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Abu Dhabi Property Climbs Early in 2026 With AED 11.75B in Residential Transactions

Abu Dhabi Residential Market Opens 2026 with $3.2 Billion in Property Sales

Written By : Antara
Reviewed By : Sankha Ghosh

Abu Dhabi Property transactions have reached approximately AED 11.75B in early 2026. The capital's housing market received a strong start to the year through this transaction volume. The month recorded 2,600 residential deals. This showed that both investors and end-users continued to demand properties. 

The early momentum positions the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Market as one of the region's most closely watched property stories this year, as it focuses on high-demand residential communities and new developments.

Strong Start: Growth of Abu Dhabi’s Residential Property Market

The headline figure of AED 11.75B in residential transactions in a single month underscores the strength of Abu Dhabi Property at the outset of 2026. A significant portion of these deals came from off-plan sales, which accounted for roughly 83% of total transactions.

Areas such as Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Al Jubail Island, and Al Raha Beach were among the leading contributors to the surge. These districts continue to attract buyers looking for waterfront living, master-planned communities, and long-term capital appreciation.

About the growth, Nada Osman, Director of Betterhomes Abu Dhabi, has mentioned, “The dominance of off-plan transactions shows that investors and end-users are positioning themselves early in the development cycle. We are seeing thoughtful, strategic purchasing decisions that reinforce the stability and maturity of the market.”

Sales Breakdown and What It Signals for the Year Ahead

The complete sales data shows that sales composition represents a more extensive narrative than just its headline figure. Off-plan deal dominance demonstrates that buyers display forward-looking investment behavior.

The secondary market maintained its active trading operations while leasing activities created additional residential market depth. 

About the leasing property, Noha Mesbah said, “Abu Dhabi’s leasing market is currently experiencing strong momentum, particularly as three major developments are being handed over. Tenants are actively seeking communities that align with their lifestyle needs, whether that means waterfront living, family-oriented environments, or proximity to key infrastructure.”

The sales data gives developers confidence to move forward with their project launch plans. The data shows investors that the capital city housing market has both liquid assets and ongoing demand from buyers.

Road Ahead: Momentum with Measured Optimism

The residential market demonstrates confidence through its capital investments and planned urban development. The process has already been initiated with a $3.2 billion investment for 2026. The market will maintain its current state when three factors, including supply discipline, pricing balance, and economic conditions, work together.

Abu Dhabi Property can achieve continuous transaction growth for the entire year if its management maintains proper control of its operations. The market demonstrates resilience through its capacity to compete with other regional real estate markets, which continue to grow stronger.

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