Al Reem Island offers a beautiful natural setting combined with complete modern city life. This makes the island one of the most popular residential areas in Abu Dhabi. Before you decide to move, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of living in Al Reem Island.
Let’s start with an overview and then head over to the benefits and drawbacks of living in this flourishing neighbourhood.
Overview of Al Reem Island
The island is located around 600 metres northeast of Abu Dhabi’s coastline. It includes residential, commercial, and recreational buildings spread across an area of more than 6 million square metres. Because of this, locals are close to the Abu Dhabi Central Business District and other popular sites like Yas Island.
The population density of the community changed over time and currently has families, young professionals, and foreign residents. It is modern and has the right lifestyle facilities that make it an attractive place to live.
Pros of Living on Reem Island
Let’s dive into some of the many benefits of living on Al Reem Island.
1. Accessibility to Downtown Abu Dhabi
One of the biggest benefits of living in Al Reem Island is its accessibility to Abu Dhabi. There’s convenience in accessing most business and leisure centres in these places. Several bridges link the island to the mainland, meaning that people can easily commute to work and other social activities.
This added convenience further improves the residents’ quality of life, helping them balance work and leisure time.
2. Waterfront Living
Al Reem Island is actually famous for its beautiful waterfront looks and modern-day high-rise apartment buildings. From cosy studios to spacious penthouses, residents have a variety of housing options.
Whether you want to buy an apartment in Al Reem Island or rent one, most of the residential buildings offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. This serene environment is a major draw for those seeking waterfront living.
3. State-of-the-Art Amenities
There is a wide range of facilities provided to the residents to make life easier in this area. Many apartments offer such amenities as in-house fitness centres, clubhouses, swimming pools, and other leisure facilities.
There are supermarkets, cafes and restaurants all over the island which confirms that residents’ needs have been well catered for. Healthcare facilities like the Reem Hospital and Burjeel Hospital are near the area as well.
4. Shopping Malls
Al Reem Island offers residents easy access to a variety of shopping malls and dining options. The popular options are:
- Shams Boutik Mall: Featuring a range of retail stores and cafes, making it a convenient spot for residents to shop and dine.
- Reem Mall: A major retail destination on Al Reem Island with a wide array of stores, dining outlets and entertainment options.
- The Galleria in Al Maryah Island: A famous nearby mall offering luxury shopping and high-end dining experiences.
5. Pet-Friendly Environment
Al Reem Island presents a friendly environment for pet owners. There are many parks such as Reem Central Park, suitable for walking your pets and other pet-friendly activities. This improves the well-being of those blessed to own pets.
6. Diverse Community and Lifestyle
As for the demographics of Al Reem Island, the population is rather diverse. There are people from different countries and of different origins. Due to this diversity, there are many different restaurants, international cultural events, and engaging social activities available to everyone.
The island has become a preferred residential area because of the international schools and educational institutions. Some of the best schools in Al Reem Island include Repton School and Sorbonne University.
7. Safety and Security
Al Reem Island has a well-planned layout of the area. It offers families and people a safe place to live with security services such as monitoring.
Cons of Living in Al Reem Island
Along with pros, every place has some cons. Let’s go through the cons of living in Al Reem Island.
1. Ongoing Construction Projects
Al Reem Island has new residential and commercial units still in the process of development. These new projects on Al Reem Island have consequences such as noise pollution, dust and restricted access to certain areas. Some residents looking for a calm environment can find this inconvenient.
2. Higher Cost of Living
The average price for renting 1-bedroom apartments in Al Reem Island is AED 63,000 per year, which can be costly for some residents. Housing and other facilities are relatively more expensive than in some areas of Abu Dhabi.
3. Limited Public Transportation Options
Although the island is well-connected to the mainland by road, public transportation options are still developing. The lack of Abu Dhabi public buses can be inconvenient for residents who do not own personal vehicles.
FAQs
Shopping malls, cafes and restaurants are conveniently spread across Al Reem island, ensuring residents easily access essential needs.
Yes, Al Reem Island is a pet-friendly community, allowing the residents to own pets according to their community policies. There are many recreational facilities including Reem Central Park for your pets to have fun outdoors.
Like any other area, you have to weigh some points before moving to Al Reem Island. Living on Al Reem Island is attractive due to its modern facilities, beautiful surroundings, and a pet-friendly atmosphere. However, problems such as ongoing construction can be a hindrance for many. To learn more about Abu Dhabi, make sure to check out Property Finder blogs!
