Developers in Dubai are elevating the luxury housing scene by offering high-end mansions and penthouses priced between $60 million and over $120 million. These ultra-luxury homes, often featuring private cinemas, spas, and custom-made elevators, are aimed at attracting wealthy buyers from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Some of these homes surpass the limits of luxury. For example, one developer shipped a massive glass wall across continents to provide a perfect sea view for a client. Another included a private lobby and elevator in a penthouse spanning two towers. A third created a swimming pool with a movable floor that seamlessly blends with garden tiles during events.

Despite a global slowdown in prime residential markets, Dubai’s luxury property market is booming. According to Knight Frank, the emirate saw 435 homes priced above $10 million sell last year, surpassing cities like New York and Hong Kong. Ultra-luxury property prices in Dubai have surged 67% since 2021, with an additional 5% increase expected this year.

Buyers are drawn to Dubai for the value it offers. Mahdi Amjad, founder of Omniyat, explained that Dubai provides significantly more space and amenities compared to cities like New York or London, often at a fraction of the price. In order to compete globally, developers are incorporating elaborate features such as retractable glass domes over pools and winding water features that connect gardens to spas.

Man-made islands, such as the exclusive Billionaire Island, remain prime locations for these homes, offering perks like private beaches and high-tech rotating car parking systems. Wealth advisory firm Henley & Partners reported that 6,700 millionaires moved to the UAE in 2024, making it a top destination for high-net-worth individuals.

But there are difficulties in creating such opulent homes. According to Gulf News, the creator of Palace Group, Wissam Damaa, explained that months of preparation, specialist manufacture in Germany and Switzerland, and even specially constructed underground storage were needed to fulfill a client’s desire for a huge disappearing glass wall.

Brokers observe that although demand is still high, the market is exhibiting symptoms of slowdown. Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty’s Honey Deylami emphasized that there are still supply limitations, especially for ultra-high-end houses that are ready to move into. Since many of the homes being built are still years away from completion, demand is now higher than supply.