Highlights
ABOUT AL REEM ISLAND
Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming a focal point in terms of commercial and real estate activity in the region. With numerous developments and upcoming projects, residents in the capital are considering moving to Al Reem Island to find a home. With no lack of waterfront developments, one particular area in Abu Dhabi has garnered more user interest than others: Al Reem Island.
It is the top choice for renting luxury apartments in Abu Dhabi, as per Bayut & Dubizzle’s Abu Dhabi Annual Rental Report for 2020. Reem Island, Abu Dhabi stands out as the crowning glory of UAE’s capital.
POPULAR AREAS | 1-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019 | 2-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019 | 3-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019 |
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| Al Raha Beach | 1-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019
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| Corniche Road | 1-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019
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| Saadiyat Island | 1-BED Avg. Yearly RentChange from 2019
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The natural island sits 600 metres off the north-eastern coast of Abu Dhabi and has become one of the most popular areas to live in. Bustling with residential communities and light retail, this area guide explores how Reem Island, Abu Dhabi promises its residents a modern lifestyle and spectacular waterfront views of Marina Bay and the Arabian Gulf.
IN A NUTSHELL
- Mixed-use community
- A natural island
- Developed by ALDAR Properties PJSC
- One of the first free zones in Abu Dhabi
- Numerous high-rise towers with the iconic Stonehenge inspired Gate Towers
- Great waterfront views from most buildings and villas
- Residential properties boast luxurious amenities and state-of-the-art facilities
- Reputable academic institutions make it ideal for families with children
- Al Maryah Island and Saadiyat Island are close by
- Reem Central Park and Reem Mall are key locations on the island
Neighbourhood
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Al Reem Island is one of the fastest-developing neighbourhoods in Abu Dhabi. Dotted with several residential and retail options, the island has become one of the most in-demand locations in Abu Dhabi in a short span of time. Potential residents have an array of property types on Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi to choose from – luxury penthouses, apartments and stunning waterfront villas.
Living Reem Island, Abu Dhabi gives residents access to restaurants, supermarkets, schools, mosques, churches and more. Places such as Geant Supermarket, Al Aziz Mosque, Mosaic Nursery, Carrefour supermarket and St. Joseph’s Cathedral are located in the community.
PROPERTIES ON AL REEM ISLAND
The area boasts a mix of property types ranging from villas, apartments, penthouses and townhouses. Villas come in 3 to 5-bedroom configurations, whereas apartments range from studio to 5-bedroom units. Townhouses range from 2 to 5-bedroom units and penthouses are composed of 3 to 5-bedroom units.
The dominant style across the island is inspired by classic Moroccan and Spanish architecture, providing residents with elegant residential buildings and villas to choose from. Residents who consider moving to Al Reem Island will enjoy luxury modern conveniences and amenities from all the properties.
As a mixed-use community, Al Reem Abu Dhabi has much to offer its residents. Scenic waterfront developments equipped with the latest technology and swarming with amenities, the area attracts a variety of nationalities. Al Reem Island is one of the first developments in Abu Dhabi to offer property ownership to expats on a leasehold basis. Hence, walking around the island, you are bound to see a number of different nationalities who have come to call it ‘home’.
Demographics are also just as varied, ranging from professionals to families with children. Thanks to the range of property configurations available on Reem Island, Abu Dhabi potential residents have plenty of choices when it comes to selecting a home.
As for commercial properties, you can find offices and shops for rent and sale.
Rental Trends in Al Reem Island
Apartment Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | Average Rental Price in AED 44,000 |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 61,000 |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 86,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 127,000 |
Apartment Type 4-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 221,000 |
Apartment Type 5-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 242,000 |
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 822 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 953 SQFT
- 3 BEDS
- |
- 5 BATHS
- |
- 2979 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 1 BATH
- |
- 704 SQFT
In terms of affordability, one can rent a studio apartment in Al Reem Island, for as low as AED 35k per annum. The annual rents for 1-bedroom flats in Al Reem Island cost around AED 45k per year to AED 130k per year. Those looking for a more spacious unit can rent 2-bedroom flats for a price range of AED 60k per year to AED 199k per year.
Further, there is a choice of 3-bedroom apartments for rent in Al Reem Island at as low as AED 92k per annum and as high as AED 215k per annum. The rental prices for 4-bed apartments in Al Reem Island are between AED 180k per annum and AED 270k per annum. A 5-bedroom flat can be rented for AED 250k per annum.
Penthouses for rent in Al Reem Island can range between AED 148k yearly and AED 300k yearly.
