The Middle East and North Africa region is now the second fastest-growing market for wellness real estate in the world. It has grown by 22.6% in the last year, reaching a value of $2 billion. This means the region has officially moved ahead of Europe. People are no longer just looking for gold decorations or famous brand names. They instead want homes that help them live longer and feel better.
Developers in the Middle East are changing how they build homes. They are moving away from simple luxury and focusing on ‘preventive health.’ Large companies like Emaar and Aldar are building entire neighborhoods designed to improve the lifestyle. These projects use ‘bio-living’ ideas, which means they focus on clean air, natural light, and better sleep.
New projects like the Keturah Reserve in Dubai are great examples. They include thousands of trees that produce extra oxygen and special lagoons for swimming. Designers are making it easier for people to walk and talk to their neighbors. They are moving away from cities that depend only on cars. Most of our health depends on where we live. As a result, developers are building ecosystems rather than just apartment blocks.
Data shows that homes in wellness real estate projects cost 10% to 25% more than standard luxury homes. In the MENA region, this usually adds between $50,000 and $200,000 to the price of a high-end apartment.
While the price is higher at the start, the long-term value is very strong. These properties offer several benefits:
Faster Resale Cycles: Wellness-focused listings are moving off the market significantly faster than traditional stock.
Higher Rental Yields: In the commercial sector, ‘healthy buildings’ are generating rental premiums of 4.4% to 7.7% per square foot.
Lower Operating Costs: Many of these homes utilize LEED-certified green technologies, which reduce utility bills by up to 20% over time.
Overall, local businesses are also benefiting. New shops, organic cafes, and health clinics are opening near these homes. This creates a new local economy focused on health.
Living in a healthy home is becoming the new normal. The global market for these homes will likely reach $1.1 trillion by 2029. The MENA region is building many new megaprojects from scratch, making it easier to add the latest health technology. Over the next six months, more developers may be seen applying for official health certificates to prove their buildings are worth the higher price.