The UAE capital continues to strengthen its position as a destination for premium real estate.
In the third quarter of 2026, Abu Dhabi recorded 6,085 residential transactions worth AED 21.5 billion, according to Savills. The number of deals was 7% lower than a year earlier, but total value rose by 32% — buyers are choosing larger and more expensive homes.
Off-plan dominates.
Off-plan properties accounted for 81% of all residential deals. The average off-plan transaction reached AED 5 million — 40% more than a year ago. The average ready-home deal was about AED 2.8 million.
A boom in luxury homes.
There were 582 deals above AED 10 million — 104% more than a year earlier. Almost all of them (95%) were off-plan purchases, mostly villas and branded projects on the islands.
Prices keep rising.
The average apartment price grew by 9% over the year to around AED 22,700 per sq m, and villas and townhouses by 8% to AED 18,200 per sq m. The rental market is also active: 50,500 leases were registered in the quarter, 29% more than in the second quarter.
Foreign buyers drive demand.
Foreign investors accounted for about 70% of residential sales value in the first half of 2026. Around 68,000 new homes are expected by 2030, mainly on Saadiyat, Al Reem and Yas islands and in Zayed City.
Good to know.
A property worth AED 2 million or more can qualify the owner for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa. Empire City will help you choose a project in Abu Dhabi and guide you through every step of the purchase.
Based on Savills Middle East's Q3 2026 Abu Dhabi report, as reported by Gulf News on 21 October 2026.
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