Abu Dhabi’s residential real estate market started 2026 strongly, with 2,600 transactions totaling AED 12 billion ($3.2 billion) in sales in January, according to Abu Dhabi real estate company Better Home.
In the same month, off-plan properties accounted for 83% of the total transaction value, significantly higher than the secondary market’s 17%.
These figures confirm strong buying appetite for newly launched developments and master-planned communities across the capital, Better Homes said in a statement.
Among the best-performing investment regions, Saadiyat Island led the sales activity by value, with transaction value reaching AED 5.6 million. Al Jubail Island followed with AED 4.2 million, followed by Al Raha with sales of AED 3.23 million. Yas Island generated AED 2 million and Al Reem Island contributed AED 1.62 million, reflecting continued demand across established island districts.
Nada Osman, Director of Better Homes Abu Dhabi, said of the January sales performance: “January’s figures reflect the continued strength of Abu Dhabi’s housing market, particularly in the off-plan segment. Buyers are demonstrating clear long-term confidence in the capital, especially in master-planned island communities where infrastructure, lifestyle and future value are aligned.”
“The preponderance of off-plan deals shows that investors and end users are positioning themselves early in the development cycle. We are seeing thoughtful strategic purchasing decisions that strengthen the stability and maturity of the market,” Osman said.
Leasing activity remained strong in January, with 18,500 lease transactions valued at AED 1.5 billion.
On the leasing side, sales and leasing manager Noha Mesbah said, “Abu Dhabi’s leasing market is currently showing strong momentum, particularly with three major developments about to be delivered. Tenants are actively seeking communities that suit their lifestyle needs, including waterfront living, family-friendly surroundings, and proximity to key infrastructure.”
With strong sales volumes, active rental demand and sustained unplanned advantages, Abu Dhabi enters 2026 with resilient fundamentals and continued market confidence, he added. -TradeArabia News Service
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