ABU DHABI · OWNERSHIP
Abu Dhabi investment zones: the number everyone is still getting wrong
Most guides to buying in Abu Dhabi list nine investment zones. ADREC confirmed in July 2026 that it approved eight new zones, bringing the total across the emirate to fifty. If your research is built on the old figure, it is out of date by a factor of five.
Last updated 13 August 2026 Next update Q4 2026
DEFINITION
What an investment zone actually is.
Law No. 13 of 2019, amending Law No. 19 of 2005, effective 16 April 2019, allowed non-nationals, both individuals and companies, to own full freehold including land inside designated investment zones. Before that, foreigners were limited to 99-year leasehold, usufruct up to 99 years, and musataha development rights up to 50 years renewable. Outside these zones, foreign freehold is not available.
The zones historically cited: Saadiyat, Yas, Al Reem, Al Maryah, Al Raha Beach, Masdar City, Al Reef, Sayh Al Sederah and Lulu Island, with newer designations by Executive Council decision including Hudayriyat under Decision No. 31 of 2024.
The honest limitation
ADREC has confirmed the total of fifty but has not published a consolidated public list of all fifty zones in one place. We will not invent one. Before you transact, verify the specific plot's designation directly with ADREC. If ADREC publishes a consolidated list, this page will be rebuilt around it.
THE MECHANICS
Who may own what, and where it registers.
GCC nationals
GCC nationals may hold freehold land across designated investment areas. Within ADGM specifically, only GCC citizens and wholly GCC-owned companies may hold freehold land, though units and floors are unrestricted.
Registration
Registration runs through ADREC and the DARI platform at a 2 percent fee, with the exception covered on the Al Reem and Al Maryah page.
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Where to go next.
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OpenTALK TO US
Ask us to verify a specific plot.
Verify a specific plot
Send us the plot or the project name and we will confirm its designation with ADREC before you commit to anything. This is a short check that prevents an expensive assumption.
WhatsAppYou are comparing zones
Tell us the purpose, the budget and whether you need land rather than a unit. We will tell you which designations actually allow what you are trying to do.
WhatsAppSources
- ADREC, Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre, July 2026 statement on newly approved investment zones.
- Law No. 13 of 2019 amending Law No. 19 of 2005, effective 16 April 2019.
- Executive Council Decision No. 31 of 2024 designating Hudayriyat.