Property stock gains helped the Abu Dhabi index close higher as investors pumped in cash ahead of the Cityscape real estate exhibition in the emirate next week. Dubai's measure also moved up.

RAK Properties climbed 6.9 per cent, while Aldar Properties and Sorouh Real Estate added 1 and 2.2 per cent respectively. All three have made double digit gains this month.

"Property stocks have increased on speculation over their first-quarter results and potential new project announcements at Cityscape," said Mohammed Ali Yasin, Shuaa Securities chief executive.

"Groups of speculators are directing liquidity at certain small cap stocks to boost their share price before then selling up."

The index finished 0.6 per cent higher at 2,646 points, despite volumes falling by a fifth from the day before.

Dubai's benchmark ended 1.2 per cent higher at 1,688 points.

Union Properties climbed 5.8 per cent, but Deyaar ended flat following a 12.5 per cent rise the day before. Both companies have denied persistent merger rumours.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi bourses finish higher