Have you been spending prolonged hours commuting between Emirates? Many citizens are rethinking their desire to move out of Dubai, in particular as traffic increases and rental costs rise in neighboring emirates like Sharjah, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi. With new residences developing in Dubai’s 2nd-tier regions, 2025 is expected to look like a shift in residential traits, drawing tenants back to the city. This article provides you with all the essential details about the return of tenants.

Why Dubai Tenants Who Moved To Other Emirates Are Likely To Return In 2025

New Supply In Second-Tier Areas

In 2025, Dubai’s second-tier areas like Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Arjan, Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT), Sports City, and Motor City are expected to have a high delivery rate of residential units. These areas are witnessing significant new developments, offering competitive rents compared to neighboring emirates. Over 120,000 residential units are currently under construction in Dubai, with many slated for delivery in 2025.

This is a considerable increase from the approximately 40,700 units completed in 2024. The influx of new properties is expected to stabilize rental prices in these areas, making them a viable choice for tenants who previously moved out for affordability.

Cost Comparisons: Dubai Vs. Neighboring Emirates

The narrowing gap in rental costs between Dubai and its neighboring emirates is another factor encouraging residents to return. For instance, a studio apartment in Dubai’s International City is priced at AED 20,000 annually. Similar units in Sharjah’s high-end areas close to Dubai are rented for AED 18,000 annually. In Ajman, studio rents average AED 17,000 annually.

Although these figures show a slight cost advantage for Sharjah and Ajman, the difference becomes negligible when considering the added expenses of fuel and the time spent commuting. For many, the convenience of living closer to their workplace in Dubai outweighs the marginal savings on rent in neighboring emirates.

The Commuting Burden

For residents who commute daily between Dubai and neighboring Emirates, traffic congestion is a major pain point. It’s estimated that motorists spend three to four hours on the road each day during weekdays. This long commute not only takes a toll on personal time but also increases stress and fatigue. As Dubai continues to grow, so does the volume of traffic on its roads. Many residents find it increasingly difficult to manage the commute, prompting them to consider relocating closer to their workplaces in the city.

Also Read: Dubai: Record Emerald Hills Sale Fetches $11 Million Profit For Investor.

Population Growth And Infrastructure Development

Dubai’s commitment to infrastructure development has been a key factor in its growth as a global city. Even during challenging periods like the 2008-09 financial crisis and the pandemic, the emirate prioritized investments in roads, bridges, and public transport systems. This continuous improvement of infrastructure ensures that Dubai remains well-equipped to accommodate its growing population. For residents, this translates to better connectivity, improved road networks, and enhanced quality of life.

One of Dubai’s strongest appeals is its high quality of life. The city is known for its safety, modern amenities, and diverse lifestyle options. Families, in particular, are drawn to Dubai’s reputation as a safe and welcoming environment. Residents also benefit from Dubai’s world-class healthcare, education, and entertainment facilities. These factors make it a top choice for those looking to improve their overall living standards.

The Shift From Old Dubai To New Communities

The trend of moving from older neighborhoods in Dubai to newer, more modern communities is expected to continue in 2025. Areas like Jumeirah Village Circle, Arjan, and Motor City offer a range of housing options at competitive prices. These newer communities are designed to provide residents with a balanced lifestyle, offering amenities such as parks, schools, and shopping centers many, the convenience and affordability of these areas outweigh the appeal of living in older parts of Dubai.

Rental Trends In 2025

With the high delivery rate of new residential units, rental prices in Dubai’s second-tier areas are expected to relax slightly. This will provide tenants with more affordable options within the city, reducing the need to move to neighboring emirates. Experts believe that this adjustment in rental prices will make Dubai’s housing market more accessible to a wider range of residents, from young professionals to families.

Property Market Resilience

Dubai’s real estate market has demonstrated remarkable resilience over the years. After experiencing fluctuations during the global financial crisis and the pandemic, the market has rebounded strongly. The number of transactions in Dubai’s property market has significantly increased, reflecting a healthy balance between supply and demand. Experts believe this trend will continue, driven by the delivery of new residential units and the city’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development.

Arshad Darbar’s Perspective  

Arshad Darbar, a seasoned real estate expert with years of experience in the UAE market, views this potential shift as a positive development for Dubai. He highlights that the emirate’s ability to attract residents back speaks volumes about its adaptability and forward-thinking strategies. Darbar points out that the narrowing gap in rental costs between Dubai and neighboring emirates is a game-changer.

For many tenants, the slight difference in rent is outweighed by the advantages of living closer to their workplace, enjoying Dubai’s modern infrastructure, and spending less time on the road. He also emphasizes the significance of the new property supply in second-tier areas. These developments offer tenants not just affordability but also access to well-designed communities with modern amenities.

According to Darbar, this combination of factors makes Dubai an increasingly attractive destination for residents. Darbar believes that 2025 will mark a turning point for Dubai’s residential market. With the delivery of new housing units, improved infrastructure, and competitive rents, the emirate is well-positioned to accommodate its growing population. For Darbar, this trend underscores Dubai’s status as a global city that continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its residents.

Conclusion  

For many residents who recently moved to neighboring emirates, 2025 presents a unique opportunity to reconsider Dubai as a more convenient and affordable living option. With the addition of new properties, enhanced infrastructure, and competitive rental rates, Dubai is becoming an increasingly attractive choice for individuals and families alike. As the city continues to expand and improve, its appeal as a desirable place to live and work will only grow stronger in the coming years.