Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre reports 160.7% growth in transactions in Q1 2026

The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), the custodian and regulator of the Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector, has reported that total transaction value reached Dhs66 billion representing a 160.7 per cent increase across 13,518 deals in the first quarter of 2026 in the emirate, compared to Dhs25.31 billion from 6,896 transactions in the same period of 2025.

Sales and purchases totalled Dhs50.97 billion through 8,940 transactions, reflecting a 228.6 per cent increase in value and a 134 percent rise in volume compared to Q1 2025.

Mortgage transactions also reached Dhs15.03 billion through 4,578 transactions, representing a 53.4 per cent increase in value and a 48.8 per cent rise in volume year-on-year.

Hudayriyat Island was the leading area for real estate transactions, recording deals amounting to approximately Dhs11.97 billion. It was followed by Reem Island, with Dhs9.45 billion, and Saadiyat Island, with Dhs8.8 billion, while Yas Island recorded activity exceeding Dhs5.5 billion in transactions.

“This quarter’s performance is a clear reflection of the confidence Abu Dhabi continues to earn from investors both locally and internationally," said Rashed Al Omaira, Director-General of ADREC. "Reaching a record level of activity is not only a sign of demand, but it signals a market that is becoming more disciplined, with a clear focus on long-term investment.”

He added, “Our role as ADREC is to ensure this growth is supported through consistent oversight and a regulatory framework that upholds trust and accountability across the sector. This is what gives Abu Dhabi its strength. It is not about short-term momentum, but a market built on strong fundamentals, positioning it as a reliable investment destination."

Market indicators continue to show strong and sustained demand across Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector, with leasing activity maintaining growth into March.

The repeat lease price index recorded a 16 percent annual increase compared to March 2025, underscoring continued demand from end users and investors.

While demand continues to outpace supply, the market is supported by a growing development pipeline with 16 new real estate projects registered during the quarter, a 60 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Residential supply in the Abu Dhabi region is projected to increase by 10,272 units in 2026, rising from 314,976 to 325,248, representing annual growth of 3.3 per cent. Supply is projected to grow further in 2027, reflecting a market that continues to expand on solid foundations.

The report highlighted exceptional growth in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with total investments by individuals reaching Dhs8.27 billion, marking a 423 per cent increase compared to Q1 2025 and equivalent to the total foreign direct investment recorded during 2025.

Investors from 99 nationalities contributed to this performance, up from 68 nationalities during the same period last year.

Foreign investment activity remained strong within investment zones, accounting for approximately 84 per cent of total investment value, surpassing Dhs36.4 billion out of a total Dhs43.59 billion. This represents a 242 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, with key contributing markets including the United Kingdom, India, the Russian Federation, China, Jordan, France, and Egypt.

WAM