GGA/PW91 exchange–correlation functional within periodic density functional theory (DFT) has been used to investigate the adsorption properties of different metal atoms (Pt, Pd, Ag, Sn and In) on the O-terminated and Al-terminated γ-Al₂O₃ (1 1 0) surface. The predicted adsorption energies follow the order Sn > In > Ag > Pd > Pt. It is found that O-bridge position is the most favorable site for single Pt, Pd, Ag, Sn and In adsorption on the O-terminated γ-Al₂O₃ (1 1 0) surface. It is found that the most favorable site on the Al-terminated γ-Al₂O₃(1 1 0) surface is O-top position.