Investing in Dubai: the guide to framing your project

Dubai South is developing around Al Maktoum airport and Expo City. It is an area for the future, not yet a mature market: you invest there for the long horizon, accepting greater uncertainty over timing.

Quick answer

  • Main driver: the expansion of Al Maktoum airport, approved in April 2024 for AED 128 billion.
  • Horizon: long term; the first phase is announced over about ten years.
  • Who it suits: a patient investor who does not need a high rent straight away.
  • Watch out for: abundant supply, the infrastructure timeline, liquidity at resale.

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1. What has been officially announced

According to the Dubai Media Office (28 April 2024), the new terminal at Al Maktoum airport represents an investment of AED 128 billion, for a final capacity of 260 million passengers a year. The first phase, planned within ten years, targets 150 million passengers, and all of Dubai International's operations are to be transferred there in due course.

The same announcement states that the project will create demand for housing for around one million people in Dubai South.

2. What this means for an investor

  • Future demand is credible, but it will arrive gradually: today's rents do not yet reflect tomorrow's area.
  • Many developers are launching projects at the same time: choosing the product and the exact location matters more than the general announcement.
  • A staged payment plan can align your financial effort with the development timeline.

3. Points to watch

  • The actual distance between the project and the future employment hubs (airport, logistics zone, Expo City).
  • The volume of competing deliveries over the same period.
  • Your ability to keep the property for several years if a quick resale is not possible.
  • The developer's reputation and the project's status with the Dubai Land Department.

4. Our approach

We only present Dubai South to investors whose time horizon and cash position are compatible with an area under construction. For a goal of quick income, mature neighbourhoods such as Business Bay are often a better fit. Before any reservation, the off-plan checklist applies in full.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Dubai South attract investors?

Because in April 2024 the Government of Dubai launched the expansion of Al Maktoum airport, which is eventually due to take over Dubai International's operations and generate strong housing demand around it.

Is Dubai South suitable for an immediate yield?

Not as a priority. It is above all a long-term capital growth strategy; rents depend on the actual pace at which the airport and the infrastructure open.

What are the main risks?

The gap between announcements and the actual timeline, the large volume of homes delivered at the same time, and reselling before residents arrive.

Sources

Mago Kitaev

Mago Kitaev, licensed real estate broker in Dubai (RERA, BRN 82528), based in Business Bay. A former project manager in banking and IT, he has been advising French-speaking investors since 2024. See his background

This content is for information only and does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice.