Abu Dhabi Residential Market Achieves Second-Strongest Q1 Performance in 2026

Thursday, 30 April 2026

The residential real estate market in Abu Dhabi delivered an impressive start to 2026, recording one of its strongest quarters ever. Driven by high demand, strong off-plan sales, and rising property values, the market continues to attract both regional and global investors.

Key Highlights

7,200+ residential transactions recorded in Q1 2026, marking one of the highest quarterly volumes on record
Q1 performance closely followed the all-time peak of 7,600+ transactions achieved in late 2025
Strong activity momentum carried through January and February, reflecting sustained buyer confidence
Seasonal events such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr aligned with a naturally evolving transaction cycle
Off-plan segment dominated the market, accounting for 81% of total residential sales
Demand fueled by major new project launches and strong early-stage investor participation
Apartments remained the top-performing asset class with 5,200+ transactions
Apartments contributed to nearly 75% of total market activity, highlighting strong urban living demand
Third consecutive quarter where apartment sales exceeded 4,000 units, signaling consistent growth
Increasing investor activity in off-plan resale transactions, rising to 15% share in March
Growth in resale activity reflects improving secondary market depth and liquidity
Average off-plan property prices surged 39%, reaching Dh23,067 per sqm
Strong capital appreciation driven by premium developments and high-demand locations
Ready property segment recorded steady price growth of 2.66%, reaching Dh15,480 per sqm
Positive price movement observed across key villa and apartment communities
Around 20 new residential projects launched, adding approximately 4,000 units to the market
Majority of new supply focused on apartment developments, aligning with buyer preferences
Continued developer confidence supported by strong absorption rates and investor demand
Growing interest from international investors, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s global appeal
Market supported by long-term fundamentals, including infrastructure expansion and cultural initiatives
Increasing market maturity with balanced growth across primary and secondary segments
Positive outlook for sustained demand driven by economic stability and strategic urban development