Are you seeking a mixed-use community for residential and commercial purposes? Al Markaziya or Central Business District (CBD), is a popular community in Downtown Abu Dhabi. Living in Al Markaziya offers connectivity, accessibility and convenience.
The good parts accompany a few challenges. Let’s compare the pros and cons of living in Al Markaziya to help you make an informed decision.
Overview
In the Al Hisn area of Abu Dhabi lies a vibrant community Al Markaziya also known as the Central Business District (CBD). This mixed-use community is popular for its commercial and residential options.
The community blends heritage with contemporary architecture. It is the best option for families and working professionals.
Pros of Living in Al Markaziya
There is a lot that is good about Al Markaziya, from its lively lifestyle to its strategic location. Let’s look at the best parts of living in the community:
1. Prime Location Close to Popular Communities
Al Markaziya is nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, buzzing with activity. Its proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport makes it a top choice for frequent travellers. Whether you are a working professional or a student, living in Al Markaziya provides great accessibility.
Residents can easily travel to the following communities close to Al Markaziya:
- Al Danah: 4 minutes drive
- Al Khalidiya: 6 minutes drive
- Al Manhal: 6 minutes drive
- Al Bateen: 9 minutes drive
2. A Mixed-Use Community
Al Markaziya is a mixed-use community ideal for residents who want to live and work in the same place. The area features low-rise buildings and skyscrapers, each housing apartments and offices. Apartments come in 1 to 3-bed configurations, each blending modernism with traditional designs.
3. Access to Public Transportation
Commuting daily for work or routine tasks is easier than ever with multiple Abu Dhabi public transport modes in Al Markaziya. You can find bus stops near your residence and travel around the city at reasonable costs. Popular bus lines such as 5, 33, 40, 63 and 65 run through these nearby bus stops:
- Hamdan Street Bus Stop: 2 minutes drive
- Corniche Street Bus Stop: 2 minutes drive
- Al Hisn Street Bus Stop: 6 minutes drive
4. Ample Parking Spaces
Living in Al Markaziya offers comfort and convenience at its best. The community has ample parking spaces for residents and visitors.
5. Safe and Family-Friendly Neighbourhood
Are you looking to relocate to Abu Dhabi with your family? Al Markaziya is popular among families with children for its secure and lively lifestyle. The community promotes close bonding and organises annual events. Moreover, residents are no short of schooling options, supermarkets, restaurants and leisure facilities.
6. Top-Notch Educational Facilities
Al Markaziya is close to some of the best nurseries in Abu Dhabi for young learners. Not only this, the community is near some of the top-rated schools and universities. From technology-integrated classrooms to extracurricular activities, these institutes offer world-class education. Let’s look at some of the top options:
Nurseries
- King and Queen Nursery: 5 minutes drive
- Noah’s Ark Nursery Abu Dhabi: 6 minutes drive
- Vision Nursery: 6 minutes drive
Schools
- Summit International School: 5 minutes drive
- Sunrise International School: 7 minutes drive
- The Russian School of Abu Dhabi: 9 minutes drive
Higher Education Institutes
- Syscoms Abu Dhabi: 4 minutes drive
- Abu Dhabi School of Management: 5 minutes drive
- Lincoln University of Business and Management: 6 minutes drive
7. Essential Facilities and Amenities at Your Doorstep
Living in Al Markaziya offers a connected lifestyle where you can find everything on a short walk. Want to go shopping? There are malls and supermarkets nearby. Don’t feel like eating at home? Dine in at one of the best restaurants near the community. Here is what you can find at a close distance to Al Markaziya:
Supermarkets and Malls
Are you short on time and cannot travel miles to get shopping done? You can find some of the best malls in Abu Dhabi near your residence. Additionally, supermarkets like LuLu and Grandiose are readily available for budget-conscious shoppers. Here are the best options to look out for:
- Fotouh Al Khair Mall: 3 minutes drive
- Al Qarat Shopping Centre: 3 minutes drive
- Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre: 4 minutes drive
- Hamdan Shopping Centre: 4 minutes drive
- World Trade Centre Mall: 6 minutes drive
- Old Souk: 6 minutes drive
Medical Centres
Al Markaziya boasts a range of medical centres, each equipped with the latest medical equipment. The expert staff ensures that each patient receives the best treatment. Some of the nearby clinics and hospitals include:
- Central Clinic: 3 minutes drive
- NMC Speciality Hospital Abu Dhabi: 3 minutes drive
- Noor Ahalia Medical Centre: 4 minutes drive
- LLH Hospital: 4 minutes drive
- Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital: 6 minutes drive
- Al Ameen Medical Centre Abu Dhabi: 6 minutes drive
Dining Options
Are you looking to explore a new taste? Whether it is a sweet or spicy craving, you can find multiple dining options near the community. From the sizzling kebabs to flavourful shawarma, Al Markaziya has a diverse culinary scene. Feast on your comfort food at the following restaurants:
- Mannat Hyderabad Restaurant: In Al Markaziya
- Nallas Aappakadai Abu Dhabi: 4 minutes drive
- Tamil Dhaba Restaurant: 4 minutes drive
- Boti Street: 5 minutes drive
- Bait El Khetyar: 5 minutes drive
- World of Asia Restaurant: 6 minutes drive
8. Leisurely Atmosphere
Think of a lifestyle where mornings start with a stroll along the beach and evenings are spent at lush parks. The same is true about living in Al Markaziya, a charming community in Abu Dhabi. It has a vibrant atmosphere and unmatched lifestyle.
Residents can stay in shape at the gyms, jogging and cycling tracks. Some of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi are close to Al Markaziya. Here are the best leisure destinations near the community:
- Family Park A: In Al Markaziya
- Corniche Beach: 3 minutes drive
- Abu Dhabi Beach: 4 minutes drive
- Qasr Al Hosn: 4 minutes drive
- The Lake Park: 4 minutes drive
- Khalidiya Park: 5 minutes drive
- Etihad Modern Art Gallery: 7 minutes drive
Cons of Living in Al Markaziya
Al Markaziya is a self-sufficient community popular among tenants and buyers. However, residents may face a few challenges discussed below:
1. Traffic Congestion
Al Markaziya is a bustling neighbourhood where weekends are quite busy. This contributes to traffic congestion and noise pollution. Although the community has ample parking spaces to facilitate visitors, the issue persists.
2. No Freehold Property
Expats cannot buy a property in Al Markaziya since it is a non-freehold area in Abu Dhabi. However, expats can rent a property and enjoy the same lifestyle at reasonable prices. For those looking to buy a property, there are multiple areas such as Yas Island and Saadiyat Island.
3. A Bustling Neighbourhood
Al Markaziya is ideal for residents who love an outdoor lifestyle. The community may not appeal to tranquillity seekers mainly because of its vibrant atmosphere.
4. No Villa Options
The community has no villa options and is dedicated to apartments and commercial spaces. However, there are multiple villa communities in Abu Dhabi such as Khalifa City and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.
Summing Up
Pros | Cons |
Prime Location Close to Popular Communities | Traffic Congestion |
A Mixed-Use Community | No Freehold Property |
Access to Public Transportation | A Bustling Neighbourhood |
Ample Parking Spaces | No Villa Options |
Safe and Family-Friendly Neighbourhood | |
Top-Notch Educational Facilities | |
Essential Facilities and Amenities at Your Doorstep | |
Leisurely Atmosphere |
FAQs
There is a list of affordable and upscale areas in Abu Dhabi to live in. Some of the best options include Yas Island, Corniche Area, Saadiyat Island and Al Reem Island.
Multiple affordable communities in Abu Dhabi appeal to budget-conscious tenants and buyers. Some of the top choices include Al Ghadeer, Al Shamkha and Hamdan Street.
Rental comparison in Abu Dhabi vs Dubai depends on the area and property type. In most cases, the rent in Abu Dhabi is lower than in Dubai.
Living in Al Markaziya is all about enjoyment, relaxation and work. This mixed-use community is perfect for families, workaholics and couples. Rent or buy an apartment in Al Markaziya and embrace a quality lifestyle.
Khalifa City is another popular community in Abu Dhabi. Review the pros and cons of living in Khalifa City to know more.