Which Community is Good for You In Abu Dhabi?

Thinking about moving to Abu Dhabi? But not sure which community will be perfect. Do not worry! We get the same questions from many of our clients. That’s why we are here to shed light on the question “Which Community is Good for You In Abu Dhabi?”

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, options are limitless. It has majestic waterfront communities, golf communities, eco friendly communities and so on. But how do you choose the right community for yourself?

Hold on, and keep reading. After finishing this, you will have a clear understanding of the most demanded communities in Abu Dhabi. Let’s find out the exciting world of Abu Dhabi’s residential areas!

Al Raha Beach

Do you want to experience ocean views every day? Al Raha Beach could be the best community for you. This mixed-use project by Aldar Properties combines luxury and ease along Abu Dhabi’s shoreline.

Al Raha Beach stretches about 11km of lively coastal living. It has eleven separate precincts, each with its own distinct feel. The area sits just off the main Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway.

The eleven precincts of Al Raha Beach are:

1. Al Zeina
2. Khor Al Raha
3. Al Bandar
4. Al Seef
5. Al Dana
6. Al Rumaila
7. Al Zahiya
8. Al Lissaily
9. Al Shaleela
10. Al Razeen
11. Al Thurayya

Each area has its own character ranging from garden communities to neighborhoods that focus on marinas.

Types of Properties

Al Raha Beach offers a wide selection of homes, including:

• High-end apartments (from studios to 4-bedroom units)
• Penthouses with sweeping views
• Spacious villas for families (3 to 6 bedrooms)
• Townhouses

Many of these properties boast stunning views of the water. You’ll find homes with designs ranging from modern aesthetics to those inspired by Mediterranean architecture.

Amenities and Lifestyle

When you live in Al Raha Beach, you can enjoy:

• Private beaches in certain areas
• Lots of parks and green spaces
• Plenty of shops and dining options at Al Raha Mall
• Water sports at Al Bandar Marina, like kayaking and jet-skiing
• Easy access to fun things on Yas Island (15 minutes away)
• Al Raha Beach Hotel, offering luxury dining and spa experiences
• Swimming pools and gyms in most apartment buildings
• Biking and running paths along the water

Education and Healthcare

Families living in Al Raha Beach enjoy:

• Schools close by, such as Al Raha International School
• Nurseries and daycare centers are within reach
• Hospitals in the area, including NMC Royal Hospital and Burjeel Hospital

Transportation

Although owning a car helps, Al Raha Beach provides:

• Bus services (routes 170, 175, and K4)
• Easy taxi availability
• Dedicated cycling paths
• Walkable promenades connecting different precincts

Rental and Sale Trends

How much you pay to rent in Al Raha Beach depends on what kind of property you choose:

• Studios: AED 55,000/year (average)
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 76,000/year (average)
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 123,000/year (average)
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 176,000/year (average)
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 349,000/year (average)

People who want to buy can expect these average sales prices:

• Studios: AED 980,000
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 1,267,000
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 1,857,000
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 2,827,000
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 8,150,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Al Raha Beach has an impact on investors with appealing ROI:

• Studios: 6.08%
• 1-bedroom apartments: 6.11%
• 2-bedroom apartments: 6.37%
• 3-bedroom apartments: 6.18%
• 4-bedroom villas: 6.92%

Popular Sub-communities

Al Raha Beach contains several sub-community that people want to live in:

1. Al Muneera: Features canal-side living and a combination of apartments and townhouses
2. Al Raha Lofts: Provides unique loft-style apartments
3. Lamar Residence: A new development offering contemporary apartments and townhouses
4. Al Zeina: A neighborhood suitable for families with a blend of apartments and villas
5. Al Bandar: Houses the marina and boasts luxurious waterfront apartments

Saadiyat Island

Do you want a mix of culture, nature, and luxury? Saadiyat Island could be the perfect community for you. This beautiful island is becoming the cultural center of Abu Dhabi.

