If you're looking for somewhere smart and secure to invest in a property, Abu Dhabi could be the place.The real estate market in the UAE capital has grown by 173.9%, hitting Dh84.49 billion ($23bn) in sales, over the first half of the year, according to ADX Interact. This follows Dh142 billion ($38.67bn) in real estate sales last year. Abu Dhabi’s property market gets its appeal from strong returns and capital appreciation. Our expert Mario Volpi says the emirate has benefitted from having the perception of a ‘calm and steady’ market. He also lists what seasoned investors are looking for before deciding to park their money in property. For investors with money to spare and looking outside real estate, this can be a confusing time, following high volatility across asset classes. Gold, which usually sees high returns during geopolitical conflict, saw its steepest monthly drop in prices since 2008. Analysts tell The National that this can be attributed to the Middle East war, a stronger dollar and higher interest rates. This is in addition to major market movements driven by decisions by global leaders such as US President Donald Trump. Holding on to cash – outside of an emergency fund that can cover six to twelve months of expenses – is also not the answer. As our investment expert and columnist Ken Fisher puts it: “Investors shouldn’t mistake short-term comfort for a long-term strategy.”Ultimately, goal-driven allocation, consistency and patience remain the guiding rule for long-term investments.If you have a personal investment tip or experience to share, email us at pf@thenationalnews.com.Dona Cheriyan, Digital Platforms EditorMoney & Me - $1,000 to six-figure income: Dubai entrepreneur on discipline of building wealthNadine Mezher credits her parents for the financial philosophy that guides her business decisions. Reem Mohammed / The NationalNadine Mezher, 45, credits her parents for the financial philosophy that guides her investment and business decisions. The Lebanese citizen is co-founder and chief marketing officer of the financial platform Sarwa and recently started a fashion brand, Nawa.“I believe investing is important for everyone, but it is particularly important for women because investing creates financial independence, and financial independence creates choice," Ms Mezher tells The National. “It gives you the freedom to pursue opportunities, leave situations that are not good for you, support your family, or start something new.”Read the full story here. In case you missed it …Trump made more than $1.4 billion in crypto last yearUAE oil exports approach highest level since 2017 amid postwar recoveryUAE doubles size of sovereign retail T-sukuk offering Read moreThe National produces a variety of newsletters across an array of subjects. You can sign up here.