Tag: UAE real estate

  • Abu Dhabi Real Estate Transactions Double to $31.86 Billion in H1 2026

    Abu Dhabi Real Estate Transactions Double to $31.86 Billion in H1 2026

    The capital’s property sector delivered its strongest half-year performance on record, with residential unit sales surging from AED25.3 billion in H1 2025 to AED70.4 billion in H1 2026, according to the latest Real Estate Market Report released by the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) on August 18, 2026.

    Off-plan transactions dominated the market, representing 89 percent of sales value and 82 percent of all deals as buyers—both local and international—prioritised properties under development. Emirati buyers committed AED21.0 billion during the period, up from AED8.9 billion in the first half of 2025, while resident expatriates and non-resident foreign investors together accounted for 70 percent of residential sales value.

    “The first half of 2026 reflects a resilient market, supported by sustained demand, clear regulations, transparent data, and a balanced approach to supply and demand,” said Rashed Al Omaira, Director General of ADREC.

    “The largest share of residential sales value went to homes not yet built, which places the weight of our regulatory work before completion. ADREC remains focused on ensuring clarity, confidence, and fairness for all market participants, supported by reliable information, protected buyer funds and rules that apply across market cycles.”

    Hudayriyat Island led all locations with AED19 billion in residential sales—27 percent of the emirate’s total—followed by Saadiyat Island at AED13.3 billion, Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island at AED10.5 billion, and Yas Island at AED7.3 billion.

    The capital’s residential supply reached approximately 409,000 units, reflecting an average annual increase of 2.9 percent since 2022. Abu Dhabi Region drove this expansion with 3.3 percent annual growth and now represents 79 percent of the emirate’s total residential stock. Around 71,000 additional units are projected across the emirate by 2030, with deliveries expected to peak at approximately 21,800 units in 2028.

    Investment zones accounted for more than 22 percent of total residential stock in the first half of 2026, with approximately 72,000 units led by Al Reem Island at 27,500 units, followed by Al Raha, Yas Island, and Al Saadiyat Island. Repeat sales prices rose 20 percent year-on-year for apartments and 12 percent for villas, underscoring sustained appreciation across property types.

    The ten leading developers accounted for 90 percent of off-plan primary sales at AED51 billion, while ten projects alone accounted for 43 percent of residential unit sales at AED30 billion. In the ready market, 61 percent of purchases were completed in cash, reflecting strong buyer liquidity.

    Abu Dhabi’s real estate market recorded 233,000 active residential lease contracts in H1 2026, with total lease values reaching AED9.3 billion—an 8 percent year-on-year increase. Contract volumes rose 2 percent. Rental units comprise 69 percent of occupied units in Abu Dhabi Region, underpinning a deep rental market and ample homeownership opportunities with accessible housing options.

    Six key districts will drive 77 percent of projected incremental supply through 2030, including Al Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Zayed City, Khalifa City and Al Hudayriyat Island. Nine major developers account for 76 percent of the development projects pipeline, delivering high-end and mid-market apartment and villa communities predominantly within investment zones.

    Retail supply reached 3.85 million square metres of gross leasable area, growing 5 percent on an annualised basis, with occupancy in the mid-nineties and new lease prices up 9 percent. Office supply reached 3.4 million square metres, up 0.3 percent from the end of 2025. Occupancy remained strong at 95 percent across both the overall market and the prime and Grade A segments, while new lease prices rose 13 percent.

    The capital’s performance mirrors broader trends across the UAE, where off-plan properties attracted buyers across all price segments during the first half of 2026. While Abu Dhabi home values rose 17.8 percent year-on-year in Q2 2026, Dubai’s market saw 24,800 new homes delivered in the same period as prices and rents eased slightly under increased supply.

  • Dubai Adds 186 Property Developers in Seven Months of 2026

    Dubai Adds 186 Property Developers in Seven Months of 2026

    The Dubai Land Department reported that 186 real estate development companies entered the market during the first seven and a half months of 2026, reflecting continued expansion in one of the region’s most active property sectors.

    The Department of Economy and Tourism issued 180 licences to new developers, accounting for the vast majority of registrations during the period. Trakhees, the licensing arm of Dubai’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation responsible for Dubai Maritime City development activity, granted three additional licences.

