The United Arab Emirates real estate market recorded positive performance in the first half of 2026, according to government data compiled across multiple emirates. Strong local and international demand pushed market transactions between January and June.
In Abu Dhabi, total real estate transactions surged by 112% year-on-year to reach Dhs 117 billion. Foreign direct investment in Abu Dhabi property recorded an extraordinary 309% jump to Dhs 13.8 billion, driven by non-resident buyers across 116 nationalities. Residential unit sales accounted for Dhs 70.4 billion, with off-plan properties representing 89% of overall sales value.
Dubai expanded its development pipeline significantly, completing 104 real estate projects valued at over Dhs 111 billion in the first half 2026, a 52% rise in value compared to the same period in 2025. The emirate delivered 24,537 new units to the market, while the total cost of land allocated for development soared by 135% to Dhs 19.46 billion.
Surging performance was mirrored across the Northern Emirates. Sharjah registered transactions worth Dhs 29.5 billion, while Ajman recorded Dhs 10.8 billion and Ras Al Khaimah logged Dhs 2.89 billion in total transactions.