Villa Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
|---|---|
Villa Type 2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 92,000 |
Villa Type 3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 193,000 |
Villa Type 4-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 234,000 |
Villa Type 5-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED 341,000 |
- 5 BEDS
- |
- 6 BATHS
- |
- 4998 SQFT
- 4 BEDS
- |
- 6 BATHS
- |
- 4148 SQFT
- 5 BEDS
- |
- 7 BATHS
- |
- 6517 SQFT
- 4 BEDS
- |
- 6 BATHS
- |
- 5218 SQFT
Villas for rent in Reem Island are composed of 3, 4 and 5-bedroom units. The rental prices range between AED 200k per year and AED 360k per year.
Townhouses for rent in Al Reem Island boasts 2 to 4-bedroom units. Rental prices vary between AED 82k yearly and AED 190k yearly.
SALE TRENDS IN AL REEM ISLAND
Apartment Type | Average Sale Price in AED |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | Average Sale Price in AED 546,000 |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 792,000 |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 1,263,000 |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 1,885,000 |
Apartment Type 4-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 3,701,000 |
Apartment Type 5-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 9,636,000 |
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 860 SQFT
- 3 BEDS
- |
- 4 BATHS
- |
- 1558 SQFT
- 3 BEDS
- |
- 5 BATHS
- |
- 1928 SQFT
- 2 BEDS
- |
- 3 BATHS
- |
- 1282 SQFT
- 1 BED
- |
- 2 BATHS
- |
- 903 SQFT
- 3 BEDS
- |
- 4 BATHS
- |
- 1922 SQFT
Those looking to buy apartments on Reem Island, Abu Dhabi will find the properties to be priced competitively. Freehold studios in Al Reem Island will cost AED 581k on average. Average prices for 1-bedroom apartments for sale is AED 856k, while average prices for 2-bedroom flats is AED 1.368M. The larger 3-bedroom flats and 4-bed apartments have average prices of AED 1.969M and AED 3.399M, respectively.
Villa Type | Average Sale Price in AED |
|---|---|
Villa Type 2-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 2,248,000 |
Villa Type 3-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 3,743,000 |
Villa Type 4-Bed | Average Sale Price in AED 2,983,000 |
Townhouses for sale in Al Reem Island are composed of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom units. The sale prices range between AED 1.75M and AED 5.5M.
ROI IN AL REEM ISLAND
Apartment Type | ROI |
|---|---|
Apartment Type Studio | ROI 8.4% |
Apartment Type 1-Bed | ROI 7.2% |
Apartment Type 2-Bed | ROI 6.7% |
Apartment Type 3-Bed | ROI 6.3% |
Apartment Type 4-Bed | ROI 6.1% |
Apartment Type 5-Bed | ROI 4.2% |
The average ROI for studio apartments is 8.7%. 1-bed and 2-bed flats follow with a 7.2% and 6.6% return respectively. 3, 4 and 5-bed apartments have an ROI of 6.4%, 5.2% and 5.6% respectively.
Villa Type | ROI |
|---|---|
Villa Type 2-Bed | ROI 5.6% |
Villa Type 3-Bed | ROI 5.1% |
Villa Type 4-Bed | ROI 6.7% |
Those willing to invest in villas and townhouses in must note that 2-bed houses generate a return of 5%. 3 and 4-bed houses generate an ROI of 6.1% each.
MOST POPULAR COMMUNITIES IN AL REEM ISLAND
Shams Abu Dhabi is a large sub-community on Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. It occupies 25% of the island and was developed by Sorouh Real Estate. Shams Abu Dhabi houses many towers, most of which are residential. The tallest tower in the area is Sky Tower at 389 metres and has 83 floors. Shams Abu Dhabi has deluxe apartments in 1 to 4-bedroom configurations and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.
1-bedroom apartments for rent in Shams Abu Dhabi start from AED 50k and can be priced upwards of AED 93k. 2-bed flats for rent can be found for as low as AED 68k, while 3-bedroom flats have an average price of AED 135k.
Marina Square ranks second. The distinct waterfront development consists of 14 luxurious mixed-use towers offering 3,440 residences, along with additional commercial, retail and hotel units. If you’re planning to live in Marina Square’s sophisticated high-rise towers then the yearly rent for studios in Marina Square starts at AED 45k. While the annual rent for 1-bed flats and 2-bedroom apartments in Marina Square is upwards of AED 54k and AED 72k, respectively.
For larger families, 3-bedroom apartments and 4-bed apartments in Marina Square are also available at an annual rent starting from AED 105k and AED 190k, respectively. The price of lavish penthouses for rent in Marina Square starts from AED 160k. The strong infrastructure and excellent community facilities make Marina Square one of the most coveted addresses on the island.
The other popular districts in this massive development include City of Lights, Shams Gate District and Najmat Abu Dhabi. Of these, Shams Gate District features the iconic Stonehenge inspired The Gate Towers which have come to be a distinct architectural landmark on Al Reem Island.
