In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the concept of ‘wellness’ is rapidly gaining popularity in the real estate sector, transforming into a key trend, especially in the residential market. Attracting significant investment, developers are increasingly integrating wellness elements into their projects, responding to the growing consumer demand for a healthy lifestyle. Research conducted by a leading Sharjah-based developer predicts that the residential wellness market in the UAE will explode, from US$137 million in 2024 to an impressive US$8.4 billion by 2027.
According to Rosa Piro, Senior Director of Business Development and Head of Research at Arada, the UAE is among the fastest growing markets in this segment. The residential wellness market is expected to increase almost sevenfold by 2027. Importantly, these projects are not only targeting the luxury segment, but also middle-income families looking for a healthier lifestyle without breaking the bank. The growth of wellness-focused projects, especially in Dubai, is already noticeable, with supply projected to exceed 16,000 units by 2030.
The UAE’s largest developers, including Emaar, Aldar, Damac, Danube Properties, Nakheel, Sobha, Meraas, Azizi and Samana Development, are actively integrating wellness elements into their projects. Piro highlights that wellness in real estate is becoming the next fast-growing asset class in the UAE, representing not just a passing trend, but a necessary evolution in the approach to housing. In a future where health and wellness are becoming a priority, wellness in real estate will play a critical role in shaping healthier and happier communities. With global wellness spending already exceeding $3.7 trillion and growing rapidly, developers, investors, and consumers should be prepared for wellness to become an integral part of the future of real estate.
Consumers are increasingly focused on their health and wellness, whether through fitness, organic food, or mental health services, and developers are responding quickly to this trend. The pandemic has dramatically changed the way people live and work, causing an exodus from congested cities to seek more holistic environments. Homes that prioritize natural light, green space, and air quality have become especially sought after.
Recognizing this, developers are actively incorporating locally sourced materials, community gardens, and even edible landscapes in an effort to make homes not only functional but also enriching for the lives of new residents. This growing trend is placing an emphasis on health and wellness across projects, amenities, and community planning, from sustainable architecture to biophilic designs that integrate nature.
The goal of these innovations is to create an environment that supports six key dimensions of well-being: social, physical, professional, emotional, spiritual and intellectual.