    The Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development issued two licences, while Expo City Dubai granted one.

    The steady monthly average of 25 new developers underscores growing investor confidence in Dubai’s capacity to absorb additional projects as the emirate maintains robust transaction volumes across residential and commercial segments.

    The expanding pool of developers is expected to intensify market competition and broaden the range of projects available to buyers and investors, extending beyond established players to include a wider variety of companies with diverse project portfolios.

    Dubai’s property market has demonstrated strength across all price segments in 2026, with transaction values reaching Dh221.4 billion across 79,300 deals in the first half alone.

    The influx of new development companies reinforces Dubai’s position as a regional and international destination for property investment, attracting both capital and developers as the market continues to deliver projects across affordable, mid-tier and luxury categories.

  • Dubai Off-Plan Market Attracts Buyers Across All Price Segments in H1 2026

    Dubai Off-Plan Market Attracts Buyers Across All Price Segments in H1 2026

    Bayut’s first-half 2026 Dubai Sales Market Report has revealed that off-plan residential demand is no longer concentrated within a single pricing category. Instead, buyers with markedly different budgets are actively considering projects across affordable, mid-tier, luxury and ultra-luxury segments.

    The findings point to an increasingly diverse buyer population evaluating different locations and property types. While price and payment flexibility remain important, purchasers are also weighing connectivity, community appeal and prospects for long-term value when making final decisions.

    Price Range Spans Entry to Premium

    Average prices among popular off-plan apartment projects highlighted by Bayut ranged from just over Dh600,000 at Dubai Investment Park 1 in the affordable category to almost Dh12 million at The Crescent on Palm Jumeirah in the ultra-luxury segment.

    The price range was wider for villas. Verdana 2 in Dubai Investment Park had an average value of Dh1.31 million, while The Palm Crown on Palm Jumeirah averaged Dh31.92 million. The comparison illustrates the scale of opportunities available to purchasers with different budgets and investment goals.

    The Palm Beach Towers, The Crescent and Bluewaters Bay were among the leading off-plan apartment projects attracting interest in the ultra-luxury category. City Walk, Sobha One and Riverside Crescent stood out in the luxury apartment segment, while JVC District 11, JVT District 4 and Dubai Healthcare City Phase 2 appeared among preferred choices for mid-tier buyers.

    For purchasers seeking more accessible entry prices, International City Phase 2, the Residential District in Dubai South and Dubai Investment Park 1 were among popular affordable off-plan apartment options.

    Buyer Priorities Evolve Beyond Payment Plans

    Akash Kanjwani, founder and group chief executive officer of Sky View Real Estate and Sky View Developments, said off-plan property continues to attract buyers by providing flexibility, choice and access to emerging communities.

    “Today’s buyers are considerably better informed and ask detailed questions about developers, locations, nearby infrastructure and how communities will function after completion. A payment plan may generate initial interest, but the project’s underlying fundamentals are playing a greater role in the final purchasing decision,” Kanjwani said.

    That shift means buyers are increasingly evaluating the entire proposition rather than using price as their only measure. Community quality, accessibility, amenities, the developer’s record and expected future demand are becoming more influential throughout the decision-making process.

    Fibha Ahmed, vice president of property sales at Bayut, said the first-half data showed that Dubai’s off-plan market was attracting a remarkably varied group of buyers whose motivations were becoming increasingly specific.

    “Purchasers are no longer making only a general choice between off-plan and ready homes. They are comparing individual projects using price, location, lifestyle, connectivity, potential rental performance and future value,” Ahmed said.

    She added that the breadth of prices and communities generating interest demonstrated the depth of Dubai’s off-plan sector and reflected a buyer base applying greater information and deliberation when assessing opportunities.

    Market Context and Transaction Activity

    Bayut’s buyer-interest findings sit within a property market that entered 2026 with substantial transaction activity. Dubai Land Department’s first-quarter data showed total real estate transactions reaching Dh252 billion, 31 percent more than a year earlier, while the number of transactions increased 6 percent to 60,303.

    Real estate investments reached Dh173 billion through 57,744 deals during the quarter, increasing 22 percent in value and 7 percent in number. Dubai’s investor base expanded 8 percent to 48,448 people, including 29,312 new investors, 14 percent more than a year earlier.

