Offices, warehouses and local retail top Dubai’s 2026 property wish list

Dubai’s commercial property market is set to enter a more measured phase in 2026, with investors focusing on off-plan offices, logistics and warehousing assets, and community-based retail, according to a new outlook from Chestertons MENA.

The consultancy said investor behaviour is increasingly shaped by selective decision-making, supported by a stable regulatory environment and evolving demand across sectors and locations.

Recent updates to commercial regulations are expected to support activity without triggering sharp changes in overall investment volumes, particularly as most commercial licences continue to require a physical office presence.

Dubai commercial market enters balanced phase

Off-plan office space is expected to remain a key area of interest, driven by a shortage of high-quality stock and continued demand from businesses seeking to secure premises early. Established districts such as Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers and Barsha Heights are likely to retain their appeal, while emerging communities including Jumeirah Village Circle and Arjan are beginning to see their first dedicated commercial developments.

Logistics and warehousing assets are also forecast to attract strong demand, underpinned by Dubai’s role as a regional trade gateway and its extensive transport and free zone infrastructure. Industrial areas such as Dubai Investment Park, Dubai Industrial City, National Industrial Park and Al Quoz continue to benefit from decentralisation, as businesses seek locations closer to growing residential populations and key transport corridors.

Retail investment, meanwhile, is shifting towards neighbourhood and community centres rather than destination malls. Chestertons noted that locally driven footfall and daily-use retail are increasingly favoured, while demand for mixed-use buildings with shared residential infrastructure remains comparatively limited, as corporate occupiers continue to prefer purpose-built commercial environments.

The outlook also highlights differing approaches between domestic and international investors. Overseas investors are expected to remain active in office and retail assets, attracted by relatively straightforward ownership and management structures. Domestic investors, by contrast, are likely to dominate logistics and warehousing developments, which typically involve longer execution timelines and more hands-on oversight.

Mohamed Mussa, Executive Director of Chestertons MENA, said: “Dubai’s commercial market is entering a more measured phase, where clarity and selectivity matter more than speed. Investors are prioritising quality, location, and long-term performance, which is a healthy sign for the market overall.”

According to the consultancy, investors in 2026 are increasingly balancing rental income with long-term capital growth, with a growing emphasis on asset resilience and sustainable returns as the market matures.