Off-Plan Properties Dubai South In Dubai

Last Updated on August 8, 2023 by Bram Vermolen

Off-plan property investment in Dubai South is the process of buying a property that is not yet completed or under construction. It is a popular and lucrative option for investors and buyers who want to benefit from lower prices, flexible payment plans, high capital appreciation and rental income.

Dubai South is one of the most promising and strategic locations in Dubai, as it is home to the Expo 2020 site, the Al Maktoum International Airport, and a host of residential, commercial, and leisure developments.

Off-plan investing in Dubai can be a lucrative option for investors who want to benefit from the potential capital appreciation, rental income and resale value of the property once it is completed. In this article, we will explore the neighbourhood features, benefits, challenges, and opportunities of off-plan properties in Dubai South.

About Dubai South

Dubai South is a master-planned city that was launched in 2006 as Dubai World Central. It covers an area of 145 square kilometers and aims to become a global hub for trade, logistics, aviation, and innovation. It is divided into eight sub-areas, each with its own theme and purpose. They are:

1. Residential District: This is the area where most of the off-plan properties are located. It offers a range of apartments, townhouses, and villas for different budgets and lifestyles. Some of the popular projects are The Pulse, Emaar South, MAG 5 Boulevard, and Parklane.
2. Logistics District: This is the area that connects the Al Maktoum International Airport with the Jebel Ali Port through a dedicated corridor. It offers state-of-the-art facilities and services for cargo movement and storage. It also hosts EZDubai, a dedicated e-commerce zone.
3. Aviation District: This is the area that surrounds the Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world’s largest airport when fully operational. It offers various facilities and services for airlines, aircraft maintenance, aviation training, and aerospace manufacturing.
4. Exhibition District: This is the area that hosts the Expo 2020 site, which will showcase the achievements and innovations of more than 190 countries from October 2021 to March 2022. It also hosts the Dubai Airshow, one of the largest aviation events in the world.
5. Commercial District: This is the area that offers office spaces and retail outlets for businesses and entrepreneurs. It also hosts the Dubai South Business Park, which offers flexible and affordable solutions for SMEs and startups.
6. Golf District: This is the area that offers luxury villas and apartments overlooking an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Ernie Els. It also offers a clubhouse, a golf academy, and a hotel.
7. Humanitarian District: This is the area that serves as a regional hub for humanitarian aid and relief operations. It offers warehouses, offices, and accommodation for humanitarian organizations and agencies.
8. Al Maktoum City District: This is the area that will be developed as a smart and sustainable city that will showcase the vision and values of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

How Is The Dubai South Real Estate Market?

The Dubai South real estate market is one of the most dynamic and diverse markets in Dubai, as it offers various types of properties like off plan apartments, off plan villas and off plan townhouses for different budgets and preferences. According to Bayut, one of the leading real estate portals in the UAE , some of the trends of the Dubai South real estate market are:

• The average price per square foot for apartments in Dubai South is AED 800
• The average price per square foot for townhouses in Dubai South is AED 700
• The average price per square foot for villas in Dubai South is AED 600
• The average rent per year for apartments in Dubai South ranges from AED 25,000 for studios to AED 65,000 for three-bedroom units
• The average rent per year for townhouses in Dubai South ranges from AED 75,000 for two-bedroom units to AED 120,000 for four-bedroom units
• The average rent per year for villas in Dubai South ranges from AED 120,000 for three-bedroom units to AED 200,000 for five-bedroom units

The Dubai South real estate market is expected to grow further in the coming years, as more projects are completed and delivered, more residents move in, more businesses operate, more events take place, and more infrastructure is developed.

How Is The Off-Plan Property Market In Dubai South?

The off-plan property market in Dubai South is one of the most active and attractive markets in Dubai, as it offers a variety of projects and properties for investors and buyers who want to benefit from lower prices, flexible payment plans, high capital appreciation and rental income.