Saadiyat Island is located about 500 meters from Abu Dhabi’s coast. The Sheikh Khalifa Bridge links it to the mainland. The island spans 27 square kilometers and has seven distinct districts:

1. Saadiyat Cultural District
2. Saadiyat Marina District
3. Saadiyat Beach
4. Saadiyat Retreat
5. Saadiyat Reserve
6. Saadiyat Lagoons
7. Saadiyat Promenade

Property Types

Saadiyat Island has an array of upscale properties such as:

• Luxury apartments (studios to 4-bedrooms)
• Roomy villas (3 to 7-bedrooms)
• Townhouses with private gardens
• Penthouses offering sweeping sea views
• Beachfront homes

A lot of properties give you amazing views of the Arabian Gulf or the island’s unspoiled beaches. You’ll find building styles from modern to designs inspired by Arabian architecture.

Amenities and Lifestyle

When you live on Saadiyat Island, you get to enjoy:

• The Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
• 9 kilometers of spotless beaches with white sand
• Upscale resorts such as St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
• Gary Player designed the 18-hole oceanfront Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
• Easy access to beach clubs and gourmet restaurants
• The Collection offers a high-end shopping experience
• Art shows and cultural activities at Manarat Al Saadiyat

Education and Healthcare

For families and professionals, Saadiyat Island has:

• Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, a top-notch British curriculum school
• Redwood Montessori Nursery and Bright Beginnings Nursery for little ones
• Quick access to health centers like HealthPlus Family Clinic

Transportation

While owning a car helps, Saadiyat Island offers:

• Buses that link to mainland Abu Dhabi
• Bike lanes and walkways
• Taxis at your beck and call
• Plans to beef up public transit options down the road

Rent and Sale Patterns

Rent prices on Saadiyat Island show its high-end status:

• Studios: AED 57,000/year (average)
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 103,000/year (average)
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 169,000/year (average)
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 226,000/year (average)
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 505,000/year (average)

If you want to buy here are the average sales prices:

• Studios: AED 1,008,000
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 1,658,000
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 2,731,500
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 7,808,000
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 7,857,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Saadiyat Island gives investors good ROI:

• Studios: 4.17%
• 1-bedroom apartments: 4.22%
• 2-bedroom apartments: 4.05%
• 3-bedroom apartments: 3.60%
• 4-bedroom villas: 5.84%

Popular Sub-communities

Some of the most popular areas on Saadiyat Island include:

1. Mamsha Al Saadiyat: Beachfront apartments and penthouses
2. Saadiyat Beach Villas: High-end standalone villas close to the beach
3. Jawaher Saadiyat: Select gated community of villas
4. Saadiyat Beach Residences: Apartment complexes with resort-like amenities
5. Hidd Al Saadiyat: A top-tier villa community with its own beach access

Masdar City

Masdar City is a planned city that focuses on sustainable living and clean energy. It has a variety of apartments and townhouses, all built with sustainability in mind. The development is praised for its energy-efficient homes and inventive urban design. Masdar City boasts sustainable architecture across the board, with buildings designed to limit energy consumption while maximizing natural light and ventilation.

You’ll find Masdar City, about 17 km from downtown Abu Dhabi close to the Abu Dhabi International Airport. It spans 6 square kilometers and aims to be a sustainable urban community, depending mostly on solar power and renewable energy.

Property Types

Masdar City provides various sustainable housing options such as:

• Apartments (ranging from studios to 3-bedrooms)
• Townhouses built with energy-saving designs
• Green office spaces
• Housing for students

Every property in Masdar City has sustainability at its core. These homes come with appliances that save energy, fixtures that conserve water, and technologies that make homes smarter.

Amenities and Lifestyle

When you live in Masdar City, you’ll get to enjoy:

• Pedestrian-friendly streets and cycling paths
• My City Centre Masdar to shop and have fun
• Close to schools like Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence
• A spotlight on clean-tech firms and innovation centers
• Farmers’ markets and community gatherings that happen often
• Masdar Park, with outdoor gym equipment and food trucks
• The Etihad Eco-Residence, an eco-friendly apartment complex
• The Knowledge Centre, a place to research and develop

Education and Healthcare

Masdar City meets educational and healthcare needs with:

• GEMS Education runs a green school in the city
• The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
• Health centers like NMC Royal Hospital in nearby Khalifa City

