Abu Dhabi attracts expats from across the globe. The cost of living can be steep, but the salaries here rank among the highest. The favorable tax environment is also quite the allure since the UAE doesn’t require personal income tax. And when it comes to real estate, you’ll have numerous options, from smart, modern homes to lavish villas for sale in Abu Dhabi.
Of course, the key to any home purchase is “homing” in on the right location. Why? Because you can always change the property, but you can’t change what could be undesirable for you in one location (e.g., too much construction means noise, too far from your office, etc.)
The Top Neighbourhoods in Abu Dhabi
Other than having a selection of properties, a variety of locations also allow you to choose the right home. So before you select the property, consider the neighbourhoods you might see yourself living in. Here are some of the best ones in Abu Dhabi:
1. Saadiyat Island
Covering an area of about 27 square kilometers, Saadiyat Island is divided into seven districts. These districts are Saadiyat Marina District, Saadiyat Beach, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Lagoons, Saadiyat Retreat, Saadiyat Reserve, and Saadiyat Promenade. Each district features distinctive developments, offering every resident the opportunity to enjoy their kind of lifestyle.
For example, the Saadiyat Marina District is a waterfront destination offering topnotch dining and entertainment spots, leisure activities, and world-class residences. It features plenty of apartment complexes, two of which are from premiere developer Bloom Holding: the self-contained Soho Square and the ultra modern Park View. Saadiyat Reserve, on the other hand, is a mixed-used development; it’s a residential sub-community, featuring freehold residential villa plots that enable buyers to customize their homes.
Beachside villas that give residents access to pristine beaches are also plentiful in Saadiyat Island. As it is home of the magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi, residents and visitors also expect exclusive art and cultural events throughout the year.
2. Corniche Area
Not to be mistaken for Corniche in Dubai, the Corniche Area is one of the desirable places to live in Abu Dhabi. It’s located on the northwestern side of the capital city and to the southeast of Al Kasir. It sits right on the seashore, which means towering waterfront residences with marvelous views and numerous villas that offer waterfront living at its best.
Residents and visitors get to enjoy the highly popular Mall World Trade Center, Corniche Beach, and the Abu Dhabi Corniche Park, which has been awarded the Green Flag for its safety and hygiene.
The Corniche Area has some of the higher rental rates around Abu Dhabi, so it might be a good location if you’re planning to turn your property purchase into an income earner.
Along with apartments in skyscrapers and duplexes in family-friendly communities, you’ll also find well-designed villas in this part of Abu Dhabi.
3. Yas Island
Yas Island is a popular destination for tourists and UAE residents. Fun and excitement has been designed into every corner of Abu Dhabi’s most massive tourism project. It is where you’ll find some of the world’s most spectacular, record-breaking theme parks and attractions, such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World.
Along with these family-friendly hubs are super trendy hotels and clubs, world-class dining spots, and shopping destinations. The man-made island has been a favorite among Emiratis who rent and buy villas. There is still a substantial portion of Western expats in the area, so you’ll have a good mix of residents.
4. Al Bateen
Al Bateen is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular waterfront communities. If you want to be away from the roar of the city and have a slice of tradition, this is the ideal place to find a villa.
You’ll have plenty of options, from waterfront mixed-used neighbourhoods to luxurious villas and apartments with landscaped gardens or access to Al Bateen Beach.
As the site of the city’s main fishing ports, Al Bateen has preserved the rich seafaring traditions of the emirate and masterfully combines cultural significance with modern conveniences. No wonder it’s considered as one of the most popular places to rent luxury villas in Abu Dhabi.
5. Zayed City
Zayed City is a new community and is among the top residential areas to live in Abu Dhabi. Situated between Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Abu Dhabi International Airport, this new area is a central part of the city’s Plan 2030. Once completed, it will house about 370,000 residents who will have access to 35 mosques (there will also be churches and temples), 15 schools and universities, 45 gardens, healthcare facilities, hotels, and a slew of lifestyle amenities.
Future residents will also be able to drive to nearby beaches; Al Zeina Beach is about 16 minutes away by car. Other beaches include Al Raha, Yas Beach, and Saadiyat Beach.
Although there is less traffic in Zayed City, the new community will have a fully integrated transportation system. Residents will be served by a metro rail, high speed rail service, and regional trail connections.
Currently, people can buy residential plots where luxury villas, apartments, and townhouses can be built. The minimum plot starts at 16,000 square feet and goes up to 30,000 square feet.
Tips for Choosing Your Neighbourhood
Finding the right neighbourhood will depend on what you intend to do with the property: use it as an investment to resell or rent out or to live in and plant roots.
If you’re buying as an investment, then you’ll have to choose based on the average selling or renting price in the neighbourhood. You’ll also need to determine whether the neighbourhood has any future developments that would raise property values.
If you’re buying the villa to live in, then spend time in the community. Don’t just inspect the property. Experience the neighbourhood to see if it fits right for your needs. Check the amenities and whether healthcare centers and schools are easily accessible.
Why Choose a Villa?
Villas are ideal for families, young couples, or even single people. They give you enough space to grow and enjoy the property. Villas are also typically developed in self-contained, gated communities, making life secure and convenient. Find the right neighbourhood and you’ll have the ultimate living experience in Abu Dhabi.
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