If you’re new to or moving to Abu Dhabi, fret not. Team Yalla’s rounded up the best areas in the city to start your new life!
Moving to Abu Dhabi? Congrats, your life is about to get a serious upgrade!
Home to over 200 nationalities, Abu Dhabi is a multicultural environment with a plethora of malls, schools, parks and more for a holistic time. Be it a day at the beach or the best camping spots, there’s plenty to do for work and play in the UAE capital.
From emerging neighbourhoods such as Saadiyat Island, Mohammed Bin Zayed City to more established communities such as Yas Island and Al Khalidiyah, there is no dearth of places to start your new life.
But how do you decide on the best place to live in Abu Dhabi? Here’s our round up of top communities in the UAE capital to find the perfect home.
Yas Island
Easily one of the hottest spots in the emirate, living on Yas Island is an experience unlike any other.
The space is rife with trendy restaurants, clubs, hotels, theme parks and so much more. Of course, one of their biggest pulls remains the Yas Marina Circuit and the adjacent W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island.
Additionally, the spot is also a popular-favourite for renting luxury villas. Residents can choose between living in private accommodation which has been almost exclusively developed by Aldar Properties or enjoy life in an apartment that is owned by a hotel.
Popular private compounds to live include Water’s Edge, Ansam, West Yas, Yas Acres and Noya. Prices vary from area to area with studio apartments available from as little as AED 52,000 and topping AED 1.7 million for a three-bed apartment in Water’s Edge.
Essentially, if you want to live at the heart of the action, Yas Island is the place to be.
Schools: Yas American Academy, Noya Aldar Academy, West Yas Academy, SABIS International School – Yas Island
Popular destinations: Warner Bros World, Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Yas Beach, Yas Links Golf Club, Yas Marina Circuit, Etihad Arena
Saadiyat Island
Serenity reigns supreme on Saadiyat Island. Home to the critically endangered species of Hawksbill turtles, the natural island is the best juxtaposition of luxury living and culture.
If you want to be enlightened by art, history and culture, the cultural district of the UAE capital is the perfect place to base yourself, especially with a collection of top-rated resorts nearby.
From exceptional exhibits at Louvre Abu Dhabi to an array of restaurants at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, there’s plenty of intellectual stimulation to soak in while refuelling at cafes.
Pristine white sands, greenery, and top rated resorts make Saadiyat Island one of the most sought after addresses in the emirate. There are several premium villas and apartments in different sub-neighbourhoods, offering lush, green residential areas which are beautifully manicured with beaches and charming open sea views.
Schools: Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, Lycee Theodore Monod, NYU Abu Dhabi
Popular Destinations: Abrahamic Family House, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Khalifa City
A favourite among the expats, Khalifa City is a bustling urban centre with a mix of residential and commercial spaces.
Divided into two major districts – Khalifa City and Shakhbout City, the area is full of vibrant parks and perfectly catered to families. Add to that some great schools and nurseries in the locality and it’s the perfect space to live.
One of the better aspects of the neighbourhood is certainly the convenience stores around, especially the infamous ‘Pink Shops’ offering an eclectic mix of retailers. On the health and leisure front, the space is dotted with several lush parks, basketball courts, and newly launched gyms, biking and walking trails.
For parents looking to be part of a community, it doesn’t get better than this.
Schools: Al Raha International School, Al Yasmina, Horizon Private School, GEMS American Academy, International School of Choueifat, Canadian International School
Popular Destinations: Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi Cricket, Abu Dhabi Golf Club
You might also like: A guide to the UAE’s best road trips
Al Mushrif
Looking for something quieter? Then look no further than Al Mushrif.
For those moving to Abu Dhabi seeking a quintessential suburban life, this quiet, low rise area with beautiful green landscapes is the best fit.
Al Mushrif is divided into the sub-communities of Al Qubaisat, Delma Street, Al Dhafrah Street, Al Saada Street, Kamal Jamal Musal and Mushrif Gardens, all offering different levels of convenient commute to some great spots in the emirate.
Located very centrally, Mushrif is in a prime location between Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, as well as the Airport Street.
