a
Print
version

9 Facts About the Capital of the UAE for Property Buyers

  • 22
The Abu Dhabi real estate market opened to foreigners only in 2019, but has gained momentum. Now the volume of transactions in the emirate is estimated at tens of billions of dollars iconic development projects are being built here, and the community of expats who choose the capital of the UAE is growing.

1. Economy

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the country, as well as the main city of the largest (by area) and richest emirate.

In the first half of 2022, Abu Dhabi's GDP grew by 11.2% compared to the same period last year. This is a record figure is highest in the last six years!

Contrary to stereotypes, Abu Dhabi has long been earning not only on oil (this sector brings about 40% of GDP). Other important sectors of the economy: industry, construction, finance, tourism.

Olga Borisko
International Real Estate Broker
Property Shop Investment

Abu Dhabi is still one of the main oil producing centers in the world, which provides the emirate with significant financial resources. But the local economy is diversified. In recent years, the emirate has invested heavily in modern infrastructure, including roads, airports, ports and public transport. Excellent health, education and entertainment facilities have opened here. All this makes Abu Dhabi an attractive place for investment and business.

2. Freehold

For many years, the local real estate market remained closed to foreigners. Non-residents could buy objects in Abu Dhabi only on a long-term lease (leasehold) for up to 99 years.

In 2019, the laws have changed. The government has approved a list of locations where foreigners can become full owners. This decision contributed to the inflow of investments.

List of freehold zones in Abu Dhabi

Whether you're looking for an apartment or a townhouse, or Villa Abu Dhabi has the ideal residential property for you to purchase in any of these communities; Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Maryah Island, Al Raha Beach, Al Reef, Al Shamkha, Al Ghadeer, Jubail Island Nurai Island, Al Jurf- Ghantoot.

Some of the notable real estate projects in Abu Dhabi:

  1. Al Jurf
  2. Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences
  3. Grove Beach Views
  4. Manarat Living
  5. Reem Hills
  6. Mayan-Yas Island
  7. Grove Museum Views
  8. Saadiyat Lagoons
  9. Mamsha Al Saadiyat
  10. Saadiyat Reserve.
  11. The Dunes.
  12. Nurai Island
  13. Sustainable City-Yas Island
Skyscrapers of Al Reem Island

3. Golden visas

In 2022, another law was passed, which fueled the interest of foreigners in real estate in Abu Dhabi. "Golden Visas" is a 10-year residence permit that many successful and talented foreigners can apply for. For example, investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, teachers, students...even priests.

To obtain a residence permit as a real estate investor, you need to buy any object worth at least 2 million dirhams ($544,000).

Olga Borisko
International Real Estate Broker
Property Shop Investment

Over the past year, we have seen a significant influx of foreign buyers, especially from Eastern Europe and East Asia. They seem to be attracted by the stable economy and the new Golden Visa program introduced by the UAE government.

4. Expats

In recent years, a huge international community has formed here. And judging by the reviews, immigrants like to live in the UAE. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are now in the top 10 cities in the world for expats.

The evening view of Abu Dhabi

5. Construction

More than 3,000 properties are at various stages of readiness. Among them are both premium complexes and comfort-class facilities.

Olga Borisko
International Real Estate Broker
Property Shop Investment

Abu Dhabi is well known for its luxury living and real estate. And yet there are many options for economical living. For example, Al Reem Island, Al Shamkha, which is located near the airport, or Al Ghadeer, located in the investment zone, right between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The most affordable offers can be found in the off-plan real estate sector - these are projects that are still under construction. Demand for affordable housing is strong, driven by the many young professionals, small families, students, expats who come to Abu Dhabi.

6. Deals

In the third quarter of 2022 alone, Abu Dhabi sold $5.7 billion worth of real estate (AED21 billion). For comparison: a year earlier, the volume of transactions was $4.4 billion per quarter. The market is growing fast!

