Buyer intent strengthened in August

A recent market-sentiment survey of 4,113 active property seekers found that about 69% planned to buy within the following six months. The share increased from 68% in July to 71% in August, indicating that buying interest remained firm even as regional headlines created uncertainty.

The result measures intention among active property seekers, not completed sales. It is therefore a useful indicator of demand sentiment, but it should be read alongside registered transactions, financing conditions, available supply and the type of property buyers are considering.

• The survey included 4,113 active property seekers.
• Around 69% planned to buy within six months.
• Buyer intent rose from 68% in July to 71% in August.

The cited price indicator also moved higher

The report also cited an increase in the average price per square foot from AED 1,271 in July to AED 1,301 in August. The movement was modest, but it occurred during the same period in which purchase intentions strengthened rather than weakened.

This figure should not be treated as a valuation for every property. Price per square foot changes by area, building, property type, size, view, condition, completion status and transaction date. A buyer should compare genuinely similar properties before deciding whether an asking price is supported.

• The cited average moved from AED 1,271 to AED 1,301 per square foot.
• The increase coincided with stronger buying intentions.
• A market-wide figure is not a valuation for an individual property.

Caution about future prices has not stopped buyers

Among people planning to buy, the share expecting prices to decline had reached 73% in March, then eased to about 53% across July and August. A short-term increase in caution appeared again late in August as regional tensions returned to the headlines.

The important distinction is between price expectations and buying behaviour. Many seekers may expect greater choice, slower price growth or selective corrections while still planning to purchase. That usually means buyers are becoming more price-sensitive rather than leaving the market entirely.

• Price-decline expectations eased from a March peak of 73%.
• About 53% still expected lower prices in July and August.
• Cautious expectations did not eliminate purchase plans.

What buyers should do with this information

Strong buyer intent is not a reason to rush into any available unit. Start with registered transaction data, compare the property with recent sales in the same building or a genuinely similar set, then review service charges, financing costs, occupancy, future supply and resale liquidity.

The survey suggests that demand remains active, but value still depends on the specific property and entry price. Buyers should use sentiment indicators to understand market direction and use transaction evidence to decide what a particular unit is actually worth.

• Do not use strong sentiment as a reason to rush.
• Compare registered sales at building and unit level.
• Market direction and individual property value are different questions.