UAE’s most-search communities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah: Where renters and buyers want to live in 2025

Dubai: As the UAE’s real estate market charges into 2025, fresh data from Skyloov — UAE-based property platform — uncovers the hottest neighbourhoods grabbing the attention of renters and buyers alike, revealing a striking split in priorities.

Analyzing over 44 million search queries and 540 million property views in Q2 alone, Skyloov’s insights offer an unprecedented snapshot of what’s fueling real estate demand across the Emirates.

With rising living costs squeezing budgets, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, renters are zeroing in on affordable communities that don’t sacrifice convenience.

Top rental searches in Dubai:

·         International City

·         Deira

·         Bur Dubai

·         Dubai Marina

·         Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

These neighbourhoods strike a balance between price and proximity to work, appealing mostly to singles, couples, and small families.

Abu Dhabi’s rental hotspots:

·         Al Reem Island

·         Hamdan Street

·         Khalifa City

·         Electra Street

·         Mohammed Bin Zayed City

Lower rents plus access to schools, shops, and transport make these areas prime for cost-conscious residents.

Meanwhile, buyers are playing the long game, targeting emerging areas poised for capital appreciation thanks to upcoming infrastructure projects and community developments.

Dubai’s top buyer searches:

·         Dubai Investment Park (DIP)

·         Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)

·         Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)

In Abu Dhabi:

·         Khalifa City

·         Mohammed Bin Zayed City

Northern Emirates gaining traction among buyers:

·         Al Nahda (Sharjah)

·         Select communities in Ras Al Khaimah

These locations offer lower entry prices and strong rental yield potential — perfect for savvy investors and those seeking spacious, community-centric living.

Skyloov’s data exposes a clear divide: renters want affordable, accessible homes close to city hubs to manage rising costs; buyers focus on long-term value, infrastructure, and growth potential.

“In a market as dynamic as the UAE, data is no longer a supporting tool, it’s a strategic advantage,” said Dr Abdulaziz Albwardi, Chairman of the Board at Skyloov. “What we’re seeing is a clear divergence in how renters and buyers make decisions, influenced by shifting economic conditions, infrastructure development, and long-term value potential. At Skyloov, our platform captures these behavioural shifts in real time, helping the industry respond with smarter, more targeted offerings that reflect where the market is headed, not just where it’s been.”

 As the market evolves, we want to hear from you — where do you want to live in 2025, and what are your top criteria when choosing a property? Your insights could shape the future of UAE real estate.