UAE residents are increasingly relocating closer to their workplaces as rising traffic continues to affect daily life across major cities. What was once considered a lifestyle preference has now become a practical necessity, according to recent market reports and property executives.
Data from the TomTom Traffic Index shows that average travel time for a 10-kilometre drive in Dubai increased to 19.1 minutes in 2025, up from 13.7 minutes the previous year. Meanwhile, the Inrix Global Traffic Report revealed that motorists lost 45 hours to congestion in 2025, compared to 35 hours in 2024. The impact of rising traffic is even more severe for commuters travelling between Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
As a result, UAE residents are prioritising residential communities located near key business districts. Real estate professionals report that buyers and tenants are willing to compromise on unit size and pay higher rental or sale prices to secure properties with shorter commute times.
Developers also note growing demand for mixed-use developments that offer integrated amenities, including schools, retail outlets, fitness facilities, and green spaces. For many UAE residents, reducing exposure to rising traffic is now directly linked to improving productivity, work-life balance, and overall quality of life.
