IREIS 2026 Returns to Abu Dhabi Amidst AED 175.7 Billion Transaction Surge

The International Real Estate and Investment Show (IREIS) 2026 is set to return to Abu Dhabi next month, bringing together developers, investors, experts, and homebuyers. The event coincides with a period of significant growth in Abu Dhabi’s property market, as the emirate strengthens its position as a global investment destination.

Abu Dhabi Market Performance

According to the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC), the total value of real estate transactions in the UAE capital soared to AED 175.7 billion ($48 billion) during the first nine months of 2026. This growth is attributed to economic diversification, population increases, major infrastructure developments, and long-term development strategies.

Residential unit sales reached AED 70.4 billion in the first half of 2026, with off-plan properties accounting for 89% of this value. Ten leading developers were responsible for 90% of off-plan primary sales, totaling AED 51 billion. In the ready-market segment, 61% of purchases were completed in cash.

Emirati buyers invested AED 21 billion in H1 2026, significantly up from AED 8.9 billion in H1 2025. Resident expatriates and non-resident foreign buyers collectively contributed 70% of residential sales value.

Key Development Areas and Supply

Hudayriyat Island recorded the highest residential sales value at AED 19 billion, making up 27% of the total. This was followed by Saadiyat Island (AED 13.3 billion), Al Reem Island and Al Maryah Island (AED 10.5 billion), and Yas Island (AED 7.3 billion).

Abu Dhabi currently has approximately 409,000 residential units, with an additional 71,000 units projected by 2030. Deliveries are expected to peak in 2028, with around 7,562 to 8,000 residential units scheduled for completion in 2026, primarily in the latter half of the year. The emirate also recorded 233,000 active residential lease contracts with values reaching AED 9.3 billion in H1 2026.

Infrastructure and Event Focus

The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) is managing over 600 active infrastructure and development projects, with a total value exceeding AED 200 billion. These projects, alongside recently announced mega-projects, are expected to create substantial opportunities for investors and buyers.

IREIS 2026 will feature a conference agenda supported by Knight Frank, focusing on Proptech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and innovation in real estate and construction. A key highlight will be the AI Partnership Forum, designed to connect developers, financiers, investors, and technology providers to explore AI's impact on property lifecycle.