Abu Dhabi's residential market closed the third quarter of 2026 with sales of AED 21.5 billion, up 32% on the same quarter last year, according to figures reported by Gulf News.
The number of deals was lower: 6,085 transactions, down 19% on the previous quarter and 7% on a year earlier. In other words, fewer but larger deals are driving the value.
Off-plan homes made up 81% of residential transactions. The average off-plan deal was worth about AED 5 million, up 15% on the previous quarter and 40% on a year earlier, while the average ready property was about AED 2.8 million.
Prices continued to rise. Apartments averaged AED 22,700 per sqm (up 9% year on year) and villas and townhouses AED 18,200 per sqm (up 8%).
What it means for buyers: with off-plan dominating, compare payment plans, handover dates and the developer's track record, and check recent sale prices in the same community before you reserve.
Source: Gulf News, Abu Dhabi residential sales in Q3 2026 (updated 21 October 2026). This article is general information, not investment advice.