13 Best Areas in Abu Dhabi to Live in

Are you dreaming of a life filled with charm and unparalleled experiences? Look no further than Abu Dhabi, the jewel of the Middle. It offers residents an outstanding selection of desirable places to call home. In this article, we will take you on a captivating journey through the 13 best areas in Abu Dhabi, where you can find your own personal oasis in this vibrant and dynamic city.

Table of Content

• Yas Island
• The Corniche Area
• Saadiyat Island
• Al Reem Island
• Al Maryah Island
• Tourist Club Area
• Khalifa City
• Al Khalidiyah
• Al Reef
• Mohammed Bin Zayed City
• Al Raha
• Al Mushrif
• Al Karamah

FAQs

Best Residential Areas in Abu Dhabi

Looking for a place to live in Abu Dhabi? The city has many great options, from modern flats to big villas and even houses with sea views. We’ve made a list of the 13 best areas to live in, picked for their good locations, facilities, and friendly neighborhoods. Explore and find your perfect home in Abu Dhabi now!

1. Yas Island

How about living where entertainment is endless? It sounds exciting! Surely, we are talking about Yas Island; it’s one of the best areas to live in Abu Dhabi. You’ll have a high standard residency for you and your family. 

You will have fun in every corner as this cool island has one of the most famous malls in the city and great nightlife too. 

With its Numerous thrilling destinations and luxurious residential options, it’s definitely one of the top residential areas in Abu Dhabi

Location

It’s located 20 km east of Abu Dhabi city centre. Yas Island is a 15-minute drive from Abu Dhabi Airport.

Facilities

• Warner Bros. World
• Yas Waterworld
• Yas Marina Circuit 
• Yas Marina 
• Yas Beach
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
• Dancing fountain
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Yas Mall
• Supermarkets
• Hotels
• Parks 
• West Yas Plaza
• Schools
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There are a couple of bus stations near Yas Mall, including Yas Mall West and Yas Mall North. In addition to the new pre-booked bus “ Abu Dhabi link” that you can book from anywhere in Khalifa city from 6-11 PM every day

Properties 

At Yas Island, you’re offered ranging sizes of apartments, villas, and townhouses. You can buy or rent the suitable one since both options are available. 

Find here the available apartments units at Yas Island to rent on Property Finder. For buying, check the properties for sale at Yas Island.

2. The Corniche Area

Here’s one of the top living areas in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche Area. It’s a lavish, breathtaking community by the sea that is considered an exemplary one in Abu Dhabi. 

This iconic destination includes a number of entertainment areas. Not just that, you’ll relish a waterfront residency at its luxurious towers, overlooking the sea. Your morning view every day is the blue mesmerizing waters; unbelievable, isn’t it? 

This stunning community is one of the best neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi where you surely will have a matchless stay. 

Location

It’s located on the northwestern side of Abu Dhabi right on the seashore, and to the southeast of Al Kasir.

Facilities

• The Corniche Road
• Marina Mall
• Restaurants 
• Beach
• Cafes 
• Schools
• Hospitals. 

Transportation

There is a bus station on the Corniche Road. It can also be accessed from Khalifa University.

Properties

This area is a high class one including extraordinary skyscrapers and towers like Etihad Towers, Al Jowhara tower, Nation Towers, and more. 

They provide you numerous types of buildings like apartments, penthouses, duplexes, and villas to have the best residential experience. 

If you prefer renting rather than buying, then check the apartments for rent at Corniche Area on Property Finder.

3. Saadiyat Island

If you love culture, this is the best location to stay in Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat Island is a cultural hub that houses Manarat Al Saadiyat and other distinct spots. 

It includes many lush residential areas, ensuring you a distinct stay. Besides, you’re offered a lavish residency where most of the units overlook the charming sea.

This island will help you learn more about culture through attending various events and seeing works of art. Saadiyat Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s popular places; it’s a choice that you’ll never regret. 

Location

It’s located north of Abu Dhabi city centre, between Zayed Port and Al Jubail Island. Saadiyat Island is a 20-minute drive from Abu Dhabi Airport.

Facilities

• Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Museums
• Manarat Al Saadiyat
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Art Central
• Galleria Mall
• Schools.

Transportation

You can easily take the bus line 170 that goes from Abu Dhabi To Saddyiat.

Properties

There are different prestigious buildings and compounds in Saadiyat Island. Each one includes different types and sizes of buildings. 

This community in Abu Dhabi features a wide variety of options ensuring you the ultimate experience. 

Find the properties for sale at Saadiyat Island on Property Finder.

4. Al Reem Island

Al Reem Island is the gem of Abu Dhabi, where you can find the unblemished residency you deserve. It’s known for its luxurious and magnificent residential towers where your home’s view is the island’s beautiful skyline. 