The most popular locations among buyers, judging by the amount of funds invested in real estate, are Yas Island and Saadiyat Islands.

Yas Island and Ferrari World Amusement Park

7. Payments

The UAE has always been one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. For example, all registries here have long been digitized, remote real estate transactions were carried out long before the start of the pandemic.

And now the Emirates are leading in the field of prevalence of cryptocurrencies. Many local developers are willing to process such payments.

By the way, payments in rubles are also practiced. See the list of objects for which you can pay in Russian currency.

8. Prices

According to data for the last quarter of 2022, in Abu Dhabi, the average price of an apartment is $3.1 thousand per sq.m, villas - $2.1 thousand.

Growth is observed in all segments, but premium real estate is growing in price the fastest. For example, objects on Saadiyat Island have grown in price by 12-13% over the year.

Available properties in Abu Dhabi:
Villa for 1 532 504 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
1 532 504 €
Villa in Abu Dhabi, UAE
616 sq.m 6 5 5
Residence Remote Transaction Credit
Organically fitting into the natural surroundings, Al-Jurf Gardens is a natural masterpiece that preserves and emphasizes the beauty of the region and perpetuates its heritage. This is an ideal place for those who are looking for inspiration, harmony and spiritual uplift. Here you will feel safe, be able to be yourself and find peace of mind....
Prestige Property
Apartment for 3 128 476 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
3 128 476 €
Apartment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
726 sq.m 5 4 4
Residence Remote Transaction
A new coastal complex with an ideal location and many places for recreation and entertainment on the island of Yas. Yas Island is a magnificent island in Abu Dhabi, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region; it combines a huge number of world-class attractions, luxury hotels, villas and residential complexes for a comfortable...
Prestige Property
Flat for 59 639 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
59 639 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
78 sq.m 1 1
Start of sales of view apartments in The Source in Abu Dhabi, on the island of Saadiyat For profitable investments: 1. We write to the expert in the chat and get advice. 2. We make payments by invoice. 3. In the 3rd quarter of 2026 we rent with a yield of up to 12% For whom it will suit: Exactly for investors – the project is located in a...
Real Estate Dubai
Apartment for 300 863 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
300 863 €
Apartment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
100 sq.m 2
Remote Transaction
The complex is located on the canal embankment in the heart of Yas Island, 10 minutes from the beach. For sale 2–bedroom apartments from 100 sq.m. Price: $326.975 - 354.225 The infrastructure of the complex: swimming pools, gyms, playgrounds, jogging and cycling paths, landscaped gardens and a promenade with cafes, restaurants and shops,...
Intermark Global
Flat for 520 966 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
520 966 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
142 sq.m 2 1 1
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Apartments in the Sea La Vie complex in one of the most prestigious locations in Abu Dhabi! A good investment option (ROI - 6.2% in $)! Fully furnished kitchen! Installments of 0%! The deadline is 1 quarter 2026. Facilities: artificial lagoon, infinity pool, gym, sauna, multi-purpose room, barbecue area, spa terrace, pool terrace,...
DDA Real Estate
Flat for 440 149 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
440 149 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
89 sq.m 3 2 1
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Apartments in the new Perla 3 residential complex on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi! A great option for living and investing (ROI - 7.3% in $)! The apartment is fully furnished! We will provide the investor's catalog! The deadline is 2q. 2027. Facilities: gym, landscaped garden, children's playground, swimming pool, covered parking, barbecue area,...
DDA Real Estate
Flat for 521 602 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
521 602 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
113 sq.m 4 3 2
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Apartments in the new Perla 3 residential complex on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi! A great option for living and investing (ROI - 7.3% in $)! The apartment is fully furnished! We will provide the investor's catalog! The deadline is 2q. 2027. Facilities: gym, landscaped garden, children's playground, swimming pool, covered parking, barbecue area,...
DDA Real Estate
Flat for 520 737 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
520 737 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
150 sq.m 3 2 2
Citizenship Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Apartments in the Yas Golf Collection resort community on Yas Island! High income! Rental income from $ 1300 per month! Interest-free installments! Infrastructure: wellness center with fitness pavilion and gym overlooking the sea and golf course, fitness area, multifunctional spaces for yoga and Pilates, multifunctional court, cinema, swimming...
DDA Real Estate
Villa for 1 002 058 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
1 002 058 €
Villa in Abu Dhabi, UAE
365 sq.m 5 5
Conveniently located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and stretching over 1.6 km of breathtaking turquoise waters, the AlJurf complex from developer IMKAN provides all the amenities for life. Unique residential complexes, including private marinas, beach clubs, boutique hotels, shops, restaurants and the world-famous wellness resort and retreat...
Intermark Global
Flat for 302 512 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
