Aberdeen’s commercial property market showed signs of resilience during 2025 despite continued uncertainty in the offshore energy sector, according to the latest Scottish Property Review 2026 from property consultancy Ryden.
The report shows that office take-up reached 280,080 sq ft across 67 deals, representing a 20% increase in floorspace compared with the previous year.
However, the city’s property market continues to reflect the wider pressures affecting the offshore oil and gas industry.
Policy changes including the continuation of the Energy Profits Levy and restrictions on new exploration licences have contributed to job losses and cautious occupier behaviour.
Across the Aberdeen office market, 43% of deals were for suites under 2,000 sq ft, while only a small number of larger transactions were completed during the year.
Demand remains strongest for offices that are at least partly fitted-out, as occupiers seek to avoid the capital expenditure associated with new fit-outs. This has slowed take-up of some Grade A space despite headline prime rents remaining around £32.50 per sq ft.
Many businesses are instead renegotiating existing leases or committing to shorter terms to maintain flexibility while the energy sector transitions towards lower-carbon activities.
Arron Finnie
Demand in Aberdeen’s industrial sector remains closely tied to the energy industry and its supply chain, although the report highlights a growing number of occupiers from other sectors such as leisure, including gyms and padel operators, repurposing older industrial buildings.
Demand for detached buildings in the 10,000 - 20,000 sq.ft. size range with cranes and yards remains strong. Occupiers are increasingly seeking buildings with strong EPC ratings and ESG credentials, with these properties commanding premium rents and transacting more quickly.
However, speculative development in the region has largely paused due to higher construction costs and changing investment values.
Aberdeen offers some of the highest office yields in the UK, providing attractive opportunities for investors comfortable with a smaller occupier base and an economy still closely linked to the energy sector.
Arron Finnie, Partner at Ryden, said: “Aberdeen’s market is still being shaped by what’s happening in the offshore sector, so it’s no surprise that occupiers are being cautious. Even so, there are some encouraging signs, with office take-up up on last year and continued demand for good-quality, fitted space.
“What we’re seeing is that businesses want flexibility. Many are choosing shorter leases or sticking with existing space unless there’s a strong reason to move.
“There are still real opportunities in the Aberdeen market, particularly for investors or landlords prepared to upgrade older stock and bring forward space that meets modern occupier expectations.”