Besides, being a natural island makes it a perfect environment for a peaceful stay. While living on Al Reem Island, you can have a walk by the beach whenever it pops in your mind. Also,This unique island is one of the best areas in Abu Dhabi for expats to live where you will feel like home!

Location

Reem Island is located around 600 metres off Abu Dhabi’s northeastern coast, and right next to Qasr Al Bahr and Mangrove National Park.

Facilities

• Gateway Park
• Reem Central Park
• Dancing fountain
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Beach 
• Al Reem mall
• Carrefour market
• Schools
• Nurseries 
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There are two main bus stations and both Buses number 63 and 7 pass by Al Reem island.

Properties

You can live in one of the most notable communities in Reem Island like City of Lights, Marina Square, and Shams Abu Dhabi.

Whether you want to buy or rent an apartment, villa, or even a penthouse, you’ll find them in this awesome area.

For renting, check the flats for rent at Reem Island on Property Finder. 

5. Al Maryah Island

How about living in a dynamic area that feels like downtown yet away from crowds? You can relish this at Al Maryah Island; it provides a modern lifestyle and a high quality living atmosphere. 

It is Abu Dhabi’s new Central Business District so staying in such a promising area is a good idea. Besides, it has distinct residential areas to finally have the supreme home.

At Al Maryah Island, you are offered five-star hotels, tons of entertainment spots, and shopping areas with top brands. Don’t think too much and go live in one of the best Abu Dhabi’s neighborhoods.

Location

It’s located northeast of Abu Dhabi, right next to Al Reem Island to the west.

Facilities

• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Hotels
• The Galleria
• Al Maryah Central
• Schools 
• Hospital.

Transportation

There are several bus routes 10, 11, and 8. They pass through the centre of Al Maryah Island, going to different spots around Abu Dhabi.

Properties

At Al Maryah Island, you can find top residential buildings like Al Maryah Vista and Rosewood Abu Dhabi. You will have the best services and modern facilities in this area. 

Here are the perfect units for rentat Al Maryah Island on Property Finder. If you like it and want to own an apartment here, have a look at the best Al Maryah properties for sale.

6. Tourist Club Area

How about living in the center of the Corniche Road? This sounds exciting! You can have such a residency at the Tourist Club Area Abu Dhabi.

Besides, It’s one of the most lively areas in the city where you surely will have a joyful stay. It houses unique restaurants, shops, and artistic developments.

So now, Imagine going for a walk by the sea at night under the dazzling stars after finishing your work; it is a blessing! That is why it is one of the most sought-after places to live in Abu Dhabi.

Location

It’s located in the northern corner of Abu Dhabi, to the northwest of Qasr Al Bahr.

Facilities

• Al Muhairy Centre
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Lavish hotels 
• Landscapes
• Schools
• Nurseries 
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There are several bus stations throughout the area with different routes that move around all areas in Abu Dhabi. The bus numbers are: 44, 5, 54, 56.

Properties

The Mina Road, Al Firdous Street, and BayView are from the top destinations for residency in the Tourist Club Area.

You can rent an apartment with ranging numbers of bedrooms which overlook the mesmerizing sea view.   

Here are the properties for rent at Tourist Club Area on Property Finder; choose your new cozy home now!

7. Khalifa City

If you want a quiet life away from the city, yet close to all the attractions, then the answer is Khalifa City; it’s one of the best areas to live in Abu Dhabi in a calm atmosphere.

In Khalifa City offers you all the services and facilities, ensuring you a matchless residential experience. In addition, it has quick access to Dubai which makes it an optimum choice on so many levels.

Not just that, in case you seek living in a villa or a spacious apartment, Khalifa City is the one. It’s known for providing lavish units with reasonable prices. It’s the place where your budget can cover more than just living.

Location

It is located on the eastern side of Abu Dhabi. Khalifa City is 20 minutes away from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and close to Yas Island and Al Raha Beach.

Facilities

• Khalifa City Splash Park
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Central Mall 
• Golf courses 
• Al Forsan International Sports Resort
• Schools
• Nurseries
• Universities
• Hospitals.

Transportation

You can board a bus in Khalifa City and these are the lines that serve this are “ 160” “ 162” “218”. In addition to the new pre-booked bus “ Abu Dhabi link” that you can book from anywhere in Khalifa city from 6-11 PM every day.

Properties

At Khalifa City, you can choose starting from small studios to wide villas; all are available. The Villa Compound and Al Rayana are from its most recognizable communities. 

Do you want to own a property in this significant community? You can do that through checking the properties for sale at Khalifa City on Property Finder to get yours now! 

