Dubai Property Agents Under Pressure As Real Estate Heats Up In Mid-2025
Dubai's real estate market is booming in mid-2025 — and not in a small way. Sales are at record highs, new projects are launching every month, and foreign investment keeps flowing in. At first glance, it might seem like a golden time for property agents. But behind the scenes, many are struggling.
It's been a busy year. By Q2 2025, Dubai saw nearly 50,000 property transactions — up more than 80% from two years ago. Buyers aren't slowing down, and agents are racing to keep up with inquiries, viewings, paperwork, and sales.
Population growth is a big driver. In just the first three months of the year, over 90,000 new people moved to Dubai. That's a lot of demand — and a lot of pressure for agents to find the right homes, fast.
Off-plan properties — homes that aren't built yet — are now dominating sales. These make up nearly 70% of all deals, and they require agents to explain more: future timelines, developer credibility, and payment structures.
One example is BNW La Perla a premium waterfront apartment project in Al Marjan Island. Though it hasn't launched fully yet, its starting price of AED 2.3 million is already drawing investor attention. Agents must know such projects inside out to match them with the right buyers.
Back in 2019, Dubai had about 4,500 licensed property agents. In mid-2025, that number is over 27,000. Nearly 8,000 agencies are competing for clients, making it hard for even skilled agents to stand out.
Industry experts estimate that only about 1 in 5 agents are closing deals consistently. Many newcomers don't last six months. Some slash their commissions just to land a client or hold on to a developer connection. In a commission-only business, that's not sustainable.
Today's buyers aren't just asking for prices and photos. They're showing up with market data, comparisons, and questions pulled from sites like DXBinteract and Bayut.
Many are younger and tech‑savvy. They expect agents to respond fast, provide virtual tours, and back their advice with facts.
Others are wealthy global investors. Dubai is expected to welcome around 10,000 new millionaires this year alone. These clients are looking for top-tier service, deep market knowledge, and privacy. Agents who can't meet these expectations lose out — fast.
It's not just clients applying pressure. The regulators are watching too.
Dubai Land Department (DLD) and RERA have rolled out stricter rules in 2025. Property ads now need official QR codes and registered phone numbers. Agents must use approved contracts and follow the "Three Broker Rule" to avoid duplicate listings.
Even getting a license is harder now. Agents must pass exams, complete annual training, and stay updated on legal and compliance changes. The days of freelancing with just a business card are long gone.
Over 60% of Dubai property deals now happen digitally. If agents can't keep up with online platforms, virtual viewings, and digital paperwork, they're out of the game.
Buyers expect smooth, tech‑driven experiences — from chatbot responses to video walkthroughs. And developers now prefer to work with agents who understand how to market on social media, generate online leads, and use CRM tools effectively.
- Picking a Niche
Many agents are specializing — whether in luxury villas, branded residences, short‑term rentals, or certain locations like JVC or Dubai Hills. With focused knowledge, they're able to serve specific buyers better. - Learning Continuously
The best agents are taking courses in negotiation, legal compliance, and international client management. Many are also getting trained on blockchain and property tokenisation, as Dubai begins to explore real estate payments through crypto platforms. - Building Real Relationships
In a competitive market, reputation matters. Agents who stay honest, offer clear guidance, and put clients first often gain more referrals and long‑term clients — far beyond one‑time sales. - Using Real Data
Guesswork doesn't work anymore. Top agents use platforms like ValuStrat and Property Monitor to track market trends and offer solid investment advice — not just sell a listing.
Dubai's property market isn't expected to slow down anytime soon. As the city grows, more investors and residents will look to buy here — and that means more work for agents.
But the job is no longer just about matching buyers and sellers. It's about being a guide, a researcher, and a problem‑solver.
Projects like BNW La Perla show where the market is going — toward lifestyle, waterfront living, and long‑term value. Agents who can understand these trends and explain them clearly will stand out.
Dubai's real estate boom brings big rewards, but also big challenges for those working in it. Agents today are expected to know more, do more, and deliver more — all while navigating fierce competition and evolving rules.
It's not easy. But those who adapt — who specialize, stay informed, embrace tech, and build trust — will not just survive. They'll lead.