The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Center (ADREC) recently revealed that the sector saw a remarkable 125 percent annual increase in foreign direct investment (FDI), with the sector attracting over AED7.86 billion ($2.14 billion) in 2024. Contributions came from 2,302 investors across 105 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Kazakhstan, Russia, France and China.
“The surge in FDI highlights Abu Dhabi’s adaptability and resilience in an evolving global economy. It is a testament to the emirate’s forward-thinking policies, investment-friendly environment, and world-class infrastructure that ensure sustainable growth,” stated Engineer Rashed Al Omaira, acting director general at ADREC.
Real estate transactions grow 24.2 percent
ADREC also revealed that Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector saw a 24.2 percent annual increase in transactions last year. The emirate’s real estate market continues to demonstrate resilience and diversity, positioning itself as a premier destination for global investors. With a focus on catering to varied preferences, the sector has expanded its portfolio with a comprehensive range of unit sizes and investment options.
This strategic approach resulted in 28,249 transactions in 2024, representing a 10.45 percent surge in total value, reaching AED96.2 billion ($26.19 billion). The sector recorded 16,735 sales transactions valued at AED58.5 billion and 11,514 mortgage transactions worth AED37.7 billion.
“The sustained growth of Abu Dhabi’s real estate market over the past decade reflects a strategy that prioritizes market stability. Abu Dhabi’s inclusion among the top five global improvers in the 2024 Global Real Estate Transparency Index (GRETI) by JLL underscores our commitment to fostering transparency and trust within the sector,” added Al Omaira.
Abu Dhabi launches 38 new real estate projects
In 2024, Abu Dhabi launched 38 new real estate projects for off-plan sales, alongside the completion of 12 major developments. These projects were strategically selected for their diverse offerings, innovative designs and affordability, appealing to a broad spectrum of investors.
With its strategic initiatives and unwavering focus on investor confidence, ADREC will continue to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s standing as a preferred destination for property investments, offering unparalleled opportunities and long-term value.
“At ADREC, we are committed to reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global investment hub and a model for urban living. Our real estate sector is a cornerstone of the emirate’s economic vision, driving sustainable development and enhancing quality of life for residents through innovative, high-quality projects,” added Al Omaira.
ROI tends for buying property in Abu Dhabi
Several areas across Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector stood out last year for their remarkable return on investment (ROI), according to Bayut’s Abu Dhabi Annual Property Market Reports for 2024. Al Reef offered the highest average ROI of 8.64 percent for budget-friendly apartments in the UAE’s capital, making it an attractive option for investors.
Al Ghadeer isn’t far behind, yielding 8.41 percent returns in the affordable apartment category.
Buyers looking for luxury apartments geared more towards Yas Island last year since it offers an ROI of 7.07 percent. Meanwhile, Al Raha Beach, with an ROI of 6.09 percent, presented a solid choice for buying high-end apartments.
For budget-friendly villas, Hydra Village reported the highest ROI of 8.09 percent, while Al Ghadeer offered handsome returns for investors at 6.53 percent in the affordable villa market.
Investors and HNWIs looking for luxury villas have favored properties in Yas Island, which recorded an ROI of 6.28 percent. Al Raha Gardens’ solid ROI of 6.23 percent also represented a favorable investment option last year.
Read: Dubai’s real estate sector attracts 110,000 new investors in 2024
Popular off-plan projects in 2024
Abu Dhabi’s off-plan real estate market has remained attractive, appealing to investors and homebuyers in the affordable and luxury segments.
In the affordable apartments segment, City of Lights on Al Reem Island, Al Reeman 1 in Al Shamkha and the eco-friendly Royal Park in Masdar City were the top picks for savvy investors in the affordable apartment category. In the luxury segment, luxury apartment seekers have shown significant interest in Yas Bay on Yas Island, Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District, and the breathtaking Al Maryah Vista on Al Maryah Island.
Those looking for affordable villas last year preferred Reem Hills on Al Reem Island, Bloom Living in Zayed City and Al Reeman 2 in Al Shamkha, all offering favorable opportunities to own desired real estate at competitive price points. In the luxury segment, buyers chose the opulent Saadiyat Lagoons on Saadiyat Island and the magnificent Yas Acres on Yas Island the most.
