UAE Developers Bring Construction In-House to Tighten Control

Financing is another key driver. Since off-plan payments are held in escrow until the final inspection, developers are increasingly relying on debt markets to cover land acquisition and operational costs. Timely completion becomes crucial — both to release funds and to sustain investor returns.

But experts caution that in-house construction is not without risks. Gordon Rodger, founder and managing partner at Stonehaven, noted that idle resources can become a problem if sales slow:

If the trend continues, analysts expect independent contractors to pivot toward sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, or oil and gas to diversify revenue streams. The move toward in-house contracting marks a new phase in the UAE’s property sector — one that promises greater efficiency but also introduces new risks.

For contractors, this shift clearly signals the need to adapt. With fewer bids available, standing out will require specialization, faster delivery, or investment in technology. Expanding into adjacent industries may also help reduce reliance on real estate cycles. The market is evolving quickly, but firms that adjust their strategies can still find strong opportunities in an environment where scale, control, and execution set the pace.