Benefits and Disadvantages of the different residential areas in Abu Dhabi

Understanding the benefits and disadvantages of the different residential areas of Abu Dhabi is a big help when choosing where to settle as an expat. Whilst Abu Dhabi looks to be a small island, the different areas can be surprisingly far apart at peak traffic times and accommodation prices can vary dramatically.

Some areas are very popular and sort after and some might suit a family or couples or singles working in Abu Dhabi.

Below is a list of each of the areas providing residential accommodation available to expats in Abu Dhabi

• Al Bateen
• Al Khubeirah
• Tourist Club
• Al Markaziyah
• Al Karamah
• Al Rowdah
• Madinat Zayed
• Al Nahyan, Hadabat, Al Zaafaran, Al Zahra
• Al Mushrif
• Khalidiyah
• Raha Beach
• Kalifa City
• Al Reef Gardens
• Al Reem Island
• Between the Bridges
• Breakwater
• Sas Al Nakheel (Umm al Naar)

Benefits and Disadvantages of the different residential areas in Abu Dhabi

The best-rated residential area in Abu Dhabi is the western part of Abu Dhabi Island, including Al Khalidiya and Al Bateen.  Abu Dhabi Island West is both the most sought after district and the area residents are least likely to want to move out of.  With its proximity to Marina Mall, it’s perhaps no surprise that this area was best rated for shopping and malls and for recreation.  Abu Dhabi West was also best rated for having a community feel and for safety and security.With its multitude of hotels, the Tourist Club area comes in first as the best place for going out, and is rated in second place for both recreation and shopping, with Abu Dhabi Mall nearby.  Starting with the city centre, the areas and suburbs guide below works its way out to the mainland.Madinat Khalifa is a sensible option for those looking for more peace and quiet, also scoring well in terms of value for money and having a community feel.

Downtown Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s city center is a vibrant collection of shops, shisha bars, malls, five-star hotels, restaurants and odds and ends. The neighborhood that make up this capital city heartland are home to young singles and families alike, though most accommodation is found in low- and high-rise residential towers.Expats who crave the frenetic energy of city life will find themselves in the perfect place; every imaginable amenity is within reach and there are countless opportunities to socialize, entertain and dine out.Furthermore, there are good school and healthcare options in this part of the city. However, residents will have to sacrifice space and learn to deal with the congestion caused by crowds and traffic, especially on weekends.

The Tourist Club Area and Al Markaziyah

The Tourist Club and Al Markaziyah are two cosmopolitan areas offering a number of attractions, such as the Abu Dhabi Mall and the Corniche (waterfront). Abu Dhabi Mall is the second largest shopping centre in the city and packed with high-street brands.The Corniche has appeal for those expats who enjoy outdoor pursuits like jogging, cycling or even just leisurely walking. This area also has a vibrant night life scene as the numerous hotels are filled with bars and clubs. Housing in the Tourist Club and Al Markaziyah is limited to high-rise apartments; expats who choose to live here will have to compromise space for access. Parking can also be a problem, and some landlords will charge thousands extra for a space.

Young, up-beat areas in Abu Dhabi

Lying just outside the city centre, these areas bustle with life but are slightly quieter and more spacious. Traffic is bad during rush hour and weekends, and finding parking can be difficult. It normally takes 10 to 15 minutes from these areas to the city centre on a quiet day, 30 to 45 minutes during rush hour.

Madinat Zayed

Madinat Zayed is close to the city centre and generally quieter and less congested than those districts found in the very heart. Properties in Madinat Zayed are slightly older than those in the city centre, although prices are much the same.The Co-Op in Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre is good for buying groceries, while the vegetable/meat market and Gold Souk make the area ripe for those interested in a taste of Middle Eastern culture.

Al Whada

Al Whada is slightly further out than Madinat Zayed and traffic is lighter and parking easier to come by. Al Whada Mall has a great range of shops and a large Lulu supermarket for groceries. Getting a cab here is particularly easy because of the presence of the local bus station.

Khalidya

Khalidya is a bustling area with a large Western community. Khalidya Park is great for kids and a family picnic. There are also lots of Internet and shisha cafés that are popular among young expat teenagers. The Corniche is within walking distance for those who want to visit the popular waterfront.Abela supermarket is nearby, while Spinney’s is but a short drive; both offer a good range of products and Spinney’s even has an off-licence.