Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADREC) has announced a temporary freeze on rent increases for all residential, commercial and industrial properties across the emirate until further notice.

The decision was revealed on Tuesday through the centre’s official social media platforms. In a statement posted on X, ADREC said, “Your rent stays the same. A temporary measure is in effect across Abu Dhabi.”

Under the new directive, all tenancy contract renewals for residential, commercial and industrial properties will be processed with a 0% rent increase during the period of the measure. The centre also clarified that any new tenancy agreement for a property that was previously rented must be offered at the same rental value as the preceding contract.

According to an official circular issued by ADREC, the rent freeze will remain in effect until further notice.

The move marks a significant change in Abu Dhabi’s rental regulations. Since 2016, landlords have been permitted to increase rents by up to 5% annually upon contract renewal. The latest measure effectively suspends any rental increases and is expected to provide relief to tenants facing growing financial pressures.

The decision comes at a time when many residents across the UAE are dealing with rising living costs, while some have also been affected by job losses or salary reductions linked to the economic impact of the recent Iran conflict.

Abu Dhabi’s property market has witnessed strong rental growth in recent years. Analysts attribute the increase to sustained population growth and a limited supply of available housing. According to a market report released last year, average residential rents in Abu Dhabi rose by approximately 11% during 2025, reflecting continued demand in the emirate’s housing sector.

Industry observers believe the temporary rent freeze will help stabilize the market and ease the financial burden on tenants while broader economic conditions remain uncertain.