According to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), the regulator of the emirate’s real estate sector, the total transaction value of the real estate sector grew solidly during the first quarter of 2026, reaching AED66 billion (USD 18 billion) across 13,518 deals, up 160.7% from AED25.31 billion (USD 6.8 billion) from 6,896 transactions in the first quarter of 2025.
Sales and purchases reached AED50.97 billion through 8,940 transactions, up 228.6% in value and 134% in volume, while mortgage transactions reached AED15.03 billion through 4,578 transactions, up 53.4% in value and 48.8% in volume.
With transactions totalling about AED 11.97 billion, Hudayriyat Island was the most active real estate market. Reem Island came in second with AED 9.45 billion, followed by Saadiyat Island with AED 8.8 billion, and Yas Island with more than AED 5.5 billion in transactions.
Rashed Al Omaira, Director General of ADREC, said: “This quarter’s performance is a clear reflection of the confidence Abu Dhabi continues to earn from investors both locally and internationally. Reaching a record level of activity is not only a sign of demand, but it also 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 reflect robust demand in the Abu Dhabi real estate sector, with leasing activity increasing through March, as demonstrated by the repeat lease price index, which rose 16% year-on-year compared to March 2025. Despite high demand and low supply, the market is buoyed by a growing development pipeline with 16 new real estate projects registered during the quarter, up 60% year-on-year.
In 2026, residential supply in the Abu Dhabi region is expected to reach 325,248 units, which represents 3.3% growth from 314,976 units in 2025, and is expected to rise further to 333,564 units in 2027. This demonstrates continued growth on a solid foundation.