302 512 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
92 sq.m 2 1 2
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction Cryptocurrency payment Credit Rental property
Have you been interested in investments for a long time? Invest immediately with GUARANTEED PROFITABILITY in UAE real estate! - Guaranteed rental income of 11% on average. - Favorable tax climate of 0% on ownership and rental. - Protection of investors by the supervisory authorities of RERA and DLD. - Assistance in obtaining a residence...
DDA Real Estate
Apartment for 343 900 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
343 900 €
Apartment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
74 sq.m 1
Remote Transaction Cryptocurrency payment
D&B Properties is a leading real estate company in the International Off-Plan market including London, Dubai & Abu Dhabi. We assist in every aspect of searching and securing residential off-plan, leasing or resale of properties. You can find everything you need with us! GARDENIA BAY at Yas Island Gardenia Bay is brought to you by leading...
D&B Properties
Apartment for 557 500 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
557 500 €
Apartment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
106 sq.m 2
Remote Transaction Cryptocurrency payment
D&B Properties is a leading real estate company in the International Off-Plan market including London, Dubai & Abu Dhabi. We assist in every aspect of searching and securing residential off-plan, leasing or resale of properties. You can find everything you need with us! GARDENIA BAY at Yas Island Gardenia Bay is brought to you by leading...
D&B Properties
Villa for 2 372 198 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
2 372 198 €
Villa in Abu Dhabi, UAE
545 sq.m 9 5 8
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Welcome to Saadiyat Lagoons, a sustainable residential community on Saadiyat Island. Surrounded by over 900,000m² of protected wilderness, this community offers 4 to 6-bed mangrove villas sustainably designed with green building technology, sustainable materials, and efficient water fixtures. You have the option to add a private pod as a...
REX Real Estate
Apartment for 1 233 540 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
1 233 540 €
Apartment in Abu Dhabi, UAE
160 sq.m 3 2 3
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction Rental property
Welcome to Fairmont Marina Residences Abu Dhabi, a property offered by Marina from Rex Real Estate. This luxurious property offers a life above it all, where you can indulge in a profusion of creature comforts and privileged living. The property stands majestically above the Arabian Gulf, inviting you to its elegant embrace and lavishing you...
REX Real Estate
Villa for 1 713 135 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
1 713 135 €
Villa in Abu Dhabi, UAE
367 sq.m 8 5 8
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Welcome to Al Jurf Gardens, where the traditional meets the contemporary, and nature and modern life coexist in perfect harmony. Designed to encourage a closely-knit community, Al Jurf offers villas with two distinct architectural typologies, including the stunning Rawya villas. This luxurious 4 and 5-bedroom villa is a home of many stories,...
REX Real Estate
Villa for 3 990 000 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
3 990 000 €
Villa in Abu Dhabi, UAE
463 sq.m 7 4 6
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Discover the luxurious lifestyle of Ramhan Island, a heavenly escape located in Abu Dhabi. Nestled amidst scenic bays and mangrove trees, this island community offers a tranquil oasis for those seeking a harmonious balance between modern living and nature. Rex Real Estate is proud to present this incredible masterplan, which features...
REX Real Estate
Flat for 758 391 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
758 391 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
192 sq.m 4 3 2
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Apartment in the elite project The Bay Residence on the coast of Yas Island! Perfect for living, investing and renting! The yield is from 5.9% in $! We will provide the investor's catalog! Breathtaking sea views and the opportunity to walk along the coast! Facilities: infinity pools for adults and children, outdoor playgrounds for children,...
DDA Real Estate
Flat for 325 391 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
325 391 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
122 sq.m 3 2 1
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Budget apartments in the new Royal Park complex in Abu Dhabi! Apartments for living and investment! The yield is from 10%! A green area! Installments of 0%! We will provide the investor's catalog! The deadline is 2q. 2027. Facilities: private parking, swimming pool, children's pool, gym, children's playground, recreation area, giant chess...
UAE & Turkey Estate
Flat for 931 240 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
931 240 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
148 sq.m 4 3 1
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Beautiful apartments in the new Selina Bay project on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi! Apartments for living and investment! The yield is from 10% to $! We will provide the investor's catalog! Interest-free installments! Facilities: swimming pool, children's pool, gym, barbecue area, bocce playground and much more. Location: Selina Bay provides...
DDA Real Estate
Flat for 567 209 euro in Abu Dhabi, UAE
567 209 €
Flat in Abu Dhabi, UAE
110 sq.m 3 2 1
Residence Online Viewing Remote Transaction
Comfortable apartments in the new Nouran Living complex on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi! Apartments for living and investment! Guaranteed rental income - from 10% to $! We will provide the investor's catalog! Interest-free installments! The deadline is 4q. 2027. Facilities: access to the Saadiyat Beach Club, golf course, swimming pool,...
DDA Real Estate

