Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a global real estate opportunity as it prepares to host the 14th International Real Estate & Investment Show (IREIS 2025) at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from September 12 to 14. The event will highlight the emirate’s increasing appeal to investors, with real estate investment in Abu Dhabi continuing to rise, contributing to the city’s expanding skyline.

The emirate boasts a stable economy, world-class infrastructure, and affluent communities that attract discerning investors worldwide. The city’s vision for sustainable and luxurious living enhances its status as an ideal destination for those seeking capital growth and lifestyle excellence.

According to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi, the total real estate transaction value in Abu Dhabi rose by 34.5% to Dh25.3 billion across 6 896 deals in the first quarter of 2025. This is a significant increase from Dh18.82 billion from 5 773 transactions in the same period of 2024.

The buy and sell transactions accounted for Dh15.51 billion through 3 819 transactions, reflecting a 26.7% increase in value and an 11% rise in volume compared to the first quarter of 2024. Additionally, mortgage transactions showed strong growth, reaching Dh9.8 billion through 3 077 transactions, marking a remarkable 49% year-on-year increase.

In 2024, there were 28,249 transactions valued at Dh96.2 billion, which represented a 24.2% increase in the number of transactions and a 10.45% increase in total value compared to the previous year, according to ADREC. The transaction volumes in 2024 rose, with approximately 14 662 units sold — a 4% increase year-on-year — and total sales reaching Dh47.9 billion.

As Mr. Arun Bose, Director of IREIS, stated, “Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 is a comprehensive long-term plan that aims to transform the emirate into a diversified, sustainable, and globally integrated economy.” He emphasized that real estate development is central to this vision, playing a vital role in the future of urban living, economic growth, and social infrastructure.

The strategy seeks to create vibrant, livable communities supported by smart infrastructure, green spaces, and world-class amenities. Investments are flowing into mixed-use developments, waterfront districts, cultural hubs, and high-tech business zones, establishing Abu Dhabi as a real estate powerhouse in the region.

IREIS 2025 is expected to attract more than 2 000 visitors, including global developers, investors, agents, and immigration consultants. With over 3 500 square meters of exhibition space, the event will feature participation from more than 30 exhibitors, including country pavilions from Turkey, Egypt, and others, thus evolving into a truly global stage.

Mr. Bose highlighted that the success of the real estate exhibition underscores Abu Dhabi’s dynamic market and global appeal. He noted the emirate’s unique opportunities for investors, stating, “We are proud to have provided a platform that fosters growth, innovation, and meaningful partnerships.”

This year, IREIS will introduce new features, including a corner for Citizenship by Immigration consultants to promote global residency and second-home opportunities, as well as conference tracks focusing on sustainable urbanism, fractional ownership, and digital cross-border investing. Digital showcase zones will allow attendees to experience immersive virtual property tours and tech-enabled solutions that represent the future of real estate marketing.

The UAE property sector has seen robust growth, with over 331 300 real estate transactions across the four main emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman) totaling approximately Dh893 billion in value in 2024. Underpinned by strong economic fundamentals, the UAE’s GDP is estimated to reach US$568.6 billion in 2025, with projected real GDP growth around 4%, indicating long-term confidence in the real estate sector.

Abu Dhabi’s luxury and branded residences segment is experiencing remarkable growth in 2025, with launches increasing fourfold compared to the previous year. The market has seen a 5% increase in luxury transactions valued at Dh7 million and above, amounting to Dh6.3 billion in just the first four months of the year, with over half of these transactions in the Dh10 million and above segment.

IREIS 2025 will provide exclusive insights from government representatives, industry analysts, and private sector leaders regarding transaction reforms and pro-investment initiatives. Attendees will benefit from networking opportunities with high-net-worth individuals, institutional investors, and legal advisors, along with dedicated advisory booths offering on-the-spot consultations on property licensing, financing, investment laws, and golden visa options.

With a zero-tax regime and investor-friendly governance, the UAE continues to attract foreign ownership. Approximately 6,700 millionaires are projected to relocate to the UAE by the end of 2025, further enhancing its status as a safe investment destination.

IREIS 2025 promises to be an unmissable event, acting as a catalyst for real estate growth through second homes, lifestyle upgrades, and cross-border expansion. The event will showcase the potential of Abu Dhabi and the broader UAE real estate markets, reflecting the confidence and aspirations of a dynamic investment landscape.