Critical Success Factors in real estate development are the key areas that must be effectively managed and executed for a real estate project to succeed. These factors vary depending on the project’s scale, type, and location. Below are common CSFs in real estate development: In Dubai’s commercial real estate market, characterized by its highly competitive and rapidly evolving nature, CSFs are vital for effectively navigating opportunities and overcoming challenges. This paper presents the initial stage of an ongoing research project focused on developing a framework for CSFs specific to early-stage decision-making in commercial real estate development within the Dubai market. Based on a comprehensive literature review, a preliminary list of CSFs is proposed, addressing critical early-stage processes such as market analysis, site acquisition, feasibility studies, financial planning and funding, risk management, and stakeholder management. The study further examines critical indicators of companies’ competitiveness and their individual capabilities. These initial findings establish a foundation for further refinement and validation of the proposed framework.