    Foreign investment rose 26 percent to Dh148.35 billion, while GCC nationals completed 3,228 investments worth Dh12.23 billion. The breadth of capital entering the market supports the portrayal of demand extending beyond one buyer profile or pricing category.

    Bayut’s separate price index placed Dubai’s advertised off-plan price at Dh1,894 per square foot in June 2026, up 5.38 percent over 12 months. The displayed averages varied sharply by unit size, from Dh1,773 per square foot for studios and Dh1,779 for one-bedroom apartments to Dh3,862 for four-bedroom apartments and Dh5,650 for apartments with at least five bedrooms.

    Villa figures ranged from Dh977 per square foot for two-bedroom homes to Dh2,394 for six-bedroom properties, further illustrating how product type and scale shape entry costs.

    Off-Plan Growth Extends 2025 Trends

    The latest findings extend trends visible throughout 2025. Bayut’s annual report said Dubai recorded 134,623 off-plan sales worth Dh293 billion that year, with off-plan properties representing 62.6 percent of total sales transactions.

    Developers launched 446 off-plan projects in 2025, compared with 428 in 2024. Emaar Properties led with 49 launches and 16,829 transactions. Jumeirah Village Circle recorded 12,285 off-plan apartment transactions, while Business Bay had the highest average apartment transaction price among highlighted areas at Dh2.38 million.

    Dubai recorded more than 270,000 property transactions worth Dh917 billion in 2025, a 20 percent annual increase. Investments exceeded Dh680 billion across 258,600 deals, while the investor population expanded 24 percent to approximately 193,100.

    This expansion supports the emirate’s 2033 strategy, which aims to increase real estate transactions by 70 percent, lift market value to Dh1 trillion, raise homeownership to 33 percent and double the sector’s economic contribution to roughly Dh73 billion.

    As Dubai continues expanding its residential inventory, Bayut expects off-plan property to remain an important part of the market, with buyers likely to continue balancing affordability and payment flexibility against project fundamentals and long-term potential. UAE’s top 10 developers sold Dh113.7 billion in the first half of 2026, reflecting sustained momentum across the sector.

  • Zoya Developments Sells Out Dh104 Million Elinor Project in Under Two Weeks

    Zoya Developments Sells Out Dh104 Million Elinor Project in Under Two Weeks

    The complete sell-out of Elinor by Zoya reflects sustained investor appetite for premium residential communities in Dubai South, one of the emirate’s fastest-growing districts anchored by Al Maktoum International Airport’s expansion.

    The milestone was achieved following completion of all critical project requirements, including establishment of the escrow account and execution of all Sales and Purchase Agreements, according to a statement released on August 14, 2026.

    First Prime Properties, led by CEO Ali Al Dahari, served as the exclusive sales partner for the development. The firm’s market expertise and strategic execution played a central role in securing buyers across local and international segments.

    “Selling a Dh104 million development in less than two weeks is a significant milestone that reflects the strength of our product, the trust of our investors, and the dedication of our sales partners,” said Imtiaz Khan, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Zoya Developments.

    Khan extended appreciation to Al Dahari and the First Prime Properties team, noting the achievement reinforces the developer’s vision of delivering high-quality projects that outperform market expectations.

    The rapid absorption comes as Dubai’s property market demonstrates strength across all price segments in 2026, with developers recording robust sales volumes through diverse project portfolios.

    Dubai South continues to attract investors and end-users seeking long-term value, connectivity and lifestyle-focused environments. The district’s appeal has intensified following the Dh128 billion expansion program for Al Maktoum International Airport, designed to accommodate 260 million passengers annually.

    Zoya Developments emphasized its commitment to strong governance, operational excellence and delivering confidence to investors at every stage of the development journey. The company said the sell-out strengthens its position among Dubai’s fastest-growing real estate developers as it expands across key growth locations.

    The successful sell-out adds to a broader trend of accelerated sales velocity in Dubai’s off-plan segment, where 84 percent of global investors consider the emirate more attractive than rival markets, according to recent surveys.

  • Modon H1 Net Profit Reaches Dh2.2 Billion After Property Sales Hit Dh26 Billion

    Modon H1 Net Profit Reaches Dh2.2 Billion After Property Sales Hit Dh26 Billion

    Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding has cemented its position as the emirate’s largest developer by sales value after recording Dh26 billion in property transactions during the first half of 2026, with Abu Dhabi accounting for Dh23 billion of the total.

