Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is the largest of the countries' seven cities located within 200km of Dubai desert safari in dubai. Even though Dubai has become an emblem of wealth and economic prosperity Abu Dhabi is actually more powerful and wealthy, boasting 10 percent of the world's oil reserves as well as extremely rich Sovereign Wealth Funds.

Abu Dhabi is following in Dubai's footsteps with plans to diversify its economy and shift away from dependence on the energy industry. In September 2007, the Abu Dhabi government released Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 which describes the city's development over the coming 20 years or so and focuses on the development of tourism, industrial and real estate sectors.

The city has already declared more than US$270 billion of real estate projects, and in 2006, the city's doors were finally opened to investors from all over the world.

Future development is organized in the same way as Dubai with distinct areas that serve clearly defined commercial and residential reasons. Most of the future development will take place on the surrounding islands, which surround the mainland, and also further toward the inland side of Dubai. These islands include Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Raha Beach, Yas Island (future home of the Formula One Grand Prix) and Hudyriat Island, among others.

The market is characterised by an oversupply of homes causing extremely high rental prices/returns. The demand is expected to continue because of the city's growth that is bringing people, businesses and events to the region.

As of the date of writing, the entry fees are higher than Dubai at between 1,800 - 2,000 AED, but the payments are typically more favorable to compensate.

Abu Dhabi is still behind Dubai in some aspects of the property sector. As an example, there's no authority that can regulate the market, and not all developments are freehold, and residency visas aren't currently available to investors.