Investor’s Guide: Abu Dhabi

What You Need to Know About the Largest Emirate of the UAE

Abu Dhabi, the governmental and cultural centre of the UAE, is located southwest of Dubai, along the coast of the Gulf. The country's prestigious capital is a reliable destination for investment.

General Information

• Area: 67,340km²
• Landscape: beaches, sand dunes, oases, and mangrove reserves
• Features: an archipelago with 200+ islands
• Population: 3,789,860 in 2024 (Abu Dhabi Census data)
• Travel time to Dubai: 1 hour and 30 mins

Cost of Living

Monthly expenses, without rent, for a single person is $965 – 12% lower than in Dubai. Average rental prices are 24% lower.

Economy

The oil and gas sector is the basis of Abu Dhabi's economy, contributing more than 50% of the GDP. Non-oil industries include manufacturing, construction, and tourism. 

According to the development plan, Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, the economy will shift its focus to the non-oil sector by 2030.

Tourism

In 2023, the number of tourists increased to 24 million. Saadiyat Island Beach has been recognized as the best in the Middle East for 11 years in a row. 

In the emirate: 

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
• Cultural heritage monuments
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and other theme and water parks

Real Estate

The demand for real estate in Abu Dhabi is growing. In 2023, the total transaction value rose by 159.5% – to $16.6 billion, compared to 2022. However, this is 7 times less than in Dubai – $112 billion.

The emirate offers property investors: 

• Freehold
• Income Tax 0%
• High ROI: Up to 10% on Al Mariyah Island

Top 3 Projects

SHA Residences Emirates

Premium residences on the world's first wellness island between Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Lagoons

Collection of villas among lagoons and tropical trees on Saadiyat Island. Previously, the project was available only to UAE citizens, now it is open to foreign investors

Ramhan Island

Exclusive villas on artificial islands surrounded by mangroves and picturesque bays