Transportation

Masdar City leads the way in green travel:

• Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system - self-driving electric cars
• NAVYA self-driving electric shuttle buses
• Big network of bike paths and areas easy to walk
• Electric car charging spots all over the city
• Plans to build a light rail to link up with Abu Dhabi

Rental and Sale Trends

Rent and buy prices in Masdar City match up well showing its special place:

• Studios: AED 30,000 - 40,000/year (rental)
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 45,000 - 60,000/year (rental)
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 70,000 - 90,000/year (rental)

Sales prices differ, but fall within these ranges:

• Studios: AED 450,000 - 700,000
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 600,000 - 1,000,000
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 900,000 - 1,500,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Masdar City shows promising returns on investment as the community grows and expands. While exact numbers can change, investors find the city’s unique place in the sustainable living market appealing.

Popular Projects

Some of the well-liked residential buildings in Masdar City include:

1. Bab Al Qasr Resort Residence
2. Oasis Residences Two
3. The Cate Masdar City
4. Siadah Al Mahra Residence
5. Reportage Plaza 2

Khalifa City

Are you looking for a family-friendly neighborhood that feels like the suburbs? Khalifa City might be just what you’re after. This established area has a mix of villas and apartments suiting different tastes and wallets. Located between Abu Dhabi City and Dubai, It offers great connectivity. It’s split into three main parts:

1. Khalifa City A (now just Khalifa City)
2. Shakhbout City (once called Khalifa City B)
3. Zayed City (New Khalifa City)

The area covers about 230 square kilometers offering a blend of homes, shops, and places to have fun.

Property Types

Khalifa City has a variety of property options, including:

• Big villas (3 to 6 bedrooms)
• Apartments (studios to 3 bedrooms)
• Villa compounds with shared facilities
• Townhouses in gated neighborhoods

Many homes have traditional Arabic designs, while newer projects look more modern.

Facilities and Daily Life

When you live in Khalifa City, you’ll have access to:

• Many parks and green areas, including the well-liked ‘park behind the pink shops’
• Close to Abu Dhabi Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course
• Al Forsan International Sports Resort, which offers activities such as equestrian sports, shooting, and water sports
• Quick access to schools and healthcare facilities
• A calmer, more suburban feel
• Community centers and mosques
• Local markets and the ‘pink shops’ to buy daily essentials
• Forsan Central Mall to shop and have fun

Education and Healthcare

Khalifa City stands out for its top-notch educational and healthcare facilities:

• International School of Choueifat (SABIS curriculum)
• GEMS American Academy Abu Dhabi (American and IB curriculum)
• Al Raha International School (IB curriculum)
• Repton School Abu Dhabi
• NMC Royal Hospital
• Burjeel Medical City
• Several clinics and medical centers

Transportation

You should own a car, but Khalifa City provides:

• Buses that connect to central Abu Dhabi and other areas
• Quick access to major highways for people who commute
• A short drive to Abu Dhabi International Airport (about 20 minutes)

Rental and Sale Trends

People can rent homes in Khalifa City for less money than in some central areas:

• Studios: AED 30,000/year (average)
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 45,000/year (average)
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 74,000/year (average)
• 3-bedroom villas: AED 155,000/year (average)
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 171,000/year (average)

People who want to buy can expect these average sales prices for villas:

• 3-bedroom villas: AED 3,818,000
• 4-bedroom villas: AED 4,634,000
• 5-bedroom villas: AED 6,105,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Villa investments in Khalifa City offer competitive ROI:

• 3-bedroom villas: 3.75%
• 4-bedroom villas: 3.61%
• 5-bedroom villas: 3.69%
• 6-bedroom villas: 4.97%

Popular Sub-communities

Khalifa City includes these well-known areas:

1. Al Rayyana: A gated community that has apartments and townhouses
2. Al Forsan Village: A mixed-use development close to the sports resort
3. Al Raha Golf Gardens: High-end villas near the golf course
4. Golf Gardens: Another upscale neighborhood with villas

Yas Island

Are you looking for a community that combines leisure, entertainment, and residential living? Yas Island might be the perfect fit for you. This man-made island is home to some of Abu Dhabi’s most exciting attractions and offers a unique lifestyle for residents.

