The Abu Dhabi property market has seen a clear shift towards ready properties in the first half of 2025, with demand for completed homes significantly outpacing off-plan sales. According to the latest report from Cavendish Maxwell, a leading real estate consultancy, the emirate recorded approximately 3,300 residential sales transactions between January and June 2025. Out of these, around 2,300 were ready property sales, while just over 1,000 were off-plan transactions.
Decline in Off-Plan Property Sales in Abu Dhabi
The report highlighted a sharp decline in off-plan property sales. Activity in this segment fell by 49.5% compared to the second half of 2024, and by a steep 69.9% year-on-year from the first half of 2024. This drop is primarily attributed to fewer new project launches, which created limited inventory options for buyers.
Despite the overall slowdown, the second quarter of 2025 did witness a slight rebound in off-plan demand, suggesting that numbers may be revised upward as pending registrations are finalized. Still, the scarcity of fresh launches redirected much of the demand towards ready-to-move-in properties.
Strong Performance of Ready Properties
While overall transaction volumes were lower than in the second half of 2024, the ready property market continued to shine. Sales of completed homes grew by 26.9% year-on-year, showcasing robust demand from both end-users and investors.
Interestingly, the value of ready property transactions increased, even as total volumes declined. The average transaction price for ready homes rose from AED 2.1 million to AED 2.5 million, reflecting ongoing price appreciation across apartments and villas in Abu Dhabi.
“This relative scarcity of off-plan options redirected demand towards ready properties, allowing them to gain market share in early 2025. Despite reduced volumes, the resilience of investor and end-user demand has been remarkable,” said the consultancy in its quarterly market report.
Residential Sales Value and Market Trends
The total value of Abu Dhabi residential transactions in the first half of 2025 stood at AED 8.9 billion, down 33% year-on-year. This decline was largely due to weaker off-plan sales, which typically drive higher transaction volumes.
However, ready properties provided a bright spot, with stronger value growth compared to late 2024. This trend reflects investor preference for immediate occupancy and secure assets in an evolving market landscape.
Andrew Laver, Associate Director of Commercial Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, explained:
“Although overall activity has moderated compared to 2024, demand for completed projects remains robust. This sustained appetite is driving continued price growth across Abu Dhabi’s residential market, highlighting both end-user demand and investor confidence.”
New Housing Supply and Delivery Outlook
In terms of new housing supply, around 2,400 residential units were delivered in Abu Dhabi city during the first half of 2025. Looking ahead, the supply pipeline is expected to accelerate, with approximately 10,400 units scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, and over 11,000 units projected for 2026.
However, Cavendish Maxwell noted that actual on-ground deliveries may lag behind planned schedules, keeping supply levels lower than near-term demand. This limited supply, combined with rising demand, is likely to support property price growth in the coming months.
The consultancy also highlighted that Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030 diversification strategy, population growth driven by international migration, and strong economic fundamentals across the UAE and GCC region are all contributing to resilient housing demand. Investors are showing increasing interest in family-oriented homes with modern amenities, further reinforcing the strength of the ready property segment.
Outlook for Abu Dhabi’s Property Market
Looking ahead, experts believe that upcoming new project launches will inject fresh inventory into the market, potentially revitalizing off-plan sales and broadening buyer options. Nonetheless, ready properties are expected to remain in high demand, particularly among end-users seeking stability and investors looking for immediate rental returns.
Key Takeaways for Investors and Buyers
- Ready properties accounted for 70% of transactions in H1 2025.
- Off-plan sales dropped sharply due to fewer new launches.
- Average price for ready homes increased from AED 2.1M to AED 2.5M.
- Residential transaction value fell by 33% YoY, driven by subdued off-plan activity.
- Around 2,400 units delivered in H1 2025, with 10,400 more expected by year-end.
- Government initiatives and population growth continue to fuel long-term housing demand.
Conclusion
The Abu Dhabi real estate market in 2025 paints a dynamic picture: while overall activity is down compared to 2024, demand for ready properties remains strong, prices are climbing, and supply is gradually expanding. With Vision 2030 supporting economic diversification and international migration driving housing needs, the emirate’s residential market is set for sustained growth.
For buyers and investors, this trend underscores the appeal of ready properties as a secure and profitable choice, while off-plan opportunities may regain traction as new launches come to market in the near future.