8. Al Khalidiyah

If you are still thinking about what is a good place to live in Abu Dhabi, you should really consider Al Khalidiyah. It’s the hidden gem of Abu Dhabi that is near the Corniche.

Al Khalidiyah is a pretty suburb where local families and ex-pats can enjoy a peaceful life and distinct leisure activities with the variety of options offered in the place.

Not just that, it is one of the most vibrant areas in Abu Dhabi where the old meets the modern. Al Khalidiyah boasts a combination of the old Emirati style, with the luxury of modern developments.

Location

It’s bordered by Al Bateen to its west, Al Manhal and Al Zaab to its east, plus Al Rowdah to its south. 

Al Khalidiya meets the Corniche along its northern edge; it’s about 30 minutes away from Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Facilities

• Al Khalidiya Park
• Corniche
• Abu Dhabi Corniche beach
• Restaurants
• Cafes
• Khalidiyah Mall
• Schools
• Hospitals.

Transportation

The bus lines that service this area are: 10,32,40,8.

Properties

There are many choices of varying sizes of apartments and villas in Khalidiya.

If you prefer to live in towers, then the Golden Tower and Al Ain Tower are the most recognizable ones. In case you prefer communities, then Khalidiya Street and Corniche Al Khalidiyah are its popular spots. 

You can have a look at the properties for rent in Al Khalidiyah on Property Finder. 

9. Al Reef

Al Reef is one of the most popular residential areas in Abu Dhabi. It includes two unique sub-communities: Al Reef Villas and Al Reef Downtown. This provides you with many home options to choose the perfect one that matches your request.

You will be closer to Dubai; this means it’s an ideal option if you’re commuting there every day, or thinking about working in Dubai.

Moreover, Al Reef is a cheap area to live in Abu Dhabi so you can stay in a villa or spacious apartment without paying all the money in your bank account!

Location

It’s located on Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road, to the north of Abu Dhabi International Airport, and to the east of Yas Island.

Facilities

• Al Reef Club
• Restaurants
• Cafes
• Gyms 
• Spa 
• Deerfields Mall
• Green Mart
• Schools
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There is a bus that runs through Al Reef island and the lines that service this area in Abu Dhabi are 111, 115, 160, 32, 400, 401, and A1. Additionally, you can take a taxi, but a car remains the best mode of transportation in the area.

Properties

You can pick from the numerous modern apartments, villas, and townhouses in Al Reef the one that matches your preference. 

If you aren’t thinking about owning one, then you can rent at Al Reef; choose the best one from the available units on Property Finder. 

10. Mohammed Bin Zayed City

Are you searching for one of the best affordable villa communities? The answer is Mohamed Bin Zayed City (MBZ). It’s an area that meets all your needs whether services or residential options.

Mohamed Bin Zayed City is one of the cheapest areas to live in Abu Dhabi yet you will have a fascinating residency. In addition, it features top schools that your kids can join. Besides, if you’re working in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi, then living in Mohamed Bin Zayed City is a nice choice as Mussafah is its neighboring community.

Location

It’s located on Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Truck Road, in the southern part of Abu Dhabi.

Facilities

• Abu Dhabi Art Hub
• Capital Mall 
• Mazyad Mall
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Schools 
• Nurseries
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There are bus stations near Mohammed Bin Zayed City and the bus lines that service the area are 101, 102, 104.

Properties

Mohamed Bin Zayed City includes independent villas, compound villas, townhouses, and apartments. Surely, you will find one among these varieties that suits you and your family needs. 

We brought you the best residential options at Mohamed Bin Zayed City; find the units for rent on Property Finder.

Do you think about buying one? This is a good idea; just click for the best properties for sale to pick one. 

11. Al Raha

Al Raha is where the home you choose is flawless, you either will live beside gardens or by the sea.

It’s home to Al Raha Gardens and Al Raha Beach communities, which were developed by the reputable Aldar Properties, and provide various living spots with charming views. That’s why it’s considered one of the best locations to stay in Abu Dhabi. Perhaps one of the youngest neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi, yet this waterfront area is a promising and lavish residential area for expats.

Staying in a community where you have quick access to the beach or green areas whenever you want is amazing; don’t miss such a chance of living where you can enjoy tranquility in every moment!

Location

It is located on the north-east of the city centre, facing Yas Island, and in close proximity to Khalifa City. 

Al Raha is about a 25-minute drive to the city centre, and a 10-minute drive to Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Facilities

• Abu Dhabi Golf Club
• Abu Dhabi Sailing Club
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Al Raha beach
• Al Raha shopping centre
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Pharmacies.

Transportation

You can easily use these buses to commute from and to Al Raha, which are “101, 110, 120, 155, 44, 52, 54, 56”.

Properties

As Al Raha community consists of two sub communities, this broadens your choices to find exactly what you want. 