Yas Island is located about 30 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Spanning 25 square kilometers, it’s known for its world-class entertainment venues and leisure facilities.

Property Types

Yas Island offers a range of property types, including:

• Apartments (studios to 3 bedrooms)
• Townhouses (2 to 4 bedrooms)
• Villas (3 to 6 bedrooms)

Many properties offer views of the Yas Marina Circuit or the island’s lush golf courses.

Amenities and Lifestyle

Living on Yas Island, you’ll enjoy:

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari-themed park
• Yas Waterworld, a massive water park with 43 rides and attractions
• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, an indoor amusement park
• Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
• Yas Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Abu Dhabi
• Yas Links Golf Course, an 18-hole links golf course
• Yas Beach, a pristine white sand beach
• Numerous hotels, restaurants, and cafes
• Regular concerts and events at du Arena

Education and Healthcare

While Yas Island itself doesn’t have many schools, nearby options include:

• SABIS International School - Yas Island (opening soon)
• Aldar Academies’ West Yas Academy
• Several schools in nearby Khalifa City

For healthcare, Mediclinic Yas Island provides primary healthcare services, while more comprehensive medical facilities are available in nearby areas.

Transportation

Yas Island offers:

• Easy access to major highways
• Free Yas Express shuttle service around the island
• Proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport
• Future plans for a metro system connecting to Abu Dhabi city

Rental and Sale Trends

Rental prices on Yas Island reflect its unique offerings:

• Studios: AED 45,000 - 60,000/year
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 60,000 - 90,000/year
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 90,000 - 130,000/year
• 3-bedroom villas: AED 180,000 - 250,000/year

For those looking to buy, average sales prices range from:

• Studios: AED 600,000 - 900,000
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 900,000 - 1,500,000
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 1,500,000 - 2,500,000
• 3-bedroom villas: AED 3,000,000 - 5,000,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Yas Island offers good ROI potential, especially given its popularity as a tourist destination and ongoing development. ROI can range from 5% to 8% depending on the property type and location.

Popular Sub-communities

Some of the popular areas within Yas Island include:

1. Water’s Edge: Waterfront apartments with a modern lifestyle
2. Yas Acres: A golf and waterfront villa community
3. West Yas: A villa community with a focus on family living
4. Ansam: Low-rise apartment buildings with Andalusian-inspired architecture

Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island might be the perfect community for you if you love urban living. This mixed-use development combines luxury living with a thriving business environment.

Al Maryah Island is located in the northeast of Abu Dhabi, covering approximately 114 hectares. It’s connected to the main island by several bridges and is home to Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, the city’s international financial center.

Property Types

Al Maryah Island offers a range of high-end residential options, including:

• Luxury apartments (studios to 3 bedrooms)
• Penthouses with panoramic views
• Serviced apartments in five-star hotels

Amenities and Lifestyle

Living on Al Maryah Island, you’ll enjoy:

• The Galleria, a luxury shopping and dining destination
• Proximity to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a world-class hospital
• Rosewood Abu Dhabi and Four Seasons Hotel, offering fine dining and spa experiences
• A waterfront promenade with stunning views of the city skyline
• Easy access to office buildings for those working in finance or business
• Regular community events and festivals
• High-end fitness centers and wellness facilities

Education and Healthcare

While there are no schools on the island itself, nearby options include:

• Repton School Abu Dhabi on Al Reem Island
• Brighton College Abu Dhabi in Al Manasir

For healthcare, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides world-class medical services right on the island.

Transportation

Al Maryah Island offers:

• Easy access to major highways via several bridges
• Proximity to Abu Dhabi’s future metro system
• Water taxis connecting to other parts of Abu Dhabi

Rental and Sale Trends

Rental prices on Al Maryah Island reflect its premium status:

• Studios: AED 60,000 - 80,000/year
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 90,000 - 130,000/year
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 130,000 - 180,000/year
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 180,000 - 250,000/year

For those looking to buy, average sales prices range from:

• Studios: AED 1,000,000 - 1,500,000
• 1-bedroom apartments: AED 1,500,000 - 2,500,000
• 2-bedroom apartments: AED 2,500,000 - 4,000,000
• 3-bedroom apartments: AED 4,000,000 - 7,000,000

Return on Investment (ROI)

Al Maryah Island offers competitive ROI potential, especially for long-term investors. ROI can range from 5% to 7% depending on the property type and location.

