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Project Development

Overseeing the full lifecycle of real estate development — from project registration through to completion certificates — in Abu Dhabi.

AED 99.4B

2024 Transaction Value

71%+

Off-Plan Sales Share

11

Steps in Developer Journey

~24mo

Avg. Project Timeline

Overview

Everything a Developer Needs to Know

ADREC's Project Development division regulates the full lifecycle of real estate development in Abu Dhabi — from company and project registration through to the issuance of Completion Certificates. In 2024, Abu Dhabi recorded over AED 99.4 billion in real estate transactions, with off-plan sales accounting for more than 71% of all deals. Every off-plan project must be registered with ADREC, backed by a licensed escrow account, and listed on the Madhmoun verified MLS platform before any unit can be marketed or sold.
Know Your Developer Journey

Know Your Developer Journey

From company registration to handing over the keys — explore all 11 steps, fees, timelines, and approvals you need to complete a real estate development project in Abu Dhabi.

Service Charges & Maintenance Funds

Service Charges & Maintenance Funds

All buyer payments for off-plan units must be deposited into an ADREC-licensed escrow account held at an approved bank. Funds are released to the developer in tranches as each construction milestone is independently verified — ensuring buyers are protected at every stage.

Madhmoun — Verified Listings Platform

Madhmoun — Verified Listings Platform

Abu Dhabi's first MLS (Multiple Listing Service), Madhmoun, requires all registered projects and available units to be listed on the platform. Only licensed brokers holding a valid BLN may advertise units, ensuring every listing is verified and traceable to an approved project.

Digital Services

Your Developer Portal — All in One Place

Every service you need to plan, register, and deliver your project is available through the ADREC Portal and Madhmoun MLS — online, 24/7. No queues. No paperwork.
  • Developer Registration

    Register your company as an authorized real estate developer in Abu Dhabi. Submit your trade license, financial details, and project portfolio in one guided online form.

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  • Off-Plan Sales Permit

    Apply for authorization to market and sell off-plan units. Once approved, your project will appear on the ADREC public register — building buyer confidence from day one.

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  • Project Registration

    Register a new development project, upload master plans, specify unit types, and receive your official Project ID — the first step before any off-plan sales or marketing.

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  • Construction Progress Reports

    Submit certified progress updates at each defined milestone. Keep your project status current, unlock escrow releases, and maintain full transparency with ADREC and your buyers.

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  • Escrow Account Management

    Open an ADREC-approved escrow account, link it to your project, and manage drawdown requests as your construction milestones are verified — all from the developer portal.

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  • Completion Certificate

    Once construction is finished and all inspections are passed, apply for your Completion Certificate — the final document that authorizes handover of units to buyers.

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FAQs

Developer FAQs

Clear answers to the questions developers ask most when starting or managing a project in Abu Dhabi.

What is the role of ADREC in the Abu Dhabi real estate market?

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What services does ADREC offer to potential property buyers and investors?

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Can I register or create an account on the ADREC website to access additional features?

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How can I stay informed about upcoming real estate developments and projects in Abu Dhabi?

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Ready to launch your development project?

Our Project Development team can guide you through every step — from company registration and project approvals to escrow setup and Completion Certificates.