British citizens have taken the top spot among foreign real estate buyers in Dubai, displacing Indian investors from the leading position, according to real estate brokerage Betterhomes, based on data from March–April 2026.
British nationals have become the largest group of foreign homebuyers in the emirate. They are followed in the ranking by citizens of India, Australia, and Egypt. Transaction volumes by nationality are not disclosed, so the ranking reflects the brokerage firm’s internal statistics rather than the official report from the Dubai Land Department.
This change in leadership reflects a shift in the structure of international demand for Dubai real estate. Indian buyers have long been considered one of the key groups in the emirate’s market; however, in 2026, activity among British buyers increased amid interest in living and investing in the UAE, tax considerations, demand for rentals, and investors’ desire to diversify their capital outside the UK.
Overall, foreign demand remains one of the main drivers of the Dubai market. According to Betterhomes, 44,493 residential transactions worth 139.2 billion dirhams were recorded in Dubai during the first quarter of 2026. The number of transactions rose by 4% year-over-year, while their value increased by 21%. At the same time, the market has become more selective: buyers are evaluating property quality, location, price, and long-term potential more carefully.
Apartments currently account for the bulk of international purchases. Compact one- and two-bedroom units are in the highest demand, as they offer a lower entry price and are suitable for rental or resale. Dubai Marina remains the most active location in this segment. Other sought-after areas include Jumeirah Village Circle, Jumeirah Lake Towers, and Downtown Dubai.
Villas account for a smaller share of transactions but remain an important segment for buyers who view Dubai not only as an investment market but also as a place for long-term family living. Spacious five-bedroom homes are particularly in demand in this segment.
Townhouses enjoy more consistent demand, especially in new gated communities. Among the most active areas are DAMAC Lagoons, Tilal Al Ghaf, and Mohammed Bin Rashid City.
According to Betterhomes, investors remain the core group of buyers in the Dubai market. In the first quarter of 2026, they accounted for 57% of transactions, compared to 50% a year earlier. This confirms that for many foreign buyers, real estate in Dubai remains primarily an investment vehicle—with an eye toward rental income, appreciation, and high liquidity.
Ukrainians are not mentioned in the published list of leading nationalities. At the same time, Ukrainian buyers are quite active in the UAE real estate market, but according to available data, they are not among the leading national groups of homebuyers in Dubai.
British buyers, real estate in Dubai
