Erling Haaland Purchases Luxury Villa at Manchester City-Branded Abu Dhabi Development
The Manchester City striker has joined the owners at Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, a major residential project near Yas Island featuring luxury villas, townhouses and sports-focused amenities.
Abu Dhabi's luxury property market has gained another high-profile buyer, with Manchester City forward Erling Haaland purchasing a five-bedroom villa at Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana, according to a report published on October 12, 2026.
The Norwegian footballer announced his purchase through a video appearance at the launch of the development's second phase. His father, Alfie Haaland, a former Manchester City player, also attended the event and collected the keys to his own property within the community.
The project, developed by Ohana, is located along Yas Canal near Yas Island and combines residential living with the branding and sporting identity of Manchester City.
Abu Dhabi Development Plans More Than 2,000 Homes
Manchester City Yas Residences is planned across approximately 1.67 million square metres, with more than 2,000 residential units expected across different property types.
The development's housing options range from townhouses and duplex villas to larger family residences. Its second phase is expected to include two- and three-bedroom townhouses alongside four- and five-bedroom villas, targeting buyers seeking a range of residential options.
Construction is already under way, with the first deliveries scheduled to begin from 2029 in phases.
The developer is expected to open sales for the second phase on October 19, 2026. According to the announcement, average prices for two-bedroom townhouses are listed at AED 3.75 million.
Sports and Lifestyle Facilities Shape the Community
Beyond residential properties, the project is designed around a lifestyle concept that incorporates sports, fitness and recreational facilities.
Planned amenities include a dedicated park, football pitches, tennis and basketball courts, fitness facilities and a training academy. The community is intended to bring sporting activities and residential living together within a master-planned environment.
The combination of branded residences, leisure facilities and family-oriented housing positions the development within Abu Dhabi's growing premium residential segment.
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's manager, was named the project's official brand ambassador at the launch event. He attended as guest of honour, where he spoke about teamwork, discipline and wellbeing.
The event at Etihad Arena on October 12 reportedly attracted more than 4,000 guests, highlighting the promotional reach of the project.
Football and Real Estate Come Together in Abu Dhabi
Haaland's reported purchase adds a high-profile international name to a development that connects professional football with residential property.
Branded residences use the identity of a recognised brand to shape a project's positioning, amenities and marketing. For developers, such partnerships can help differentiate a project in a competitive market, although the commercial success of any development will depend on pricing, demand, delivery and the quality of the completed homes.
Abu Dhabi's established leisure destinations and continuing residential development provide a setting for projects that target buyers looking for both lifestyle amenities and premium housing.
Manchester City Yas Residences by Ohana is planned as a large-scale community rather than a standalone villa project. Its future progress, sales performance and phased delivery will be important factors to watch as the development moves towards completion.
The announcement adds another prominent development to Abu Dhabi's luxury property landscape and illustrates how international sporting brands are being incorporated into residential projects across the UAE.
