Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has rolled out an expanded suite of digital real estate services designed to increase transparency and investor confidence. The new features include regulated frameworks for off-plan terminations, reservation agreements, and SMART valuations, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s goal to create a globally competitive property market.
Following the successful transition of Al Reem Island under ADGM’s jurisdiction in 2024, the Registration Authority has introduced several key features. These include a regulated process for off-plan agreement terminations, the registration of reservation agreements, and a SMART valuations service. The initiative marks a significant shift from basic digital access to what ADGM terms “smart services,” designed to increase operational clarity and market efficiency.
The newly launched services provide tangible benefits for stakeholders:
- Off-plan Terminations: A regulated framework now governs the cancellation process, offering a clear and fair mechanism for developers and buyers to resolve disputes.
- Reservation Agreements: A new feature allows for the registration of reservation agreements, creating a distinct ownership category for property interests intended for future transfer. This ensures that contractual rights are properly recorded and protected.
- SMART Valuations: Property owners or their representatives can now obtain certified indicative market values for their properties or land, simplifying transactions and supporting better investment decisions.
This move complements other recent digital initiatives in the capital, such as the launch of Abu Dhabi’s digital property portal, which aims to streamline transactions across the emirate. The enhancements come as the UAE real estate market continues to experience significant growth, increasing the need for robust and efficient regulatory frameworks.
Looking ahead, ADGM is preparing to roll out a unified escrow account service through its digital platform. This upcoming feature will add a critical layer of security to real estate transactions, ensuring funds are released only when all contractual conditions are met, thereby strengthening trust between buyers and sellers.
