The UAE’s real estate sector recorded strong growth during the first half of 2026, highlighting continued investor confidence, rising demand and expanding development activity across several emirates.
Abu Dhabi delivered particularly impressive results, with total real estate transactions reaching approximately AED117 billion, representing a 112% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The number of transactions also rose by 61.7%. Sales transactions reached AED86.1 billion, while foreign direct investment in Abu Dhabi’s property sector climbed to around AED13.8 billion, an increase of 309% year-on-year.
The emirate also attracted investors from a growing range of international markets, with non-resident foreign investors representing 116 nationalities. Investment zones attracted approximately AED75 billion, reflecting strong demand for properties across Abu Dhabi.
Dubai also maintained strong momentum. During H1 2026, the emirate completed 104 real estate projects with a combined investment value exceeding AED111 billion. This represented a 52% increase in project value compared with H1 2025. The number of new real estate units rose by more than 36% to 24,537, expanding housing options across the city.
Sharjah recorded around AED29.5 billion in real estate transactions, while Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah also reported active property markets.
The strong performance across the UAE reflects the country’s attractive investment environment, world-class infrastructure, supportive regulations and diversified economy. With continued development and international demand, the property sector remains an important pillar of the UAE’s long-term economic growth and diversification strategy.
