Evgeny Ratskevich, CEO of Metropolitan Capital Real Estate, said: “What we are seeing in Abu Dhabi is not simply a large number of new projects coming to market. It is a sign of how quickly the market itself is maturing. With around 30 launches expected over the next 90 days, buyers will have more choice than ever and that changes the conversation.
“Abu Dhabi is increasingly becoming a product market. The projects that will perform are not necessarily those that sell out the fastest, but those that offer the right combination of location, quality, pricing, lifestyle and long-term value. The fundamentals are encouraging. Off-plan remains the dominant part of the market, while resale activity and repeat-sale values are also growing.
“For us, the most important signal is that demand is becoming more diversified and more informed. As we move into 2027, we expect the market to become increasingly selective, and ultimately, the product will decide,” he added.
According to developer reports and Metropolitan’s analysis of registry data, more than $10.9 billion (AED 40 billion) of residential property had found buyers since the beginning of 2026 at the time of the research.
Modon’s Hudayriyat Golf Estates led with more than $3.54 billion (AED 13 billion), followed by Ohana’s Manchester City Yas Residences Phase 1 at approximately $1.63 billion (AED 6 billion).
Aldar’s Talay, Talay Beach and Yas Riva Reserve developments accounted for more than $1.36 billion (AED 5 billion).
Other major projects included Eagle Hills’ Ramhan Island at approximately $545 million (AED 2 billion), ORA’s BAYN at $490 million (AED 1.8 billion) and Modon’s Tara Park at $381 million (AED 1.4 billion). More than 40 additional launches accounted for around $3.81 billion (AED 14 billion), according to the analysis.
Approximately 82% of residential property transactions between January and mid-September 2026 were off-plan, according to Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) data and Metropolitan’s analysis.
Resale transactions increased approximately 34% year-on-year, while off-plan resales nearly tripled. Repeat-sale prices rose approximately 20% for apartments and 12% for villas.
The analysis identified buyers from 116 nationalities.
Metropolitan also pointed to the role of regulation and digital property services, including DARI for property transactions and Madhmoun for verified listings, alongside escrow arrangements for off-plan payments.
A framework introduced in September allows buyers who have paid 50% of an off-plan property’s value to finance the remaining balance during construction, according to the consultancy. Aldar completed Abu Dhabi’s first off-plan mortgage under the ADREC framework the same month.
ADREC has also increased the number of investment zones to 50.
Looking ahead, Metropolitan expects the next phase of the market to be shaped by more selective buyers, changing sales strategies and growing demand for integrated residential communities.
“In a market this active, not every project will win and that is a sign of health, not risk,” Ratskevich added. “The buyers who do well in 2027 will be the ones who ask which product is right for them, not how fast it sold.”
The consultancy anticipates developers moving towards phased launches and more gradual sales, rather than concentrating on selling out projects immediately. Buyers are also expected to place greater importance on complete districts offering schools, leisure facilities, marinas and transport connections.
Other anticipated trends include wider adoption of branded and serviced residences, expanded financing opportunities and increased participation from international developers.
Major infrastructure projects, including Etihad Rail and new bridges, are also expected to influence investment activity.
