Office leasing across the top eight cities in India recorded more than 29 mn square feet in the first quarter of 2026, with Bengaluru leading the markets by registering nine point two mn square feet. The quarter covered January to March and captured leasing across primary and emerging nodes. The data reflected sustained occupier demand despite broader economic uncertainty and indicated that many companies continued to prioritise physical office space as a core part of workplace strategy.

Leasing activity was driven by expansion needs of technology, software services and business process companies as well as by financial and professional services firms seeking modern workspaces. Demand concentrated in high quality grade A developments and in business districts that offer strong transport links and supporting amenities, signalling a preference among occupiers for efficient, well located space. Co working and flexible workspace operators reported renewed interest from enterprise clients seeking plug and play options for immediate occupancy.

Developers continued to add large floor plates and flexible layouts to meet occupier requirements, while landlords reported healthy enquiries and pre leasing for upcoming completions. The trend towards hybrid working models appeared to be influencing specifications rather than reducing overall space requirements, with many occupiers opting for collaborative and flexible designs. Leasing transactions increasingly featured longer term commitments and bespoke fit outs as occupiers sought to secure talent and standardise workplace experiences.

Market participants expected leasing momentum to remain resilient through the year as corporate expansion plans and new project deliveries balanced each other. Analysts suggested that rental growth would likely be moderate and concentrated in prime micro markets, while secondary locations might see slower recovery and selective absorption. Investors continued to monitor the sector for selective acquisition opportunities, with emphasis on assets that demonstrated strong tenant demand and sustainable design credentials.