According to Dubai Land Department, one of the official authorities for real estate transactions in Dubai, some of the trends of the off-plan property market in Dubai South are:

• Dubai South ranked among the top 10 areas for off-plan property transactions in Dubai in 2023
• Dubai South recorded 1,455 off-plan property transactions worth AED 1.4 billion in 2023
• Dubai South accounted for 8.5% of the total off-plan property transactions and 6.9% of the total off-plan property value in Dubai in 2023
• Dubai South witnessed an increase of 28.7% in the number and 23.9% in the value of off-plan property transactions compared to 2022

The off-plan property market in Dubai South is expected to remain strong and stable in the future, as more projects are launched and sold, more demand is generated, more incentives are offered, and more confidence is built.

What Are The Benefits Of Off-Plan Property In Dubai South?

Some of the benefits of off-plan property in Dubai South are:

• Lower price: Off-plan property buyers can secure a property at a lower price than the market value, as they pay according to the current price at the time of booking. This can result in significant savings and capital appreciation over time.
• Flexible payment plans: Off-plan property buyers can benefit from flexible payment plans offered by the developer, which allow them to pay in installments over a period of time until completion or even after handover. This can ease their financial burden and make their investment more affordable.
• Customization options: Off-plan property buyers can have more choices and options to customize their property according to their preferences and needs. They can select their preferred unit type, size, layout, design, finishing and fittings.
• New and modern features: Off-plan property buyers can enjoy new and modern features and facilities that are designed according to the latest standards and trends. They can also benefit from warranties and guarantees offered by the developer for quality assurance.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Off-Plan Properties In Dubai South?

Some of the disadvantages of off-plan properties in Dubai South are:

• Delayed completion: Off-plan property buyers may face delays in completion or handover due to unforeseen circumstances or factors that are beyond the control of the developer. This can affect their plans and expectations and cause inconvenience and frustration.
• Lack of physical inspection: Off-plan property buyers may not be able to inspect the physical condition and quality of the property before buying, as they rely on the brochures, floor plans, mock-ups and showrooms provided by the developer. This can result in discrepancies or defects that may not be detected until after handover.
• Market fluctuations: Off-plan property buyers may be exposed to market fluctuations and risks that can affect the value and demand of their property. The market conditions may change over time and impact their return on investment or rental income.
• Legal issues: Off-plan property buyers may encounter legal issues or disputes with the developer or other parties involved in the transaction. They may also face challenges in obtaining the necessary approvals and permits from the authorities or transferring the title deed of the property.

What Is The ROI On Off-Plan Properties In Dubai South?

The ROI on off-plan properties in Dubai South depends on various factors, such as the type, size, location, price and demand of the property in Dubai you invested in , as well as the market conditions and trends. However, based on the average prices and rents of similar properties in Dubai, we can estimate the ROI on off-plan properties in Dubai South as follows:

Property Type	Average Price (AED)	Average Rent (AED per year)	ROI (%)
Studio	300,000	25,000	8.3%
1-bedroom apartment	450,000	35,000	7.8%
2-bedroom apartment	650,000	50,000	7.7%
Townhouse (2-bedroom)	800,000	60,000	7.5%
Townhouse (3-bedroom)	1,000,000	75,000	7.5%
Villa (3-bedroom)	1,200,000	90,000	7.5%
Villa (4-bedroom)	1,500,000	110,000	7.3%

Why Is Dubai South Off-Plan Property Interesting For Real Estate Developers?

Dubai South off-plan property is interesting for real estate developers because:

• It showcases their vision and creativity: Dubai South off-plan property allows real estate developers to showcase their vision and creativity in creating a master-planned city that is aligned with the vision and values of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. They can demonstrate their expertise and skills in designing and delivering high-quality properties that cater to the needs and preferences of their customers.
• It generates cash flow and reduces risk: Dubai South off-plan property enables real estate developers to generate cash flow and reduce risk by selling their properties before they are completed or handed over. They can use the funds collected from the buyers to finance their construction costs and expenses. They can also minimize their exposure to market fluctuations and uncertainties by locking in their prices and profits at an early stage.
• It builds their reputation and brand awareness: Dubai South off-plan property helps real estate developers to build their reputation and brand awareness in the market by offering a distinctive and attractive product that appeals to a wide range of buyers and investors. They can also benefit from word-of-mouth marketing and referrals from their satisfied customers. They can also leverage their partnership with Dubai South, one of the official authorities for the development of the city.

