The capital city of UAE attracts a huge number of tourists from around the globe. Majestic monuments, breathtaking sceneries and a plethora of activities make Abu Dhabi a must-visit destination for all. Additionally, the multitude of investment opportunities adds more allure to the capital. The property market, for instance, holds a significant position. Fortunately, the government has paved the way to allow expats to own properties in the capital city’s designated areas. The top areas to buy property for expats in Abu Dhabi offer an idyllic lifestyle complemented by world-class facilities.
Top Areas to Buy Property For Expats in Abu Dhabi
UAE has a huge number of expats. Tourists and expats have had the option to rent different UAE property types during their stay in the emirate. However, the influx of tourists and their interest in the property market was increasing. Fortunately, the government allowed expats to own properties in designated areas.
In the list of emerging areas to buy property for expat in Abu Dhabi, some neighbourhoods stand out. Let’s take a look at the areas known for expat property investment in Abu Dhabi.
Disclaimer: The popular areas are selected based on transactions done on the dubizzle platform. They do not reflect the actual real estate transactions governed by regulations in the Emirates.
AL REEM ISLAND
The up-and-coming area, Al Reem Island has garnered immense popularity over the years. Properties on the natural island offer majestic waterfront views. Additionally, Al Reem is one of the first freehold areas in the capital city. The area houses a plethora of facilities to qualify as a family-friendly neighbourhood. For instance, reputable schools, recreational spots and transportation options among others. Furthermore, shopaholics can find a variety of malls like the Galleria Mall.
Al Reem Island is famous for its apartment buildings. Apartments for sale in Al Reem Island have an average price of AED 1.66M and an impressive 7.14% ROI.
One of the areas to house freehold properties in the UAE, the island also has numerous villas for sale. The area ranks fourth on the list of popular areas to buy apartment in Abu Dhabi expats. Villas for sale in Al Reem Island have an ROI of 6.51% and an average sales price of AED 9.65M.
YAS ISLAND
Yas Island is also one of the emerging areas to buy property for expats in Abu Dhabi. The happening neighbourhood provides a unique living experience to the residents. Some major attraction points in proximity include the Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Waterworld and the Ferrari World. Moreover, Yas Island is a hotspot for shopping and eating. Residents can stay close and updated with major events taking place nearby.
Apartments for sale in Yas Island have an average price of AED 2.04M and a 6.69% ROI. The area also has plenty of villas on offer. Yielding an ROI of 4.90% and with an average price of AED 6.25M, villas for sale in Yas Island are ideal choices for people seeking spacious units.
AL RAHA BEACH
Al Raha Beach also makes it to the buying property in Abu Dhabi for expats communities list. The mixed-use community remains a viable option for singles and families alike. The area is particularly known for its high-rise buildings. Residents can enjoy the majestic waterfront views from the apartment complexes. Moreover, residents can find the majority of the luxury apartment amenities in the buildings. Apartments in Al Raha Beach have an average price of AED 2.34M and an ROI of 6.31%.
AL REEF
One of the top areas to buy property for expats in Abu Dhabi, Al Reef stands out with its numerous facilities. The ideal location puts Al Reef in proximity to popular areas like Al Khalifa City A and Al Raha Beach. Additionally, the area is home to several known schools, shopping malls, eateries and medical centres. Moreover, Al Reef has enough transportation options to make travel a breeze.
Apartments for sale in Al Reef come at an average price of AED 922k with an ROI of 9.13%. The area has attained the fifth spot for villas for sale in Abu Dhabi for expatriates. The villas for sale in Al Reef deliver an ROI of 6.28%. Meanwhile, people pay an average of AED 2.03M for villas for sale in Al Reef.
MASDAR CITY
Masdar City stands tall as one of the sustainable city projects in the UAE. The sustainable element adds more allure to the futuristic project. Moreover, the area does not lack when it comes to amenities and properties. Sustainable buildings in the community provide a unique living experience to residents. Furthermore, Masdar City has a dedicated autonomous transport service for residents. Termed ‘City of Tomorrow’, Masdar City remains a formidable living and investment option.
SAADIYAT ISLAND
Expats looking to buy properties in Abu Dhabi can also look into Saadiyat Island. The area offers a luxurious lifestyle to residents. Investors and home seekers can find a great blend of properties in the luxury area. As one of the residential islands of Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island provides a coastal living experience. Apartments for sale in Saadiyat Island are available at an average price of AED 4.60M and an ROI of 3.76%.
However, villas remain the predominant choice on Saadiyat Island. The area ranks as the third most popular neighbourhood for expats to buy villas in Abu Dhabi. With an average price of AED 11.98M and a 5.43% ROI, villas in Saadiyat Island stand out with their unique designs and amenities.
AL MARYAH ISLAND
It also ranks as one of the popular areas to buy property for expats in Abu Dhabi. The man-made island is home to several recognisable buildings and landmarks. Apartments for sale in Al Maryah Island deliver an ROI of 7.84% and have an average sales price of AED 1.83M.
FAQs
Where do Expats Live in Abu Dhabi?
For expats, renting in Abu Dhabi remains a viable option. Luckily, new laws allow expats to own properties in the city. Some of the expat friendly communities in Abu Dhabi include:
- Yas Island
- Saadiyat Island
- Masdar City
- Al Reef
- Lulu
- Al Raha Beach
- Sayh Al Sedairah
- Al Maryah Island
Is There Freehold Property in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, the capital city of the UAE has designated freehold areas. Consequently, foreigners and expats can buy and own properties in those neighbourhoods.
Can expats buy freehold properties in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, there are many freehold areas in Abu Dhabi where expats can buy properties. These areas remain good options for real estate investment in Abu Dhabi for expats.
With this, we end our list of the top emerging areas to buy property for expats in Abu Dhabi. The capital city of the UAE is highly appealing for its lucrative property market in particular. Moreover, government initiatives allow expats to own properties and enjoy good returns and a unique living experience in the emirate.
Check the guide to buying property in Abu Dhabi to learn the entire process. Moreover, take a look at these home loan options for expats in the UAE if you want to explore this option.
Besides the aforementioned area, Abu Dhabi has numerous neighbourhoods where expats can rent properties and get a taste of living in the capital city. Browse through these properties for sale in Abu Dhabi and explore some other options.
Stay connected with dubizzle’s property blog to discover top neighbourhoods for investment in the UAE and more.
