Al Khalidiyah

Al Khalidiyah (also spelled Al Khalidiya) is one of Abu Dhabi’s most established neighbourhoods, located immediately south of the Abu Dhabi Corniche and a short drive from the city’s downtown business and cultural hubs. The area features a blend of mid to high-rise apartments, a select number of villa compounds and generous green spaces, making it ideal for those considering living in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi. 

With its leafy streets, proximity to the waterfront and ready access to retail, schools and leisure, it stands out among family-friendly communities in Abu Dhabi. Its position just off the Corniche Road makes it one of the prime residential areas near Corniche Abu Dhabi, offering urban convenience and coastal appeal.

• Mostly mid- to high-rise apartment buildings and a few villas
• Close to the popular Abu Dhabi Corniche beach
• Ideal for young professionals as well as families
• Beautiful waterfront views from most houses
• Watersport fans have plenty of activities in proximity

One of the family-friendly communities in Abu Dhabi, Khalidiya is irrefutably the heart of this island city. This neighbourhood has a bit of everything: the beach, park, and proximity to most commercial hubs in the capital. The sheer choice of rental properties in Khalidiyah is also a plus point for those considering moving to this locality.

Properties in Al Khalidiyah include a mix of independent villa compounds alongside residential and commercial buildings. On the residential side, apartments for rent in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi range from studios to 4-bedroom units. The wide range of configurations and unit types caters to singles, couples and families alike.

Whereas, villas for rent in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi may be comparatively limited. There is a selection of 4, 5 and 6-bed houses concentrated in Khalidya Village and Corniche Al Khalidiyah.

The area is popular among expats and locals alike, making it a vibrant community for families as well as young professionals. The cultural mix is similar to the overall population of the UAE, with residents hailing from South Asia, Europe and the GCC. Investors interested in the area may also find a reasonable range of properties for sale in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi.

Interested renters and buyers can explore Al Khalidiyah floor plans on Bayut.

If you are looking to move-in, take a look at the popular communities to rent properties in Al Khalidiyah:

At the heart of Abu Dhabi, Al Khalidiyah offers a wide range of staycation choices for tourists. A few notable hotels in Khalidiya include:

• Downtown Sheraton Khalidiyah Hotel
• Oryx Hotel

Guests can plan their stay at Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel, one of the best affordable hotels in Abu Dhabi. Also located close to the Corniche, Oryx Hotel is a 4-star hotel offering premium staycation deals in waterfront suites.

Residents in Al Khalidiya Abu Dhabi can park their vehicles at dedicated spots. Around the community, there are plenty of paid public parking spaces, especially by the Corniche Area. However, parking areas around popular areas may fill up quite quickly over weekends.

Those relying on public transport and bus routes in Al Khalidiyah can take Bus 31 that drops off at Khalidiyah Park, while Bus 35 covers routes from Corniche Beach to Dhafeer Street. Government-owned taxis are also easy to find along the Corniche.

Living in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi puts you close to many basic amenities including educational services, healthcare, shops and retail. The area's connectivity, family-friendly amenities and waterfront location make it one of the best places to live in Abu Dhabi.

Lulu Hypermarket in Khalidiyah Mall offers a wide selection of fresh produce and household items. Other supermarkets in Al Khalidiyah include Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society and Al Maya Supermarket. For daily essentials, residents can also rely on several convenience stores and corner shops spread throughout the community.

There are several mosques in Khalidiya Abu Dhabi. Abu Baker Siddique Mosque is one of the oldest and most well-known landmarks in the area. Those looking for churches can visit St. Joseph’s Church in Abu Dhabi, about 13 minutes away in Al Mushrif.

There are many reputable schools in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi. 

• American Community School of Abu Dhabi offers the American and IB curricula
• Al Bateen Academy follows the UK and IB systems

Moreover, the International School of Choueifat in Al Mushrif, around 11 minutes away, is also considered one of Abu Dhabi’s leading schools.

For younger children, nurseries such as Tiny Dreams Nursery, British Orchard Nursery, and Ladybird Nursery are located nearby.

Older students can find European International College and Emirates College of Technology within the community. Universities such as Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi on Al Reem Island and Khalifa University in Al Mushrif are also easily accessible.

There is a wide range of healthcare facilities in and around the community. Key medical centres include Amrita Medical Centre and Al Kamal Medical Polyclinic, while the renowned Mediclinic Al Bateen is located nearby. The closest hospitals are King’s College Hospital London – Abu Dhabi and NMC Specialty Hospital Abu Dhabi, both within a short drive. Corniche Hospital in Al Khalidiyah is one of the UAE’s leading maternity hospitals.

One of the larger districts in Abu Dhabi, Khalidiya shares its western border with Al Bateen. To the east of the community, there are Al Manhal and Al Zaab, while Al Rowdah is to the south. The area’s northern ridge is connected to the popular Abu Dhabi Corniche. Abu Dhabi’s central Khaleej Al Arabi Street runs right through Al Khalidiya Abu Dhabi, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city.

