Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector recorded a remarkable 42% jump in transaction value in the first half of 2025, reaching Dh54 billion ($14.7 billion), driven by rising demand amid population growth and strong economic expansion. Residential sales grew 38% to Dh25 billion, with transaction volume up 25% to 15,578 deals, according to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (Adrec).
Rashed Al Omaira, acting director general of Adrec, highlighted that Abu Dhabi’s combination of economic growth, investor confidence, and delivery of master-planned communities is strengthening its position as a top investment hub. Abu Dhabi’s GDP rose 3.8% in 2024 to Dh1.2 trillion, with the non-oil sector expanding 6.2% to Dh644.3 billion, and its population surpassing four million, further boosting housing demand.
High-end developments such as Al Hudayriat, Balghaiylam in Yas Island, Mamsha Gardens, and Saadiyat Lagoons led the surge, with the premium segment accounting for 57% of apartment sales value — more than double its share in 2023. Apartment prices rose 14% year-on-year in Q2, while villa/townhouse prices rose 11%. Saadiyat Island commanded the highest apartment prices (Dh14,000–Dh77,000 per sq m), while Ramhan Island recorded the highest villa prices (Dh37,000 per sq m).
Residential supply remains tight, with just 400,000 units available at the end of H1. Supply is projected to grow 4.6% annually until 2028, adding about 64,000 units. Developers such as Aldar Properties reported strong sales, including Dh1.8 billion from Al Deem townhouses and Dh3.5 billion from Fahid Beach Residences and The Beach House. The rental market also rose, with lease values hitting Dh8.2 billion, apartment rents up 21% over two years, and villa rents up 7%.