Whether you’re looking to rent or buy property, these areas are a great starting point for your research.
AL REEM ISLAND FLOOR PLANS
Those looking for Al Reem Island floor plans can browse through the floor plans available for popular communities/buildings on Reem Island, Abu Dhabi.
HOTELS NEAR AL REEM ISLAND
Besides residential properties, there are a few hotels near Al Reem Island. These provide a wide range of accommodation options in the district. Some notable ones include:
- Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
- Le Méridien Abu Dhabi
- Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi is a 5-star property which is popular among professionals and leisure travellers. It features 565 rooms, suites and serviced furnished apartments. It is located along Al Sikeek Street, Abu Dhabi, accessible within an 8-minute drive.
Le Meridien Abu Dhabi is a 5-star hotel set in Tourist Club Area (TCA). The property features 224 rooms and 24 suites and a large meeting room. Amenities include room service, housekeeping, laundry services, safe deposit boxes and valet dry-cleaning. It is accessible within a 10-minute drive.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi is located on Al Maryah Island. It is a 5-star hotel featuring spacious guestrooms inspired by the Arabian Gulf. There are 148 guestrooms and 41 luxurious suites offering spectacular views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. From the Rosewood Abu Dhabi, you can also view the towering skyscrapers of Reem Island, Abu Dhabi.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPACES ON AL REEM ISLAND
Car-owners do not have to worry about parking spaces. Most, if not all, residential towers on Al Reem Island offer parking spaces to its residents. However, visitors might struggle with finding a good spot, unless they decide to park their vehicles in the mall car parks or the designated visitor parking lots in the community.
Reem Island, Abu Dhabi is connected to the main city via two highways, with a third one underway. Commuters working off the island should note that these can get quite congested during rush hour.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN AL REEM ISLAND
Island residents can get around via public transport. Taxis usually gather at the Shams BOUTIK Mall, and public buses suffice if you need to get around the island. If you want to travel around Abu Dhabi and the rest of the emirates the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station and Abu Dhabi Bus Station are the nearest options, located within a 13 to 14-minute driving distance.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
Supermarkets on Al Reem Island
The island’s Shams BOUTIK Mall houses a Waitrose supermarket to cater to its residents’ day-to-day needs. Apart from that, residents can find some of the best supermarkets and grocery stores in Al Reem Island. This includes Al Maya, Carrefour Market, Zoom and Geant Supermarket located conveniently around the neighbourhood.
CHURCHES, TEMPLES AND MOSQUES ON AL REEM ISLAND
The island is home to one of the largest mosques in Abu Dhabi. The mosques on Al Reem Island include the Al Aziz Mosque which is centrally located and can hold a capacity of over 2,500 worshippers. The nearest church is St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which is just about 20 minutes away in Al Mushrif. Those looking to pay respects at a Hindu temple will have to drive to Jebel Ali in Dubai, about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. There will be a Hindu temple opening in Abu Dhabi in 2021 which will be 25 minutes away for residents.
Schools in Al Reem Island
This island in the capital city is home to several educational institutes catering to different age groups. Some of the top schools and nurseries in Al Reem Island include Mosaic Nursery, Hummingbird Nursery, Playhouse Nursery and Repton School Abu Dhabi.
Repton Abu Dhabi was inaugurated in 2013. It follows the British curriculum and is one of the best schools in Abu Dhabi. Nursery students are enrolled in the Rose Campus in the Repton Foundation School, it follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) system. For older students, the follow-up Fry Campus is located nearby, it offers the UK/IB system until Year 13.
For those on the brink of moving into higher education, the prestigious Paris-Sorbonne University, located in the heart of Al Reem Island, is a great choice. The university’s impressive dome-shaped campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities with a massive library, student sports centre and a spacious cafeteria.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS IN AL REEM ISLAND
Medical services are also within easy reach for the residents. The hospitals on Al Reem Island include Burjeel Hospital. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is located on Maryah Island, 7 minutes away and it is one of the top medical service providers in the region. NMC Specialty Hospital is also just 7 minutes away. The area also has numerous pharmacies located at convenient intervals around the island.
NEARBY AREAS
Two bridges connect Al Reem Island to the mainland, one from Abu Dhabi city and another from Al Maryah Island. In addition to this, the cultural community of Saadiyat Island is minutes away from Al Reem, offering residents additional options for retail, recreation and leisure purposes.
Lifestyle
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
Malls in Al Reem Island
Residents can get their shopping fix from the Shams BOUTIK Mall, located near the Sun and Sky Towers. It has a number of independent retailers, brands, restaurants and cafés. One of the best malls in Abu Dhabi, Galleria Mall, is located on Al Maryah Island, just a few minutes away. It is best for those looking to indulge in some detailed retail therapy.
