Abu Dhabi is a thriving real estate market as it equalizes the property demands in residential, luxury, waterfront communities and other property segments and caters to residents' property needs.
With growing property demands, the leading real estate companies in Abu Dhabi cater to every property demand arising in their real estate market. However, the emirate’s modern infrastructure, connectivity within and outside the city and strategic government initiatives have attracted more expats and investors into the market, leaving higher demand for residential spaces and communities.
However, the emirate’s modern infrastructure, connectivity within and outside the city and strategic government initiatives have attracted more expats and investors into the market, leaving higher demand for residential spaces and communities.
So, through this blog, we’ll learn about the best residential communities in Abu Dhabi.
List of top 10 residential communities in Abu Dhabi
Here are the best residential communities in Abu Dhabi, each offering unique amenities and lifestyles.
| # | Community Name | Developer | Property Types | Upcoming projects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saadiyat Island | Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) | Luxurious apartments, penthouses, townhouses | Saadiyat Lagoons |
| 2 | Yas Island | Aldar Properties | Apartments, villas | West Yas, Sama Yas |
| 3 | Al Raha Beach | Aldar Properties | Villas, apartments, townhomes | Brabus Island, Grove Gallery Views |
| 4 | Al Reem Island | Aldar Properties, Reem Investments & Tamouh | Luxury penthouses, apartments, waterfront villas | Reem Hills, Renad Tower, Marlin Phase 2 |
| 5 | Al Maryah Island | Multiple developers | Apartments, penthouses | Nawayef Village, Nawayef West Heights, Marlin Phase 2 |
| 6 | Khalifa City | Aldar Properties | Villas, townhouses | Almeria, Reportage Village, Granada |
| 7 | Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City) | Multiple developers | Eco-friApartments, villas, townhouses | None currently announced |
| 8 | Al Ghadeer | Aldar Properties | Villas, townhouses | None currently announced |
| 9 | Al Bateen | Multiple developers | Apartments, villas, penthouses | None currently announced |
| 10 | Masdar City | Masdar | Apartments, townhouses | Plaza Phase 2 |
An overview of the best residential communities in Abu Dhabi
Here is an overview of top residential communities in Abu Dhabi.
1. Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is a luxury and cultural hub that is one of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious landmarks. It is known for its premium beachfront properties and high-end lifestyle.
Key features:
- Home to world-famous attractions like Manarat Al Saadiyat and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Featuring luxury beachfront villas and apartments with breathtaking sea views.
- Exclusive golf courses, five-star resorts and fine dining restaurants.
Upcoming projects: Saadiyat Lagoons
2. Yas Island
The area is famous for its entertainment and leisure options, offering modern apartments and waterfront villas with a vivid lifestyle, similar to the integrated living experiences developed by top Dubai real estate companies.
Key features:
- Close proximity to Ferrari World, Yas Mall and Yas Marina Circuit.
- Features gated communities with premium amenities and sea views.
- Ideal for families and professionals seeking a lively environment.
Upcoming projects: West Yas, Sama Yas
3. Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Beach is a renowned waterfront development that offers luxurious residential properties with scenic sea views and access to private beaches.
Key features:
- Features high-end apartments, villas and townhouses.
- Located close to Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island.
- Features retail centers, schools, and leisure facilities.
Upcoming projects: Brabus Island, Grove Gallery Views
4. Al Reem Island
It is a cosmopolitan waterfront community that is highly sought-after among families and young professionals looking for urban living.
Key features:
- Offers high-rise apartments with panoramic city and sea views.
- Easy connectivity to downtown Abu Dhabi.
- Features shopping malls, recreational facilities and parks, making it a family-friendly environment.
Upcoming projects: Reem Hills, Renad Tower, Marlin Phase 2
5. Al Maryah Island
A prestigious business and lifestyle destination, Al Maryah Island is best for investors and residents seeking luxury apartments with proximity to high-end corporate and retail hubs.
Key features:
- Home to the Galleria Mall and top-tier hotels.
- Ideal for business professionals looking for a premium lifestyle.
- Seamlessly integrated with Abu Dhabi’s financial district.
Upcoming projects: Nawayef Village, Nawayef West Heights, Marlin Phase 2
6. Khalifa City
Khalifa City is a spacious, family-friendly suburb known for its large villas and serene environment.
Key features:
- Affordable housing options with excellent amenities.
- Proximity to international schools, major hospitals and parks.
- Perfect for families seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Upcoming projects: Almeria, Reportage Village, Granada
7. Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City)
MBZ City is a well-made residential area that features properties with a blend of affordable apartments and villas.
Key features:
- Budget-friendly housing options with modern designs and infrastructure.
- Proximity to major highways enhances connectivity to Dubai and Abu Dhabi city centers.
- Family-friendly community with schools and parks.
Upcoming projects: None currently announced
8. Al Ghadeer
Al Ghadeer is a peaceful and affordable residential community, which is ideal for those seeking a calm living at the border of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Key features:
- Features villas, townhouses and apartments at competitive prices.
- Green landscapes and parks showcase a relaxing lifestyle.
- Proximity to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Upcoming projects: None currently announced
9. Al Bateen
It is a top-end and prestigious residential area, overlooking waterfront living with a blend of luxurious apartments and villas.
Key features:
- High-end residential properties with access to private beaches.
- Close to Al Bateen Marina and top-tier dining venues.
- Seamless accessibility to Abu Dhabi’s central business district.
Upcoming projects: None currently announced
10. Masdar City
Masdar City, a sustainable and futuristic community, features modern smart homes and green spaces. It is sought-after among environment-focused investors and property buyers.
Key features:
- Features energy-efficient buildings and sustainable living amenities.
- Access to smart transportation systems.
- It suits best for environmentally conscious residents and investors.
Upcoming projects: Plaza Phase 2
Growth of Abu Dhabi’s residential communities
The residential communities in Abu Dhabi are transforming into prime destinations for accommodation and investments. In the first quarter of 2025, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market showed steady growth, with total transaction value increasing by 34.5% to AED25.3 billion, as reported by Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre.
It is evident that residential communities are highly instrumental in shaping the residential property sector and contributing to the state’s steady economic growth. As technology continues to support this momentum, platforms like real estate growth solution for UAE offer tools to streamline operations for developers and investors.
Disclaimer: Retyn does not promote or support any of the companies or services mentioned in the list. The data presented is compiled through online and market research and does not reflect our priorities in any manner.
