Abu Dhabi is an exciting city with plenty of things to see and do. From awe-inspiring architecture to beautiful beaches and a prime environment for investing, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is one of the most popular locations for expats, visitors, and businessmen alike. But for those considering a more permanent residence in Abu Dhabi, the question begs itself: where are the best places to live in Abu Dhabi? In this article, you’ll discover the top 10 hotspots to consider when making your decision.
The 10 best places to live in Abu Dhabi – In a nutshell
- Yas Island
- Saadiyat Island
- Reem Island
- Al Maryah Island
- Khalifa City
- Al Khalidiya
- Tourist Club Area
- Al Mushrif
- Al Reef
- Mohammed Bin Zayed City
- Al Raha Beach
The best places to live in Abu Dhabi
There’s no shortage of great places to live in Abu Dhabi. From high-end villas overlooking the Corniche to cozy apartments in charming neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. Some areas are known for their expat populations such as Al Reef and Saadiyat Island, while others like Khalifa City offer residents easy access to Yas Island where world-class entertainment can be found. Other desirable locations include Al Reem Island, the Tourist Club Area, and Al Khalidiya.
In compiling our list we took several factors into consideration. They included things like proximity to the city center, the availability of important amenities for life, healthcare, and education, as well as the quality of life each area can provide.
Best places to live in Abu Dhabi FAQ
Before we go into the details of each of the above areas and discuss what sets them apart from one another, here is an FAQ (frequently asked questions) section that will answer questions that might have crossed your mind. Scroll below to jump to the description of each area.
What is the best area to live in Abu Dhabi?
Among the diverse residential areas available in Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is always at the top of any list that compares neighborhoods in the emirate.
However, there are other residential favorites. For example, Downtown Abu Dhabi is the center of city life, with the city’s most iconic attractions like Emirates Palace, Corniche Beach, and vibrant souks all located there. Al Reem Island offers luxury living with modern amenities and stunning sea views. Saadiyat Island is perfect for families seeking a cultural experience in exclusive gated community villas, while Khalifa City provides access to schools and malls as well as some of Abu Dhabi’s best beaches.
Where do expats live in Abu Dhabi?
Expats are typically drawn to Downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Reem Island. Downtown offers access to world-class attractions as well as trendy restaurants at every corner, vibrant nightlife, and luxury stores all within walking distance. Al Reem Island, on the other hand, offers upscale living with stunning waterfront views. Saadiyat Island is also popular among expats looking for luxurious seaside villas while Khalifa City is perfect for budget-conscious beachgoers looking to be closer to the coastline and not too far from the city center.
What is the poshest area in Abu Dhabi?
Saadiyat Island is undoubtedly the most luxurious area in Abu Dhabi. Here, you’ll find high-end homes with 5-star amenities and waterfront views. In addition, there are exclusive gated communities erected only a few meters from the beach for an added air of luxury.
What is the cheapest area in Abu Dhabi
Khalifa City and Mohammed Bin Zayed are one of the most affordable residential areas in Abu Dhabi. These areas contain numerous villas and apartments, which are perfect for those who are on tighter budgets. Plus, they’re conveniently located near shopping malls, hospitals, banks, and corporate offices, making them an ideal spot for those looking for an affordable place to live but do want to miss out on all the necessities of life.
The cheapest rental properties here start from an average annual price of AED 16,500.
Where do locals live in Abu Dhabi?
Locals in Abu Dhabi typically live in neighborhoods such as Shakhbout or Al Shamkha. Al Raha Gardens, Al Raha Golf, and certain areas of Saadiyat Island are also popular spots for Emirati locals.
These areas are popular due to their prime location, family-friendly environment, laid-back atmosphere, and luxurious amenities. However, it is worth noting that Abu Dhabi is a diverse city with many expats, and there are plenty of areas where locals and expats live side by side.
