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Post by : Badri Ariffin
During the first quarter of 2026, the UAE's real estate sector displayed remarkable strength, indicating growing confidence from both local and international stakeholders. The market proved to be stable and versatile, offering consistent growth and promising returns for the foreseeable future.
All major markets within the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman, showed significant progress in the initial three months of the year. Official statistics underscore the UAE’s status as an attractive global hub for real estate investments.
Dubai's Transaction Value Soars
Dubai retained its vigorous pace in the property sector. As per the Dubai Land Department, there were 718,160 real estate transactions recorded, with 60,303 involving property sales, a 6% increase versus Q1 2025.
The total value of transactions hit AED 252 billion, reflecting a 31% increase year-on-year. Furthermore, the number of investments rose to 57,744, a 7% increase, amassing a total value of AED 173 billion.
The investor landscape widened, with 48,448 participants, an 8% growth, including 29,312 newcomers, a 14% rise compared to last year.
Abu Dhabi's Exceptional Performance
Abu Dhabi achieved its highest quarterly performance to date. Real estate transactions surged by 160.7%, totaling AED 66 billion, a significant increase from AED 25.31 billion during the same timeframe last year.
A total of 13,518 transactions were accomplished, nearly double the 6,896 seen in Q1 2025. Such growth consolidates Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a pivotal investment hub, both regionally and globally.
Sharjah's Diverse Investor Base Thrives
Sharjah's real estate market performed admirably as well. The trading value climbed to AED 18.5 billion, rising from AED 13.2 billion last year, showing a commendable 40.7% boost.
The transaction count reached 29,235, an 18.9% increase. Investor diversity also flourished, featuring investors from 113 different nations, up from 97 in 2025.
UAE nationals accounted for about AED 9 billion across 10,099 properties, while GCC nationals, Arab investors, and others contributed around AED 9.5 billion across 19,136 properties.
Steady Growth in Ajman
Ajman's property sector also experienced commendable growth. The total transaction value reached AED 6.22 billion, through 3,890 transactions, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
The trading volume stood at AED 4.24 billion, with 3,128 transactions concluded.
Positive Outlook for UAE Real Estate
The impressive performance showcased across all emirates underscores the resilience of the UAE's real estate landscape. Despite regional fluctuations, the sector continues to flourish, buoyed by sound leadership, economic stability, and investor-forward policies.
This trend reaffirms the UAE as one of the world's most appealing destinations for property investment.
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