Popular Buildings

Some of the popular residential buildings on Al Maryah Island include:

1. Al Maryah Vista
2. Four Seasons Private Residences
3. Rosewood Residences

Ramhan Island

Ramhan Island is supposed to be the most luxurious and exclusive place to live in Abu Dhabi. This new development offers high-end villas for people who want a super luxurious life on a private island. This upcoming community promises to offer a unique blend of natural beauty and high-end living.

It is an archipelago located off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The development covers a total area of 4 million square meters, with 2.2 million square meters of developable land. It’s currently accessible via a 10-minute boat ride, with plans for a bridge connection in the future.

Property Types

Ramhan Island will offer a range of luxury properties, including:

• Waterfront villas (3 to 7 bedrooms)
• Floating villas
• Marina apartments
• Serviced residences

Amenities and Lifestyle

Once completed, Ramhan Island will feature:

• Private beaches and crystal-clear waters
• A 170-berth marina
• Luxury hotels
• High-end retail and dining options
• Water sports facilities
• Yoga and wellness centers
• Stargazing areas
• Scenic boardwalks and nature trails
• A beach bar and entertainment venues

Education and Healthcare

As an off-plan project, specific details about schools and healthcare facilities on Ramhan Island are not yet available. However, the development is likely to include or be near:

• International schools
• Medical clinics or a small hospital

Transportation

Transportation plans for Ramhan Island include:

• A future bridge connecting to the mainland
• Water taxis and private boats
• Potential for eco-friendly internal transportation options

Sale Trends and Investment Potential

As an off-plan project, current sales trends for Ramhan Island include:

• 4-bedroom villas: Starting from AED 10,571,000
• 5-bedroom villas: Starting from AED 14,552,000
• 6-bedroom villas: Starting from AED 13,901,000
• 7+ bedroom villas: Starting from AED 23,345,000

The developer, Eagle Hills, offers a flexible 50/50 payment plan, with 50% due during construction and 50% upon handover.

Return on Investment (ROI)

As a new luxury development, Ramhan Island is expected to offer strong investment potential. However, specific ROI figures are not yet available as the project is still in its early stages.

Upcoming Features

Ramhan Island’s master plan includes:

• 1,350 standalone villas
• 1,000 marina residences
• A hotel with 120 rooms
• 120 serviced apartments
• Extensive green spaces and eco-parks

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Abu Dhabi Community

Abu Dhabi offers a diverse range of communities to suit various lifestyles, preferences, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for waterfront luxury, sustainable living, family-friendly suburbs, urban excitement, or an exclusive island retreat, there’s a community in Abu Dhabi that’s perfect for you.

When choosing your ideal community, consider factors such as:

1. Your lifestyle preferences (urban vs. suburban, quiet vs. active)
2. Proximity to work or schools
3. Budget for rent or purchase
4. Desired amenities and facilities
5. Future development plans for the area
6. Investment potential if you’re buying
7. Transportation options and commute times
8. Community atmosphere and demographics
9. Access to healthcare facilities
10. Availability of leisure and recreational activities

Remember, each community has its unique charm and advantages. Take the time to visit different areas, talk to residents, and imagine yourself living there. Consider spending a day in each community to get a feel for the lifestyle and amenities.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

• For luxury waterfront living: Al Raha Beach or Ramhan Island
• For cultural experiences and pristine beaches: Saadiyat Island
• For sustainable, eco-friendly living: Masdar City
• For family-friendly suburban life: Khalifa City
• For entertainment and leisure: Yas Island
• For urban, business-centric living: Al Maryah Island

Ultimately, the best community for you will depend on your personal preferences, family needs, and lifestyle choices. Abu Dhabi’s diverse range of communities ensures that you’ll find the perfect place to call home, whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree looking for a peaceful haven.