High demand for home rentals in Abu Dhabi has left house-hunters struggling to find suitable and affordable accommodation, property experts have told The National.
The emirate recorded a significant increase in residential rental contracts during the first half of 2024, with 49,135 contracts registered, according to data released by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi last week.
This is an increase of 24,811 contracts compared to the same period last year, demonstrating a 102 per cent growth.
“The residential rental market in Abu Dhabi is buzzing right now with lots of activity,” said Mubarak Al Amry, owner of Abu Dhabi-based property agency Mi Casa Real Estate.
“This is mostly because the city is a hot spot for expatriates and professionals, thanks to its strong economy and high quality of life.”
More than 10 residential projects are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025, but the current supply, especially in prime areas, is often unable to meet the growing demand, said Svetlana Politova, chief operating officer of real estate agency Whitewill Abu Dhabi.
“This limited supply intensifies competition for available units, pushing rental rates higher,” she added.
Mr Al Amry said many of his clients have struggled to find suitable accommodation “because you can book the unit today [but] the next hour it’s not available any more”.
Al Ain city also experienced a 77 per cent rise in documented rental contracts, while Al Dhafra region reported 331 contracts compared to 144 last year.
This record growth in the property market is fuelled by growing confidence in the city among local and international high-net-worth individuals, said Diana Nilipovscaia, chief executive of international real estate developer Mered.
“Abu Dhabi’s competitive pricing, at about one-third more affordable than Dubai, has made it an attractive market for both high-net-worth domestic and international buyers who are willing to spend $408.3 million on residential property, further stimulating the rental market,” she added, citing a recent report by Knight Frank.
Ms Politova agreed the city’s robust economic growth and stability make it an attractive destination for professionals, entrepreneurs and investors.
“As one of the main economic hubs in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi draws a diverse population seeking a stable and prosperous environment,” she told The National.
“Abu Dhabi offers exceptional quality of life, with world-class infrastructure, luxurious amenities and a rich array of cultural and recreational options, and this appealing lifestyle attracts both residents and visitors, further driving up rental demand.”
Luxury homes in demand
Upscale apartments and villas are particularly popular in the emirate, according to Asteco’s latest UAE real estate market report.
Landlords in Abu Dhabi’s prime residential areas, particularly in waterfront communities such as Al Raha Beach, Saadiyat, Yas and Al Reem Islands, have benefitted from strong occupancy rates and some properties are now on waiting lists, Asteco stated.
Dubizzle’s latest report on the capital’s rental property market for H1 2024 found mixed trends for average rents among apartments and villas. Compared to H2 2023, the average rent for luxury villas has gone up by 12 per cent, whereas the average yearly rent for high-end apartments has increased by 14 per cent, it stated.
Mr Al Amry said rental prices can vary quite drastically depending on the type of property and its location. Costs range between Dh45,000 and Dh70,000 per year for studios, while one-bedroom apartments are usually priced from Dh70,000 to Dh100,000 and two-bedroom options range from Dh100,000 to Dh150,000, he said.
Villas are at least Dh150,000 for a three-bedroom, with prices going over Dh300,000 for larger ones.
“One and two-bedroom apartments are especially popular among smaller families and young professionals who want a good mix of convenience and cost,” said Mr Al Amry.
“Villas are also in demand, especially for larger families or those who need more space.”
Key areas like Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Reem Island and Al Raha Beach remain top choices “due to their exceptional amenities and quality of life”, said Ms Politova.
“For potential tenants, this means stable rents in most areas, but expect higher costs in these premium communities.”
Sales on similar trajectory
It’s a similar story for property sales, with Bayut’s Abu Dhabi latest report noting price increases of up to 10 per cent in the affordable category, with an appreciation of up to 6 per cent for luxury apartments and over 10 per cent for villas, for the first half of the year.
Abu Dhabi remains a strong player in the global real estate market, offering long-term stability and growth potential for investors
Diana Nilipovscaia,
chief executive at Mered
The rental price hikes are directly impacting property sales, as more people who have been priced out of renting look for stability in the market.
Abu Dhabi resident Imran Rajwani, for example, bought his first property two years ago after his landlord on Al Reem Island tried to increase his rent for a two-bedroom apartment from Dh62,000 to Dh74,000.
“He gave me the option to move out or pay the same amount,” he told The National. “I realised I would face similar problems if I move to a new place.”
This is when he and his family – his wife, son and parents – decided to buy a two-bedroom apartment on Al Reem Island for Dh980,000. They haven't looked back since, and now consider it their “forever home”.
Ms Nilipovscaia said this robust growth and strong investment potential is what has led her company to expand to the capital with a new residential project, also on Al Reem Island.
“Luxury apartments on Al Reem Island offer a projected rental yield of 6.94 per cent,” she said, adding it was the “ideal location” for Mered's new development.
