The 2026 New Developer Wave: Who is Reshaping Abu Dhabi?
The Abu Dhabi real estate market is undergoing a historic diversification. While established giants continue to deliver, a new breed of developers led by ONE Development, Modon, and Object 1 are introducing international design standards and cutting-edge technology to the capital.
Here is the most up-to-date look at the developers coming to Abu Dhabi in 2025-2026.
1. ONE Development: The AI-Driven Innovators
ONE Development has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in the UAE. Following their massive success with the AED 2 Billion “Laguna Residence” (the region’s first AI-integrated residential community), they are bringing their high-tech, boutique approach to the capital.
- The Difference: They specialize in “Lifestyle Tech” homes where AI manages energy efficiency, security, and concierge services.
- Why Watch Them: Their focus on high-yield, smart-integrated apartments appeals directly to the growing demographic of tech professionals moving to Abu Dhabi’s financial hubs.
2. Modon: Transforming Hudayriyat Island
Since its transition into a master developer, Modon has become the primary competitor to the city’s traditional leaders. Their focus is on massive, leisure-driven islands.
- The Latest: Bashayer Residences on Hudayriyat Island.
- Key Data: With a 50/50 payment plan and a handover set for October 2029, Bashayer is the entry point into an island that will house the world’s largest surf park and a 220km cycling track.
- Prices: 1-bedroom units starting at AED 2.35m, reaching up to AED 7.65m for penthouses.
3. Object 1: The Design-First Newcomer
Part of the TSZ Group, Object 1 is a developer that treats buildings as “functional art.” Having recently expanded into the Abu Dhabi market, they are targeting the “lifestyle seeker” who finds traditional builds too repetitive.
- The Strategy: Small-to-medium luxury builds with a heavy emphasis on communal spaces, modern “industrial-chic” aesthetics, and high-quality finishing that rivals global standards in London or New York.
4. Reportage Properties: The Market’s “Velocity” Leader
Reportage continues to dominate the “Ready-to-Move” and “Near-Completion” space in Masdar City and Al Maryah Island.
- 2026 Outlook: They are one of the few developers offering consistent 10% down payment options with highly flexible monthly installments, making them the top choice for investors looking for high rental yields in eco-friendly zones like Masdar.
5. Sotheby’s International Realty (Expansion)
While a brokerage, Sotheby’s has significantly ramped up its Abu Dhabi operations in late 2025 to handle the influx of Branded Residences. Their presence confirms that the “Ultra-High-Net-Worth” (UHNW) market in Abu Dhabi is now officially decoupled from Dubai, standing on its own with projects like the Louvre Residences and the upcoming Nobu projects.
Key Trends for 2026
- The 50/50 Standard: As seen with Bashayer Residences, the 50/50 payment plan is becoming the gold standard for luxury off-plan projects in Abu Dhabi.
- AI Integration: Led by ONE Development, “smart” is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a requirement for new builds.
- Beyond the Mainland: Investment is shifting heavily toward Hudayriyat and Ramhan Island, as Saadiyat and Yas reach high levels of maturity.
Ready to explore the first AI-integrated homes or the waterfront luxury of Bashayer?
Providential Properties Management has exclusive insights into the 2026 launch calendar. Contact our consultants to secure your unit before the public launch.
