The residential property market of Abu Dhabi started in 2026 on a strong note, as the total sales of AED12 billion ($3.2 billion) in 2,600 transactions were reported in January by the Abu Dhabi real estate agency, betterhomes.
During the month, off-plan properties had 83 percent of the total transactions, which is far greater than the secondary market, which had 17 percent of the transactions.
Betterhomes added in a statement that these statistics highlight robust consumer interest in new-comings and master-planned communities throughout the capital.
The Saadiyat Island is one of the most performing investment units, with sales volume performing best in value, which recorded AED5.6 million in sales. Al Jubail Island came in second with AED4.2 million, followed by Al Raha with AED3.23 million in sales.
Yas Island is producing AED2 million, and Al Reem Island is producing AED1.62 million, which indicates ongoing demand in well-set island districts.
On the January sales performance, Nada Osman, Director of betterhomes Abu Dhabi, said: “January’s figures reflect the continued strength of Abu Dhabi’s residential market, particularly within the off-plan segment. Buyers are demonstrating clear long-term confidence in the capital, especially in master-planned island communities where infrastructure, lifestyle, and future value are aligned.”
Osman added, “The dominance of off-plan transactions shows that investors and end-users are positioning themselves early in the development cycle. We are seeing thoughtful, strategic purchasing decisions that reinforce the stability and maturity of the market.”
Therefore, the activity in leasing was also good in January, 18,500 transactions were in leasing with a valuation of AED1.5 billion.
During the leasing side, Noha Mesbah, Sales and Leasing Manager, said: “Abu Dhabi’s leasing market is currently experiencing strong momentum, particularly as three major developments are being handed over. Tenants are actively seeking communities that align with their lifestyle needs, whether that means waterfront living, family-oriented environments, or proximity to key infrastructure.”
TradeArabia News Service reported that Abu Dhabi has entered 2026 with solid fundamentals and market confidence in place on the basis of high volumes in sales, active leasing demand, and remaining off-plan sales.
