Abu Dhabi Property Market Surges 76% to Dh171 Billion
Real estate transactions in the UAE capital show resilience despite regional geopolitical uncertainties.
1Record Transaction Growth
Abu Dhabi recorded real estate transactions worth Dh171.26 billion during the first nine months of 2026. This figure represents a significant 76 percent annual growth compared to the previous year. Total transaction volume rose by nearly one-third, reaching 38,483 individual deals, demonstrating sustained momentum despite ongoing regional geopolitical tensions in Iran.
2Sales and Mortgage Performance
Property sales more than doubled to reach nearly Dh120 billion, driven by a 50 percent increase in transaction volume. Mortgage activity also contributed significantly, generating Dh46 billion in revenue. This reflects a 30 percent year-on-year increase, supported by a 13.2 percent rise in the number of mortgage transactions processed during this period.
3Foreign Investment Surge
Foreign investment in designated zones climbed by 131 percent annually, totaling Dh86.11 billion. This capital inflow accounts for 81 percent of the total investment value recorded. Notably, foreign direct investment by non-resident individuals reached Dh17.22 billion, already doubling the total investment of Dh8.2 billion achieved throughout the entire year of 2025.
4Key Development Districts
Al Reem Island led the market with Dh29.86 billion in transaction value, followed by Al Hudayriyat Island at Dh28.62 billion. Other major hubs included Al Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Zayed City. These districts, alongside Khalifa City, are projected to provide 77 percent of the emirate's incremental real estate supply through 2030.
5Regulatory Market Support
The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre approved 54 new developments during the nine-month period. To maintain market stability, authorities announced in July that residential, commercial, and industrial rents would remain frozen until further notice. Exceptions apply only to specific communities managed by the Abu Dhabi Global Market, such as Al Maryah Island.
6Professional Sector Expansion
The number of licenses issued to real estate professionals increased by one-third during the first three quarters of 2026. This growth in human capital aims to support the delivery of new projects and ensure professional management after handover. Officials emphasize that these regulations are designed to meet the long-term expectations of buyers.
7Off-Plan Mortgage Framework
Analysts suggest that the introduction of an off-plan mortgage framework is bolstering investor confidence. By providing greater clarity on mortgage processes for both buyers and developers, the framework aims to sustain the market's positive trajectory. This regulatory step is viewed as a crucial mechanism for ensuring transparency in the emirate's property sector.
8Economic Resilience Outlook
Despite regional conflict, the property sector remains a core pillar of the UAE capital's economy. Recent reports indicate that apartment and villa prices rose in the third quarter, supported by resilient commercial fundamentals. The sustained investment levels suggest that businesses and residents are making long-term commitments to the region's future development.
Original article: The National — Abu Dhabi Property Market Surges 76% to Dh171 Billion