Abu Dhabi real estate soars with Dh51.72 billion transactions in H1: Report
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi's property market continued its upward trajectory in the first half of 2025, buoyed by high investor confidence, government-backed initiatives, and infrastructure expansion, according to Dubizzle's newly released Abu Dhabi Property Sales Market Report. With over Dh51.72 billion worth of transactions and more than 14,170 properties sold in the first six months of the year, the report spotlights a thriving real estate sector catering to a broad spectrum of buyers.Some of the highest returns on investment were recorded among affordable properties, especially in communities like Al Reef, Al Ghadeer, and Al Shamkha, which topped the list for apartment buyers seeking value-driven options.Al Reef stood out with a 9.46% ROI on affordable apartments, while Hydra Village delivered the highest yield in the affordable villa segment at 8.42%. In parallel, budget-conscious buyers turned to off-plan developments such as Reeman Living in Al Shamkha and Granada at Bloom Living in Zayed City, which offered functional layouts and community-focused designs at accessible price points.Mid-tier properties also saw strong activity, driven largely by professionals and families seeking quality living spaces without the luxury price tag. Al Reem Island led the mid-tier apartment segment, offering a strategic waterfront location and an ROI of 7.33%. Masdar City followed closely behind, appealing to eco-conscious residents with its sustainability-focused housing and an ROI of 7.20%. In the villa market, Al Raha Gardens, Al Reem Island, and Al Samha emerged as sought-after mid-tier communities, offering spacious layouts, community facilities, and competitive pricing. Projects such as Reem Hills on Al Reem Island and Royal Park in Masdar City helped attract further interest to the mid-tier off-plan segment.In the luxury market, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Al Jubail Island emerged as the top destinations for high-end property buyers. Yas Island maintained its status as a leading lifestyle hub, with luxury apartment prices averaging Dh1.94 million and villa prices reaching Dh4.98 million. Home to attractions like Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld, the island's appeal was further boosted by the announcement of a Disneyland project.Saadiyat Island recorded one of the highest average prices for luxury apartments at Dh4.03 million, while villas averaged Dh9.52 million, thanks to projects like Saadiyat Lagoons and Mamsha Gardens. Al Jubail Island, home to exclusive waterfront communities such as Marsa Al Jubail, averaged Dh10.11 million for villas, reinforcing its position as a premium destination for upscale living.Off-plan properties continued to be a major driver of market momentum, contributing Dh12.6 billion in sales in the first half of 2025. Reeman Living Phase 2 and Seville at Bloom Living gained traction in the affordable villa category, while Reem Hills and Ohana by The Sea stood out in the mid-tier segment. Luxury off-plan demand was particularly strong in the Saadiyat Cultural District, Ain Al Maha on Al Jubail Island, and Yas Bay, underscoring buyer appetite for waterfront luxury in iconic cultural and entertainment zones.Digital innovation also played a significant role in boosting the market, according to the report. The launch of Madhmoun, the GCC's first government-backed Multiple Listing Service (MLS) platform, improved listing visibility by 70% and accelerated transaction processing by 40%. The report also pointed out that major infrastructure projects – such as the expansion of Etihad Rail and the inauguration of the Umm Yifeenah Bridge – have significantly enhanced connectivity across the emirate, spurring increased interest and rising values in surrounding communities. Areas like Al Shamkha, Ghantoot, and Al Hudayriat Island have gained traction due to improved accessibility and emerging master-planned communities.
According to the report, the market also benefitted from ongoing government efforts to attract foreign investment, including the removal of the minimum downpayment requirement for UAE Golden Visa eligibility.
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