Abu Dhabi recorded Dhs 21.5 billion in residential property transactions in Q3 2026, with off-plan homes accounting for 81% of deals.
Off-plan homes dominate Abu Dhabi property sales
The emirate recorded 6,085 residential property transactions in the third quarter, according to Savills Middle East. While transaction volumes fell 19% from the previous quarter and 7% year-on-year, total sales value was 32% higher than in Q3 2025.
Off-plan properties accounted for 81% of residential transactions, with an average transaction value of Dhs 5 million. This was up 15% quarter-on-quarter and 40% year-on-year.
Ready properties recorded an average transaction value of Dhs 2.8 million.
Luxury property deals more than double
Abu Dhabi’s luxury residential market also recorded stronger activity, with 582 transactions valued above Dhs 10 million during the quarter.
That represented a 35% increase from Q2 2026 and a 104% rise compared with Q3 2025. Off-plan homes accounted for 95% of these high-value transactions.
Rachael Kennerley, Director of Research at Savills Middle East, said: “Abu Dhabi’s residential market continues to demonstrate resilience, even as transaction volumes moderate from the levels recorded earlier this year. What we’re seeing is a shift towards higher-value purchases, particularly in the off-plan and luxury segments, where demand remains strong.
“Buyers are becoming increasingly selective, with greater emphasis on location, quality and long-term value. Abu Dhabi’s expanding lifestyle offering, infrastructure investment and growing international profile continue to support interest from both local and overseas buyers.”
Apartment and villa prices continue to grow
Average apartment prices reached Dhs 22,700 per square metre, up 9% year-on-year. Villa and townhouse prices averaged Dhs 18,200 per square metre, an annual increase of 8%.
The rental market also saw activity rise, with 50,500 transactions recorded in Q3, up 29% from the previous quarter. Renewals accounted for 68% of rental transactions, while new rental rates varied across residential communities.
Foreign buyers account for 70% of sales value
International investment remains a significant part of Abu Dhabi’s property market. Foreign buyers, including resident expatriates and non-resident investors, accounted for 70% of residential sales value in the first half of 2026, compared with 64% in the same period of 2024.
Around 68,000 additional residential units are projected to enter the market by 2030, with new supply concentrated in areas including Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Yas Island and Zayed City.
The additional supply could give buyers more options over the coming years, while competition between new developments and existing properties will remain an important factor in the market’s performance.
