Finding the Best ROI for Off Plan Property in Dubai

Looking to cash in on Dubai’s booming property market? Investing in off plan property may be your ticket to potential high returns.
If you’ve read our recent article “Should I invest in an off plan?” you’ll already be familiar with the advantages of buying off plan, its potential risks and what to watch out for.
Building on those insights, this guide takes the next step: helping you navigate Dubai’s off plan property market to find opportunities with the best potential returns.
Why Off Plan Property?
Off plan property means buying directly from developers before construction is finished.
Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- You’ll typically pay less than for completed properties
- Developers offer payment plans that spread costs over the construction period
- Property value can often go up before the building’s even done
- You get first pick of the best units in up-and-coming locations
What Makes a Good ROI?
Truthfully, not all off plan property are created equal, and there are a few factors that can make a big difference in how good each one turns out.
Here are some tips to help you filter the winners from the losers:
1. Pick a Prime Spot
Start by scouting for properties in high-demand areas with strong rental markets. These properties should not only fit your budget but also have the potential for appreciation and rental income.
Where to Look Right Now:
- Easy access to Dubai Metro and other transport
- Nearby shopping malls, schools, and entertainment destinations
- Areas getting infrastructure upgrades
- Growing suburban communities
- New waterfront projects
- Mixed residential and commercial developments
- Sustainable and eco-friendly developments
Tip: Off plan projects in established areas can help lower your risk. You’re tapping into areas that already have a solid track record, making it a safer bet for your investment. Have a look at “Where are Investors Buying Properties in Dubai 2025” and find out if Dubai developers are launching new off plan projects in these top performing areas.
2. Developers with Solid Reputation
Stick with reputable Dubai developers known for delivering quality real estate development on time. A trusted developer can give you peace of mind and enhance the property’s rental appeal.
Properties with attractive modern amenities like pools, gyms, and green spaces tend to get you higher rents and ROI.
Below are the sales transactions for off plan projects by leading developers:

When it comes to Dubai developers, Emaar stands out as the market leader, consistently achieving the highest sales volumes in the UAE.
If you’re interested in their upcoming off plan projects, take a look at our “Emaar Off Plan Projects Worth Investing: Handover in 2025-2026“. We’ve broken down their real estate developments in prime selling locations slated for completion in 2025 and 2026.
3. Market Timing
Getting the timing right can boost your returns, so keep an eye on what’s happening in the market:
- Early investment in off plan typically offers best capital appreciation
- Areas undergoing major developments are likely to see property value and rental prices rise
- Look out for government initiatives supporting real estate investments (i.e. Expo City)
- Look out for new tourist attractions, hotel developments, entertainment district expansions
Renting Out Your Off Plan
Off plan projects, much like ready made properties, cater to different tenant profiles based on their unique preferences and lifestyle needs.
If you are plan to rent out your off plan investment in the future, your property’s design, location, and amenities should align with the specific needs of your potential tenants or buyer.
Here’s a breakdown of key tenant groups and their typical preferences:
Young Professionals
- Gravitate towards mixed-use developments (live-work-play environment)
- Seek flexible living spaces
- Value modern amenities and smart home features
- Want convenient locations
Families
- Prefer suburban communities
- Prioritize green space, nearby schools and family-friendly amenities
- Want spacious floor plans and safe communities
High Net Worth Tenants
- Prefer premium waterfront properties
- Expect luxury amenities and exclusive features
- Appreciate iconic and branded developments
How to Calculate ROI on Property in Dubai?
To simplify calculating rental yield and make investment analysis more straightforward, we’ve developed two ROI Calculators designed specifically for Dubai’s property market.
The ROI Calculators include all the upfront and extra costs that come with buying a property in Dubai and will give you the potential ROI of a given property.
Find Your Hidden Gem
While off plan real estate developments can be a good investment, they come with their own set of risks. To make the most of these opportunities, focus on finding the right location for your off plan property, calculating rental yield accurately and working with trusted Dubai developers. Keep your eyes open and you can uncover hidden gems everywhere.