As more companies in the UAE transition back to in-person work and an increasing number of overseas firms seek to establish operations in the country, the demand for premium office spaces has intensified.

As businesses increasingly seek high-quality, well-located office spaces to meet their evolving needs, Bayti Real Estate—a specialist in premium real estate services focused on providing top-tier commercial and residential spaces across the region—has announced the closure of a record-breaking deal for office space in Dubai.

The transaction involved a 2,879 sq. ft. premium office space at The Opus in Business Bay, which was sold for AED 7,040 per sq. ft. This marks the highest sale value per square foot recorded by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

This office, designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid, exemplifies the demand for premium, Grade A office spaces in Dubai. The sale has set a new benchmark for commercial properties in the area, underscoring The Opus’s continued appeal as a business hub.

Commenting on the transaction, Tariq Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Bayti Real Estate said: “This transaction is reflective of the ongoing positive trend in property demand across Dubai, the UAE and the rest of the region. We are seeing a significant shift in how businesses are approaching their office requirements. With increasing demand for flexible, fully serviced offices in prime locations, companies are prioritizing spaces that can accommodate hybrid work models and offer collaborative environments. High-end, move-in-ready spaces in premium locations such as Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, and DIFC are in particularly high demand.

“With prime locations in short supply due to rising demand, businesses are increasingly seeking high-quality, well-located office spaces to meet their evolving needs. Dubai’s office market has responded with increasing occupancy rates, rising from 90.1% in Q1 2023 to 91.3% in Q1 2024, according to CBRE’s latest report,” Williams added.

Leasing trends across the UAE indicate a growing preference for shorter, more flexible lease terms, as well as office spaces that integrate cutting-edge technology and sustainability features. Many businesses are now seeking prestigious office locations that reflect their corporate image while offering scalability and adaptability.