Abu Dhabi has become a major global hub for real estate investment in recent years, thanks to the city’s rapid growth and development. However, investing in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market can be complex, and it is important for investors to be aware of the city’s real estate regulations. In this blog, we will discuss the key regulations that investors need to know when investing in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, investors, real estate market
The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Regulatory Authority (AD RERA)
The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Regulatory Authority (AD RERA) was established in 2015 to oversee and regulate the emirate’s real estate market. The AD RERA is responsible for ensuring that developers, brokers, and investors comply with the city’s real estate regulations, and for protecting the interests of buyers and sellers.
One of the AD RERA’s key responsibilities is to regulate the sales of off-plan properties. Off-plan properties are properties that are still under construction, and are sold before they are completed. The AD RERA requires developers to register off-plan projects and obtain approval for all marketing materials. The AD RERA also requires developers to provide a bank guarantee to protect buyers in the event of project delays or cancellations.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, AD RERA, off-plan properties
Foreign Ownership of Real Estate in Abu Dhabi
Foreign investors are allowed to purchase real estate in Abu Dhabi, but there are restrictions on foreign ownership. Non-UAE nationals are not permitted to own land in Abu Dhabi, but they can purchase apartments and villas on a leasehold basis for up to 99 years. However, foreign investors must obtain approval from the Abu Dhabi Municipality and the Department of Economic Development before they can purchase real estate in the city.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, foreign ownership
Property Taxes in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi does not currently have a property tax, but there are other taxes and fees that investors should be aware of. Developers are required to pay a registration fee to the Abu Dhabi Municipality for each property they sell, and buyers must pay a transfer fee of 2% of the property’s value when they purchase a property.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, property taxes
Mortgage Regulations in Abu Dhabi
Mortgages are available to both UAE nationals and foreign investors in Abu Dhabi, but there are certain regulations that investors should be aware of. UAE nationals can obtain mortgages for up to 25 years, while non-UAE nationals can obtain mortgages for up to 15 years. In addition, lenders typically require a down payment of at least 20% of the property’s value.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, mortgage regulations
Real Estate Brokerage Regulations in Abu Dhabi
Real estate brokers in Abu Dhabi must be licensed by the AD RERA. The AD RERA regulates the conduct of brokers and requires them to adhere to a code of ethics. Brokers must disclose all relevant information to buyers and sellers, and they are prohibited from engaging in any fraudulent or misleading practices.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, real estate brokerage
Conclusion
Investing in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market can be a lucrative opportunity for investors, but it is important to be aware of the city’s real estate regulations. The AD RERA oversees and regulates the market, and there are specific regulations related to foreign ownership, property taxes, mortgages, and real estate brokerage. By understanding these regulations, investors can make informed decisions and protect their investments in Abu Dhabi’s real estate market.
Keywords: Abu Dhabi, real estate regulations, investors, real estate market