In-depth market analysis, expert perspectives and fresh insights
Abu Dhabi’s focus on safety, infrastructure, urban planning and quality of life is strengthening investor confidence, with real estate transactions reaching AED 117 billion in the first half of 2026.
Abu Dhabi-based Eagle Hills has signed a framework agreement to advance major residential and tourism developments in Damascus and Latakia as part of a wider investment programme that could reach $20 billion.
The AED 7.3 billion West Bani Yas Residential Project has secured first place at the seventh GCC Housing Award, recognising its integrated approach to sustainable housing, community living and quality of life.
Mubadala, TARAF and Kerzner International have partnered to develop a 44-storey One&Only Private Residences tower on Al Maryah Island, directly connected to The Galleria Abu Dhabi.
The expansion of Etihad Rail’s passenger services between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah could influence property demand as buyers and tenants increasingly consider station proximity and commuting times when choosing where to live.
Palm Hills Developments has showcased its integrated development model and regional growth plans at LIVEX 2026 as the Egyptian developer prepares to launch Saadiyat Shores, its first project outside Egypt, in Abu Dhabi.
ONE Development, ODI Holding and NG9 Holding have signed a partnership agreement to jointly develop a new waterfront real estate project on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi.
Aldar and Arada have announced a landmark AED 15 billion strategic partnership to deliver major new developments on Yas Island and at Seih Sdeirah, marking Arada’s first development presence in Abu Dhabi. Arada
Aldar has surpassed AED 5 billion in combined sales across Talay at Marsa Al Saadiyat and Yas Riva Reserve, with expatriate residents and overseas buyers accounting for 69% of sales.
The UAE’s luxury property market reached new heights in 2026, led by a AED 200 million villa sale in Abu Dhabi and a AED 170 million transaction on Palm Jumeirah.
Abu Dhabi approved 43.6 million sqm of gross floor area across development projects and master plans during the first half of 2026, representing a 40% year-on-year increase.
Abu Dhabi has risen to 33rd globally in JLL’s 2026 Global Real Estate Transparency Index, recording the strongest improvement among the markets assessed.
A new collection of villas and townhouses is being introduced at Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, the world’s first Manchester City branded residential development, located along Yas Canal in Abu Dhabi.
A new collection of JW Marriott branded waterfront apartments is set to launch on Yas Island, bringing together Taraf’s luxury residential development expertise with the globally recognised hospitality brand.
Abu Dhabi has introduced a new planning framework requiring major developments to incorporate walkability, accessibility, connected transport and high-quality public spaces from the earliest stages of master planning.
New framework allows eligible buyers to secure mortgage financing during construction after paying 50% of the property value, supporting greater flexibility and confidence in Abu Dhabi’s off-plan market.
Abu Dhabi has introduced a series of real estate regulatory measures in 2026, including a temporary 0% annual rental increase, tighter escrow controls, new rules for jointly owned properties and clearer protections for off-plan buyers.
The Bristol Residences introduces a limited collection of 125 waterfront apartments to Ramhan Island, with 1 to 4-bedroom homes starting from AED 3.1 million and handover scheduled for Q4 2028.
Dubai recorded more than 80,000 residential property sales worth AED 226.5 billion during the first half of 2026, while off-plan properties accounted for more than 70% of residential sales.
Dubai’s property market saw varied performance across key communities in H1 2026, with JVC, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Hills Estate, Al Furjan and other established areas standing out across different price and property segments.
Dubai South is emerging as a major property and investment hub, supported by the AED 128 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, growing business activity and large-scale residential development.
Dubai’s property market recorded AED 11.185 billion in transactions between September 21 and 25, including 2,426 property sales and several high-value deals on Palm Jumeirah.
Abu Dhabi-based Eagle Hills has signed an agreement with the Maldives government to develop a $12 billion integrated waterfront destination in Ras Malé.
Property owners and real estate operators in Abu Dhabi have until November 30, 2026, to secure mandatory building occupancy certificates, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines of up to AED 1 million.
More than AED 30 billion in disclosed development value is being directed into Yas Island across residential, hospitality, leisure and entertainment projects.
Azizi Developments has announced Azizi Florence, a AED 30 billion freehold master community featuring more than 10,000 homes and a 1.7 million sq ft central park.
Dubai Holding has awarded its largest-ever building contract to develop a landmark new headquarters alongside 754 branded residences at Emirates Towers.