Apart from being close to some of the best schools, the locality is also home to the Royal Stables, Al Mushrif Palace and Umm Al Emarat Park, which is perfect for the entire family.
Schools: The British School Al Khubairat (BISAK), Liwa International School, American International School
Popular Destinations: Umm Al Emarat Park , Abu Dhabi Country Club , Al Mushrif Palace
Al Khalidiyah
Traditional meets modern meets a diverse set of cultures in Al Khalidiyah.
A combination of the authentic Emirati style with the luxury of modern developments, the apartments here offer excellent views of the Corniche. Adding to the wonderful neighbourhood is that it has a bit of everything; the beach, park, and proximity to most commercial hubs in the capital.
Another big draw is the proximity to schools, such as the American Community School of Abu Dhabi, as well as Al Khalidiyah Park or the beach. All in all, there’s something for individuals and families alike here.
Schools: American Community School, International Community School, The British School Al Khubairat, Al Bateen Academy, Al Mamoura Academy
Popular Destinations: Al Khalidiyah Park, Corniche Beach
Al Reem Island
Waterfront residential spots are gaining all the hype in Abu Dhabi, and Al Reem Island has emerged as a favourite. Especially among those looking for luxury properties.
With a cluster of striking high rises, those moving to Abu Dhabi can choose from luxury penthouses, apartments and stunning waterfront villas. Additionally, there’s plenty of pedestrian-friendly walkways, a promenade, skate park and outdoor basketball courts to keep fit.
Ideal for young couples and families, a Reem Island address comes with easy access to several restaurants, supermarkets, schools, mosques, churches and more. From Carrefour to Mosaic Nursery and cathedrals and mosques, this is truly a winning locale.
Schools: NAS Abu Dhabi, Repton Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, INSEAD
Popular Destinations: Gateway Park, Reem Central Park
Al Reef
One of the first fully integrated residential communities in the UAE capital, Al Reef is a top contender for those moving to Abu Dhabi.
The community is divided into two sub-communities, namely Al Reef Villas and Al Reef Downtown. Apart from being close to Abu Dhabi International Airport, the location is also close to Dubai, making intercity commuting easier.
A self contained community, residents can easily access several supermarkets, gyms, pools, playgrounds, salons, eateries and even a healthcare centre. Add to that the budget-friendly apartments, and it’s an amazing address.
Schools: Amity International School
Popular Destinations: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Al Raha
Another day, another luxurious waterfront community.
When you think of Al Raha, it’s impossible not to think of the annual beach festival. And that’s just one of the several things that add to the vibrant nature of the location.
Boasting an impressive 5.2 million sq. m. of natural beach shoreline, Al Raha Beach is popular among those looking to rent high-end apartments. A mix of both residential and commercial properties, the place is up and coming with a solid foundation.
You can choose from three outstanding communities including Al Bandar, Al Zeina and Al Muneera. In addition to private beach access, you’ll have extraordinary cafes and restaurants right at your fingertips. Sounds dreamy!
Schools: Al Raha International School
Popular Destinations: Aldar Headquarters (Circle or Coin building)
Mohammed Bin Zayed City
When on the hunt for affordable areas, Mohamed Bin Zayed City is one of the first to come to mind.
With spacious villas mostly out for rent, you can walk away with a generous space complete with all the amenities you need for less than the price in another location. Like with most spots in the UAE capital, Mohammed Bin Zayed City is also family-friendly, with plenty of schools and nurseries around.
Schools: Emirates National School, Abu Dhabi International Private School, British International School Abu Dhabi Maryland International School
Corniche
One of the most iconic parts of Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly the 9km long Corniche Road.
Full of public beaches with amenities, there’s a bit of everything to be found at Corniche to have a good day. With landscaped pathways and parks, the waterfront is framed by a line of high rise buildings that create a majestic skyline.
Located at the far western end of Corniche Road, you will find everything from spacious penthouses to furnished apartments. Get looking!
Schools: Al Muna Academy, GEMS World Academy, GEMS Winchester School , Polaris Private Academy
Popular Destinations: Emirates Palace , Qasr Al Hosn , Qasr Al Watan , Observation Deck at 300
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