    The group posted net profit of Dh2.2 billion for the six-month period, while revenue climbed 40 percent year-on-year to Dh9.2 billion, marking a new half-year record. Strong demand for new residential developments drove the performance and significantly expanded the company’s future income pipeline.

    Revenue backlog doubled from the same period in 2025 to reach Dh65.4 billion and increased 42 percent from the end of 2025, with developments in the UAE and Egypt representing 95 percent of the total.

    An exceptional performance from real estate positioned Modon as the largest developer in Abu Dhabi in terms of sales value during H1. This included the UAE’s highest-ever single-project sales value for the launch of Hudayriyat Golf Estates, with Dh13 billion achieved within days.

    Abdulla Al Sahi, Group Managing Director of Modon Holding, attributed the results to robust real estate performance.

    Record-Breaking Launch at Hudayriyat Golf Estates

    The launch of Hudayriyat Golf Estates generated Dh13 billion in sales within days, representing the highest sales value ever recorded for a single residential project launch in the UAE, according to Modon.

    Tara Park on Reem Island sold out across two phases launched in March and April, while additional phases were released at Wadi Yemm in Egypt. Real estate sales increased 2.6 times compared to the first half of 2025, driven by developments across Abu Dhabi, Egypt and Spain.

    Real estate revenue rose 56 percent to Dh5.7 billion, making the segment Modon’s main earnings contributor. The group awarded Dh14.1 billion in construction and consultancy contracts during the period.

    Strong Financial Position and Diversified Income

    Adjusted EBITDA reached Dh3 billion for the half-year, while recurring revenue increased 22 percent to Dh3.5 billion and represented 38 percent of group revenue.

    Excluding one-off gains and dividend income recorded during the previous year, adjusted EBITDA increased 18 percent and net profit rose 23 percent.

    Revenue from events, catering and tourism climbed 25 percent to Dh2.8 billion, including a Dh1 billion contribution from Arena Group. Modon hosted 484 events that attracted more than 2.7 million visitors across venues in the UAE and UK, while its catering operations served 24.9 million meals, up 5 percent year-on-year.

    Asset and investment management revenue rose 13 percent to Dh361 million, supported by higher rental income and occupancy of 96 percent across owned properties.

    Revenue from owned and operated hotels increased 8 percent to Dh388 million. Modon said higher domestic and staycation demand helped offset softer international tourism during regional travel disruption in March and April.

    Liquidity and Balance Sheet Strength

    Modon held Dh8.6 billion in unrestricted cash and Dh1.5 billion in undrawn committed facilities at the end of June. Net debt stood at Dh912 million, with net debt to EBITDA at 0.18 times.

    Our Group revenue backlog of Dh65.4 billion, alongside additional income-generating assets coming online, ensure a positive outlook for future growth. As we move into the second half of the year and beyond into 2027, Modon will expand on its objectives, maintaining forward progress with a disciplined and relentless focus on delivery.

    Bill O’Regan, Group Chief Executive Officer of Modon Holding, outlined plans for continued expansion.

    The group entered the second half with total assets of Dh92 billion and equity of Dh57 billion, representing increases of 6 percent and 5 percent respectively since the end of 2025.

    Modon’s performance reflects the broader momentum across Abu Dhabi’s property market, which recorded Dh117 billion in total real estate transactions during the first half of 2026, a 112 percent year-on-year increase driven by surging foreign investment and strong demand across residential and commercial segments.

  • Dubai Rental Market Records Highest Monthly Activity with 40,022 Contracts in June

    Dubai Rental Market Records Highest Monthly Activity with 40,022 Contracts in June

    Dubai’s rental market reached a historic milestone in June 2026, recording 40,022 rental contracts—the highest monthly figure ever registered in the emirate—driven by sustained population growth, business expansion, and the continued arrival of international companies and skilled professionals.

    According to W Capital Real Estate Brokerage, the June performance reflects a more mature and structurally stronger rental market supported by genuine housing demand rather than speculative investment activity, underscoring Dubai’s evolution as a global hub for living, working, and long-term residency.

    New rental contracts surged 48.6% year-on-year to 19,245, while renewal contracts rose 28.5% to 20,777, demonstrating both the continued influx of new residents and strong tenant retention across the emirate.

