Aldar Expands UK Property Portfolio with 9,000 Homes Planned Across London
Abu Dhabi-based developer strengthens its British market presence through London Square, targeting residential sales, rental housing and affordable homes
Aldar Properties is expanding its international real estate operations through a growing portfolio of residential developments across London, with plans to deliver approximately 9,000 homes across 30 sites over the next five years.
The Abu Dhabi-headquartered developer entered the British market through its acquisition of London Square in December 2023. Since then, the value of the company's development pipeline has increased by around £5 billion, reflecting its ambition to establish a stronger presence beyond the UAE.
The planned residential programme includes more than 3,600 homes for private sale, 1,538 build-to-rent units and 3,575 affordable properties. This mix highlights Aldar's focus on serving different segments of London's housing market rather than concentrating exclusively on premium residential developments.
London Square strengthens Aldar's UK presence
Aldar acquired full ownership of London Square in a transaction valued at an enterprise value of £230 million. Founded in 2010, the British developer focuses on residential projects and mixed-use communities, including developments that repurpose former industrial land and underused buildings.
Its portfolio includes projects in several parts of London, with developments designed to combine housing with commercial spaces and community facilities.
One notable project is the Nine Elms development, located near the US Embassy. The scheme includes more than 750 homes alongside retail and commercial spaces, contributing to the wider regeneration of the area.
Another significant project involves the former Surrey County Council headquarters at County Hall in Kingston upon Thames. The redevelopment is expected to deliver 292 homes while retaining and restoring historic elements of the site.
Other developments across areas such as Bermondsey, Wandsworth Common and Brook Green demonstrate the company's reach across London's residential property market.
Mayfair hub supports international expansion
Aldar has also strengthened its presence in the British capital by opening its World of Aldar hub in Mayfair. The location provides a base for presenting the group's property portfolio and developing relationships with prospective buyers, investors and business partners.
The company's international activities span markets including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Egypt and the UK. Its London operations form part of a wider strategy to build a diversified property business with an international customer base.
Rather than relying solely on overseas investment, Aldar is developing its UK presence through an established local business with experience in residential construction, regeneration and community development.
London Square records stronger sales performance
London Square is aiming to complete 600 homes during 2026, compared with 398 in the previous year.
The company reported £251 million in sales during the first half of 2026, representing a 236% increase compared with the same period in 2025. It is also targeting a sales backlog of £1 billion by the end of 2026.
Buyers from the Middle East remain an important part of its international customer base, accounting for approximately 10% to 15% of international sales. UAE purchasers are reported to be the leading group among buyers from the region.
Their interest in London properties reflects a range of objectives, including investment diversification, long-term asset ownership, purchasing a second home and arranging accommodation for children studying in the UK.
A broader international real estate strategy
Aldar's expanding British portfolio represents a significant step in its efforts to develop a larger international real estate business. The company's experience in the UAE is being complemented by London Square's established presence in the UK residential sector.
The planned delivery of 9,000 homes will be an important measure of the group's ability to expand in a mature and competitive market. Its performance will also depend on delivering projects, meeting demand across different housing categories and sustaining sales momentum.
With a dedicated London base and a substantial development pipeline, Aldar is positioning its British operations as an increasingly important part of its long-term international growth strategy.
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