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Key Figures and Growth in Q3 2024, Dubai’s Commercial Real Estate Market



18 Oct, 2024

The commercial real estate market in Dubai, particularly in the warehousing and industrial sectors, is experiencing significant growth in 2024. Driven by the rise of e-commerce, logistics, and manufacturing, this sector has become a critical part of Dubai’s economic engine. Below, we explore the latest data, trends, and opportunities that are reshaping the market.

1. Surge in Rental Rates: A Sign of High Demand
Rental rates across Dubai's industrial zones have risen sharply in 2024, with citywide rents increasing by 13% on average compared to the previous year. This is largely driven by the growing demand for modern, well-located spaces and the limited supply available. Notable increases in rental rates include:
  • Dubai Investment Park (DIP): 25% year-on-year increase.
  • Al Quoz (Grade B): 21% increase.
  • Dubai Industrial City: 21% increase.
  • Jebel Ali Industrial (Grade B): 19% increase​.
Meanwhile, JAFZA (Grade A) facilities experienced a more moderate 5% increase, reflecting the area’s mature and stabilized market.
2. High Demand for Grade A Facilities
The demand for Grade A facilities—which feature advanced infrastructure, high ceilings, large floor plates, and efficient loading docks—continues to rise in strategic areas such as:
  • Dubai South
  • Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
  • Dubai Industrial City
These modern facilities are crucial for companies in sectors such as logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing, where efficiency and scalability are priorities. Dubai South, in particular, has seen a surge in demand due to its superior connectivity, leading to fierce competition for available space​.
3. Supply Shortage Sparks New Developments
With demand far outpacing supply, developers are responding with new projects aimed at expanding Dubai’s industrial and warehousing capacity. Major upcoming projects include:
  • Aldar Properties' Logistics Park in National Industries Park: 1.55 million sq. ft. of logistics space, to be delivered by Q4 2025.
  • Dubai South Grade A Logistic Facility: 247,600 sq. ft. of premium space, expected by Q4 2024.
  • Dubai Industrial City Expansion: 13.9 million sq. ft. to support the UAE’s strategic industrial growth​.
These projects reflect the urgent need to address the supply-demand imbalance that is driving rental rates higher.
4. E-commerce Driving Demand
E-commerce continues to be one of the largest drivers of warehousing demand in Dubai. In 2024, e-commerce accounted for 40% of total industrial and warehousing demand, closely followed by sectors such as:
  • Manufacturing SMEs: 20%
  • Automotive: 8%
  • Oil & Gas: 6%
  • Food Sector: 5% 
These industries require large, modern spaces for their operations, further stressing the limited supply available​.

5. Rental Rates by Area: Comparative Data
Rental rates in 2024 saw considerable variation across Dubai’s main industrial zones. A comparison of annual rents shows:
  • Al Quoz (Grade A): AED 68/sq. ft. (up by 7% year-on-year).
  • Dubai Investment Park (DIP): AED 64/sq. ft. (up by 25%).
  • Dubai Industrial City: AED 50/sq. ft. (up by 21%).
  • JAFZA (Grade A): AED 40/sq. ft. (up by 5%).
  • Jebel Ali Industrial (Grade B): AED 45/sq. ft. (up by 19%).
These figures indicate that newer industrial zones, such as Dubai Industrial City and DIP, are seeing faster rental growth, thanks to increasing demand from logistics and e-commerce businesses​.
6. Major Drivers of the Industrial Market
Key factors driving Dubai’s warehousing and industrial market include:
  • Expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport: Expected to boost demand for logistics and warehousing facilities as it expands its cargo capacity by 2025.
  • Etihad Railway: Expected to enhance regional connectivity and trade, fueling the need for warehousing and logistics spaces across Dubai​.
7. Sustainability and Technology Leading the Charge
With Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global smart city, both sustainability and technology are now integral to the industrial real estate market. The push for smart warehouses—which integrate automated logistics systems, energy-efficient designs, and green building certifications—is increasing. This trend is expected to provide a competitive advantage to developers and landlords who invest in environmentally conscious projects.
8. Opportunities for Investors
As rental rates rise and demand outstrips supply, developers and investors have a prime opportunity to capitalize on the market’s rapid growth. Some areas of high potential include:
  • Dubai Industrial City: With a 13.9 million sq. ft. expansion underway, this area is poised to become a manufacturing and logistics hub, aligned with the UAE’s Operation 300bn initiative.
  • Dubai South: Benefiting from its proximity to major transportation hubs and high-quality infrastructure, this area remains attractive for businesses in e-commerce, automotive, and logistics sectors​.
Conclusion
Dubai’s industrial and warehousing sector continues to thrive in 2024, supported by rising demand, limited supply, and technological advancements. As rental rates surge and more businesses seek out strategically located, modern facilities, the market offers substantial opportunities for investors and developers. With over 40% of demand coming from logistics and e-commerce sectors, and Grade A facilities commanding premium rents, now is the time to explore investments in Dubai’s rapidly evolving commercial real estate market.
By focusing on strategic locations, sustainable practices, and technological innovations, businesses and investors alike can unlock the immense potential that Dubai's industrial sector holds.

With over 20 years of experience, RedRock Real Estate offers expert guidance in identifying top investment opportunities, sale, resale, or long-term lease  and providing property management services. Our team ensures your investments are aligned with Dubai’s growing industrial market, helping you maximize returns with sustainable and tech-driven solutions. Contact us to make the most of Dubai’s booming commercial real estate sector.

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