Off Plan vs Ready Properties: Which Dominated Real Estate Transactions in 2024?

The Dubai real estate market continues to be one of the most dynamic and competitive markets in the world. In 2024, the debate over Off Plan vs Ready Properties remained at the forefront of investor and homebuyer discussions. With both property types catering to different needs and offering distinct advantages, analyzing their performance can provide critical insights into where the market is headed.

This blog dives into transaction data, highlights the best-performing areas, and discusses the overall trends shaping Dubai’s property market in 2024.

1. What Are Off-Plan and Ready Properties?

Before diving into the analysis, let’s clarify the terms:

Off-Plan Properties: These are properties sold by developers while still under construction or at the planning stage. They are typically sold at lower prices compared to ready properties and often offer flexible payment plans.

Ready Properties: These are completed properties ready for immediate handover or occupation. Buyers of ready properties typically include end-users looking for immediate occupancy and investors seeking rental income.

Real Estate Market Overview in 2024

Surge in Transaction Counts and Values

Dubai’s real estate market witnessed robust activity across both off-plan and ready properties in 2024, driven by strong demand from local and international investors. Below is an overview of transaction counts and values across apartments, villas, and townhouses:

1. Off-Plan Properties:

• Apartments: Over 85.09k transactions, with a total value exceeding AED 163.5 Billion.
• Villas: Approximately 14.18k transactions, worth AED 56.23 Billion.
• Commercial: Around 772 transactions, valued at AED 1.952 Billion.

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2. Ready Properties:

• Apartments: Nearly 40.51k transactions, with total values reaching AED 68.20 Billion.
• Villas: Over 6.090k transactions, worth AED 30.47 Billion.
• Commercial: Approximately 3.173 transactions, valued at AED 6.608 billion.
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Best-Performing Areas for Off Plan Properties

Several key areas stood out in 2024 for their off plan properties transaction volumes and values:

Type	Area	Transaction Count	Total Value
Off-Plan	JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE	10955	10.99 Billion AED
Off-Plan	BUSINESS BAY	5440	14.48 Billion AED
Off-Plan	Madinat Al Mataar	4199	11.57 Billion AED
Off-Plan	MEYDAN ONE	3815	3.86 Billion AED
Off-Plan	Bukadra	3633	7.30 Billion AED

Related: Exploring Upcoming Projects Developments in JVC

Best-Performing Areas for Ready Properties

In the ready property market, these areas recorded the highest transaction volumes and values:

Type	Area	Transaction Count	Total Value
Ready	JUMEIRAH VILLAGE CIRCLE	8354	12.07 Billion AED
Ready	BUSINESS BAY	7046	23.06 Billion AED
Ready	DUBAI MARINA	5159	11.69 Billion AED
Ready	Madinat Hind 4	4541	7.99 Billion AED
Ready	JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS	4003	7.79 Billion AED

 

Comparative Analysis: Off-Plan vs. Ready Properties

Type	Transaction Count	Total Value
Off-Plan	99127	207.87 Billion AED
Ready	108378	467.34 Billion AED

 

Transaction Count

• Off-Plan Properties dominated the market with a total of 99,127 transactions across all property types, compared to 108,378 ready property transactions.
• While ready properties had a slightly higher transaction count, the significant volume of off-plan transactions reflects their affordability, flexible payment plans, and strong appeal to investors.
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Transaction Values

• The total value of off-plan properties stood at approximately AED 207.87 billion, while ready properties reached an impressive AED 467.34 billion.
• This highlights that while off-plan properties lead in transaction count, ready properties maintain a substantial premium in total value, demonstrating the demand for ready-to-move-in homes and their associated luxury and convenience.
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Preferences by Property Type

Off-Plan

• Preferred by investors looking for capital appreciation and long-term gains.
• Popular among younger buyers and expatriates due to lower upfront costs.
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Ready:

• Attracts end-users seeking immediate occupancy or rental income.
• Favored by families and high-net-worth individuals for luxury living.

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Why Investors and Buyers Choose Off-Plan Properties

1. Lower Initial Costs:

Off plan properties generally require smaller down payments, making them accessible to a broader audience.

2. Flexible Payment Plans:

Developers offer attractive payment terms, spreading costs over several years.

3. Higher ROI Potential:

Buying off-plan allows investors to benefit from price appreciation once the property is completed.

4. Modern Designs and Customization:

Buyers can choose properties with the latest architectural designs and sometimes customize interiors.

Related: 10 Best Areas for OFF Plan Properties Investment in Dubai

Why Ready Properties Still Hold Value

1. Immediate Returns:

Ready properties offer instant rental income, making them ideal for investors seeking short-term gains.

2. Certainty:

Buyers know exactly what they are purchasing, avoiding risks associated with construction delays or project cancellations.

3. Established Communities:

Ready properties are often located in developed neighborhoods with existing infrastructure and amenities.

Conclusion: Who Dominated in 2024?

While off plan properties outperformed in terms of transaction counts, ready properties closely matched their total value, demonstrating their enduring appeal. Each type caters to specific buyer needs, and choosing between them depends on individual goals—whether it’s long-term investment, rental income, or immediate occupancy.

Best Performing Overall

• Off Plan Winner: JVC, Dubai
• Ready Property Winner: JVC, Dubai
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As 2024 wraps up, the market's resilience and growth showcase Dubai’s position as a global real estate hub. Whether you’re investing in off-plan or ready properties, strategic decision-making and knowledge of top-performing areas will be your keys to success.

Related:

• Best Villas Communities in Dubai
• Latest TOP-20 Best Emaar projects in Dubai?
• Top 10 OFF Plan Projects In Palm Jumeirah Dubai