Why Is Dubai South Off-Plan Property Interesting For Real Estate Investors?

Dubai South off-plan property is interesting for real estate investors because:

• It offers high returns and capital appreciation: Dubai South off-plan property offers high returns and capital appreciation for real estate investors, as they can buy a property at a lower price than the market value and sell it at a higher price when the project is completed or handed over. They can also benefit from the rental income generated by their property, as the demand for properties in Dubai South is high due to its strategic location, proximity to the Expo 2020 site, and availability of amenities and facilities.
• It provides flexible and attractive payment plans: Dubai South off-plan property provides flexible and attractive payment plans for real estate investors, as they can pay in installments over a period of time until completion or even after handover. They can also choose from different payment structure options, such as post-handover, post-completion or rent-to-own. This can make their investment more affordable and convenient.
• It diversifies their portfolio and reduces risk: Dubai South off-plan property diversifies their portfolio and reduces risk for real estate investors, as they can invest in a master-planned city that offers various types of properties, such as apartments, townhouses or villas. They can also hedge against market fluctuations and uncertainties by locking in their prices and profits at an early stage.

Why Is Dubai South Off-Plan Property Interesting For Off-Plan Buyers?

Dubai South off-plan property is interesting for off-plan buyers because:

• It fulfills their dream of living in a smart and sustainable city: Dubai South off-plan property fulfills their dream of living in a smart and sustainable city for off-plan buyers, as they can own a property in a master-planned city that is aligned with the vision and values of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. They can enjoy the benefits of living in a city that offers convenience, connectivity, innovation, security, happiness, and well-being.
• It matches their preferences and needs: Dubai South off-plan property matches their preferences and needs for off-plan buyers, as they can choose their preferred unit type, size, layout, design, finishing and fittings. They can also customize their property according to their taste and style. They can also select their preferred sub-area that offers a different theme and purpose.
• It enhances their lifestyle and well-being: Dubai South off-plan property enhances their lifestyle and well-being for off-plan buyers, as they can live in a community that offers a range of amenities and facilities, such as shopping, dining, entertainment, education, healthcare, sports, fitness and beauty. They can also access the Expo 2020 site, the Al Maktoum International Airport, and other attractions in Dubai South.

What To Consider When Buying Off-Plan Properties in Dubai South?

Buying off-plan properties in Dubai South can be a rewarding investment, but it also involves some risks and challenges. Therefore, buyers should consider some important factors before making a decision, such as:

1. Developer reputation

One of the most important factors to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the reputation of the developer. The developer is responsible for delivering the project on time, on budget and on quality. We always advice you to check approvals and permits at authorities such as RERA and DLD.

Therefore, it is essential to check the developer’s track record, credentials, experience and customer feedback before making a decision. Some of the reputable developers in Dubai South are Emaar Properties, MAG Property Development, Damac Properties and Dubai South.

2. Project location

Another important factor to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the location of the project. The location determines the accessibility, connectivity, convenience and value of the property.

Therefore, it is advisable to check the proximity of the project to major highways and other networks that connect it to the city center and other landmarks of Dubai.

Dubai South is well-connected to the rest of the city by road networks such as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Emirates Road and Umm Suqeim Road. It is also accessible by public transportation such as buses and taxis.

3. Payment plans

A third important factor to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the payment plans offered by the developer. The payment plans determine the affordability and convenience of the investment.

Therefore, it is wise to compare the different payment plans available and choose the one that suits the budget and cash flow of the buyer.

4. Payment structure options

A fourth important factor to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the finance structure options offered by the developer. The payment structure options determine the type and amount of fees and charges that are applicable to the transaction.