9. Income

The average return on real estate in Abu Dhabi is 7% per annum.

Profitability is higher than in most European cities, including due to the absence of income tax.

From July 1, 2023, income tax in the UAE will appear. The rate is 9%. However, income received from investments in real estate for personal purposes will not be subject to this fee.

Olga Borisko
International Real Estate Broker
Property Shop Investment

Renting properties is far from the only strategy for making money on real estate in Abu Dhabi. Many foreigners increase capital by reselling objects, including after renovation, are engaged in real estate development and management, invest in REITs (real estate investment trusts), and make wholesale transactions. There are a lot of opportunities in the Abu Dhabi market.

Please contact Property Shop Investment for professional advice on real estate investment in Abu Dhabi:

Office No. 4410 & 4411 Addax Tower Level 44 Al Reem Island, City of Lights Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

https://psinv.net/en/

callcenter@psinv.net

+971501205933

Photo: Unsplash (Murthy VenkatKamil Rogalinski), wikimedia (Floness), wikipedia (Валерий Дед)

Quoting conditions of Prian.info materials

Share the link:
Tags: UAE, Market Analysis, Investment, Real Estate, New buildings and construction

Read also

Apartment prices in Dubai have registered the highest annual capital growth in a decade
Apartments are already catching up with villas in terms of capital gains, mainly due to...
Knight Frank: Property prices in Dubai’s prime markets are predicted to grow
Price increases in major residential areas are expected to rise by 5% next year.
The main trends in the residential real estate markets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Key figures for the third quarter of 2023.
Dubai real estate market has registered an absolute record in February
The emirate has recorded the maximum number of property sales in February.
Property prices in cheaper areas of Dubai are on the rise
Villas have become especially expensive.
The number of legal disputes between landlords and tenants has increased in Dubai
There are many illegal evictions of tenants.

Interesting to read

News and articles on the topic «UAE»

Dubai real estate market has registered an absolute record in February

The emirate has recorded the maximum number of property sales in February.

  • 19.03.2024
  • 11

Apartment prices in Dubai have registered the highest annual capital growth in a decade

Apartments are already catching up with villas in terms of capital gains, mainly due to...

  • 04.03.2024
  • 12