UAE: Residential property prices in Dubai may continue to soften by 1% to 5% in H1 2015, before stabilizing in the second half of the year, according to Deloitte’s predictions report for the Dubai real estate sector in 2015.
Deloitte Financial Advisory launched its inaugural Real Estate predictions report for the Emirate of Dubai. The report takes an in-depth look at the economy, as well as residential, hospitality, office and retail spaces in 2014 and provides outlooks for 2015.
“Dubai’s property market has experienced another year of change, with a leveling off in capital growth, in certain areas, towards the end of the calendar year. Whilst possibly not welcomed by traders and speculators, this new characteristic suggests a market that is in fact maturing and arguably strengthening. Provided growth continues at sustainable and realistic levels over the medium term, this is likely to improve end-user and investor confidence, which will have obvious benefits to the Dubai property market as a whole,” Robin Williamson, managing director, Deloitte Corporate Finance Limited, said.
“Deloitte experts consider that residential transactions have slowed to a more sustainable level, reflecting the longer term trend, and predict this level of transactions to continue for the remainder of the year. Residential sales prices in Dubai may continue to soften by 1% to 5% in H1 2015, before stabilizing in the second half of the year. Affordability, for both nationals and expatriates, will gain more attention in 2015 and that areas such as International City and Sports City, where more amenity is planned, will continue to experience strong demand. Overseas investors will continue to drive demand but transaction volumes may be impacted by increasing stability in Egypt and the financial and political issues affecting Russia,” the report added.
“Dubai’s status as a leading retail destination globally is predicted to continue to drive demand from world renowned retailers. Apple has announced that it will open a new regional store in Dubai this year, expected to be their biggest outlet in the world, and we predict additional demand from leading retailers for flagship stores, who have not yet debuted in Dubai.
“Retail sales in Dubai will continue to grow. Super prime malls will experience further growth in tourist numbers whilst residents will drive demand for convenience retail and non-mall retail concepts
“Strong performance in the hospitality market in 2014 was reflected in keen investor interest. In terms of retail, The Dubai Mall welcomed a record 80 million visitors in 2014 and retailers experienced 14% growth in sales,” Williamson, added.
“These trends are expected to continue in 2015 and further support the view that Dubai is one of the most innovative and forward looking global destinations for both the hospitality and retail industry,” Williamson, said.