The UAE draws immigrants from all over the world with its lucrative professional opportunities, innovative architecture, and rich culture. Relocating to Abu Dhabi can be an exciting move, whether you’re seeking family-friendly communities, a waterside retreat, or a modern urban vibe. As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi offers some of the country’s most diverse residential areas.
At Remitly, we understand what it’s like to build a life in a new country. To make your search easier, we’ve put together a guide to some of the best residential areas, including Al Bateen, Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, the Eastern Mangrove Corniche, and Zayed City.
Overview of Abu Dhabi’s residential areas
Each neighbourhood in Abu Dhabi has its own personality. If you love high-rise living with stunning sea views, areas like Eastern Mangrove and Al Reem Island offer sleek apartments with modern conveniences.
Or if you’re looking for something more private and exclusive, Saadiyat Island and Al Bateen have luxury villas with a resort-like feel. Families often settle in quieter suburban communities like Zayed City, where larger homes and parks create a more relaxed environment.
Some neighbourhoods blend everything in one place, like newly developed areas where homes, offices, and shopping spots are all within easy reach. Yas Island and Al Raha Beach have also become popular, offering scenic waterfront views and entertainment options right at your doorstep.
How to choose the right neighbourhood in Abu Dhabi
To find the perfect place to live, consider these key factors:
- Commute and location: If you work in the city centre or travel often, you might prefer a place with easy access to major roads or the airport.
- Budget: Luxury areas come at a higher price, whereas you’ll find larger properties at a lower rate in neighbourhoods further from downtown.
- Amenities: Schools, shopping centres, healthcare, parks, and gyms all play a role in daily life. It helps to check what’s nearby before deciding.
- Lifestyle fit: Do you prefer a quiet, family-friendly area, a lively city vibe, or a peaceful coastal retreat? Your surroundings can make a big difference in your experience.
- Future growth: Some areas, like Zayed City’s new developments, could become prime spots for investment in the future.
Al Bateen: a peaceful waterfront retreat
Al Bateen is a peaceful waterfront neighbourhood along Corniche Road, offering a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the sea. Known for its scenic beauty, it’s a great choice if you enjoy coastal walks, quiet surroundings, and a more laid-back lifestyle while still being close to the heart of Abu Dhabi.
What it’s like to live here
Life in Al Bateen is all about enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s a morning walk by the water or an evening watching the sunset. The nearby Corniche Beach has play areas for families, jogging tracks, and plenty of open spaces to relax.
The neighbourhood combines stylish villas, modern high-rises, and traditional homes, creating a welcoming and diverse community. You’ll also catch glimpses of old Abu Dhabi, with fishing boats still floating along the waterfront.
Everyday conveniences
Al Bateen is centrally located, making it easy to reach downtown, shopping malls, and other important areas. Many parts of the neighbourhood are great for walking and biking, and there’s a good mix of options if you like eating out, from fancy hotel restaurants to small cafes with sea or garden views.
While traffic can slow things down during rush hour, major highways connect Al Bateen to places like Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Khalifa City without too much hassle.
Is it the right neighbourhood for you?
- Families appreciate Al Bateen’s quiet streets, nearby schools, and green spaces, making it a great choice for raising children.
- Professionals working in government offices or the business district make the most of the short commute while still coming home to a peaceful environment.
- If you enjoy a touch of luxury, Al Bateen’s high-end homes and five-star hotels make it an easy choice for refined living.
Saadiyat Island: where luxury meets culture
If you equate Abu Dhabi with luxury and culture, Saadiyat Island probably tops your list of areas to live. With its pristine coastline, breathtaking architecture, and world-class museums, this island offers a refined lifestyle in a beautiful setting.
High-end living and attractions
Homes on Saadiyat Island are designed with high-end finishes, private beach access, and even sea views from your living room in some cases. Many properties feel like five-star resorts, with pools, gyms, and on-site restaurants creating a relaxed, upscale environment. It’s also home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s most renowned museums, where you can explore incredible art collections just minutes from your doorstep.
Culture, beaches, and easy access to the city
- World-class culture: Saadiyat is a cultural hub, with attractions like the Manarat Al Saadiyat art gallery and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi making it a hotspot for art lovers.
- Beach clubs: If you enjoy spending weekends by the sea, the island’s beach clubs offer soft white sands and a peaceful escape. Check out Mamsha Beach for oceanfront restaurants and cafes.
- Accessibility: While it feels like a retreat, Saadiyat is well-connected to central Abu Dhabi, making daily errands and commutes simple.
If you need a change of scenery, Yas Island, known for Ferrari World, Yas Mall, and Waterworld, is just a short drive away, offering entertainment for all ages.
Who would enjoy living here?
- Art and culture lovers: The island is ideal for those who want museums and creative events nearby.
- Professionals: For someone with a generous housing budget who prefers an elegant, peaceful setting close to the city, this is a great match.
- Beach lovers: There’s nothing better than stepping out of your home and straight onto some of the most beautiful coastlines in Abu Dhabi.
While living here comes at a premium, the mix of cultural vibrancy, seaside relaxation, and top-tier amenities makes it a dream location for many newcomers.
Al Reem Island: a modern and lively community
Al Reem Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most rapidly developing residential areas, offering a mix of high-rise apartments and a lively, urban environment. Its prime location just off the main island makes it a favourite for professionals and expats.
Housing and neighbourhood atmosphere
Most buildings on Al Reem Island are contemporary high-rises with stylish apartments. Many residential complexes have on-site gyms, cafes, and supermarkets, so daily essentials are always within reach. The island has a sleek, city-like feel, but there are also tranquil waterfront areas where residents can enjoy a laid-back pace.
