Introduction to Abu Dhabi’s Evolving Skyline
Abu Dhabi is rapidly transforming its urban landscape with a wave of innovative real estate developments that reflect the emirate’s vision for a sustainable, luxurious, and globally competitive future. From waterfront communities to high-end mixed-use projects, these new developments are reshaping how residents and investors view the capital’s property market.

Government Vision and Urban Development Strategy
Abu Dhabi's urban development is guided by the comprehensive "Plan Abu Dhabi 2030," which aims to shape the emirate into a sustainable, diversified, and globally competitive city. This framework emphasizes balanced growth across key areas such as transportation, land use, environment, and cultural heritage, ensuring a high quality of life for residents.
Central to this vision is the Estidama program, promoting sustainability through the Pearl Rating System, which mandates eco-friendly building practices and community planning . Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 outlines strategies to diversify the economy, reducing reliance on oil by fostering sectors like tourism, real estate, and knowledge-based industries .
Top New Real Estate Projects in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s property market is experiencing a surge in off-plan developments, offering investors and homeowners a wide range of high-quality residential options. These projects reflect the emirate’s ongoing commitment to innovation, luxury, and community living. Explore a curated list of standout developments below, or browse all new projects in Abu Dhabi on Bayut, a leading real estate portal in the UAE.
The Bay Residence
A waterfront community on Yas Island, The Bay Residence offers a modern lifestyle with access to beaches, retail, and leisure. The project includes a variety of unit types to cater to different buyer preferences.
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Location: Yas Island
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Property Types: Apartments, townhouses & penthouses
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Developer: Baraka Real Estate Development
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Launch Price: AED 522,000 (INR 12M)
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Payment Plan: 40/60
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Handover: Q4 2027
Seville
Set in the master-planned Zayed City, Seville is designed for families seeking elegant villas and townhouses in a well-connected community. The development combines spacious layouts with contemporary architecture.
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Location: Zayed City
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Property Types: Villas & townhouses
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Developer: Bloom Holding
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Launch Price: AED 1.75M (INR 41M)
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Payment Plan: 40/60
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Handover: Q1 2027
Elie Saab Waterfront by Ohana
This luxury project on Al Reem Island brings the iconic design of Elie Saab to Abu Dhabi’s shores. Residents can enjoy panoramic sea views, upscale finishes, and exclusive waterfront amenities.
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Location: Al Reem Island
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Property Types: Apartments and penthouses
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Developer: Ohana Development
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Launch Price: AED 1.85M (INR 43M)
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Payment Plan: 90/10
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Handover: Q1 2027
Sama Yas
Aldar’s Sama Yas offers an elevated lifestyle with urban parks, serene surroundings, and modern architecture. The project is ideal for those seeking a blend of nature and city life on Yas Island.
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Location: Yas Island
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Property Types: Apartments & townhouses
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Developer: Aldar
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Launch Price: AED 2.1M (INR 49M)
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Payment Plan: 60/40
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Handover: Q3 2028
W Residences
Located on Al Maryah Island, W Residences by Taraf redefines luxury living with exclusive branded apartments offering concierge services, high-end interiors, and resort-style amenities.
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Location: Al Maryah Island
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Property Types: Apartments
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Developer: Taraf
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Launch Price: AED 2.2M (INR 51M)
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Payment Plan: 30/70
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Handover: Q4 2027
Off-Plan vs Ready Properties: What’s Dominating the Market?
Abu Dhabi’s real estate market in 2024 showcased a dynamic interplay between off-plan and ready properties, each catering to distinct buyer preferences and investment strategies.
Off-Plan Properties
Market Share: Off-plan sales constituted approximately 55.5% of total transactions in 2024, amounting to AED 16.34 billion.
Advantages:
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Lower entry costs: Off-plan properties are generally priced lower than completed units, making them attractive to investors and first-time buyers.
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Flexible payment plans: Developers often offer installment-based payment structures, easing the financial burden during the construction phase.
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Capital appreciation potential: Purchasing at an early stage allows investors to benefit from property value increases upon project completion.
Considerations:
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Construction risks: Potential delays or changes in project specifications can affect delivery timelines and final outcomes.
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Market fluctuations: Economic shifts during the construction period may impact property values and investor returns.
Ready Properties
Market Share: Ready property transactions experienced a 53.4% year-on-year increase, totaling 4,320 transactions valued at AED 9.27 billion.
Advantages:
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Immediate occupancy: Buyers can move in or lease the property without waiting for construction to complete.
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Tangible asset inspection: Purchasers can assess the actual property, ensuring it meets their expectations and standards.
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Stable investment: Ready properties offer more predictable returns, especially in a rising market.
Considerations:
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Higher initial costs: Ready properties often come with a premium price tag compared to off-plan options.
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Limited customization: Unlike off-plan purchases, there’s minimal scope for personalizing the property’s design or layout.
Legal and Ownership Aspects for Foreign Buyers
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Freehold Ownership Zones
Foreigners are allowed to buy, sell, lease, and inherit property in designated freehold zones across Abu Dhabi. Key areas include Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Al Raha Beach.
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Ownership Types Available
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Freehold: Full ownership of the property and land with the right to sell, lease, or pass on the asset.
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Usufruct Rights: Long-term right (up to 99 years) to use the property without owning the land.
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Musataha Rights: Right to develop land owned by the government for a period ranging from 10 to 50 years.
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Eligibility
All nationalities are allowed to purchase property in designated investment zones. There are no residency or employment requirements to own a property in these areas.
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Legal Framework
Property transactions in Abu Dhabi are regulated by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
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Visa Incentives
Foreign property investors may qualify for long-term residency visas. Investors with property worth AED 2 million or more may apply for a 10-year Golden Visa, if certain standards are met.
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Registration & Fees
A registration fee of 2% of the property value is typically charged by the Abu Dhabi Municipality, developers may also charge administrative fees depending on the project. No annual property tax is levied, but service charges apply for property maintenance and community management.
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Inheritance Rules
Non-Muslim foreigners can register wills with the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court to ensure property inheritance is passed according to their wishes, rather than local Sharia law.
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Financing Options
Many local banks offer mortgages to foreign buyers with a down payment of at least 20%-25%. Mortgage terms depend on the buyer’s residency status, income, and property value.
Conclusion: Is Now the Right Time to Invest in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi's real estate market in 2025 presents a compelling opportunity for investors. The market has demonstrated steady growth, with growing residential property prices year-on-year, and certain areas like Saadiyat Island experiencing even higher appreciation rates. Rental yields remain attractive across the emirate. The government's commitment to economic diversification and infrastructure development continues to bolster investor confidence. Given these factors, now is a favorable time to consider investing in Abu Dhabi's real estate sector.
FAQs
1. Can foreigners rent out their property in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, foreign property owners can lease their properties without restrictions in designated investment zones.
2. Are there any service charges for owning property in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, service charges apply for maintenance, security, and community amenities and vary by project and developer.
3. Is property insurance mandatory in Abu Dhabi?
While not mandatory by law, property insurance is highly recommended and often required by banks for mortgaged properties.
4. What documents are required to purchase property in Abu Dhabi?
Buyers typically need a valid passport, Emirates ID (if resident), proof of income or financing, and a signed sales agreement.