According to the online database Numbeo, Abu Dhabi is the world’s safest city in 2024. And based on the IMD Smart City Index, it’s the smartest city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in 2023. This article rounds up the best Abu Dhabi neighborhoods to consider.
Why Abu Dhabi?
Situated on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, Abu Dhabi is a leading economic and cultural hub in the country, and the wider Gulf region. It’s home to over 200 nationalities who live in a city with some of the highest living standards in the world. Supported by a robust economic plan to diversify, Abu Dhabi has many thriving sectors. It’s particularly known for its tourism, healthcare, education, infrastructure and business opportunities. Its real estate is also booming. In fact, in January 2024 alone, real estate transactions surpassed $1.3 billion.
Best Abu Dhabi neighborhoods
Are you planning to move to the city or invest in its real estate? Consider these Abu Dhabi neighborhoods.
Yas Island
Located just 20 kilometers east of the city center, Yas Island is a vibrant island that houses many of the city’s most popular attractions. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and adventure, Yas Island has the Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World, Warner Bros World and Yas Waterworld. If you want leisure and entertainment, it has Yas Mall, the emirate’s largest shopping center. Trendy restaurants and serene beaches also abound, offering diverse experiences of the area. Education is also well catered for, thanks to nearby reputable schools such as West Yas Academy and SABIS International School.
All of these ensure a well-rounded community lifestyle. Another good aspect of Yas Island is that it’s only a 15-minute drive from the Abu Dhabi Airport. It’s also close to Saadiyat Island, which is yet another well-recommended neighborhood in Abu Dhabi.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island has earned a reputation as the city’s cultural capital. For a dose of art, the famous Louvre Abu Dhabi hosts exceptional exhibitions for viewing. Meanwhile, Manarat Al Saadiyat, which literally means “place of enlightenment,” is a haven for art, music and theater lovers. There is also the Grand Mosque South Gate Abu Dhabi for a voyage into Islamic arts.
The beachfront promenade of Mamsha Al Saadiyat is filled with restaurants and cafes. For entertainment, simply head to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Monte-Carlo Beach Club or Saadiyat Beach Marina Village.
Before the island became the cultural capital, it was primarily known as home to hawksbill sea turtles (they continue to nest on the island until today). With luxurious villas and apartments amid lush greenery, pristine beaches, and stunning sea views, Saadiyat offers a well-balanced lifestyle to residents. For these reasons, Saadiyat Island is considered to be one of the best neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi.
Al Reem Island
Al Reem Island is a dazzling waterfront community famous for its tall residential buildings. It gives off a luxurious yet serene atmosphere of calmness, ideal if you want a place away from the usual hustle and bustle of a modern city. This neighborhood also has pedestrian-friendly walkways.
It has all the essential community amenities — and so much more. There are offices, restaurants, educational institutions like Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Repton School Abu Dhabi, and shopping centers including Al Reem Mall and The Galleria. Want an open area? Gateway Park and Reem Central Park are the places to be. These are perfect for doing outdoor activities and checking out food trucks and sports arenas. All these features make the island ideal for single people, young couples and families alike.
Al Maryah Island
Located right next to the western part of Al Reem Island, Al Maryah Island is considered the new central business district of Abu Dhabi. It boasts meticulously planned residential areas that entice UAE nationals and expatriates who want to experience a modern lifestyle while away from thick crowds.
However, make no mistake — this neighborhood still teems with life, thanks to its array of opulent five-star hotels, entertainment venues and shopping centers with top-tier brands. In particular, Al Maryah Central and The Galleria are popular choices for retail therapy, dining and leisure. The Galleria is also home to the city’s largest theater and only full laser IMAX. On the Al Maryah Island promenade, you will also find renowned fine dining venues and cafes.
Corniche Area
Stretching 9 kilometers along Abu Dhabi’s coastline, The Corniche Road is one of the most popular landmarks in the city. This iconic waterfront neighborhood oozes urban sophistication. Think of beautiful pathways, parks and a stunning backdrop of skyscrapers. Just keep in mind that villas here are scarce; what it usually offers are apartments and penthouse suites that boast impressive vistas of the Arabian Gulf.
When it comes to attractions, Corniche Beach is among those you can visit. Beyond pristine white sands and turquoise waters, the neighborhood has many architectural gems, including the Etihad Towers complex. Nearby landmarks include Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Hosn and Qasr Al Watan. For all its many outstanding features, the Corniche is truly one of the best neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi.
Read: Prime Picks: The 5 best neighborhoods for property investment in Dubai
Final thoughts
Beyond these best neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi, you have many more options to take into account. These include Khalifa City, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Al Mushrif, Al Khalidiyah, Al Reef and Al Raha Beach. All of these cater to different preferences.
Whether you’re relocating into any of these neighborhoods or just investing in real estate there, it will be a strategic move. After all, the city is known for many good things — safety, innovation and cultural richness, among others.
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