# Global Investors Converge on IREIS 2026 as Abu Dhabi Property Surges Record-breaking transaction volumes drive international interest at the Abu Dhabi real estate exhibition. - **Source:** [Gulf News](https://gulfnews.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e6387d86-bad2-4de0-b6bb-a7106e662401 ## Record Market Performance Abu Dhabi’s property market reached a historic milestone, with total transaction values hitting Dh171 billion in the first nine months of 2026. This represents a 76.1 percent increase compared to the previous year. Sales activity surged significantly, recording 23,749 transactions, marking a 49.2 percent rise in volume year-on-year for the emirate. ## IREIS 2026 Exhibition The International Real Estate and Investment Show (IREIS) 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre served as a critical hub for global investors. The three-day event facilitated direct connections between UAE developers and international brokers. Organizers utilized registration data to gain deeper insights into investor budgets and global origins. ## Transparency Rankings Rise Abu Dhabi’s investment appeal is bolstered by its improved standing in the 2026 Global Real Estate Transparency Index. The emirate climbed eight places to rank 33rd globally, successfully transitioning into the 'Transparent' tier. This advancement reflects the government's commitment to creating a stable, reliable environment for both local and foreign capital. ## Future City Vision Architect Edgar Gerson unveiled a master-planned 'city of the future' concept inspired by traditional Arabic coffee pots. Designed to house 1.2 million residents, the layout features radial roads and advanced water harvesting systems. The project prioritizes electric vehicles and unified transit, aiming to serve as a sustainable model for global urban development. ## Developer Strategic Focus Exhibitors like Samana and Al Rasikhoon are actively expanding their presence in Abu Dhabi to capture growing demand. Developers are emphasizing off-plan properties as a hedge against market fluctuations, offering flexible payment plans. Many firms are also targeting industrial growth, particularly in Sharjah, to support businesses relocating near major regional ports. ## Mortgage Sector Opportunities The surge in property transactions has created a robust environment for mortgage providers and financial advisors. Firms like Husby Mortgages noted that the average ticket size in the region is significantly higher than in other markets. Professionals are using the exhibition to identify new project leads and build essential industry partnerships. ## Regional Market Dynamics Investors are increasingly diversifying their portfolios across the UAE, including Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. While the market remains cautious, it is highly active, with buyers prioritizing value and long-term returns. Experts suggest that waterfront developments on islands like Saadiyat and Reem continue to be primary drivers of regional interest. ## Outlook for 2027 Market analysts anticipate continued growth in the UAE real estate sector through 2027 and 2028. The hotel industry is expected to see further expansion, attracting new international brands to the capital. Ongoing collaborations with investors from the UK, US, and Singapore remain central to sustaining the current momentum in the emirate. ## Sources covering this story - https://gulfnews.com/uae/abu-dhabi/global-investors-converge-on-ireis-2026-as-abu-dhabi-property-transactions-surge-to-dh171-billion-1.500744323 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._