Schools, accommodation, restaurants, hotels and all you need to know about living on Reem Island in Abu Dhabi
Anyone looking for the best places to live in Abu Dhabi would tell you that Reem Island, located just off the coast, has become one of the most desirable places to live in the UAE. Offering a perfect mix of modern conveniences and island serenity, it’s ideal for everyone.
With its luxurious residential towers, waterfront views, and an abundance of parks and leisure facilities, any guide to Reem Island would tell you about the vibrant yet peaceful living environment.
Whether you’re moving to the UAE or looking for a new home in the capital, this comprehensive guide to living on Reem Island covers everything from the best dining spots and activities to essential tips for settling into this thriving community.
Where can we live on Reem Island?
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Reem Island in Abu Dhabi offers a diverse range of luxury properties, including villas, apartments, penthouses, and townhouses.
Villas typically feature three to five bedrooms, while apartments range from cosy studios to spacious five-bedroom units. Townhouses offer two to five bedrooms, and penthouses provide expansive living spaces with three to five bedrooms.
The island’s architectural style is predominantly influenced by classic Moroccan and Spanish designs, offering residents a selection of elegant homes and buildings. Those moving to Reem Island can expect modern, high-end amenities and conveniences, ensuring a luxurious lifestyle.
As a vibrant, mixed-use community, Reem Island has plenty to offer. Its scenic waterfront developments, equipped with cutting-edge technology, attract residents from diverse backgrounds. Notably, Al Reem Island is one of the first developments in Abu Dhabi to offer expats the opportunity to own property on a leasehold basis, further enhancing its appeal as a premier residential destination.
Where can we shop on Reem Island?
There’s no dearth of spaces to shop at here. Of course, there’s the massive Reem Mall which spans over 2.8 million sq. ft. From hosting an indoor snow park, 450 stores including 85 food and beverage outlets to two food courts and a multiplex cinema – it’s the perfect place for some retail therapy.
Shams BOUTIK Mall on Al Reem Island offers a convenient shopping hub, featuring a Waitrose supermarket to meet the daily needs of residents.
Beyond this, the island is home to some of Abu Dhabi’s top supermarkets and grocery stores, including Al Maya, Carrefour Market, Zoom, and Geant Supermarket, all strategically located throughout the neighbourhood.
Residents looking to elevate their retail therapy can visit the renowned Galleria Mall on the nearby Al Maryah Island. Just a short drive away, this premier shopping destination offers luxury brands, fine dining, and a sophisticated atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for those in search of an upscale shopping experience. Whether it’s for daily groceries or a leisurely day out, Reem Island’s retail options cater to every need.
Is there public transport on Reem Island?
Getting around Al Reem Island is seamless, thanks to its well-connected public transport options. Taxis are readily available, particularly around Shams BOUTIK Mall, making quick trips across the island effortless.
For those who prefer public buses, they offer a convenient and reliable way to explore Reem Island’s many attractions. If you’re planning to travel beyond the island, the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Abu Dhabi Bus Station are only a 13 to 14-minute drive away, providing easy access to the rest of the emirates.
Several bus routes link Reem Island to key spots around the city. From the mainland, residents can hop on buses near Al Muna School on Zayed 1st Street, Sultan Bin Zayed Street, and the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre. Whether you’re commuting around the island or heading out to explore Abu Dhabi, public transport provides a smooth and efficient way to get from A to B, ensuring you’re always well-connected.
What schools are on Reem Island?
Al Reem Island is home to a range of prestigious educational institutions catering to all age groups.
Among the top nurseries on the island are Redwood Montessori Nursery, Primrose British Nursery, Mosaic Nursery, Maple Bear Nursery, Hummingbird Nursery, and Playhouse Nursery, offering early years care and development in a nurturing environment.
For those seeking top-tier schooling, Repton School Abu Dhabi stands out as one of the capital’s finest. Since opening in 2013, Repton has followed the British curriculum, with its nursery students enrolled at the Rose Campus, which adheres to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) system. Older students transition to the nearby Fry Campus, where the school offers a comprehensive UK/IB system up to Year 13.
Additionally, there’s also GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi, Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi and Al Reem International School to round out the complete list of great schools in Reem Island.
For higher education, the renowned Paris-Sorbonne University is located in the heart of Al Reem Island. This prestigious institution features a stunning dome-shaped campus, complete with state-of-the-art facilities, a vast library, a well-equipped sports centre, and a lively cafeteria, making it an ideal choice for students ready to embark on their academic journey.
What hotels are on Reem Island?
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While there are no hotels directly on Reem Island, there are quite a few luxury options nearby. Some of the standout properties include –
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi: This renowned 5-star hotel is a favourite among business professionals and leisure travellers alike. With 565 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and serviced apartments, Beach Rotana offers a blend of luxury and convenience. Situated along Al Sikeek Street, it’s just an 8-minute drive from key areas in Abu Dhabi.
Le Méridien Abu Dhabi: Nestled in the Tourist Club Area (TCA), this 5-star hotel boasts 224 rooms and 24 suites, along with impressive meeting facilities. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including room service, housekeeping, laundry services, and valet dry-cleaning. It’s easily accessible, just a 10-minute drive away.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi: Located on Al Maryah Island, this 5-star gem offers 148 spacious guestrooms and 41 opulent suites, all inspired by the beauty of the Arabian Gulf. With stunning views of the Abu Dhabi skyline and the towering skyscrapers of Reem Island, Rosewood provides a luxurious stay with panoramic vistas.
Are there things to do on Reem Island?
There’s no shortage of things to do on Reem Island, whether you’re shopping, dining, or just soaking up the outdoors.
Reem Central Park is one of Abu Dhabi’s newest and most popular outdoor spots, offering over a million square feet of leisure space. It’s perfect for a family day out, with a cool skate park, kids’ play area, and a picturesque promenade along the canal. While Reem Island is undeniably beautiful, it’s also designed to give residents a balanced, family-friendly lifestyle.
The 2.4-kilometre canal promenade is ideal for scenic walks or an evening jog by the water, adding to the island’s charm. For fitness fans, Primal Gym offers a fantastic range of classes, from yoga and Zumba to circuit training. They even provide martial arts training taught by world-class champions—so you can get fit and maybe pick up some impressive karate skills along the way!
Reem Island is also a pet lover’s paradise. It’s a pet-friendly community where many residents take their furry friends for walks in Reem Central Park or along the canal, enjoying the fresh air and open spaces. Whether you’re looking to relax, stay active, or spend time with family and pets, Al Reem Island has something for everyone.
And for those who love a little nature and adventure, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Abu Dhabi’s mangroves with kayaking tours at Al Reem Central Park. Whether you opt for a serene sunrise or a captivating sunset experience, you’ll be surrounded by the peaceful waters and lush greenery – so grab your paddle!
Where does one eat on Reem Island?
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There’s plenty of spots that have now become favourites amongst those residing in or even visiting Abu Dhabi.
The recently opened Eataly at Al Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi is a great place to get your Italian fix. From cured meats and cheeses to seasonal produce and handcrafted pastas, you can opt for a casual dining experience at their quick-service counters, or enjoy a full dining experience at their sit-down spaces.
There’s also Café James, a new specialty café and bistro that serves more than just your standard coffee and croissant. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway on Reem Island Abu Dhabi, look no further than Ritual Café & Studio. The space considers itself a sanctuary for wellness with two elements: the café and the studio.
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