Abu Dhabi real estate market shows resilience in H1 2026

The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) has released its market report for the first half of 2026, revealing a resilient real estate sector characterized by rising rental prices and significant off-plan investment. Residential unit sales reached AED 70.4 billion, with off-plan properties accounting for 89% of that value.

Rental costs have seen notable increases, with new-lease prices for apartments rising by 17% and villas by 9%. In designated investment zones, these increases were even more pronounced, with apartment leases up 21% and villas up 16%. The emirate recorded 233,000 active residential lease contracts during this period, with lease values totaling AED 9.3 billion.

Regarding future supply, Abu Dhabi currently holds approximately 409,000 residential units. An additional 71,000 units are projected to be added by 2030, with deliveries expected to peak in 2028. Six specific districts—Al Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Zayed City, Khalifa City, and Al Hudayriyat Island—are expected to drive 77% of this new housing supply.