If you're looking to buy in Abu Dhabi this is everything you need to know
People looking to buy in Abu Dhabi are multiplying, and the real estate market is in serious demand this year, with prices climbing thanks to limited supply, major infrastructure projects and a growing number of both local and global investors jumping on board.
A new report from UAE-based brokerage Oia Properties has spotlighted the city's most promising neighbourhoods – and there's something for every kind of buyer, whether you're after the glitz of Yas Island or the eco-cred of Masdar City.
So, which areas are the best places to buy in Abu Dhabi?
Yas Island has long been a playground for thrill-seekers and leisure lovers and now it's adding another feather to its cap: Disney Theme Park Abu Dhabi. That alone would be enough to skyrocket interest, but combine it with the existing Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and limited hotel availability and it's no surprise investors are snapping up properties for short-term rentals and impressive returns. Studios start at Dhs800,000, with prices averaging between Dhs1,500 to 2,100 per square foot and analysts give it a sky-high capital appreciation score of nine out of ten for 2025 and 2026.
Just across the water, Al Reem Island is turning heads too. Thanks to Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) expanding its jurisdiction, this urban island is now fully open to investors of all nationalities, making it an appealing option for expats and families. With studio apartments starting at Dhs700,000 and strong rental demand, it boasts a capital appreciation outlook of eight out of ten, helped along by Etihad Rail developments and waterfront living.
Over on Hudayriyat Island, luxury meets lifestyle in one of the city's most exciting up-and-coming communities. With eye-catching projects like Surf Abu Dhabi and the region's largest velodrome already in motion, buyers are flocking to Modon's newest neighbourhood. Properties here start at Dhs2 million for a one-bedroom, with values expected to rise significantly over the next year.
Al Raha Beach, meanwhile, continues to offer solid value in an already well-established neighbourhood. With its waterfront setting and mature infrastructure, it attracts a steady stream of international buyers. Studio apartments start around Dhs1 million and the resale market remains strong, with a respectable seven out of ten growth forecast.
Saadiyat Island still reigns as the capital's most luxurious enclave. Home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and soon welcoming new additions from luxury hospitality brands, it draws high-net-worth individuals from across the world. Studio prices start at Dhs1.3 million, with per-square-foot rates ranging from Dhs1,800 to a jaw-dropping Dhs3,400. Long-term investors looking for cultural cachet and solid growth can expect stable returns and a seven out of ten outlook.
And it's not just the well-known districts making waves. Ghantoot is emerging from the shadows with the launch of 'Bayn' by ORA. Nestled between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the beachfront villas and green community design are already generating a buzz. Three-bedroom townhouses here start at Dhs2.7 million.
Al Reef is also coming into its own, with its transition from leasehold to freehold making it a smart, accessible choice for first-time buyers. Studio apartments go for Dhs500,000 to 600,000 and its location near the airport, Yas Island and Al Raha adds to the appeal.
Credit: Supplied
Then there's Masdar City, a magnet for sustainability-minded professionals. As home to the Masdar Freezone and over 1,000 companies, it's an ideal live-work-play hub. Studios start at Dhs1 million and buyers are drawn in by cutting-edge design and flexible payment plans.
Al Shamkha is gaining popularity too, especially among UAE nationals. With the handover of Aldar's Fay Al Reeman project set for late 2025, this villa-heavy suburb offers space and affordability, with studios starting at Dhs400,000.
Zayed City rounds out the list as a future-forward district already seeing action with the early handover of Cordoba (Bloom Living Phase 1). It's part of Abu Dhabi's Plan 2030 and comes with promising infrastructure and buyer-friendly payment options, with one-bedroom apartments starting at Dhs600,000.
In short, if you're looking to buy in Abu Dhabi, now's the time to strike. From glam island homes to emerging suburban gems, 2025's property picks are as diverse as they are rewarding.
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