Khalidiyah Mall is a popular choice for shopping in Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi. Along with being the area’s go-to mall, the enormous landmark features Islamic architecture mimicking the old-meets-new vibe that echoes throughout the community.

The community is one of the top areas for foodies in Abu Dhabi. Apart from fast-food chains found in Khalidiyah Mall, there are many popular restaurants around the area. There is Jones the Grocer and The Living Room in Khalidiyah Village. Cantina Laredo located in Khalidiyah Mall serves Mexican food, while Gazebo (also located in Khalidiya Mall) is a popular favourite for Indian cuisine.

The hotels in the area cater to those looking to explore the nightlife. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel situated on the Corniche has numerous bars and restaurants to choose from, offering a range of cuisines from Tex-Mex to Italian. Oryx Hotel’s Fado Irish Pub is also a great choice for those looking to enjoy a fun night out. For more luxury dining options, residents may need to head out to nearby hotels such as Hilton Abu Dhabi, Khalidiyah Palace Rayhaan and St. Regis Abu Dhabi.

One of the best perks enjoyed by those living in Khalidiya is the proximity to the Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach. The area has been a favourite in the capital for families and friends to enjoy a day in the sun. Touted to be one of the best beaches in Abu Dhabi, the Corniche Beach waterfront sprawls over 8 kilometres of shoreline, dotted with cafés, children’s play areas, and cycling pathways. 

The beach has ample parking and has been granted a Blue Flag status.

The most popular areas to visit in Al Khalidiyah are Abu Dhabi Corniche and Khalidiya Mall on weekends. The Corniche has a 6-kilometre boardwalk, with numerous waterfront eateries along the way. Whether you are just chilling on the beach or looking to get active with rented bikes, this is the perfect place to be. In addition, Khalidiyah Mall has a cinema, Bowling City and a fun centre for children.

The area is also perfect for art lovers with numerous quaint art galleries including Etihad Modern Art Gallery and Folklore Gallery, both represent local as well as international artists.

Watersports enthusiasts can head over to Hiltonia Beach Club located along the Corniche for a day of windsurfing. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel also offers banana boat rides for those looking for fun things to try out.

Al Khalidiyah Abu Dhabi offers residents plenty of outdoor recreational spaces. Beyond the Corniche, Khalidiyah Park is a popular spot for families and individuals to enjoy evening walks, jogging, or light exercise. The park features a dedicated children’s play area and landscaped gardens, providing a peaceful green retreat in the heart of the community.

Residents can also explore the Corniche on bicycles available from nearby rental stations. Options include mountain and city bikes, multi-passenger models, and designs suited for ladies wearing abayas.

Fitness enthusiasts have access to several gyms and studios in the area. Lifeline Wellness offers cardio and strength training along with group classes such as aerobics, Zumba, yoga and pilates. VivaFit, a ladies-only gym in Al Khalidiyah is another popular choice.

For personal care, the neighbourhood features numerous salons for men and women. Those seeking premium treatments can visit Sisters Beauty Lounge in nearby Al Bateen.

Most of the excitement in Al Khalidiyah revolves around the Abu Dhabi Corniche, which hosts major events such as the Mother of the Nation Festival and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council City Run. The promenade attracts visitors year-round with its vibrant atmosphere. Khalidiyah Mall also holds seasonal celebrations and family activities during Eid and Christmas.

Those considering a move to Al Khalidiyah will find a comfortable, family-friendly community close to the Corniche. The neighbourhood is vibrant and currently offers mainly rental apartments and villas, though some residential plots and buildings are available for investment. While parking can be challenging at peak times due to the area’s popularity, Al Khalidiyah remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most dynamic and sought-after neighbourhoods.

• Zayed International Airport is about 30 minutes away
• 17-minute drive to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• 5 minutes from Abu Dhabi Corniche

What makes Al Khalidiyah a popular residential area in Abu Dhabi?

Al Khalidiyah attracts residents for its central location, proximity to the Corniche, and a blend of modern apartments and traditional villas. The area is ideal for families and professionals seeking an urban yet community-focused lifestyle.

Is Al Khalidiyah family-friendly?

Yes. The area offers many family-friendly amenities like parks, schools and playgrounds, as well as easy access to the Abu Dhabi Corniche, a popular spot for outdoor recreation.

Is Al Khalidiyah a good area for property investment?

Yes, due to its prime location and strong rental demand, Al Khalidiyah presents steady opportunities for property investment in Abu Dhabi.

What are some nearby areas to Al Khalidiyah?

Neighbouring communities include Al Bateen, Al Markaziyah, Al Manhal and Al Mushrif, while the Abu Dhabi Corniche and Marina Mall are only a few minutes away.