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UAE real estate market demonstrates resilience and strength in 2026
AE📈 EconomyCenter9/7/2026

UAE real estate market demonstrates resilience and strength in 2026

The UAE's real estate market showed strong performance in 2026, marked by high transaction volumes, increasing foreign investment, and sustained demand across major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. In Dubai, over 60,000 real estate transactions totaling Dh252 billion were recorded in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 31% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Investment activity was robust, with Dh173 billion in real estate investments during the first three months of the year, driven largely by international buyers. Abu Dhabi saw a notable rise in real estate transactions, reaching Dh117 billion in the first half of 2026, with foreign direct investment surging by 309% year-on-year. Sharjah also experienced growth, with real estate transactions reaching Dh29.5 billion in the first six months of 2026, supported by both local and international buyers.

UAE real estate market demonstrates resilience and strength in 2026 The United Arab Emirates' real estate sector continues to exhibit robust performance in 2026, marked by elevated transaction volumes, growing foreign investment, and sustained demand across multiple regions. From Dubai’s ongoing allure for global investors to increasing activity in Abu Dhabi and consistent progress in Sharjah, the market shows signs of continued expansion. Residential properties remain a primary driver, while demand for office, industrial, and logistics spaces supports broader economic stability. In Dubai, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) reported more than 60,000 real estate transactions valued at Dh252 billion during the first quarter of 2026. This represents a 31% increase in transaction value compared to the same period in 2025, alongside a 6% rise in the number of transactions. Investment activity has also surged, with Dh173 billion in real estate investments recorded during the first three months of the year, a 22% year-on-year increase. The market attracted 48,448 investors, including 29,312 new entrants, underscoring its capacity to draw fresh capital. International buyers continue to play a pivotal role in this growth. Foreign real estate investment in Dubai reached Dh148.35 billion during the quarter, representing a 26% year-on-year increase. The luxury segment has drawn particular attention, contributing significantly to the overall figures. The impact of the real estate sector extends beyond property transactions, with activities contributing approximately Dh26 billion to Dubai’s economy during the first quarter of 2026, accounting for 11.2% of the emirate’s GDP. Construction activity grew by 8.2%, reflecting the broader economic influence of the sector. Abu Dhabi has also shown remarkable performance, with the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) reporting transactions totaling Dh117 billion during the first half of 2026, more than double the amount recorded during the same period in 2025. Foreign direct investment in Abu Dhabi real estate reached Dh13.8 billion in H1, a 309% year-on-year increase and surpassing the entire 2025 volume. Investors from 116 different nationalities participated in the market, indicating expanding international interest. Additionally, eight new investment zones were approved during the first half of the year, bringing the total to 50 and opening opportunities for residential and mixed-use developments. Sharjah has maintained its upward trend, with real estate transactions reaching approximately Dh29.5 billion during the first six months of 2026, an increase of 9.3% year on year. Residential property continues to dominate the market, while buyers from 121 nationalities have invested in the emirate. Eleven new real estate projects were registered, broadening the appeal of Sharjah among both residents and investors. Beyond residential properties, the UAE real estate market is experiencing strong demand in commercial sectors. Office rental prices in Dubai rose 13% year on year in the second quarter, with occupancy rates at around 94%. In Abu Dhabi, office rents increased nearly 16%, with occupancy reaching approximately 96%. Industrial and logistics properties have also performed well, driven by limited supply and persistent demand from businesses. Looking ahead, the final months of 2026 may introduce a more balanced phase for the property market. While Dubai has a substantial pipeline of new homes scheduled for delivery, the actual number of completed units is likely to fall short of expectations. As additional supply enters the market, the pace of price increases may moderate. Tariq Zekra, a prominent figure in Abu Dhabi’s real estate scene, highlights the strategic approach needed to navigate the current landscape. With extensive experience in the UAE real estate market and a strong online presence, Zekra emphasizes the importance of providing value through education rather than solely focusing on sales. He notes that modern buyers are more discerning and require realistic insights into the competitive dynamics between Abu Dhabi and Dubai markets. Emotion plays a diminishing role in investment decisions, with data-driven approaches gaining prominence. The continued success of the UAE real estate market reflects broader economic trends, including sustained investor confidence and strategic government initiatives. As the sector evolves, it remains a critical component of the nation’s economic framework, influencing various industries and contributing to regional development.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 3 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

5 reports

The National logoThe NationalParty-alignedCenterFactual 95Objective 988/30/2026
Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports launch welcome-back perks for returning residents

Residents returning to the United Arab Emirates after the summer holidays are receiving special welcome-back initiatives at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports. These include free refreshments, live entertainment, giveaways, and cultural experiences aimed at making the return journey more memorable. The efforts coincide with the start of the new school year, as over 1.27 million students prepare to return to more than 1,180 public and private schools nationwide. Dubai International Airport has introduced various activities such as mascot greetings, music performances, and personalized sign-making stations for families. Similarly, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport is offering a 'Welcome Back to Abu Dhabi' campaign featuring cultural attractions and family-focused incentives.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on non-political initiatives related to airport services and cultural engagement during the transition back to school. There is no evidence of ideological framing, biased language, or selective emphasis on any political perspective. The content is descriptive and highlights the U

Why factuality (95): The article provides specific details about the welcome-back initiatives at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, including free refreshments, live entertainment, giveaways, and cultural experiences. It references the start of the academic year and mentions the number of students returning to schools, align

Why objectivity (98): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, focusing on the facts and quotes from officials without expressing personal opinions or bias. The language remains professional and informative throughout.