    “Crossing the milestone of 40,000 rental contracts in a single month is far more than a record-breaking achievement. It is a clear indication that Dubai has evolved into a fully integrated destination for living, working and investing, reinforcing the long-term sustainability of its real estate market,” said Walid Al Zarooni, Chairman of W Capital Real Estate Brokerage.

    The record rental activity coincided with robust sales performance, as Dubai registered 13,933 property transactions worth AED33.2 billion ($9.04 billion) in June, bringing total first-half sales to AED286.2 billion ($77.88 billion).

    Al Zarooni noted that the simultaneous strength in both rental and sales markets reflects a healthier market structure where investment demand is increasingly supported by real housing needs, stronger demographics, and business growth rather than short-term speculation.

    The company highlighted the positive impact of the Dubai Land Department’s “Easy Rental” initiative, which introduced flexible monthly payment solutions through partnerships with 11 real estate companies, making rental payments more accessible while improving market efficiency and the landlord-tenant relationship.

    Market data for the first half of 2026 showed 118,385 new rental contracts signed, compared with 135,607 renewals, while canceled contracts declined by 25%, reflecting stronger confidence between landlords and tenants and a more stable leasing environment overall.

    Al Zarooni also pointed to Dubai South’s position as the city’s most active real estate district for the fourth consecutive month, describing it as clear evidence of the government’s long-term urban development strategy and the growing importance of emerging communities supported by world-class infrastructure and logistics.

    He added that Dubai is now home to more than 10,000 licensed real estate offices, illustrating the scale, maturity, and professionalism of the sector under a transparent regulatory framework that protects all market participants.

    “The rental market has become one of the strongest indicators of Dubai’s economic health. Investors may purchase properties, but sustained rental demand reflects genuine end-user activity that supports market stability and reduces reliance on short-term speculation, creating a more balanced and resilient growth model,” Al Zarooni concluded.

    The June milestone comes as the broader UAE property market shows signs of maturation, with ready-home transactions surging 46.8% month-on-month in June despite continued price moderation, pointing to a rebalancing toward occupancy-driven demand across the region.

  • UAE Real Estate Market Projected to Reach $811.4 Billion by 2031

    UAE Real Estate Market Projected to Reach $811.4 Billion by 2031

    The UAE’s property sector is entering a new phase of expansion as developers and investors increasingly integrate cutting-edge technology into planning, design and sales processes. The market’s trajectory toward the projected $811.4 billion valuation reflects the nation’s strengthening position as a premier global destination for real estate investment and architectural innovation.

    According to Statista Market Insights, the market’s growth will be supported by continued population expansion, rising foreign direct investment, and the UAE’s increasing appeal as a global hub for business, talent and long-term residency. Residential, commercial and mixed-use developments are expected to drive long-term sectoral performance.

    Tech Adoption Reshapes Project Delivery

    As developments become larger and more complex, stakeholders are adopting advanced technologies to improve planning accuracy and reduce project risks before construction begins. Full-scale architectural projection displays, virtual reality and augmented reality are increasingly used to enable developers, architects and investors to review projects at 1:1 scale during the planning phase.

    Life Size Plans Dubai, an Australian company specializing in immersive visualization technologies, has been operating in the UAE since 2023. The firm supports developers by providing full-scale engineering plan projections that allow stakeholders to assess projects before breaking ground.

    “The positive expectations for the growth of the real estate market in the UAE reflect the country’s ability to attract investors and residents from all over the world, thanks to its ambitious vision, world-class infrastructure and supportive business environment,” said Georges Kallas, CEO of Life Size Plans Dubai.

    Kallas noted that demand for immersive technologies such as VR and AR is rising alongside market expansion, as these tools improve planning, accelerate decision-making and enhance buyer engagement throughout the development cycle.

    Market Context and Regional Growth

    The projection comes as Dubai recorded its second-highest half-year sales performance in history during the first half of 2026, with transactions exceeding AED286 billion ($77.88 billion). The capital has also seen significant momentum, with Abu Dhabi introducing its first off-plan home financing solution in partnership between Modon and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.

    The continued implementation of major development strategies and investment initiatives is expected to increase demand for innovative planning and visualization solutions across the UAE property sector. Advanced technologies are helping developers manage increasingly complex projects while improving transparency, operational efficiency and investor confidence.

