New Abu Dhabi Projects: How I Build a Shortlist

I keep a running list of the Abu Dhabi projects I follow. But a list of names on its own does not help you choose a property. A villa for a family and an apartment bought to rent solve different problems, even when both are selling at launch.

So I start a shortlist with a question: are you buying to live in, to rent out, or to sell on later?

First, define the objective

For your own home, what matters is the layout, the surroundings and the daily routes. For a rental, you need to work out who the home suits and what alternatives a tenant will have. When a later sale is part of the calculation, I ask one more question: who is the next buyer?

After that it becomes easier to shorten the list. A property can be interesting in itself and still not fit your objective.

Study the position inside the project

Even within a single development, the options can differ substantially. I look at where the building or plot sits, the neighbouring development, the roads, and access to the amenities that have been announced.

In a large district, the distance to the beach or to everyday services has to be checked from the specific home. A masterplan helps you understand the concept, but it does not replace studying the specific location.

Separate usable area from impression

A terrace is an advantage for someone who will use it. For another buyer, a larger bedroom or an additional room matters more.

So I compare internal area, outdoor space and the arrangement of the layout separately. That helps you see what exactly you are paying for, particularly when two properties have a similar total area.

Check the project's current stage

The phrase "launching soon" dates quickly. Aldar, for example, announced Talay, the first residential phase of Marsa Al Saadiyat, on 17 September 2026, with sales set to open on 23 September. Older shortlists need to be updated for changes like that. Aldar announcement.

Before deciding, I check the current offers, the price of the specific property, the timeline and the payment schedule. You cannot assume the terms in an old presentation still apply today.

For me, a good shortlist is a handful of clear options with the differences explained. Get in touch with Astana Real Estate — we will compare projects against your objective and budget.