Abu Dhabi Introduces New Off-Plan Mortgage Framework

Abu Dhabi’s property market is taking another step forward with a new off-plan mortgage framework introduced by the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), designed to provide greater flexibility for buyers purchasing properties under construction.

Mortgage Financing Before Handover

Under the framework, eligible buyers who have already paid 50% of the property’s purchase price can arrange mortgage financing against the property while it is still under construction, rather than having to wait until completion.

This gives buyers greater certainty over how they will fund future payments and can help reduce financial pressure as projects move closer to handover.

Supporting Abu Dhabi’s Growing Off-Plan Market

The framework arrives at a time of strong demand for off-plan property across Abu Dhabi. During the first half of 2026, residential sales reached AED 70.4 billion, with off-plan transactions accounting for approximately 89% of the total.

Overall real estate transactions in Abu Dhabi reached AED 117 billion during the same period, representing a 112% year-on-year increase, while transaction volumes rose 61.7% to 16,838. Mortgage activity also increased, reaching AED 26.7 billion across 8,876 transactions.

Greater Flexibility for Buyers and Developers

For buyers, earlier access to mortgage financing can provide more flexibility when managing remaining construction instalments and final payments.

Developers could also benefit from access to a broader pool of qualified buyers, greater visibility over future payments and a reduced risk of purchasers facing liquidity challenges during the later stages of construction.

Strengthening Investor Confidence

By allowing mortgage interests to be registered against eligible off-plan units before completion, the framework introduces greater clarity for buyers, lenders and developers.

As Abu Dhabi continues to expand its residential market, the initiative could help make off-plan investment more accessible while strengthening transparency, financial planning and investor confidence across the emirate’s real estate sector.