Dubai & Abu Dhabi Property Sales Hit Record $52.8bn in Q3
Introduction
The UAE’s property sector is on track for a record-breaking year as Dubai and Abu Dhabi reported a combined $52.8bn in real estate transactions during Q3 2025. New data from Property Finder shows surging off-plan sales and strong investor sentiment. Both markets are setting new benchmarks amid growing population and international interest.
UAE Real Estate Marks Historic Quarter
Dubai and Abu Dhabi recorded a combined AED 194.3bn ($52.8bn) in property sales during Q3 2025, cementing the UAE’s position as one of the world’s most resilient real estate hubs. The surge reflects continued investor confidence, demand for master-planned communities, and a shift toward long-term wealth preservation.
Abu Dhabi Achieves Record Growth
Abu Dhabi posted one of its strongest quarters on record, with total transactions up 76% to 7,154 and value soaring 110% to AED 25.3bn ($6.9bn).
The residential segment dominated activity, accounting for 96% of all sales, with 6,883 transactions worth AED 23.3bn ($6.3bn) — a 107% annual increase.
This performance aligns with the emirate’s Abu Dhabi 2030 urban diversification agenda, which is driving demand for sustainable, master-planned communities.
Off-Plan Sales Lead Abu Dhabi’s Market
Off-plan projects were the primary growth engine, representing 73% of sales volume and 68% of value.
- Off-plan value: AED 17.3bn ($4.7bn), up 136% year-on-year
- Top contributing developments: Fahid Island (Aldar) and Al Hidayriyyat Island (Modon), accounting for 30% of off-plan residential value
- Category performance:
- Off-plan apartments: +276% in value, +198% in volume
- Off-plan villas: +68% in value, +42% in volume
- Off-plan duplexes: +424% in value, +255% in transactions
Ready Property Market Gains Ground
Abu Dhabi’s ready market also accelerated, recording AED 8bn ($2.2bn) across 1,940 transactions, a 71% increase in value.
- Key Ready Residential Areas:
- Al Reem Island & Al Raha Beach: High apartment demand
- Al Reef: Appeal for mid-market family buyers
- Saadiyat Island: Strong villa sales at premium prices
Dubai Sustains Global Lead with Record Performance
Dubai achieved its strongest quarter on record, with 59,044 transactions, up 17% year-on-year. Total sales value rose 19% to AED 169bn ($46bn), reinforcing the city’s appeal as a global investment safe haven.
A broader trend toward value-driven purchases and foreign capital continues to shape the market.
Off-Plan Dominates Dubai’s Market Activity
Off-plan transactions drove momentum with 40,108 deals, representing 68% of total volume.
Their total value reached AED 82.9bn ($22.6bn), up 23% compared to last year.
High-performing districts included:
- Business Bay: AED 7.4bn ($2bn) driven by new launches
- Al Barsha & Dubai Islands: Demand for large master developments
Ready Market Shows Value-Focused Strength
Dubai’s ready segment accounted for 32% of transactions, recording 18,936 deals, a 2% annual increase.
Total value surged 16% to AED 86.1bn ($23.5bn).
Top Ready Market Areas:
- Wadi Al Safa 3: Over AED 7bn ($1.9bn) in land transactions
- Business Bay: Luxury resales attracting high-net-worth buyers
- Palm Jumeirah & Dubai Marina: Over AED 6bn ($1.6bn) combined, underscoring ongoing global demand for waterfront property
UAE Real Estate Seen as a Global Safe Haven
Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, stated that both cities are reflecting a maturing, resilient market. Abu Dhabi’s sustainable communities and Dubai’s value-focused transactions highlight long-term stability and an expanding investor base.
Conclusion
With record-breaking Q3 results, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are on course for their strongest year in history. Off-plan dominance, rising ready market confidence, and expanding master communities signal a continued upward trajectory. As international and regional demand intensifies, the UAE is solidifying its position as a global stronghold for secure real estate investment.