Prime Office Locations in Dubai: Where Are Businesses Moving?

Dubai’s office market continued to demonstrate exceptional strength in 2025, with demand for commercial space reaching levels not seen in recent years. According to our Dubai Office Market Performance 2025 report, office sales transactions surged by 53.6% year-on-year, with total sales value climbing to AED 13.1 billion, an increase of 102.3% compared to 2024. Rental rates also rose sharply, up by 22.9% over the same period, underscoring a market where demand consistently outpaces supply.

These trends are closely linked to the emirate’s expanding business base. Dubai attracted 373 new foreign companies in 2025, marking an 80.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Activity in the business environment further bolstered momentum, with 71,830 new member companies joining the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, pushing total active membership to 292,486.

Beneath this strong demand lies an important question for tenants and investors: where are businesses moving, and what makes these locations attractive?

The Pull of Prime Business Districts

DIFC, Downtown Dubai, and Business Bay remain the heart of Dubai’s commercial ecosystem. Demand for office space in these prime districts continues to be strong, driven by limited availability and high-quality office stock.

DIFC maintains its position as the city’s leading financial hub, attracting global banks, legal firms, and investment houses. Its concentration of professional services and proximity to key clients make it a central choice for firms in the financial and consulting sectors.

Downtown Dubai, with its iconic positioning near the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, appeals to corporates seeking a prestigious address and excellent connectivity.

Business Bay has evolved into one of the busiest markets, with 1230 transactions in 2025, more than any other sub-market, underlining its importance as a core hub for both investors and occupiers.

Expand Beyond the Core

As prime districts fill up, businesses are increasingly considering other established areas that combine accessibility with cost efficiency.

Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) recorded 1,067 transactions in 2025, demonstrating its popularity with SMEs and agile firms that value flexibility and community infrastructure.

Barsha Heights (Tecom) and Dubai Media City continue to attract companies in technology, media, and communications thanks to their cluster-style environments and free zone benefits.

Dubai South and Expo City are emerging as new frontiers for occupiers seeking larger footprints, particularly as hybrid working models redefine the type of office space required. These areas appeal to logistics, aviation, and innovation-driven firms, reflecting Dubai’s strategy to diversify demand across multiple districts.

Balancing Affordability and Amenities

While prime districts offer prestige and connectivity, affordability remains a key driver for many businesses, especially SMEs and startups. Established areas such as Deira and Bur Dubai continue to present viable alternatives for firms prioritising cost efficiency while remaining well connected.

Deira benefits from comparatively lower rental levels, a dense commercial ecosystem, and excellent public transport links, including multiple metro stations.

Bur Dubai offers a similarly competitive environment, supported by strong road and metro connectivity and close access to key business and residential districts.

These districts are particularly attractive for startups, professional services firms, and businesses aiming to control overheads while maintaining access to Dubai’s infrastructure, workforce, and transport networks.

What Businesses Should Keep in Mind

Choosing an office location in Dubai goes beyond headline rents. You must balance:

• Connectivity: Proximity to transport hubs, metro links, and client networks.
• Workforce appeal: Locations that attract and retain talent through nearby housing, amenities, and lifestyle offerings.
• Lease structures: Flexibility in contracts, particularly important in an evolving landscape where hybrid working reduces demand for larger spaces.
• Future growth: Anticipating expansion and ensuring the chosen location supports long-term business strategy.

With citywide rental rates rising 22.9% in 2025, and supply remaining tight throughout last year, early decision-making and clear strategy are critical for firms planning relocations or expansions.

Outlook for 2026 and Beyond

Dubai’s office market remains on an upward trajectory, with about 300,000 sqm of new space expected in 2026. While this pipeline will increase availability, demand is likely to stay strong, particularly for high-quality, well-located offices.

Investors and occupiers alike are recognising that today’s decisions about location and lease terms will shape their competitiveness in the years to come.  

Get in touch with us to learn more about commercial real estate hotspots for your new office in Dubai.