Therefore, it is prudent to check the different payment structure options available and choose the one that minimizes the cost and maximizes the benefit of the investment.

5. Due diligence

A fifth important factor to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the due diligence that is required to verify the validity and viability of the project. The due diligence involves checking the legal, financial and technical aspects of the project

6. Property tax

A sixth important factor to consider when buying off-plan properties in Dubai South is the property tax that is applicable to the transaction. The property tax involves paying fees and charges to the authorities and other parties involved in the transaction.

Community Overview Of Dubai South

Dubai South is a master-planned city that aims to become a hub for trade, logistics, aviation, hospitality and leisure. It is home to the Al Maktoum International Airport, the Expo 2020 site, the Dubai South Business Park and several residential and commercial districts. Dubai South covers an area of 145 sq. km. and is strategically located near the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border.

It offers a range of freehold and leasehold properties for rent and sale, as well as off-plan investment opportunities.

Dubai South is designed to create a sustainable community that supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

What Are The Most Popular Buildings In Dubai South?

Some of the most popular buildings in Dubai South are:

• The Pulse: A mixed-use development that features apartments, townhouses, hotels, retail and leisure facilities. The Pulse is located near the Expo 2020 site and offers a vibrant lifestyle with landscaped parks, boulevards and a central plaza.
• MAG 5 Boulevard: A residential community that consists of 13 low-rise buildings with studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments. MAG 5 Boulevard is situated in the Dubai South Village and provides amenities such as swimming pools, jogging tracks, playgrounds and a community centre.
• Celestia: A luxury hotel apartment project that comprises two towers with studios, one- and two-bedroom units. Celestia is located in the heart of the Dubai South Aviation District and offers services such as concierge, housekeeping, valet parking and shuttle bus.
• Urbana: A townhouse community that offers two- and three-bedroom units with modern designs and spacious layouts. Urbana is part of the Emaar South development and features amenities such as golf courses, parks, schools and a retail centre.
• Saffron: A villa community that offers three- and four-bedroom units with contemporary architecture and elegant interiors. Saffron is also part of the Emaar South development and boasts facilities such as a clubhouse, swimming pools, fitness centre and kids’ play areas.

Which Transportation And Parking Spaces Are There In Dubai South?

Dubai South is well-connected to the rest of the city by various modes of transportation and parking spaces. Some of the options available are:

• Al Maktoum International Airport: The airport is the main gateway to Dubai South and serves both passenger and cargo flights. It has a capacity of 12 million passengers per year and is expected to expand to 160 million passengers per year by 2030.
• Route 2020 Metro: The metro line is an extension of the existing Red Line of the Dubai Metro that connects Dubai South to other areas such as Jebel Ali, Marina, Downtown Dubai and Deira. The Route 2020 Metro has seven stations, including one at the Expo 2020 site and one at the Al Maktoum International Airport.
• RTA Buses: The RTA buses provide public transportation within Dubai South and to other parts of the city. There are several bus routes that operate in Dubai South, such as F55A, F55B, F60A, F60B, F61A and F61B.
• Taxis: Taxis are another convenient way to travel to and from Dubai South. There are several taxi companies that operate in Dubai South, such as RTA Taxi, Careem, Uber and Hala.
• Car Parking: Car parking spaces are available in most of the buildings and developments in Dubai South. There are also dedicated parking areas near the Expo 2020 site, the Al Maktoum International Airport and the Route 2020 Metro stations.

Which Amenities, Schools And Healthcare Are There In Dubai South?

