established in 2002 and is well-known for contributing highly regarded projects to the city’s real estate market. Its most famous project to date is Jumeirah Beach Residence, which is known as the world’s largest single-phase residential project. 

Residential and commercial projects

Dubai Properties boasts a diverse range of residential and commercial projects for different budgets, requirements, and kinds of buyers, including: 

• Jumeirah Beach Residence

• Dubai Business Bay 

• Dubailand 

• Jaddaf Waterfront 

• Business Bay Marina 

Unique selling points

Dubai Properties prides itself upon not only constructing premium properties across the city but also investing in areas and locations that will give its customers great views, world-class facilities, and high returns on investment. 

Customer testimonials

Customers credit Dubai Properties for their versatile real estate portfolio and for creating an exclusive and enriching lifestyle through its well designed projects.

7. Ellington

Ellington Properties, founded in 2014, has quickly established itself as a premier developer in the UAE, renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and a focus on creating high-quality living spaces. With a portfolio that blends elegant design with practical functionality, Ellington caters to discerning buyers seeking modern luxury. The company emphasizes sustainability and architectural excellence, striving to enhance residents' lifestyles through carefully curated amenities and a commitment to craftsmanship.

Landmark projects

Ellington's projects are strategically located in Dubai's most sought-after areas, offering seamless connectivity to key cultural, commercial, and recreational hubs.

Some notable projects include:

• Claydon House, Nad Al Sheba 1

• Mercer House, Jumeirah Lakes Towers

• Rosemont Residences, Jumeirah Village Triangle

• Hillmont Residences, Jumeirah Village Circle

• Ellington Views, Ras Al Khaimah

Market perception

Ellington Properties is widely perceived as a leading luxury developer in the UAE, praised for its design-driven approach, high-quality craftsmanship, and focus on creating sustainable, community-centric living spaces.

8. Select Group

If you get your hands on a Dubai area guide, some of the prime properties you will find are the city’s waterfront properties. Excelling in these, and other property types, is what Select Group does.

An international real estate developer with projects across the UAE, Europe, and the UK, Select Group is renowned for its stunning projects that are a treat to the eyes. 

Premium developments

This developer’s premium developments offer the best facilities, from residences to amenities, along with a lifestyle like no other. Select Group prioritizes well-being and the high life, which is reflected in their outstanding developments. 

Waterfront projects

Their prime waterfront projects include:

• Jumeirah Living Marina Gate 

• Bay Central, Dubai Marina

• Pacific, Ras Al Khaimah

The developer also has various off-plan properties which have caught the eye of many investors, such as:

• Six Senses, Dubai Marina

• Nautica at Dubai Maritime City 

• The Edge at Business Bay 

• Peninsula Four at Business Bay 

Client reviews

While the premium waterfront properties and other prime locations of Dubai are the developer’s unique selling point, clients admire the company’s commitment to crafting luxury that is unique and fresh with each development. 

8. Azizi Developments

Amongst one of the top real estate developers in Dubai stands Azizi Developments. The developer has an interesting range of properties with something for everyone - from affordable modern residences to luxury properties. 

Affordable luxury

Azizi Development emphasizes the importance of affordable luxury and strives to create projects that offer people the best amenities and a high quality of life, at highly affordable prices. 

Landmark projects

As of 2024, the developer has over 100 projects in the pipeline, adding to its diverse real estate portfolio which includes landmark projects such as:

• Creek Views

• Aura 

• Riviera Rêve

• Royal Bay 

• Riveria Phase 1 

Many of its projects are based in desirable locations such as Downtown Jebel Ali, Dubai Studio City, Al Furjan, Palm Jumeirah, and more. 

Market perception

One of Azizi Development’s prime selling points is its off-plan properties, which find ample investments from people because of its reputation, unique projects, and timely completion. This makes it a great choice for people who either want to live or invest in Dubai real estate. 

10. Danube Properties

Danube Properties is well-known for being one of the top real estate developers in Dubai, especially when it comes to creating affordable luxury. This developer’s project portfolio transcends residential and commercial properties, with work in home interiors, building materials, and hospitality. 

Affordable housing solutions

Danube Properties seems to have aced the affordable luxury housing formula, with a number of developments across Dubai that balance the best of amenities and housing with a pocket-friendly price and post-handover payment plans.

Popular projects

Some of the developer’s most popular projects with customers include:

• Diamondz, Jumeirah Lake Towers

• Sportz, Dubai Sports City

• Bayz101, Business Bay

• Oceanz, Dubai Maritime City

The developer has also been involved in big-ticket projects such as the construction of Dubai Airport Terminal 3 and Grand Hyatt. 

Customer feedback

Customers appreciate Danube Properties for their trademark features such as fully-furnished apartments, flexible payment plans and great amenities.

Conclusion

While this Dubai area guide gives you an idea of highly-renowned real estate developers, it is important to carry out research and go with the one that meets your requirements. 

Navigating around Dubai’s real estate market might seem tricky, especially for first-timers. This is where Engel & Völkers comes into the picture. 

For over 45 years, Engel & Völkers has been specializing in the residential and commercial real estate market in Dubai and 35 other countries. With a team of over 16,500 employees who are committed to helping you find your dream home in Dubai and across the world, you can expect high competence, exclusivity, and a passion for properties with Engel & Völkers. 

Get in touch with us at dubai@engelvoelkers.com or call us at 800 355.