Apartments in Dubai or Abu Dhabi: Which is better for Jordanian investors?
With a stable economy, strong rental yields, and plenty of real estate options, the UAE has remained a favorite choice for investors from Jordan. Among its emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are clearly top picks. Each metropolis has unique benefits catered to certain investment objectives. With an eye on top choices to let Jordanian investors make wise judgments, this article analyzes the two cities.
Dubai Real Estate Market
With property prices growing in every category according to Bayut’s 2024 market report, Dubai's real estate industry is expected to be flourishing in 2025. Among investors, the city is preferred because of its worldwide attractiveness, fast growth, and high rental returns. Let's look at key areas to invest in Dubai with helpful insights from Bayut.com, a leading property platform in the UAE.
Key Areas in Dubai
Affordable Segment
- Dubai Sports City
Dubai Sports City is a bustling area with first-rate sports facilities and reasonably priced homes. With its many housing options and historic sites like the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this unique location attracts families, sportsmen, and investors. Investors looking for a vibrant living environment and strong rental returns find it a popular choice because of its strategic location and emphasis on an active lifestyle.
Apartment ROI: 9.34%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 467,000 (JOD 90,186)
1-Bedroom: AED 680,000 (JOD 131,321) - Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
DSO is a tech-oriented neighborhood providing reasonably priced, luxurious homes. For both families and young professionals, its close proximity to corporate centers and colleges makes it rather appealing.
Apartment ROI: 9.15%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 421,000 (JOD 81,303)
1-Bedroom: AED 638,000 (JOD 123,210)
Mid-Tier Segment
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
JVC is a family-oriented neighborhood recognized for its contemporary villas and apartments. For mid-tier investors, its central position and excellent connection to main roads make it a great option. Because of its cost and convenience, the neighborhood also shows great rental demand.
Apartment ROI: 8.26%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 589,000 (JOD 113,747)
1-Bedroom: AED 915,000 (JOD 176,704) - Business Bay
Dynamic mixed-use area Business Bay in Dubai provides a mix of business and residential areas. Renowned for its stunning skyline along the Dubai Canal, its strategic position, contemporary conveniences, and energetic urban lifestyle attract young professionals and investors.
Apartment ROI: 6.65%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 986,000 (JOD 190,415)
1-Bedroom: AED 1,543,000 (JOD 297,983)
Luxury Segment
- Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is well-known for its opulent waterfront lifestyle and beautiful high-rise apartments. Its vibrant neighborhood, modern conveniences, and amazing views of the harbor draw high-net-worth people from all across the globe.
Apartment ROI: 6.69%
Average Prices:
1-Bedroom: AED 1.60 million (JOD 309,763)
2-Bedroom: AED 2.57 million (JOD 496,317) - Downtown Dubai
Downtown Dubai, home to famous buildings like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, best captures luxury life right in the middle of the city. Its luxury assets and superb infrastructure attract investors looking for exclusivity.
Apartment ROI: 6.10 %
Average Prices:
1-Bedroom: AED 2.08 million (JOD 401,881)
2-Bedroom: AED 3.94 million (JOD 761,277)
Abu Dhabi Real Estate Market
With a consistent increase in both affordable and luxury categories according to the H1 market report by Bayut, Abu Dhabi has a more stable real estate market than Dubai. Renowned for its family-friendly areas and waterfront projects, the capital city attracts long-term investment.
Key Areas in Abu Dhabi
Affordable Segment
- Al Reef
Al Reef is a well-established neighborhood that provides affordable apartments and villas in a family-friendly setting. Its prime position close to Abu Dhabi International Airport makes it rather convenient while still preserving suburban tranquility.
Apartment ROI: 8.34%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 471,000 (JOD 90,966)
1-Bedroom: AED 618,000 (JOD 119,357) - Al Ghadeer
Al Ghadeer, which lies on the border between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, has reasonably priced homes with excellent accessibility to both emirates. Families looking for reasonably priced houses apart from the bustle of city life will find it perfect in its peaceful surroundings.
Apartment ROI: 8.52%
Average Prices:
Studio: AED 409,000 (JOD 78,992)
1-Bedroom: AED 571,000 (JOD 110,280)
Luxury Segment
- Al Reem Island
Demand for luxury homes with waterfront views and contemporary conveniences drives Al Reem Island. Its close proximity to Abu Dhabi's downtown makes it convenient and provides a calm living by the water.
ROI: 6.94%
Average Prices:
1-Bedroom: AED 877,000 (JOD 169,379)
2-Bedroom: AED 1.4 million (JOD 270,388) - Yas Island
Yas Island, well-known for its entertainment value—including Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld—also has upscale residences appealing to luxury consumers. High-net-worth people looking for unique living experiences find the island appealing because of its energetic way of life.
ROI: 6.93%
Average Prices:
1-Bedroom: AED 1 million (JOD 193,134)
2-Bedroom: AED 1.7 million (JOD 328,329)
Disclaimer: ROI and property prices mentioned in this article are subject to change based on market conditions and other factors. Do your proper research and consult professionals before investing.
Why Choose Dubai?
Investors looking for quick market growth and good rental returns would find Dubai perfect:
- Globally appealing as a business center draws foreign tenants all year long.
- Diverse property choices in various budgets provide investor freedom.
- High ROI is possible in places like Discovery Gardens (up to ~10%) or JVC (8–9%).
Why Choose Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi appeals to those seeking consistency and steady growth:
- Al Reef and other family-oriented developments provide reasonably priced, large villas.
- Projects along the waterfront like Yas Island provide opulent homes with consistent rates of appreciation.
- The city's emphasis on sustainability guarantees constant demand in many different sectors.
Conclusion
Investors from Jordan choosing between Dubai or Abu Dhabi mostly rely on their investment objectives. Dubai is the best choice if you want fast market appreciation across several property kinds or strong rental returns. Abu Dhabi has great possibilities whether you want steady growth or opulent beachfront homes catered for families. Both locations provide great opportunities; knowing your priorities will enable you to make the correct decision catered to your financial objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are there any tax benefits for real estate investors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
A: Real estate investors benefit from tax incentives in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Investors like the UAE because property transactions are tax-free. However, Dubai property transactions incur a 4% transfer fee, whereas Abu Dhabi charges 2%.
Q2. What are the residency visa options for property investors in the UAE?
A: Dubai and Abu Dhabi investors who buy property for AED 750,000 (JOD 144,851) or more may apply for a renewable two-year investor visa. Investment properties worth AED 2 million (JOD 386,269) or more may earn investors a 10-year Golden Visa for long-term stay and family sponsorship.
Q3. Which city offers better off-plan investment opportunities: Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
A: Because of its bigger and more active real estate market, Dubai usually offers more off-plan investing opportunities. Off-plan developments are becoming popular among Abu Dhabi's investors looking for steady growth.