Dubai South offers a range of amenities, schools and healthcare facilities for its residents and visitors. Some of them are:

• Amenities: Dubai South has various amenities such as malls, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, hotels, parks, gyms, salons, spas and more. Some of the popular amenities in Dubai South are Festival Plaza Mall, Carrefour Market, Spinneys Market, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Novo Cinemas IMAX Sapphire Lounge, Aloft Hotel, Marriott Hotel, Al Forsan Park, Fit Republik and Tips & Toes.
• Schools: Dubai South has several schools that offer different curricula and educational levels. Some of the schools in Dubai South are The International School of Choueifat, South View School, GEMS United School, The Aquila School and Dove Green Private School.
• Healthcare: Dubai South has various healthcare facilities that provide medical and dental services. Some of the healthcare facilities in Dubai South are Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Aster Clinic, Prime Medical Center, NMC Royal Hospital and Dr. Joy Dental Clinic.

Which Outdoor Activities, Fitness And Beauty Are There In Dubai South?

Dubai South has plenty of options for outdoor activities, fitness and beauty for its residents and visitors. Some of them are:

• Outdoor Activities: Dubai South has several outdoor activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Some of the outdoor activities in Dubai South are golfing at the Emaar South Golf Course, cycling at the Al Qudra Cycle Track18, skydiving at Skydive Dubai Desert Campus, camping at the Al Qudra Lakes and horse riding at the Al Dhabi Stables.
• Fitness: Dubai South has various fitness facilities that offer different types of workouts and classes. Some of the fitness facilities in Dubai South are Fit Republik, a state-of-the-art gym that offers personal training, group classes, swimming, martial arts and more; The Warehouse Gym, a trendy gym that offers functional training, boxing, yoga and more; Fitness First, a popular gym chain that offers cardio, strength, freestyle and group exercise; and Gold’s Gym, a renowned gym brand that offers fitness equipment, personal training and group classes.
• Beauty: Dubai South has several beauty facilities that offer different services and treatments. Some of the beauty facilities in Dubai South are Tips & Toes, a leading salon chain that offers nail care, hair care, waxing, threading, massage and more; Sisters Beauty Lounge, a premium salon that offers hair care, nail care, skin care, makeup and more; NStyle Beauty Lounge, a chic salon that offers nail care, hair care, waxing, threading, lash extensions and more; and The Nail Spa, a relaxing salon that offers nail care, hair care, massage, facial and more.

Which Leisure Activities And Notable Landmarks Are There In Dubai South?

Dubai South has a variety of leisure activities and notable landmarks for its residents and visitors. Some of them are:

• Leisure Activities: Dubai South has several leisure activities that offer fun and entertainment for all ages. Some of the leisure activities in Dubai South are watching movies at Novo Cinemas IMAX Sapphire Lounge, a luxury cinema that features reclining seats, blankets, pillows and food service; playing games at Magic Planet, a family entertainment centre that features arcade games, rides, bowling and more; enjoying art at The Theatre, a cultural venue that hosts performances, exhibitions and workshops; and exploring nature at Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary that features desert animals, plants and lakes.
• Notable Landmarks: Dubai South has several notable landmarks that showcase its vision and achievements. Some of the notable landmarks in Dubai South are Al Maktoum International Airport, the world’s largest airport in terms of size and capacity; Expo 2020 site, the venue for the upcoming world fair that will feature pavilions, exhibits and events; Dubai South Business Park, a commercial hub that hosts offices, warehouses and logistics facilities; and The Pulse, a mixed-use development that features apartments, townhouses, hotels, retail and leisure facilities.

Which Restaurants Are Located In Dubai South?

Dubai South has a range of restaurants that offer different cuisines and dining experiences. Some of the restaurants in Dubai South are:

• South Central Kitchen Bar & Terrace: A casual restaurant that serves international dishes such as burgers, pizzas, salads and steaks. It also features a bar and a terrace with views of the airport.
• Miracolo Restaurant And Bar: A fine dining restaurant that serves Italian dishes such as pasta, risotto, seafood and meat. It also features a bar with cocktails and mocktails.
• Ambiente By My31: A fusion restaurant that serves Mediterranean dishes with Asian influences such as sushi platters, shawarma wraps, grilled meats and salads. It also features live music and entertainment.

Which Supermarkets Are Located In Dubai South?

