Abu Dhabi and Dubai have both recorded unprecedented real estate performance in Q3 2025, with Abu Dhabi achieving a remarkable 76% year-on-year increase in transactions while Dubai posted its highest quarterly sales volume ever, according to new data released by Property Finder.
The UAE’s property market has reached new heights as both Abu Dhabi and Dubai reported historic performance figures for the third quarter of 2025.
According to Property Finder data, Abu Dhabi witnessed 7,154 sales transactions worth Dh25.3 billion in Q3, marking a substantial 110% increase in value compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Dubai recorded an impressive 59,044 transactions, up 17% year-on-year, with total value reaching Dh169 billion.
Abu Dhabi’s Strategic Growth
The capital’s real estate surge has been primarily driven by structural demand and a strategic pivot toward master developments. Residential properties dominated the market, accounting for 96% of all transactions (6,883 deals) and generating Dh23.3 billion – a 107% increase in value.
Off-plan sales have emerged as the preferred investment route in Abu Dhabi, representing 73% of transaction volume and 68% of total value. The off-plan segment saw value increase by 136% to reach Dh17.3 billion.
Projects on Fahid Island and Al Hidayriyyat Island were major contributors to this momentum, accounting for approximately 30% of Q3 residential off-plan value. Duplexes recorded an extraordinary 424% increase in value, while apartments and villas in the off-plan category also posted strong gains.
The ready market in Abu Dhabi also demonstrated robust performance, climbing to Dh8 billion across 1,940 transactions – a 71% increase in value. Residential ready sales increased by 15% in volume and 56% in value, with Al Reem Island, Al Raha Beach, Al Reef, and Saadiyat Island emerging as hotspots.
Dubai’s Record-Breaking Performance
Dubai’s property sector continues to reflect the emirate’s global appeal and economic resilience. The off-plan sector led activity with 40,108 deals, up 26% and representing 68% of total transaction volume. Off-plan value reached Dh82.9 billion, marking a 23% increase.
The ready market in Dubai achieved 18,936 transactions with values rising 16% to Dh86.1 billion, suggesting a more selective, value-driven demand rather than pure volume growth.
Key Dubai markets such as Business Bay, Al Barsha, and Dubai Islands attracted significant investor attention. Business Bay alone recorded approximately Dh7.4 billion in sales, supported by new project launches. Premium waterfront and luxury areas including Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina generated over Dh6 billion in combined resale volume.
Dubai’s average price per square foot has reached unprecedented levels, with some reports citing values of Dh1,667 per square foot in premium locations, reflecting strong demand for prime, strategically located properties.
Market Outlook
The exceptional performance across both emirates indicates continued investor confidence in the UAE’s real estate sector. Industry experts suggest that strategic government initiatives, visa reforms, and the UAE’s position as a global business hub have contributed significantly to this growth trajectory.
As the year approaches its final quarter, the market shows no signs of slowing down, with several major project launches planned across both emirates before the end of 2025.
