Dubai Property Prices Could Fall: Banks Become Aggressive In Pursuing Repossessions

From the current levels, the property prices in Dubai could fall by another 30 percent. According to the analysts by the end of the 2011, somewhere around 150,000 homes could be lying empty. The UBS has forecasted that there will be a blow to the emirate’s property market with the prices down by up to 50 percent. It is also reported that Palm Jumeirah which is one of the most iconic developments in Dubai has seen its first repossession.

An analyst Saud Masud said, “We reiterate our view that by end of 2011 Dubai property oversupply on residential and commercial properties may reach roughly 40 to 50% and house prices may decline another 30% from current levels.” He further added, “We estimate total Dubai housing supply by the end of 2011 to be roughly 360,000 with oversupply potentially at 150,000 residential units.” Property investors in the UAE may find it cheaper in the auction market up to 40 percent as higher default risks ignite to more bank repossessions.

The bank sold the apartments in the exclusive man made island Palm Jumeirah for AED745 per sq ft which became a symbol in Dubai real estate market. Last week the owner’s bank took over the three bedroom apartment in Al Shala on the prestigious development. It was taken back after he failed to resolve the Dhs1.7 million of outstanding debt. Quickly the bank moved to shift the property. A number of repossession orders on properties in Dubai have been won by the UK based Barclays and now the banks won’t hesitate in order to follow the suit.

According to a banking analyst at an investor service, Antoine Yacoub banks will now become aggressive in practicing a legal action. They were trying to restructure most of their loans, however, once a precedent has been set, more cases will be encouraged to put through.