“The continuous increase in the emirate’s population and foreign direct investment, supported by favourable regulatory framework by Abu Dhabi Global Market and diverse off-plan projects, ensures that Abu Dhabi remains a strong player in the global real estate market, offering long-term stability and growth potential for investors.”
‘Be flexible with preferences’
Mr Al Amry advised house-hunters to remain flexible with preferences as they navigate this competitive rental market.
“It’s a good idea to start your search early and check out different neighbourhoods,” he said.
Ms Politova said thoroughly researching the location is key. “Look beyond the property itself to understand the area’s infrastructure, amenities and overall vibe,” she said.
“Consider the reputation of the management company, as this can greatly impact your living experience.”
Local community forums can be a “treasure trove” of information, she added. “[They offer] insights and warnings from residents about specific buildings or management companies.”
Finally, keep up to date on the latest developments in the market, said Ms Nilipovscaia.
“Staying informed about the latest market trends will enable you to make well-timed, informed decisions, ensuring you secure the best value for your money.”
Squads
Pakistan: Sarfaraz Ahmed (c), Babar Azam (vc), Abid Ali, Asif Ali, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Sohail, Mohammad Hasnain, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, Usman Shinwari, Wahab Riaz
Sri Lanka: Lahiru Thirimanne (c), Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Avishka Fernando, Oshada Fernando, Shehan Jayasuriya, Dasun Shanaka, Minod Bhanuka, Angelo Perera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Lakshan Sandakan, Nuwan Pradeep, Isuru Udana, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara
End of free parking
- paid-for parking will be rolled across Abu Dhabi island on August 18
- drivers will have three working weeks leeway before fines are issued
- areas that are currently free to park - around Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Maqta Bridge, Mussaffah Bridge and the Corniche - will now require a ticket
- villa residents will need a permit to park outside their home. One vehicle is Dh800 and a second is Dh1,200.
- The penalty for failing to pay for a ticket after 10 minutes will be Dh200
- Parking on a patch of sand will incur a fine of Dh300
Terminator: Dark Fate
Director: Tim Miller
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Mackenzie Davis
Rating: 3/5
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
COMPANY%20PROFILE
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Explainer: Tanween Design Programme
Non-profit arts studio Tashkeel launched this annual initiative with the intention of supporting budding designers in the UAE. This year, three talents were chosen from hundreds of applicants to be a part of the sixth creative development programme. These are architect Abdulla Al Mulla, interior designer Lana El Samman and graphic designer Yara Habib.
The trio have been guided by experts from the industry over the course of nine months, as they developed their own products that merge their unique styles with traditional elements of Emirati design. This includes laboratory sessions, experimental and collaborative practice, investigation of new business models and evaluation.
It is led by British contemporary design project specialist Helen Voce and mentor Kevin Badni, and offers participants access to experts from across the world, including the likes of UK designer Gareth Neal and multidisciplinary designer and entrepreneur, Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi.
The final pieces are being revealed in a worldwide limited-edition release on the first day of Downtown Designs at Dubai Design Week 2019. Tashkeel will be at stand E31 at the exhibition.
Lisa Ball-Lechgar, deputy director of Tashkeel, said: “The diversity and calibre of the applicants this year … is reflective of the dynamic change that the UAE art and design industry is witnessing, with young creators resolute in making their bold design ideas a reality.”
Ferrari 12Cilindri specs
Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12
Power: 819hp
Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm
Price: From Dh1,700,000
Available: Now
Wicked: For Good
Director: Jon M Chu
Starring: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater
Rating: 4/5
The Matrix Resurrections
Director: Lana Wachowski
Stars: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jessica Henwick
Rating:****
Company%C2%A0profile
%3Cp%3ECompany%3A%20Zywa%3Cbr%3EStarted%3A%202021%3Cbr%3EFounders%3A%20Nuha%20Hashem%20and%20Alok%20Kumar%3Cbr%3EBased%3A%20UAE%3Cbr%3EIndustry%3A%20FinTech%3Cbr%3EFunding%20size%3A%20%243m%3Cbr%3ECompany%20valuation%3A%20%2430m%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
If you go
Flights
Emirates flies from Dubai to Phnom Penh with a stop in Yangon from Dh3,075, and Etihad flies from Abu Dhabi to Phnom Penh with its partner Bangkok Airlines from Dh2,763. These trips take about nine hours each and both include taxes. From there, a road transfer takes at least four hours; airlines including KC Airlines (www.kcairlines.com) offer quick connecting flights from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville from about $100 (Dh367) return including taxes. Air Asia, Malindo Air and Malaysian Airlines fly direct from Kuala Lumpur to Sihanoukville from $54 each way. Next year, direct flights are due to launch between Bangkok and Sihanoukville, which will cut the journey time by a third.
The stay
Rooms at Alila Villas Koh Russey (www.alilahotels.com/ kohrussey) cost from $385 per night including taxes.