    As the market expands toward the AED2.98 trillion valuation, innovation is expected to play a growing role in supporting sustainable growth. By integrating digital precision with ambitious architecture, the UAE is de-risking major capital investments and strengthening its standing as a globally competitive real estate powerhouse aligned with the needs of future residents and international investors.

  • Dubai Posts Second-Highest Half-Year Real Estate Sales at $77.88 Billion

    Dubai Posts Second-Highest Half-Year Real Estate Sales at $77.88 Billion

    The sales figures included 71,500 residential unit deals, 7,296 building transactions, and 7,129 land sales, falling just short of the record AED326.6 billion achieved in the first half of 2025.

    Sales of ready-built properties accounted for the largest share of total sales, topping AED146.7 billion through 27,200 transactions, comprising 18,300 residential units, 1,738 buildings, and 7,135 land plots. Off-plan property sales reached AED139.8 billion through 58,800 transactions, divided into 53,270 residential units and 5,563 buildings.

    The value of mortgage transactions exceeded AED102 billion through more than 22,000 deals in the first half of 2026, while gift transactions amounted to AED31.4 billion through 4,501 transfers.

    The total value of real estate transactions in Dubai during the first six months reached approximately AED419.94 billion through 112,850 transactions. In the second quarter alone, sales exceeded AED110 billion from 38,300 deals, with mortgages totaling AED42.6 billion and gifts reaching AED16 billion.

    “The results achieved by Dubai’s real estate market during the first half of 2026 confirm the sector’s resilience and ability to continue growing,” said Walid Al Zarooni, W Capital CEO. “Recording the second-highest half-year sales in the market’s history, despite being compared to an exceptional year like 2025, reflects the continued genuine demand for real estate, the high levels of confidence among local and international investors, and the strong economic fundamentals underpinning the market.”

    Al Zarooni emphasized that the record performance is no longer a temporary phenomenon, but rather a reflection of a sustainable growth trajectory supported by an ambitious government vision, a flexible legislative framework, world-class infrastructure, a competitive tax environment, and the continued development of high-quality projects that meet the needs of various investor segments.

    These factors have made Dubai one of the most attractive and stable real estate destinations globally, enhancing its ability to attract capital and high-net-worth individuals from various markets, he added.

    Looking ahead to the second half of 2026, Dubai’s real estate market holds very positive indicators, given the continued population growth, rising demand for residential units, the expansion of international companies establishing their headquarters in Dubai, and the ongoing launch of new world-class projects.

    Al Zarooni noted that the improvement in global geopolitical conditions and the easing of tensions compared to the past will boost investor confidence and increase global investment appetite, which will positively impact markets characterized by stability and transparency, foremost among them Dubai.

    “All current indicators point to continued strong market performance in the second half of the year, with the potential to reach new record levels in real estate sales and transactions,” Al Zarooni stated.

    The performance aligns with broader trends across the UAE property sector, where large-scale land transactions and record project launches have characterized the first half of the year. Meanwhile, high-supply communities are beginning to offer tenants more negotiating power as delivery volumes rise in select areas.

    Supported by robust economic growth, continued foreign direct investment inflows, sustained expansion in non-oil sectors, and increasing population numbers, 2026 is positioned to be among the best years in the history of Dubai’s real estate market, according to W Capital.

  • Imtiaz Breaks Ground on Dh600m Sea Cliff Residence on Dubai Islands

    Imtiaz Breaks Ground on Dh600m Sea Cliff Residence on Dubai Islands

    Imtiaz Developments held a groundbreaking ceremony for Sea Cliff by Imtiaz on June 30, 2026, with CEO Masih Imtiaz and the company’s executive leadership team in attendance. The premium waterfront project reinforces the developer’s position as one of the earliest private investors on Dubai Islands.

    “Our vision has always been to identify destinations with long-term potential before they become mainstream,” said Masih Imtiaz. “Dubai Islands represents exactly that opportunity. We believed in its future from the very beginning and invested with conviction.”

    The Dh600 million development features one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, along with exclusive four-bedroom duplex homes designed for refined coastal living. Interiors have been curated with world-renowned brands including Hermès, Villeroy & Boch, and Miele, combining exceptional craftsmanship with premium materials and timeless design.