Khaleej Times logoKhaleej TimesParty-alignedCenterFactual 85Objective 789/5/2026
UAE real estate market demonstrates resilience and strength in 2026

The UAE's real estate market showed strong performance in 2026, marked by high transaction volumes, increasing foreign investment, and sustained demand across major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. In Dubai, over 60,000 real estate transactions totaling Dh252 billion were recorded in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 31% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Investment activity was robust, with Dh173 billion in real estate investments during the first three months of the year, driven largely by international buyers. Abu Dhabi saw a notable rise in real estate transactions, reaching Dh117 billion in the first half of 2026, with foreign direct investment surging by 309% year-on-year. Sharjah also experienced growth, with real estate transactions reaching Dh29.5 billion in the first six months of 2026, supported by both local and international buyers.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on economic data and market trends within the UAE's real estate sector, which is primarily an economic topic rather than a politically charged issue. It presents statistical information and does not take a stance or frame the content in a biased manner.

Why factuality (85): The article provides specific data from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) regarding real estate transactions and investments in Q1 2026, which aligns with the cross-source consensus that the UAE real estate market showed resilience. However, it lacks broader context beyond Dubai and doesn't mention ot

Why objectivity (78): The tone is positive and celebratory, emphasizing growth and success without presenting alternative viewpoints or challenges. While not overtly biased, the language leans towards promoting the sector's strengths rather than providing a balanced analysis.

The National logoThe NationalParty-alignedCenterFactual 85Objective 759/7/2026
Sheikh Hamdan marks 20 years leading Dubai's Executive Council with record growth

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, marked 20 years in leadership of Dubai's Executive Council, during which the emirate experienced significant economic and infrastructural growth. Dubai's GDP doubled to Dh937 billion, real estate transactions totaled Dh917 billion in 2025, and Dubai International Airport remained the world's busiest for international passenger traffic. The city ranked first globally for greenfield foreign direct investment and topped various international indices, including the Global Financial Centres Index and the Global Power City Index. Government spending of Dh1.2 trillion over two decades supported development in infrastructure, services, and social programs. The Dubai Ruler praised Sheikh Hamdan's contributions and highlighted improvements in health, safety, and citizen satisfaction.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a celebratory tone regarding Sheikh Hamdan's leadership and the achievements of Dubai under his tenure. However, it does not overtly favor any specific political ideology or agenda. It focuses on factual outcomes such as economic growth, infrastructure development, and global排名,

Why factuality (85): The article presents statistics such as Dubai's GDP doubling to Dh937 billion and real estate transactions reaching Dh917 billion, which align with typical economic reports from reputable sources like Wam. These figures are consistent with the cross-source consensus that Sheikh Hamdan has led signif

Why objectivity (75): The article uses positive language such as 'record growth' and 'sweeping advances,' which may reflect an editorial stance favoring Sheikh Hamdan's leadership. While the information is presented neutrally, the emphasis on achievements could be seen as subtly promotional.

Gulf News logoGulf NewsParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 70Objective 659/3/2026
‘Gold is nothing in front of real estate’: Tariq Zekra on Abu Dhabi’s booming market and why Yas and Saadiyat Islands lead the ROI race

Tariq Zekra discusses the growth of Abu Dhabi's real estate market, emphasizing its competitive position compared to Dubai. He highlights his personal journey in promoting Abu Dhabi's property sector through social media, starting with minimal online presence and growing significantly over time. Zekra stresses the importance of providing educational content rather than solely promotional material, aiming to inform potential investors about the benefits of investing in Abu Dhabi. He notes that modern buyers are more informed and realistic, reducing the influence of emotional decisions in real estate investments.

Bias read (Center): The article primarily focuses on the real estate market in Abu Dhabi and the strategies used by individuals like Tariq Zekra to promote investment opportunities. While it mentions the competitive landscape between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, it does not take a clear stance on political issues, policies, or

Why factuality (70): The article focuses on Tariq Zekra's personal experiences and social media influence rather than providing objective economic data. It mentions Abu Dhabi's market but lacks quantitative evidence or comparison with other sources, making it less factual relative to the cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (65): The piece has a promotional tone, highlighting Zekra's role in promoting Abu Dhabi's real estate market. It uses emotive language and quotes that suggest a favorable view of Abu Dhabi's market, lacking neutrality in its presentation.

Khaleej Times logoKhaleej TimesParty-alignedCenterFactual 60Objective 708/30/2026
Dubai, Abu Dhabi landlords keep upper hand as tenants compete in UAE office market

The article discusses the current state of the UAE office rental market, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where landlords maintain a strong position despite increasing competition among tenants. The report highlights that tenants are facing challenges in securing favorable lease terms due to the dominance of property owners in the market. This situation reflects broader trends in commercial real estate across the United Arab Emirates.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a general overview of the commercial real estate market without showing clear bias toward any particular political stance or ideology. It focuses on economic factors affecting tenants and landlords rather than making political judgments or favoring one side over another.

Why factuality (60): The article title suggests a focus on landlord advantages in the UAE office market, but the content is incomplete and lacks substantial information. No detailed analysis or data is provided to support the claim, making it difficult to assess factual accuracy. This may indicate an incomplete or misle

Why objectivity (70): The article appears to take a biased stance favoring landlords, suggesting they 'keep the upper hand' while tenants 'compete.' This phrasing implies a value judgment rather than presenting a balanced view of the market dynamics.

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