Abu Dhabi’s property sector has implemented a significant regulatory upgrade designed to strengthen transparency and safeguard investor funds in off-plan transactions.
The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) now requires all developers launching new off-plan projects to register Expressions of Interest (EOIs) digitally through its Madhmoun platform. An EOI represents an early payment or commitment made by a buyer before a property project reaches completion.
Under the new framework, EOI funds will be placed in a government-managed escrow account supervised by ADREC. This arrangement ensures that buyer payments are held securely and monitored before being transferred to developers, offering a higher level of financial protection than traditional manual or intermediary-based processes.
The first project to operate under the updated system is Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, marking the operational rollout of the digital registration requirement.
ADREC emphasized that the new system reduces risks associated with manual fund handling and introduces a digital refund mechanism if required. Officials stated that the changes are designed to protect investors while maintaining a clear and efficient process for developers.
“The move is part of wider efforts to improve transparency, strengthen regulation and modernise Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector,” ADREC said in a statement.
The initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to positioning itself as a secure and transparent real estate investment destination. The digital EOI system adds a layer of regulatory oversight that aligns with broader efforts across the UAE to enhance buyer confidence and market stability.
The regulatory development comes as UAE property markets continue to attract significant investor interest, with Dubai recording over 200,000 transactions in 2025 and major developers reporting record-breaking sales figures.
Abu Dhabi’s emphasis on modernizing its real estate infrastructure through digital solutions reflects a strategic approach to maintaining investor trust and supporting sustainable market growth in a competitive regional environment.