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The UAE’s property market is entering 2026 with remarkable momentum, underpinned by sustained investor demand, population growth and a resilient economic backdrop. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to chart robust trajectories, though each city reflects distinct market dynamics. Dubai remains the country’s most liquid real estate hub, recording record-breaking transaction volumes through 2025. In the first half of the year alone, the emirate completed 98,726 sales transactions valued at Dh327 billion, driven by strong end‑user demand and deep investor participation. Price growth remained firm, with apartments and villas recording double‑digit annual increases while rents continued their upward trend in a supply‑expanding environment.

Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, demonstrated its own surge in activity after a quieter start to 2025. The capital posted Dh54 billion in transactions in the first half of the year—representing a 38 per cent rise in residential sales—as demand for ready homes strengthened and rental values climbed sharply. Residential rents rose 6 per cent quarter‑on‑quarter for apartments and up to 11 per cent for villas, supported by population gains and constrained quality supply.

Together, the two emirates are shaping a property narrative defined by sustained confidence, steady capital inflows and a maturing real estate cycle that continues to attract both local and global buyers.

In line with this trend, one of India’s leading real estate developers, Casagrand, has officially broken ground on Casagrand HERMINA, a premium residential development that marks Casagrand’s expansion into the Middle East.

Located on the rapidly transforming Dubai Islands and valued at AED 420M, Casagrand HERMINA blends coastal serenity with city living. Dubai Islands is one of the fastest-growing areas in Dubai, recording a 156 per cent increase in transaction volumes in 2025, reflecting strong and rising demand for premium residential properties.

Casagrand HERMINA comprises 131 residences, with prices starting from AED 1.92 million and a 60/40 payment plan.

Arun Mn, Founder and Managing Director, Casagrand, said: “The groundbreaking of Casagrand HERMINA marks a defining moment for us and the first milestone of our journey in the UAE. This expansion reflects not only our growth strategy, but our confidence in bringing a level of design, quality and delivery that exceeds global benchmarks.”

In Abu Dhabi, Merath Development has officially announced the launch of Vista Del Mar, a boutique residential development located on the prestigious Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Metropolitan Capital Real Estate, appointed as the Master Agency for the project. Vista Del Mar introduces a limited collection of 90 premium residences situated close to Yas Beach and Abu Dhabi’s key lifestyle and entertainment destinations.

Vista Del Mar offers a mix of 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom apartments. Prices start from AED 1.9 million. The payment plan for 1 and 2-bedroom apartments is 40/60, while 3 and 4-bedroom units follow a 25/75 plan. Handover is scheduled for Q4 2026.

Abdulrahman Alkoheji, CEO of Merath Development, said,“Vista Del Mar reflects Merath’s commitment to transforming vision into quality-driven developments. Yas Island is a key growth corridor in Abu Dhabi, and this launch is part of our broader plan to bring distinctive residential offerings to the UAE market.”

Abdulhadi Rajab Alalouch, Head of Master Agency Division at Metropolitan Capital Real Estate, added,“Abu Dhabi’s real estate market is experiencing a dynamic phase of growth, driven by investor confidence and strong demand for premium island living. The project offers a compelling investment opportunity in a high-demand district, and we are proud to support a developer that prioritises transparency and build quality.”

As the UAE heads deeper into 2026, Dubai and Abu Dhabi stand at the forefront of a property market that shows little sign of slowing. Dubai’s record transaction volumes and persistent price growth point to enduring investor appetite, while Abu Dhabi’s rising sales activity and strengthening rental performance reflect a market benefiting from stability and long‑term demand fundamentals.  

With both emirates expanding supply while maintaining solid absorption levels, the outlook remains firmly optimistic. The UAE’s blend of economic resilience, population growth and global investor appeal continues to anchor its position as one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.