Abu Dhabi Luxury Property Sales Reach $1.7 Billion in Early 2025

Abu Dhabi’s luxury real estate market recorded AED 6.3 billion (approximately $1.7 billion) in sales during the first four months of 2025, driven by rising demand for branded residences and high-end investment opportunities, according to a new report by Metropolitan Capital Real Estate (MCRE).

The number of branded residential launches has quadrupled compared to the same period last year, making it one of the strongest growth drivers in the capital’s property market. New lifestyle-focused developments across Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, and Mariah Island have significantly contributed to this momentum.

Branded Residences Set New Records

At least 25 branded projects are expected to be announced this year, up from just a few in 2024. These include high-profile names such as Jacob & Co Beachfront Residences, Waldorf Astoria Residences, Elie Saab Waterfront, SHA Wellness Residences, and Nobu Residences.

Nobu Residences made headlines with a record-breaking AED 137 million penthouse sale—the highest residential transaction in Abu Dhabi to date.

Prices in this segment now average between AED 2,500 and AED 4,000 per square metre, offering comparatively competitive value against similar luxury developments in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.

Secondary Market Growth

The secondary luxury market is also performing strongly, with transaction volumes up 158 percent year-on-year. Nearly AED 3 billion in resale activity was recorded by April 2025, with super-luxury properties (AED 10 million and above) accounting for more than AED 2.6 billion, or 60 percent of total volume.

These sales represent 22 percent of 2024’s full-year total—achieved in just four months. MCRE alone facilitated over AED 700 million in transactions for properties priced at AED 7 million and above, including AED 530 million in the AED 10 million-plus segment, capturing 11 percent of the market share in this category.

Shifting Buyer Demographics

MCRE also reports a shift in investor demographics. While Russian and CIS nationals dominated early 2024, interest from those markets tapered in Q2 2025. In their place, demand has surged from buyers in the UK, US, UAE, and other GCC countries. Nearly half of current buyers are end users, while the remainder are investors diversifying their portfolios.

Key Investment Locations

The strongest-performing areas in Abu Dhabi’s high-end segment include Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Reem Island, and Al Hidayriyyat, which has already exceeded 20 percent of its total 2024 sales within the first few months of this year.

According to MCRE CEO Evgeny Ratskevich, the market is seeing a clear trend: “We are witnessing investors who initially entered the market with plans to purchase one property now expanding their portfolios. Many long-term residents are also choosing to buy rather than rent, reflecting growing confidence in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector.”

With strong fundamentals, lifestyle-led developments, and growing international interest, Abu Dhabi’s luxury property market is firmly establishing itself as one of the region’s most dynamic and resilient investment destinations.