Abu Dhabi's residential market delivered a record-breaking start to 2026, despite a more challenging macroeconomic backdrop. Approximately 8,100 residential sales transactions were recorded in Q1 2026, representing a 123.6% increase compared to the same period last year, with total sales value reaching AED 38.1 billion, the highest quarterly figure on record and a 211.5% increase year-on-year. Market activity continued to be dominated by the off-plan segment, which accounted for over four-fifths of all residential transactions and nearly 90% of total sales value, supported by new project launches and strong interest from both domestic and international buyers.

Geopolitics and hospitality markets For many years, the geopolitical significance of the hospitality industry has been widely recognised.[1] Gulf governments are well aware that hospitality plays a role in the projection of ‘soft power’, for example in the staging of international diplomatic events,[2] as witnessed through the internationally recognised significance of holding COP28 in Dubai.[3] Conversely, geopolitics is no longer […]

Dubai’s office market recorded a strong start to 2026, supported by continued business formation and sustained investor interest. Despite regional tensions escalating in March, business inflows remained resilient, with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce registering 2,709 new member companies during the month alone. This momentum was reflected in DIFC, which attracted 775 new companies across the quarter, with March emerging as its strongest month at 258 new registrations, up 59% year-on-year, further reinforcing Dubai’s standing as the region’s preferred business destination.

Before buying a property, it is essential to understand its physical condition. This understanding directly affects how the property is valued. Surveyors perform what is often called 'Technical Due Diligence', 'Building Surveys', 'Building Condition Inspections', 'Pre-Acquisition Surveys' or 'Vendor Surveys'. This ensures clients understand what they are paying for and the true value of their investment.