Yas Island: The best place to live in Abu Dhabi
Yas Island is a rapidly growing urban hub in Abu Dhabi with a mix of entertainment, leisure, residential, and retail options to suit everyone’s taste. It offers some of the most popular attractions in Abu Dhabi such as Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Waterworld, Yas Links Golf, Warner Bros World (the world’s largest indoor theme park), and Yas Mall (Abu Dhabi’s largest mall).
There are also great schools and child-friendly beaches such as Yas Beach. Furthermore, this district is conveniently located near the Abu Dhabi Airport and around 20 minutes from the Abu Dhabi mainland. The island has a variety of residential options, including high-rise apartment buildings and modern villas. There are also various transportation options available, including bus stations near Yas Mall. Overall, Yas Island is an excellent option for those looking for a vibrant community with endless entertainment options and high-standard residency.
In addition to its entertainment offerings, Yas Island is also a popular destination for business and conferences. The island has numerous world-class meeting and event facilities, including the Etihad Arena and the Yas Conference Centre. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offer flexible spaces suitable for a range of events, from large-scale conferences to intimate meetings. With its convenient location, modern infrastructure, and diverse offerings, Yas Island has become a top destination for both leisure and business travelers alike.
Saadiyat Island
Only a bridge hop away from Abu Dhabi city, Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi’s cultural hub, known for its renowned museums and art galleries such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Minarat Al Saadiyat. It is also going to be home to many more new and masterful museums such as Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Natural History Museum which are all expected to reach completion in the next few years.
Because of Manarat Al Saadiyat, there is never a dull moment on Saadiyat Island. The art and culture center hosts various events throughout the year and has many workshops and exhibitions taking place at any given time. The island offers a mix of upscale villas, townhouses, and low-rise apartments, and includes recreational facilities such as the Saadiyat Public Beach, which is perfect for a relaxing day out.
The island is located just 7 minutes from Downtown Abu Dhabi and 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi airport. It is also home to several top-tier educational institutes, restaurants, cafes, and the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
Saadiyat Island is not just a cultural destination, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is a popular spot for golf enthusiasts, with an 18-hole championship course designed by Gary Player. The island also has several walking and cycling trails, including a scenic route along the beach. The natural beach on the island is a great place to relax, swim, or try water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Saadiyat Island also hosts various outdoor events throughout the year, such as the Abu Dhabi Food Festival and the Abu Dhabi Art Fair. With its blend of culture, nature, and luxury Saadiyat Island is a unique destination that caters to a wide range of interests making it one of the most sought-after addresses in Abu Dhabi.
Reem Island
Al Reem Island is a luxurious waterfront community only a few minutes away from Abu Dhabi city that offers modern amenities, high-end residential towers, and beautiful beaches with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It’s a popular destination for expats seeking a peaceful environment and a modern lifestyle, with easy access to the central business district and other important areas of Abu Dhabi.
The island features pedestrian-friendly walkways, a promenade, a skate park, and multi-purpose outdoor courts. There are also reputable schools, shopping malls, and landmarks nearby. Al Reem Island is considered one of the best places in Abu Dhabi for expats to live due to its natural environment, luxurious properties, and state-of-the-art facilities.
In addition to its luxurious residential towers (known for their affordability) and modern amenities, Al Reem Island also offers plenty of recreational activities for residents to enjoy. The island boasts a variety of outdoor spaces, including parks, beaches, and walkways, perfect for jogging, biking, or a leisurely stroll. The community also features several fitness centers, including gyms such as the newly opened Gymnation in Shams Boutik. Residents can also enjoy shopping and dining at the island’s various malls and restaurants, which offer a wide range of cuisines and products to choose from.
Overall, Al Reem Island is an ideal place for individuals and families seeking a high-end, modern lifestyle in a peaceful and picturesque environment that won’t burn a hole through their pockets.
Al Maryah Island
Al Maryah Island is a modern and prestigious community in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s central business precinct between Reem Island and the Abu Dhabi mainland. It is known for its high-end shopping (Galleria Mall), dining, and hotels, as well as its stunning waterfront promenade and lush green spaces. Al Maryah Island is an ideal destination for both locals and tourists seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle, with distinct residential areas that offer a high quality of living. This area offers top amenities such as five-star hotels, shopping areas with top brands, and entertainment spots.