Dubai South has one supermarket that provides grocery and household items for its residents and visitors. It is called:

• Carrefour Market: This is a hypermarket that offers a wide range of products such as fresh food, bakery, dairy, meat, fish, frozen food, beverages, snacks, health and beauty, household and electronics. It is located in the Festival Plaza Mall.

Which Beaches Are Located Near Dubai South?

Dubai South is not very close to the coast, but there are some beaches that are located within a 30-minute drive from it. Some of the popular ones are:

• Jumeirah Beach Park: This is a public beach park that offers a sandy beach with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms and sunbeds. It also has a park with grassy areas, trees, benches and playgrounds.
• Kite Beach: This is a public beach that offers a sandy beach with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms and sunbeds. It also has a water sports centre that offers activities such as kite surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking.JBR Beach: This is a public beach that offers a sandy beach with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms and sunbeds. It also has a promenade with shops, cafes, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Which Malls Are Located Near Dubai South?

Dubai South is not very far from some of the major malls in Dubai, but there are some malls that are located within a 15-minute drive from it. Some of the popular ones are:

• Festival Plaza Mall: This is a community-oriented mall that offers a range of products and services, such as fashion, electronics, home furnishings, beauty, health, banking and education. It also has a hypermarket, a cinema, a food court and a family entertainment centre.
• Ibn Battuta Mall: This is one of the largest and most unique malls in Dubai, with over 400 retail outlets inspired by the travels of the famous explorer Ibn Battuta. It also has a cinema, an aquarium, a museum and a hotel.
• The Outlet Village: This is an indoor shopping destination that offers discounted prices on over 200 international brands such as Adidas, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger and Michael Kors. It also has cafes and restaurants.

Which Churches, Temples And Mosques Are Located Near Dubai South?

Dubai South is not very close to any churches or temples, but there are some mosques that are located within or near the community. Some of the popular ones are:

• Masjid Al Waha: This is the main mosque in Dubai South, located in the Residential District. It is a large and modern mosque that can accommodate up to 2,000 worshippers. It also has a library, a lecture hall and a cafeteria.
• Masjid Al Rahman: This is another mosque in Dubai South, located in the Logistics District. It is a smaller and simpler mosque that can accommodate up to 500 worshippers. It also has a parking area and a washroom.
• Masjid Al Salam: This is a mosque near Dubai South, located in Discovery Gardens. It is a medium-sized and elegant mosque that can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers. It also has a garden, a fountain and a minaret.

How Is The Rental Market In Dubai South?

The rental market in Dubai South is dynamic and diverse, as it offers various types of properties for different budgets and preferences.

Rental Trends Of Dubai South

The rental trends of Dubai South are as follows:

Property Type	Average Rent (AED per year)	Rent Change (%)
Studio	25,000	-10%
1-bedroom apartment	35,000	-8%
2-bedroom apartment	50,000	-6%
Townhouse (2-bedroom)	60,000	-4%
Townhouse (3-bedroom)	75,000	-2%

How Is The House Sale Market In Dubai South?

The house sale market in Dubai South is attractive and competitive, as it offers various types of properties for different budgets and preferences.

House Sale Trends Of Dubai South

The house sale trends of Dubai South are as follows:

Property Type	Average Price (AED)	Price Change (%)
Studio	300,000	+5%
1-bedroom apartment	450,000	+6%
2-bedroom apartment	650,000	+7%
Townhouse (2-bedroom)	800,000	+8%
Townhouse (3-bedroom)	1,000,000	+9%

What Are Other Area’s Or Communities That Are Comparable To Dubai South?

If you are looking for other area’s or communites or want to research different options for investing in real estate, we have plenty more guides to read through. Other interesting area’s that are you can compare against Dubai South:

• Invest In Property In Ras Al Khor
• Invest In Property In Palm Jumeirah Island
• Invest In Property In Al Habtoor City

Frequently asked questions about Dubai South?

Dubai South is a community that offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural and urban aspects of Dubai. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Dubai South and their answers.