    Sea Cliff Residence offers residents access to signature lifestyle amenities including an infinity swimming pool, open-to-sky garden seating, outdoor cinema, pavilion clubhouse, outdoor gym, and yoga zone. The project is scheduled for handover in the first quarter of 2028.

    Imtiaz Developments has established one of the most extensive private development portfolios on Dubai Islands since entering the market at an early stage. The company successfully handed over Beach Walk by Imtiaz, the first completed residential development on the islands, and achieved a record-breaking Dh2 billion sell-out on launch day with RAW District by Imtiaz.

    The groundbreaking comes as Dubai expands its waterfront offerings under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The Sea Cliff project adds to a development pipeline that has seen Dubai register over AED275 billion in new launches during the first half of 2026.

    With more than 22 developments valued at over Dh15 billion on Dubai Islands, Imtiaz Developments continues to play a leading role in shaping the waterfront destination through timely delivery, thoughtful design, and long-term investment as the area evolves into a world-class residential, hospitality, and leisure hub.

  • Abu Dhabi Property Market Rebounds as Buyer Activity Recovers 95%

    Abu Dhabi Property Market Rebounds as Buyer Activity Recovers 95%

    New data from property portals Bayut and dubizzle shows a broad-based recovery in market activity during the first half of 2026, with property searches, buyer enquiries and agent engagement rebounding steadily across the emirate’s most sought-after residential communities.

    According to the platforms’ analysis of user activity between January and June, property views recovered to 95% of their 2026 baseline by Week 14, while property impressions reached 83%, active users climbed to 80% and unique buyers recovered to 87%. The figures point to a gradual return in buyer confidence despite geopolitical volatility that briefly weighed on regional markets.

    The recovery mirrors broader trends in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector. Data from the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) shows the emirate has continued to attract domestic and international investors, supported by long-term residency initiatives, expanding freehold ownership opportunities, major infrastructure investments and a diversified non-oil economy.

    Daily agent responses have risen to 102% of the year’s baseline, indicating that real estate professionals have remained actively engaged with buyers and tenants throughout the recovery period.

    An artificial intelligence-led analysis of more than 7,000 property enquiry calls recorded through the platforms further underlined the market’s stability. Sales enquiries accounted for 54% of all calls, while rentals represented 46%, suggesting balanced demand across both segments.

    “Abu Dhabi’s property market has continued to demonstrate resilience, supported by improving user activity and sustained demand for quality residential communities,” said Haider Khan, CEO of Bayut and dubizzle and CEO of Dubizzle Group Mena.

    The rental market has shown particularly strong momentum. Apartment communities including Masdar City, Al Reef, Al Raha Beach, Yas Island, Al Khalidiyah and Al Reem Island have returned close to or above pre-disruption demand levels, reflecting continued interest in waterfront developments and well-connected residential districts.

    Demand for villa rentals has also strengthened, led by Al Shamkha, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Khalifa City, Al Reef and Yas Island, attracting families seeking larger homes and access to schools, healthcare and lifestyle amenities.

    Among ready properties, apartments in Al Raha Beach, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Al Reem Island remained the preferred destinations for end-users and investors, while Al Shamkha, Al Reef and Khalifa City led demand for ready villas.

    Interest in Abu Dhabi’s off-plan market has also remained robust. Buyers continued to favour apartment projects in Masdar City, Zayed City, Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island and Al Hudayriat Island, reflecting confidence in the emirate’s long-term urban development strategy. Premium villa destinations such as Ramhan Island, Yas Island and Saadiyat Island also attracted sustained investor attention.

    The market’s resilience comes as Abu Dhabi froze all rent increases in early June 2026, providing greater certainty for tenants and landlords. The emirate is also managing over 600 infrastructure projects worth more than Dh200 billion as part of its economic diversification strategy.

    According to global property consultancy Cavendish Maxwell, thousands of new residential units are scheduled for delivery over the next three years, but demand is expected to remain supported by population growth, expanding business activity and government-led economic diversification under Abu Dhabi’s Falcon Economy strategy.

    Analysts note that population growth and job creation continue to underpin demand for quality housing across both the ownership and rental markets, positioning the emirate’s residential sector for measured growth as it enters the second half of 2026.