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
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