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Christie’s International Real Estate Launches in Abu Dhabi

Christie’s International Real Estate has launched in Abu Dhabi as residential sales reach $23.4 billion in H1 2026, up 163.7% year-on-year.
Ultra-Luxury Villa Living at SHA ResidencesUltra-Luxury Villa Living at SHA Residences. Image: Christie’s International Real Estate

ABU DHABI, UAE: Christie’s International Real Estate has launched in Abu Dhabi, bringing its global luxury real estate network to the UAE capital as the emirate’s property market records significant growth.

The new agency, Christie’s International Real Estate Abu Dhabi, is owned by Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, the team behind Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai, which was named the brand’s 2025 Affiliate of the Year.

The expansion comes as Abu Dhabi’s real estate market continues to record strong transaction growth, supported by international investment and the ongoing development of major residential, commercial, hospitality, retail and cultural projects.

Abu Dhabi Residential Sales Reach $23.4 Billion

Residential sales in Abu Dhabi reached $23.4 billion (AED 86.1 billion) during the first half of 2026, representing an increase of 163.7% compared with the same period last year, despite regional tensions.

The residential sales formed part of $31.9 billion (AED 117 billion) in total real estate transaction value during H1 2026, up 112% year-on-year and already equivalent to approximately 82% of the full-year total for 2025.

The market is also being shaped by an influx of global capital, alongside the emirate’s $1.7 trillion in sovereign wealth, which helps support the development of major real estate projects comprising tens of thousands of residential units and millions of square feet of offices, hotels, retail space, and cultural and entertainment venues.

Growing High-Net-Worth Population

Abu Dhabi has also developed into a major hub for financial institutions and multinational corporations, contributing to growth in its high-net-worth population.

The number of millionaires residing in the emirate increased by 80% over the past decade, while the current millionaire population is expected to double by 2035.

Johns and Chhatwani bring an established track record with the Christie’s International Real Estate brand. Across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, they have leveraged the brand’s international referral network and relationship with Christie’s auction house to serve a global clientele of consumers, investors and developers.

"We've had a front-row seat to the extraordinary evolution of luxury real estate in the UAE, and we believe Abu Dhabi is entering a defining period," said Johns. "What is happening here isn't merely an extension of Dubai's growth or a short-term market cycle. Abu Dhabi has its own powerful fundamentals. The market is exceptionally strong today, but the long-term opportunity is what makes it so compelling."

Luxury Properties Range Beyond $54 Million

Luxury properties across Abu Dhabi range from approximately $544,600 (AED 2 million) to more than $54 million (AED 200 million).

Branded residences are also a major component of the emirate’s luxury property market, with hospitality brands including Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons and The St. Regis represented in the sector.

The launch of Christie’s International Real Estate Abu Dhabi expands the brand’s presence in the UAE and gives its international network greater access to the capital’s growing luxury residential market.