Despite its urban vibe, Al Reem offers a sense of community, with plenty of social spaces that bring people together. Jogging and cycling paths along the water provide a great way to stay active, and many apartments come with balconies or shared outdoor areas to enjoy the views.
Shops, services, and daily life
Al Reem Island is growing quickly, with more supermarkets, healthcare centres, and essential services opening all the time. Shopping malls, casual cafes, and waterfront restaurants give residents plenty of options for dining and entertainment without having to travel far. The area is designed for convenience, making it easy to get everything done without leaving the neighbourhood.
For families, schooling options are still expanding, but top schools in nearby areas like Al Mushrif and Al Khalidiyah are just a short drive away. The island’s location also means commuting to central Abu Dhabi is quick and straightforward. Even during peak hours, getting to work or running errands doesn’t take long.
Who’s a good fit for Al Reem?
- Young professionals often choose Al Reem for its stylish lifestyle and modern conveniences. The area has a strong expat community, making it easy to meet people from different backgrounds and settle into life in Abu Dhabi.
- Small families who prefer apartment living with everything close by find a great fit here. While this neighbourhood doesn’t offer the large garden spaces of suburban areas, it makes up for it with easy access to parks, leisure activities, and family-friendly spots around the island.
Eastern Mangrove: an escape by the water
If you’re looking for a suburban escape without straying too far from the city, Eastern Mangrove could be for you. With its stunning mangrove forests and scenic waterfront walkways, it offers a refreshing break from the urban centre while keeping everything you need within reach.
Natural surroundings and lifestyle
Eastern Mangrove is all about making the most of nature while still enjoying modern comforts. The lush mangrove reserve is home to diverse birdlife, making it a dream for nature lovers and kayakers.
The calm, scenic walking trails are ideal for a morning jog or a leisurely evening stroll, and with a few luxury hotels nearby, spa days and fine dining are just around the corner. It truly feels like a resort-style escape, but one you can call home.
Community facilities and convenience
While it’s not as busy as other districts, the area has everything you need for day-to-day living. You’ll find cosy boutique cafes, waterfront restaurants, and a few select retail spots to cater to your essentials.
If you’re looking for bigger supermarkets or shopping malls, areas like Al Mushrif or Khalidiya are just a short drive away. The focus here is on a relaxed, scenic environment, perfect for those who love a quiet, nature-filled retreat without feeling too isolated.
Who will love living here?
- Families: The peaceful atmosphere and open spaces make it great for young children to explore, though schools may be a bit further away.
- Professionals: If you’re looking for a slower pace after a long workday, being surrounded by nature can be a great way to unwind.
- Outdoor enthusiasts: Whether it’s kayaking through the mangroves or cycling along the waterfront, this area offers a refreshing change from typical city routines.
Zayed City: an up-and-coming suburb
Looking for a place that offers space, affordability, and future potential? Zayed City (formerly Khalifa City C) is shaping up to be one of Abu Dhabi’s most exciting new suburbs. Designed with long-term growth in mind, this area blends modern living with a suburban feel, making it a great option for those who want to get ahead of the curve.
A community on the rise
Zayed City is still in its early stages, but many residents are drawn to its promise of spacious homes, improved infrastructure, and a well-planned community. The proposed master plan for 2030 shows a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, so as time goes on, it will feel more like a self-sufficient town.
The area’s location is also a plus. It’s close to Abu Dhabi International Airport, making travel easy, and as the suburb grows, distinct neighbourhoods with different housing styles will start to take shape.
Connectivity and daily life
With major highways linking Zayed City to areas like Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Mussafah, getting around is fairly straightforward. The infrastructure is still expanding, but future plans include schools, healthcare centres, grocery stores, and parks, all of which will make daily life much easier.
Some sections are even set to include office and retail spaces, meaning less commuting for those who work nearby. While there are still some gaps in facilities, many residents see this as a temporary trade-off for being part of an area with strong future prospects.
Who is Zayed City best for?
- Families: If you’re looking for a quiet, suburban environment where kids have room to play, Zayed City offers the chance to settle into a spacious home at a more affordable price.
- Professionals: The expanding infrastructure, upcoming business spaces, and overall development mean this area could be a prime location in the future.
- Investors: With the city’s ongoing expansion, Zayed City is expected to gain significant value over time. Early buyers and investors may benefit from lower prices now, with the potential for strong returns later.
Some people prefer the convenience of fully developed neighbourhoods, but for those who enjoy being part of something new and evolving, Zayed City is an exciting place to be.
FAQs
Which is the best area for families to live in Abu Dhabi?
If you’re looking for family-friendly neighbourhoods, areas like Khalifa City, Zayed City, and Al Bateen offer spacious homes with parks and schools nearby. These areas provide a quieter, suburban feel while still being well-connected to the rest of Abu Dhabi.
What’s the best place for professionals and expats moving to Abu Dhabi?
Professionals and expats often prefer areas like Al Reem Island and the Eastern Mangrove, where modern high-rises, waterfront views, and easy access to work hubs make daily life convenient.
Which neighbourhoods offer the best waterfront living in Abu Dhabi?
If you love being near the water, Saadiyat Island, Al Bateen, Al Reem Island, and the Eastern Mangrove all offer stunning coastal views, walking trails, and a relaxed atmosphere. Some even provide private beach access and resort-style amenities.
Is Zayed City a good place to live right now?
Zayed City is still developing, so while it offers affordable, spacious homes, some amenities like schools and shopping centres are still being built. It’s a great choice for those looking for long-term investment potential or a quieter suburban lifestyle with room to grow.
What is the poshest area in Abu Dhabi?
Saadiyat Island is one of the most prestigious areas to live and is where many wealthy expats choose to settle. If you’re looking for pristine beaches and luxury living, this is a great option.