Al Maryah Island is also conveniently located near public transportation and offers top residential buildings like Al Maryah Vista and Rosewood Abu Dhabi.
Khalifa City
Khalifa City is a villa community not too far off from the Abu Dhabi city center that offers a quiet and calm atmosphere with access to many attractions. It has numerous parks and open spaces, shopping centers, great schools, and restaurants, and easy access to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Airport, and Dubai. The area is divided into two major districts and offers a range of housing options, from spacious villas to apartments and compound communities. It also has various facilities, including a mall, nurseries, hospitals, golf courses, and a sports resort. Transportation is convenient, with easy access to buses to reach other destinations in Abu Dhabi. Khalifa City is known for its affordable, lavish units and is an ideal choice for families seeking a high standard of living.
Al Khalidiya
Al Khalidiyah is a diverse and vibrant suburb in the Abu Dhabi mainland with a mix of traditional and modern elements. It has high-end apartments, excellent transport links, and is home to popular landmarks such as the Khalidiyah Mall, the corniche beaches, as well as an endless array of parks. There are also many options for schools and nurseries, making it a popular choice for families. The area has a variety of residential units ranging from townhouses to villas, and apartments with various sizes and prices. Al Khalidiyah is a sought-after place to live due to its nearness to the beach, and its endless restaurants, cafes, malls, and shopping outlets. In short, anything Al Khalidiyas residents will need can be found within walking distance.
Tourist Club Area
Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi city the Tourist Club area is a lively community in Abu Dhabi that offers a great selection of unique restaurants, shops, and bars. It is situated near the Corniche waterfront promenade, which is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and walking. The community is also home to several landmarks, including Abu Dhabi Mall and Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation. Most homes in the area are high-rise apartments. It is a sought-after place to live in Abu Dhabi, offering access to a range of facilities, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, schools, nurseries, and hospitals. The Mina Road, Al Firdous Street, and Bay View are some of the top destinations for residency in the Tourist Club Area. Home seekers will also find high-value and affordable apartments here.
Al Mushrif
Al Mushrif is a quiet and suburban residential community close to the center of Abu Dhabi, with beautiful green landscapes and close proximity to excellent schools, the Royal Stables, and the Umm Al Emarat Park. It is a good choice for families and individuals, with distinct residential types and leisure options. The community enjoys access to essential amenities and infrastructure such as schools, supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals, and transportation through bus routes and stations. Properties here include studios, apartments, townhouses, and penthouses with one to three bedrooms. Relevant nearby landmarks in this area include the Al Mushrif Palace and the Al Mushrif Mall.
Al Reef
Al Reef is a popular residential community located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi that offers a range of residential options including apartments, townhouses, and villas. It is divided into two sub-communities, Al Reef Villas and Al Reef Downtown. The community is known for its tranquil and family-friendly environment, with numerous amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and swimming pools. It is conveniently located near supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, medical centers, and schools, as well as the Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai. Al Reef is known for its great value-for-money properties and affordable rent. It enjoys facilities such as gyms, malls, schools, hospitals, and easy transportation options.
Mohammed Bin Zayed City
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is growing in popularity as an affordable and family-friendly community in Abu Dhabi with spacious properties. It offers a variety of residential options, including independent villas, compound villas, townhouses, and apartments. The area features several large shopping centers, public parks, and open spaces. It is also home to many schools and nurseries, making it an ideal location for families. Located on the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Truck Road, it is conveniently located near Mussafah and has easy access to public transportation.
The 10 Best Places to Live in Abu Dhabi
- Yas Island
- Saadiyat Island
- Reem Island
- Al Maryah Island
- Khalifa City
- Al Khalidiya
- Tourist Club
- Al Mushrif
- Al Reef
- Mohammed Bin Zayed City
- Al Raha Beach
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