The massive Reem Mall spans over 2.8 million sq. ft. Expected to be fully operational in the second quarter of 2022, the mall recently opened its anchor store, Carrefour. The plan also includes world’s largest indoor snow park, 450 stores including 85 food and beverage outlets, two food courts and a multiplex cinema. The mall provides ample parking spaces and can hold a maximum of 6,800 spaces. It is being developed by the National Real Estate Company (NREC).
Restaurants in Al Reem Island
Restaurants in Al Reem Island include several great eateries that can be found on the island. The hotspot for great restaurants on Al Reem Island is definitely Shams BOUTIK Mall. Residents will be spoilt for choice with a wide variety of cuisines served up in the well-known cafés and restaurants.
Pizza Express, Buffalo Wings and Rings, Super Poke, The Kettle Corner, Doppio Cafe, Smoking Doll and Popeyes are among the top restaurants in Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi. You can also check out some of the high-end restaurants in the hotels near the island for fancy dinners and special celebrations.
Beaches near Al Reem Island
Since the island is still being developed, you have to head out to Saadiyat Public Beach (about 20 minutes by car) which is the closest beach to Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi. It offers sun loungers, lockers and towel services for AED 25 per adult; kids under 5 years go free. Saadiyat Public Beach also holds weekly yoga classes for those looking to squeeze in a little workout over the weekend.
Alternatively, a great place to visit is the Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach (also about 20 minutes away) that is free to enter. The beach has plenty of parking space. Gate 3 of the beach is a popular choice for residents since it’s close to popular restaurants and cafés.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
There are plenty of things to do in Al Reem Island ranging from shopping, dining to strolling around the outdoor spaces. Reem Central Park, Abu Dhabi’s new outdoor park is a popular recreational and leisure destination. This park spans over 1M sq. ft. providing residents with many areas to relax outdoors. There’s a cool skate park, a play area for kids and a promenade along the canal. So while Al Reem Island is a beautiful place to live in, it also offers its residents a wholesome family lifestyle.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
The promenade along the 2.4-kilometre canal on Al Reem Island has also created an additional open-air area for residents to enjoy long strolls by the water or a quick evening jog.
In terms of fitness, Primal Gym on Al Reem Island is a great option to squeeze in a workout. Located at the back of the Island, the gym offers various classes for yoga, Zumba and circuit training. It offers martial arts training taught by world-level champions. Life on an island with enviable karate skills – sounds like a good deal.
There are a couple of salons and spas dotted around the island. Those looking to relax will find Boudoir Beauty Lounge located in Shams BOUTIK Mall to hit the mark.
Community Events
One of recurring community events is Reem Weekend, a two-day event with organic food vendors, eclectic food trucks, exciting street performances and a pop-up market with arts and crafts. Held by the water canal, this massive community event draws people from all over the capital and is sure to make weekends a whole lot more fun.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
There are a few things to consider before you decide to live on Al Reem Island. Residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with luxury amenities at their doorstep. The bridges connecting Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi to the main city can get congested during peak hours. On-going construction is also quite extensive in the area, which means that while residents will eventually have access to even better world-class amenities, they will also have to live in proximity to a construction site. But as a resident, you can take comfort in the fact that when it’s done, the new developments will only make the area more favourable to live in.
FAQs about Al Reem Island
Where is Reem Island?
Reem Island, or commonly known as Al Reem Island is on the island of Abu Dhabi. It is basically 600 metres off the main coastline.
Is Al Reem Island pet-friendly?
Al Reem Island is a pet-friendly community. Many pet owners take their pets to Al Reem Central Park and the canal walk at Al Reem Central Park.
Al Reem Island beach?
The closest beach to Al Reem Island is Saadiyat Public Beach. It requires a paid entry fee of AED 25.
Al Reem Island population?
Al Reem Island is currently is home to about 20,000 residents. When fully complete the community will be home to 210,000 residents.
Best tower in Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi?
The Marina Square community is home to the best towers in Al Reem Island. A few of the towers part of Marina Square include Marina Heights, Marina Blue, MAG 5 Residence and Ocean Terrace Residence.
Where is Al Reem Island located?
Reem Island is located around 600 metres off the coastline of Abu Dhabi, UAE. It is connected to the city via bridges.
How to go to Al Reem Island by bus?
You can get to Reem Island by these bus links:
- Bus 101
- Bus 155
- Bus 44
- Bus 52
- Bus 56
- Bus 7
The nearest stop to catch these bus links from the mainland include Al Muna School on Zayed 1st Street, Sultan Bin Zaued Street and Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre.
Location
- Abu Dhabi International Airport is about 30 to 45 minutes away
- 35 minutes’ drive to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Approximately 2 hours away from Dubai
- 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Yas Island is 30 minutes away
- Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is 2 hours and 20 minutes away