Ready Homes Take the Lead
If you’ve been eyeing the Abu Dhabi property market, here’s the scoop: ready properties are stealing the spotlight while off-plan projects take a backseat. According to Cavendish Maxwell, around 3,300 transactions closed in the first half of 2025—with nearly 2,300 ready homes sold compared to just over 1,000 off-plan units.
Why? Simply put, fewer new launches meant less inventory. Off-plan sales dropped almost 70% year-on-year, pushing buyers straight into the arms of move-in-ready apartments and villas. This reflects a trend we’ve seen before, as Abu Dhabi home prices and rent hikes continue to show steady growth.
Dh8.9 Billion in Transactions
The numbers don’t lie—Dh8.9 billion worth of residential transactions took place in H1 2025. While that’s down 33% compared to last year (thanks to slower off-plan action), ready homes held their ground.
Average prices for completed properties rose from Dh2.1m to Dh2.5m, proving that demand is still heating up, especially among end-users and long-term investors looking for stability.
A Market in Transition
Cavendish Maxwell notes that although activity is more subdued compared to 2024, demand for ready properties is resilient. Both apartments and villas continue to see price appreciation, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as a hub for family-friendly, quality living.
Andrew Laver, Associate Director at Cavendish Maxwell, put it plainly:
“The first half of 2025 has presented a nuanced picture of the real estate market. While overall activity has moderated, demand for completed projects remains robust.”
What’s Coming Next?
The city added 2,400 new residential units this year, with over 10,400 more expected by December and 11,000+ slated for 2026. But, as anyone who’s followed Abu Dhabi real estate knows, deliveries rarely match the pipeline speed.
Government initiatives like Vision 2030 and steady international migration continue to fuel appetite for modern family homes with amenities. Buyers are also finding more flexible financing through schemes such as Abu Dhabi’s housing loans for citizens, helping local families step into ownership sooner.
Why Buyers Are Choosing Ready Properties
For many, the choice is clear: why wait years for a handover when you can move in today? Completed properties mean:
- Immediate returns for investors (rental-ready)
- Certainty in what you’re buying (no construction risk)
- Stronger financing options with local banks
This trend reflects Abu Dhabi’s steady shift towards a more mature, end-user-driven market.
