Bayut Exclusive Report: Abu Dhabi’s most popular apartment buying locations

Abu Dhabi is home to several residential communities that return residents extreme value for the money spent. Yet some remain more popular than others due to marginal but vital differences in amenities on offer. Bayut.com lists the most popular apartment buying areas in Abu Dhabi for February 2017 and tries explaining why they remained so.

Al Reem Island

Al Reem Island is among the newer developments in the UAE capital and has gained immense popularity with buyers and tenants in the past few years. The area is known for well-planned residential communities, waterfront views, remarkable architecture and quality of construction. Accessibility is easy through various main thoroughfares and travel times to and from it are more than manageable. Like Dubai Marina, it is loved by expats from the western parts of the world, for it is one of the few areas that are pet-friendly. Plus there are a number of parks and walkways and cycling and jogging tracks for those seeking an active lifestyle. Average price of apartments in Al Reem Island was AED 2.04 million in February 2017, while the average rent for apartments averaged AED 139,000.

Al Raha Beach

Situated close to the international airport in Abu Dhabi and the entertainment destination Yas Island, Al Raha Beach is gradually becoming a premium lifestyle destination in the emirate. Home to a number of high-end hotels and pristine beaches, residences on Al Raha Beach offers occupants the opportunity to enjoy the best of nature and man-made luxuries. And it also gives them a peaceful living environment away from the hustle and bustle of the main island.

Apartments in Al Raha Beach commanded a price of AED 2.4 million in February 2017. Apartment rents averaged AED 157,000, resulting in a superb rental yield of 7%.

Al Reef

With the international airport at its southern edge and Al Raha beach on its eastern side, Al Reef is an ideal living community well suited to both jet setters and leisure seekers. For those considering living with families, the Emirates Park Zoo is only a short drive away. And the nearby Yas Mall, Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld are certain to ensure a happening weekend. Then there is Al Raha Beach right across the community, where one can enjoy delightful experiences in various hospitality installations, or just take a refreshing walk along the beach at sunset.

For those interested in buying, apartments in Al Reef will cost AED 1.4 million on average. Renting an average apartment for a year in the community will incur an expenditure of AED 104,000.

Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Island is one of the fastest developing communities in the capital. It is likely to be the next best lifestyle and leisure destination in the emirate. This is the reason why apartment buying here – both off-plan and online units – continues unabated. The island’s untouched beaches alone can convince prospective buyers to put their money in a unit here. Per February data, apartments on Saadiyat Island commanded an average price of AED 3 million. Apartment rent averaged AED 152,000 in February 2017.

Al Ghadeer

Located along the emirate’s northern border with Dubai, Al Ghadeer is a small but peaceful residential town . Its proximity to both mainland Dubai and Abu Dhabi makes it ideal for professionals working in both cities. Units in the area remain in decent demand throughout the year, fetching owners an average rent of AED 75,000. Price of apartments in Al Ghadeer averaged AED 741,000 in February, earning owners an amazing average rental yield of 10%.