Al Raha Gardens 

If you love green areas, then Al Raha Gardens is the one. You can find villas, apartments, and townhouses with varying prices. 

Those are the properties for renting at this iconic community on Property Finder. Here are the properties for sale at Al Raha Gardens.

Al Raha Beach 

Al Raha Beach has three outstanding communities Al Bandar, Al Zeina, and Al Muneera. It’s a good choice whether you’re living alone, newly married, or have a big family. 

You can rent at Al Raha Beach; those are the properties for rent on Property Finder to pick the suitable option for you.  

12. Al Mushrif

Are you searching for a community in the heart of Abu Dhabi? Then Al Mushrif is what you’re looking for! It is a good choice for both families and individuals, featuring distinct residential types. 

Al Mushrif has beautiful green landscapes and different leisure options to have as much fun as you like. Besides, at Al Mushrif you will have the chance to visit Al Mushrif Palace which is one of Abu Dhabi’s important spots. 

In this community, you will not only have a comfy stay with many services but also you will be close to the city center’s attractions and facilities; it can’t be better than this!

Location

It’s nestled between the Arabian Gulf Street and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road).

Facilities

• Abu Dhabi Country Club
• Al Mushrif Palace
• Al Mushrif Park
• Al Mushrif Mall
• Supermarkets 
• Pharmacies 
• Schools
• University 
• Hospitals. 

Transportation

You can find a number of bus routes passing through the area including 32, 44,52. In addition, there are bus stations at Al Mushrif Palace and Mushrif Mall.

Properties

Studios, apartments, townhouses, and penthouses are the types of units you can rent or own in Al Mushrif. You will find units starting from one-bedroom up to three-bedroom ones. 

If you decided to live in this stunning community, then it’s time to pick a property there. Those are the properties for rent at Al Mushrif on Property Finder.

You can have a look at the properties for sale at Al Mushrif at this cool destination.

13. Al Karamah

How about living in a small cozy area in the center of the city? This sounds very cool! Al Karmah community is where you can enjoy such a residency with a wide variety of services. 

This awesome area is close to a number of significant destinations. Not just that, it’s positioned in downtown Abu Dhabi so transportation to almost anywhere is easy. 

Besides, Al Karmah is your ultimate destination especially if you want to live in a villa near the center of Abu Dhabi. Moreover, the property prices here are affordable, making it a budget friendly option.

Location

Al Karamah is located in the center of Abu Dhabi City, between Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street and Al Karamah Street.

Facilities

• Al Wahda Mall
• Restaurants 
• Cafes
• Schools
• Nurseries 
• Hospitals.

Transportation

There are many bus stations in Al Karamah that go to almost every area in Abu Dhabi and the most famous lines are 101, 130, 155, 44.

Properties

Al Karamah is home to lavish villas, duplexes, and apartments. You can find up to five-bedroom units. 

Here are the properties for rent at Al Karamah on Property Finder; have a look at them. 

FAQs

What Are the Best Places to Live in Abu Dhabi?

If you’re searching for the best place to live in Abu Dhabi, the city offers a variety of options, from sleek modern apartments to spacious villas and even homes with stunning sea views. As we mentioned above, the top 13 areas were carefully selected for their prime locations, excellent amenities, and welcoming communities. These locations are

• Yas Island
• The Corniche Area
• Saadiyat Island
• Al Reem Island
• Al Maryah Island
• Tourist Club Area
• Khalifa City
• Al Khalidiyah
• Al Reef
• Mohammed Bin Zayed City

Where do expats live in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi has various spots that expats love:  

• Khalifa City: great choice for families who want space and quiet
• Al Reef Island is perfect for you if you’re on a budget but still want a vibrant community. 
•  The Tourist Club Area: is for you if you’re into the city life.
• Al Bateenis worth exploring For a slice of tradition, 
• Al Maryah Island: is for top-notch modern living, you can’t go wrong with it.

In short, there’s something for everyone in Abu Dhabi!

What is the richest area in Abu Dhabi?

These places showcase Abu Dhabi’s rich  side.

• Saadiyat Island is high on the list with its fancy museums and premium properties.
•  Al Raha Beach is another hotspot with its luxury homes and stunning views.
•  Al Maryah Island, known for its chic, urban vibe and upscale apartments. 

Is Abu Dhabi the best place to live?

“Best” is quite personal, but here’s the scoop on Abu Dhabi: It’s a launchpad for cool travel adventures and has a mix of dining spots to indulge in. Besides, It’s super safe, and there’s no income tax. 

Whether you’re an expat or a citizen who wants to relocate, this is your ultimate guide to pick a living area in Abu Dhabi. So get ready for experiencing the beauty of living in Abu Dhabi!

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