Property developers in Dubai are moving from long post-handover to construction-linked payment schedules in 2026 and beyond as the market becomes more mature.
With competition heating up among developers as the market steadies and slows down after a strong five-year rally, industry executives say that some of the players are offering up to 0.25 per cent per month payment plan.
“On the pricing front, developers have already adjusted rates upward, with phase-on-phase increases of 5-12 per cent now the norm and significantly higher jumps in supply-constrained, high-demand locations. Payment plans have also become more disciplined. The market is moving away from long post-handover structures toward construction-linked schedules, with 70/30 and 80/20 plans expected to be standard by 2026, particularly among Tier-1 developers,” said Himanshi Trivedi, deputy director for off-plan sales at Metropolitan Premium Properties.
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The gradual decline in interest rate Eibor has eased monthly repayment pressures for buyers, encouraging more people to transition from renting to ownership within the secondary market in Dubai.
Shaher Mousli, chairman of Gulf Land Property Developers, said they’re giving a construction-linked payment plan.
Qurat Ul Ain, CLO, DreX, DRE Homes, said there are some developers on the Palm who are linking payment plans to construction. “It’s always better for an overseas client to have such a payment plan, because they’re more relaxed. Now with the Dubai Land Department app, we are updated with every developer’s construction,” she said during an interview at the launch of the final phase of Tonino Lamborghini Residences Dubai, marking the last release of residences within the branded development.
Construction of the project has now surpassed 50 per cent completion.
She said some developers are offering as low as 0.25 per cent per month payment plans.
“It’s very difficult to manage that kind of payment plan, because you should have the bandwidth for it, but every developer has something unique. It gives a chance to a person who is working a normal job to make a house of his own,” she added.
In 2026, Trivedi expects fully personalised sales journeys, where buyers are matched with specific units, payment plans and amenities based on their preferences.
He added that demand will be strongest in areas combining infrastructure investment, lifestyle appeal and long-term value.
“Dubai South will continue to attract end-users and investors due to affordability and airport-led growth, while MBR City and Creek Harbour will benefit from premium positioning and strong capital appreciation. Arjan is expected to remain an investor favourite on the back of robust rental demand, while Dubai Harbour and Palm Jebel Ali will dominate the luxury and ultra-luxury segments with new waterfront and beachfront supply,” he said.
Waheed Abbas
Waheed Abbas is Assistant Editor, covering real estate, aviation and other business stories that directly affect the lives of UAE consumers. He frequently reports human interest stories, too.
