Dubai Properties With Easier Access Command Premiums Up To 20% Amid Rising Traffic

2026-02-22 11:15:31

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Developers are increasingly prioritising plots with quick access to major highways and improved internal road layouts, as these sites are easier to lease and sell

PUBLISHED: Mon 23 Feb 2026, 7:00 AM

By:
Waheed Abbas

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Two minutes in, two minutes out.

Properties located in strategic areas with easier access in and out of communities are commanding premiums of up to 20 per cent, as demand rises amid growing traffic congestion.

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To capitalise on this heightened demand, property developers are increasingly focusing on locations that offer buyers and tenants smoother, congestion-free connectivity.

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Rapid population growth has made commuting more challenging for residents, prompting many to prioritise homes closer to their workplaces.

According to Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Properties, location has become increasingly critical for developers, buyers and tenants due to mounting traffic congestion.

“We just launched a new project in a densely populated area, JVC, which is one of the best places to live due to the availability of F&B outlets, mosques, cafeterias, and healthcare facilities, among others. But the biggest problem is traffic congestion. Our plot in JVC is next to the Al Khail Road, so residents and visitors have quick and easy access to Al Khail Road and Mohammed bin Zayed Road,” he said.

Data from TomTom Traffic revealed that motorists in Dubai spent more hours on the road in 2025. The average travel time for a 10-kilometre journey rose to 19.1 minutes, up from 13.7 minutes in 2024. The increase was driven by population growth, which resulted in more vehicles on the roads, according to the latest traffic report.

Amid rising congestion, the average rush-hour speed in the city slowed to 26.3kmph in 2025 - 1 kmph slower than in 2024.

20% premium

Tauseef Khan, founder and chairman of Dugasta Properties, said the classic phrase - location, location, location - has become even more relevant as congestion intensifies, with location now directly influencing stress levels, productivity and daily time lost in traffic.

For both residents and businesses, shorter and more predictable commutes are becoming a key decision-making factor.“When we look at the market today, locations are chosen based on how efficiently people can move in and out of them, and that shift is shaping long-term value more than ever,” he said.

“Areas that offer central access, smoother traffic flow, and multiple entry and exit routes are seeing stronger demand and, in some cases, they attract a premium price of 10-15 per cent, sometimes 20 per cent more than the market rate,” added Khan.

Developers favour strategic plots

Khan noted that prime locations balancing strong connectivity with relatively lower congestion tend to command higher sale prices and rental values, as they offer both accessibility and livability.

“Properties within 10 minutes of metro stations in Dubai command higher sales prices. These areas typically feature premium amenities, waterfront views, or gated communities that enhance desirability, driving up demand and values compared to high-traffic counterparts, as seen in global trends where quiet luxury enclaves outperform congested city centres.”

He added that developers are increasingly prioritising plots with quick access to major highways and improved internal road layouts, as these sites are easier to lease and sell.

“Master-planned communities and new projects that feature multiple entry and exit points, proximity to arterial roads, and planned congestion-easing measures are being positioned as strategic locations and are already showing stronger absorption and rental performance,” he said.

Sajan added that growing traffic is not only a challenge for developers, but for everyone – particularly those commuting between Dubai and Sharjah.

“We are trying to build affordable homes so that people can relocate here. The Dubai government is doing a lot in terms of developing infrastructure projects to improve traffic. Fortunately, many people are coming to Dubai,” he said.