Popular areas to rent a property in Khalifa City
Khalifa City stands out as one of Abu Dhabi’s most sought-after residential areas. This well-planned, self-contained community offers a range of amenities, including schools, supermarkets, shops and eateries, making daily life easy and convenient. Rent a property in Khalifa City to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with all the essentials close at hand. Here are some of the most popular spots to rent apartments and villas in the area.
BEST AREAS TO FIND KHALIFA CITY APARTMENTS FOR RENT
One of the biggest advantages of renting apartments in Khalifa City is its prime location. The neighbourhood is a 15-minute drive from Zayed International Airport. Additionally, popular areas such as Yas Island and Saadiyat Island are conveniently located nearby. Though limited, there is a good selection of studios to 3-bedroom flats for rent in Khalifa City.
Bayut lists Khalifa City as the leading area for affordable flat rentals in Abu Dhabi. If apartment living suits your lifestyle, explore the popular areas in Khalifa City to rent flats in Abu Dhabi.
- Al Dahre Compound
- SW13
- SE16
- Al Forsan Village
- Complex 16
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Based on searches conducted by users on Bayut.com over the past 12 months
AL DAHRE COMPOUND
Al Dahre Compound is one of the best places to live in Khalifa City, especially for those seeking a ready-to-move-in home within a well-established community. It offers spacious 1 to 3-bedroom apartments with convenient access to major roads, Forsan Central Mall and Zayed University. If you’re looking to rent in Khalifa City, Al Dahre Compound is definitely worth considering.
- Studio for rent in Al Dahre Compound is available for AED 30k per annum.
- Renting a 1-bed apartment here can cost AED 46k annually.
- You can rent a 3-bed and 4-bed apartment in Al Dahre Compound for AED 73k and AED 100k, respectively.
SW13
SW13 is a popular choice among Khalifa City apartment buildings, offering well-designed flats ideal for individuals and small families. The building offers various amenities and easy access to shops, schools and main roads, making daily life more convenient for its residents.
Want to rent an apartment in SW13? Here is the rental trend:
- Renting a studio here can cost around AED 33k yearly.
- The annual budget for a 1-bed rental unit is around AED 49k.
SE16
SE16 in Khalifa City is a well-located residential building known for its spacious apartments and peaceful surroundings. It offers easy access to nearby schools, supermarkets and main roads, making it a convenient option for families and professionals alike.
If you are interested in renting apartments in SE16, here are some of the options:
- You are expected to pay AED 31k each year to rent a studio in SE16.
- Renting a 2-bed flat in SE16 can cost around AED 85k per annum.
- The annual rent for a 3-bed flat here is AED 108k.
AL FORSAN VILLAGE
Al Forsan Village, developed by Al Forsan Real Estate, is a premium residential community offering a mix of apartments and villas. It’s ideal for both expats relocating to the UAE and residents seeking an upgrade. If you’re planning to rent a property in Khalifa City, Al Forsan Village is one of the top neighbourhoods to rent apartments in Khalifa City.
- On average, renting studio flats in the area would cost AED 32k.
- The average rent for 2-bed flats in Al Forsan Village is AED 75k.

COMPLEX 16
If you’re after family-friendly areas in Khalifa City to rent houses, Complex 16 is a great option. This welcoming community features a range of properties, from studios to spacious apartments, making it ideal for those seeking affordable housing in Khalifa City. With parks, playgrounds and family-focused dining and entertainment spots, it’s perfect for a relaxed lifestyle.
Those looking to rent an apartment in Complex 16 can look at the rental trends here:
- Rent a studio for AED 33k per annum in Complex 16.
- The annual budget for renting a 1-bedroom flat here is AED 48k.
- You’ll have to shell out around AED 92k to rent a 2-bed apartment in Complex 16.
Top Communities to Rent a Villa in Khalifa City
Khalifa City villa communities are a popular choice for families and budget-conscious renters in Abu Dhabi. These areas offer a wide range of spacious 3 to 10-bedroom villas with elegant designs and a peaceful atmosphere. With essential amenities close by, they’re ideal for those seeking comfort and value. To help you decide, here are some of the best communities to rent villas in Khalifa City.
- Golf Gardens
- Al Forsan Village
- Al Merief
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Based on searches conducted by users on Bayut.com over the past 12 months
GOLF GARDENS
Golf Gardens is the first option on our list of communities to rent villas in Khalifa City. It is a gated residential community developed by the renowned ALDAR Properties. It offers premium villas and townhouses with modern designs. One of its highlights is its proximity to popular locations like Abu Dhabi Golf Club and The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa.
Residents can benefit from BBQ areas, children’s play areas, landscaped gardens, community centres and sports courts. There are 3 to 6-bedroom villas for rent in Golf Gardens.
- Renting a 3-bedroom villa here can cost around AED 177k
- Those who want to rent 4-bedroom villas in Golf Gardens can expect to pay AED 210k annually.
- Rent for a 5-bed house averages at AED 242k.

AL FORSAN VILLAGE
Villas in Al Forsan Village are inspired by Mediterranean-style architecture and offer easy access to some of the city’s best educational institutes and sports facilities. As a result, it is another popular area to rent a property in Khalifa City.
You can choose between independent and semi-detached 3 to 5-bedroom villas in Al Forsan Village.
- To rent 4-bedroom villas in the sub-community, expect to pay AED 214k annually.
- On average, 5-bed houses in the area can be rented for AED 247k annually.
AL MERIEF
Al Merief is a 60-hectare development nestled in the heart of vibrant Khalifa City. Developed by ALDAR Properties, this upscale community offers 283 exclusive plots ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 sq. ft., giving residents the freedom to design their ideal villa. Known for its personalised living and serene environment, Al Merief stands out among the top areas to rent apartments and villas in Khalifa City.
Residents will find a selection of beautifully designed villas for rent in Al Merief.
- Renting 3-bedroom units in Al Merief would cost AED 173k, on average.
- The 5-bed houses for rent in the sub-community are available for AED 195k.
- The average price to rent a 6-bed home here is AED 230k per annum.
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FAQs
WHAT IS IT LIKE LIVING IN KHALIFA CITY?
Before you decide to move to Khalifa City, it is a good idea to consider the lifestyle in the area. For example, a myriad of property types, its proximity to nearby attractions and the presence of several schools and restaurants in Khalifa City make it especially perfect for families. Check out the pros and cons of Khalifa City to help you make the right decision when choosing your next home.
HOW DOES THE COMMUNITY COMPARE TO OTHER RESIDENTIAL AREAS IN ABU DHABI?
Khalifa City is rated among Abu Dhabi’s top neighbourhoods for families. If you prefer a quiet suburb with affordable properties and useful amenities, consider other similar areas, such as Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City) or Shakhbout City. In fact, you can check out the comparison of MBZ City vs Khalifa City to explore which neighbourhood is best suited to your preferences.
WHERE IS KHALIFA CITY LOCATED?
That concludes our ‘Top areas to rent apartments and villas in Khalifa City’ guide! Which of these communities in Khalifa City would you love to live in? Let us know in the comments section.
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