Foreign investors, big sales and hotspots galore: Inside Abu Dhabi's real estate rush
The first half of 2025 saw a jaw-dropping Dhs51.72 billion in real estate transactions. That's a 39 percent jump from the same period last year, according to the latest figures from the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC).
What's driving the surge? A mix of high-end new developments, tech-savvy buying experiences and growing international buzz around the city's lifestyle, safety and stability.
A big win for buyers, sellers – and everyone in between
From Saadiyat Island's beachfront mansions to investment-friendly flats in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, the emirate saw more than 14,000 property deals in just six months. Sales and purchases alone hit Dhs32.69 billion, while mortgage activity soared past Dhs19 billion.
If you've been thinking about jumping into the market – whether for your dream home or a rental investment – now might be the time.
Abu Dhabi is going global
One of the most exciting trends? The spike in international interest. Over 85 nationalities invested in the capital's real estate market this year – from Russia and China to the UK and US – showing just how far Abu Dhabi's appeal has travelled.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) alone topped Dhs3.38 billion, proving that global confidence in Abu Dhabi's real estate scene is not just growing – it's thriving.
So, where's everyone buying?
It's no surprise that Saadiyat Island leads the pack, with over Dhs9.1 billion in transactions. Between the Louvre Abu Dhabi, luxury resorts and stunning sea views, it ticks all the boxes.
Yas Island comes in second with Dhs5.86 billion, thanks to its mix of entertainment, family living and waterfront property. Other hot spots include Al Bahia, Al Reem Island and Khalifa City.
What's behind the boom?
Aside from beautiful properties and beachfront living? ADREC credits recent innovations like automated services and faster processes for making it easier than ever to buy, sell and invest. That, combined with Abu Dhabi's economic stability, makes the city a serious contender on the global real estate stage.
We're watching this space closely – and if the second half of the year keeps up this pace, 2025 might just be Abu Dhabi's biggest year in real estate yet.
Eng Rashed Al Omaira, Acting Director General of ADREC, said: 'The first-half performance reflects the growing confidence in Abu Dhabi's real estate market, from both global and national investors, reflected in the sustained growth in transaction values and continued increase in foreign investment.
'The recent launch of high-quality projects has further energised the market and opened doors to attractive investment opportunities, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's attractiveness as a leading destination for sustainable real estate investment. Additionally, the initiatives ADREC recently launched and the facilitations it offered, including automation of a large number of processes and services, had a pivotal role in reaching this achievement, through streamlining the investor's journey, accelerating transactions and enhancing transparency.'
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