Dubai retains its leading position in branded residences globally

date
29/09/2026
author
Unique Estates Dubai

Dubai continues to be the world's leading market for branded residences, with the gap compared to other major cities remaining significant. According to a new study, the emirate has 175 active and planned projects, solidifying its position as a global center for the development of branded residential concepts. Out of all the projects, 68 are already operational, and 107 are in the process of development. This places the city at a significant distance ahead of other leading markets.

For comparison:

Miami - 73 projects

New York - 38 projects

Phuket - 35 projects

London - 30 projects

Thus, Dubai has more than twice as many branded residences as Miami - the city that occupies the second spot in the global ranking.

Particularly telling is also the diversity of brands entering the residential segment. 42% of the projects are associated with brands outside the traditional hotel sector, which shows how the concept is gradually expanding beyond the classic model. Names from the fashion world such as Elie Saab, Armani, and Missoni are already present in the residential segment, as well as automotive brands like Lamborghini, Aston Martin, and Pininfarina.

This reflects a broader shift in the concept of branded residences - from homes managed by hotel operators to spaces that utilize the identity, design, and lifestyle associated with a specific international brand.

The new generation of residences increasingly includes not only residential areas and standard amenities, but also services related to health and longevity. An example of such a trend is Six Senses The Palm in Dubai, where a wellness club with an area of about 5,500 sqm is planned. Residential projects are gradually evolving around an entire experience and lifestyle, rather than just around the architecture and interior of the home itself.

The UAE accounts for 19% of the global market for branded residences, while the Middle East as a whole forms about 25% of the global supply. At the same time, this type of project is no longer a concept limited mainly to large cities. In 2025, 55% of projects worldwide were located outside urban centers, including in resort destinations such as Al Marjan Island.

For Dubai, this development creates a particularly interesting position - the city combines the scale and international connectivity of a global business center with tourist infrastructure, a high standard of living, and a highly developed real estate environment.

Dubai's leadership in branded residences is indicative of the direction in which the premium residential market is developing - more and more projects built around recognizable brands, services, wellness concepts, and an overall experience. And with over 100 projects in the process of development, the market seems far from exhausting its potential.

 

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