The new mixed-use development by Cosmo Developments will bring 3,950 residences, commercial and leisure facilities, and a planned hotel to Yas Island.
The new luxury villa community introduces 351 standalone 4, 5 and 6-bedroom homes at Marsa Al Saadiyat, with prices starting from AED 13.5 million and sales beginning on 23 September 2026.
The gated development will introduce 292 four-, five- and six-bedroom villas, including 45 waterfront homes, with sales officially launching on 26 September 2026.
Emaar Hospitality is advancing a new pipeline of hotels, residences and leisure assets across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including new openings in Sharjah, Dubai and Saudi Arabia.
The acquisition of Masdar City Square lifts the joint venture’s Masdar City portfolio to AED 4.7 billion, adding a 47,000 sqm commercial complex that is already 99% occupied.
Miral will invest more than AED 12 billion across Yas Island over the next five years to expand attractions, hospitality and immersive experiences.
Eligible buyers across selected Nakheel and Meraas developments can access home financing after paying 50% of the property value, regardless of construction progress.
Al Reem Island accounted for nearly half of Abu Dhabi’s off-plan apartment transactions in summer 2026, as sales activity and property prices continued to rise across the capital.
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is expanding with three new Harry Potter-themed lands — Diagon Alley, Hogwarts and the Forbidden Forest — set to bring the Wizarding World to Yas Island by 2029.
Strong growth in assets, businesses and global investment continues to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position at the centre of international capital.
Following the sell-out of its first release, Royal Development Holding introduces Phase Two of Radisson Residences Al Reem Island, bringing a new collection of branded waterfront residences to Abu Dhabi.
Aldar introduces Sei Saadiyat, bringing 778 design-led residences, wellness-focused amenities and a new loft-style living concept to one of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious cultural destinations.
A landmark financing framework now allows eligible Abu Dhabi buyers who have paid 50% of an off-plan property’s value to secure mortgage financing before handover.
Eagle Hills Properties has begun the transformation of Lulu Island, unlocking a major new waterfront destination just 500 metres from Abu Dhabi’s Corniche.
Hudayriyat Island recorded AED 19 billion in residential sales during the first half of 2026, accounting for 27% of Abu Dhabi’s total residential sales value.
Abu Dhabi’s residential market is set for significant expansion, with 71,000 new homes projected by 2030 and the largest delivery wave expected in 2028.
The upcoming phase will introduce a new collection of waterfront apartments within Sobha City Abu Dhabi, positioned along the waterfront opposite Yas Island.
A practical step-by-step guide to help tenants navigate tenancy registration, utilities, move-in requirements and settling into a rental property in Abu Dhabi.
A practical guide to the key documents tenants need to rent a property in Abu Dhabi, from identification and Tawtheeq registration to utilities, payments and move-in approvals.
A clear step-by-step guide to renting a property in Abu Dhabi, from setting your budget and viewing homes to signing the tenancy contract, registering Tawtheeq and moving in.
A practical guide to how property management helps Abu Dhabi landlords protect their property, support tenants and manage rentals more efficiently.
A step-by-step guide for Abu Dhabi landlords on preparing, listing and successfully renting out their property.
Abu Dhabi property sales reached AED 84.49 billion in H1 2026, driven by strong off-plan demand and rising buyer confidence.
ALDAR’s AED 100 billion Marsa Al Saadiyat waterfront development was presented by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Off-plan properties accounted for 78% of Abu Dhabi sales in H1 2026. Here's why buyers and investors are choosing new developments.
Discover the top Abu Dhabi real estate areas in 2026, including Hudayriyat Island, Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island.
Hudayriyat Island is becoming one of Abu Dhabi's strongest real estate destinations, supported by major development and strong transaction value.
Tara Park by Modon adds 834 modern apartments to Al Reem Island, strengthening one of Abu Dhabi's most in-demand communities.
Abu Dhabi has introduced real estate rules covering escrow accounts, off-plan disputes, and owners' committees to improve transparency.
Abu Dhabi's Madhmoun platform now supports digital registration of off-plan EOIs, improving transparency and investor protection.
Aldar and Abu Dhabi's DMT will deliver 9,000 value housing rental units in Baniyas and Mohamed Bin Zayed City.
Yas Island remains one of Abu Dhabi's most attractive communities, supported by lifestyle amenities, new launches, and strong buyer interest.
Branded residences are gaining momentum in Abu Dhabi, with luxury projects such as Manchester City Yas Residences and Baccarat Residences Saadiyat.
