Abu Dhabi real estate boom looms in 2026 as off-plan sales set to exceed $32.7bn

The Abu Dhabi residential property market is poised for a strong year, with total off-plan sales expected to reach over AED120 billion ($32.7 billion) in 2026, as buyer confidence returns and off-plan demand accelerates, supported by a robust pipeline.

The Abu Dhabi housing market, according to Metropolitan Capital Real Estate, is expected to benefit from a shift away from short-term speculation towards end users and long-term investors, supported by infrastructure expansion, stabilising prices and a more mature investor base.

“Abu Dhabi’s property market is entering a more mature phase of growth,” said Evgeny Ratskevich, chief executive of Metropolitan Capital Real Estate.

“In 2026, activity will be driven less by speculation and more by end users and long-term investors seeking stability, quality of life and predictable returns. The combination of disciplined pricing, infrastructure delivery and limited supply in prime locations supports a sustainable outlook across both mid-market and high-end segments.”

Off-plan demand fuels 2026 growth

Off-plan homes are expected to be the main engine of growth. Unit sales in this segment are forecast to rise by 20-50 per cent year on year (YoY) compared with 2025, with total off-plan sales value projected to reach AED120-140 billion ($32.7-38.12 billion). Around 11,000 residential units are scheduled for delivery, underpinning renewed market activity after a sharp slowdown in early 2025.

The rebound is being driven by more realistic pricing, improved payment plans, population inflows and enhanced connectivity across the emirate. Major transport and infrastructure projects are also helping to strengthen long-term confidence among buyers.

Demand for off-plan properties is expected to remain focused on established and emerging lifestyle destinations, including Yas Island and surrounding areas, Al Reem Island, Al Ghadeer, Masdar City, Saadiyat Island and the Marina District.

These locations continue to attract buyers due to their connectivity, amenities and long-term investment fundamentals. Off-plan prices are forecast to rise modestly by 3-6 per cent during 2026, reflecting market stabilisation rather than rapid appreciation.

In the secondary market, resale prices across key Abu Dhabi neighbourhoods are expected to increase by 3-5 per cent, with apartment prices averaging between AED1,130-1,365 per square foot.

Transaction volumes are projected to grow by 10-20 per cent, supported by the limited supply of ready units and strong demand for move-in-ready homes.

Buyer preferences in the resale segment are increasingly skewed towards larger apartments, villas and townhouses in established communities with strong infrastructure, schools and transport links.

The ultra-luxury segment is expected to remain resilient, with stable to modest growth in sales and rents. Waterfront villas on Saadiyat and Yas Islands, high-rise penthouses and gated community mansions are forecast to see the strongest demand, driven by limited supply and Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a safe and stable destination for long-term wealth preservation.