Abu Dhabi Introduces New Property Regulations to Strengthen Market Transparency and Tenant Protection

Abu Dhabi has continued to strengthen its real estate regulatory framework in 2026, introducing new measures aimed at increasing transparency, protecting buyers and tenants, and establishing clearer responsibilities for developers, property managers and owners.

One of the most significant recent changes came in June 2026, when the Abu Dhabi Government temporarily reduced the permitted annual rental increase from 5% to 0% across residential, commercial and industrial properties in the emirate. Under the measure, tenancy contract renewals are to be processed without a rental increase until further notice. Lease renewals and new agreements reference the rental rate recorded in the property's most recent registered Tawtheeq contract, with the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre overseeing implementation and compliance.

The rental measure follows a broader package of regulatory reforms introduced by the Department of Municipalities and Transport to implement Law No. 3 of 2015, as amended by Law No. 2 of 2025, governing Abu Dhabi's real estate sector. The framework is designed to strengthen market governance while providing clearer protections and obligations for developers, investors and property owners.

Among the reforms, Administrative Decision No. 24 of 2025 introduced tighter controls on withdrawals from real estate project escrow accounts before a development reaches 20% completion. Developers must meet specified requirements, including approved cost estimates and bank guarantees, before accessing funds, providing additional safeguards for money paid by off-plan purchasers.

New rules have also been introduced for jointly owned properties and common facilities. Administrative Decision No. 25 of 2025 establishes a regulatory framework covering the responsibilities of owners, developers and property management companies, while Decision No. 26 introduces unified bylaws governing Owners' Committees across Abu Dhabi.

Off-plan property transactions have also received additional regulatory protection. Decision No. 165 of 2025 establishes compensation percentages applicable when purchasers breach contractual obligations under off-plan sales agreements and sets procedures and timelines for refunds following the cancellation and resale of units. The rules take the project's status and level of completion into account when determining compensation.

Abu Dhabi has additionally strengthened the regulation of property advertising and listings through Madhmoun, ADREC's Multiple Listing Service. ADREC states that approved development projects must be listed through Madhmoun before marketing activity, while the platform is designed to provide verified property information and reduce inaccurate or misleading advertisements.

The latest measures reflect Abu Dhabi's broader move towards a more regulated and transparent property market, with increased oversight of rental practices, off-plan development, escrow funds, property management and advertising as the emirate's real estate sector continues to expand.