Top Areas for Short-term Rentals in Abu Dhabi
Short-term rentals are an ideal accommodation option for people staying in Abu Dhabi for a limited period. These property units can be rented on a daily, weekly or monthly basis and typically come fully furnished with essential utilities. Before moving in, both the tenant and landlord are required to sign an agreement and register it with TAMM. Due to the steady influx of tourists and frequent visitors, short-term rentals are available in various areas across Abu Dhabi. For your convenience, we’ve compiled all the key details about the top areas for short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi below.
List of Popular Areas for Short-Term Rentals in Abu Dhabi
The scope for short-term rentals and holiday homes in Dubai and other Abu Dhabi has been promising. Frequented by tourists, visitors and business travellers, the capital city has ample options when it comes to short-term rentals. The following are the top areas for renting a short-term property in Abu Dhabi.
Disclaimer: The above-mentioned prices are for 2024-5 and may or may not be the actual representation of transactions in the market. Therefore, it is suggested to conduct your own real estate market research before selecting an apartment for short-term rentals.
Al Reem Island

Al Reem Island tops the list of places for short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi. The area features a mix of luxury high-rise apartments and waterfront properties. According to dubizzle market trends, it is one of the most in-demand areas for renters due to its modern infrastructure, sea views and upscale living. The island is well-connected to the city via Abu Dhabi’s public transport system. As a result, visiting and exploring Al Reem Island is convenient for both tourists and business travellers.
Catering to droves of visitors is a range of daily and monthly short-term rental properties in Al Reem Island. The average rent of available apartment units has been AED 12.3k. Details for the monthly rent for different apartment configurations are as follows:
| Apartment Type | Avg Rent |
| Studio | 8,989 |
| 1-Bed | 10,321 |
| 2-Bed | 15,106 |
Masdar City
A sustainable city project with modern urban infrastructure, Masdar City is an emerging urban destination. The large-scale development is located near Abu Dhabi International Airport, which makes it an ideal place for short-term rentals. It features sustainable buildings made from recycled materials and uses significantly less energy and water.
The area attracts eco-conscious travellers and professionals due to its focus on sustainability and a business-friendly environment. There are also lush green parks and urban open spaces to explore in Masdar City.
Those looking for short stays in the area will come across many different short-term rental options. The average monthly rent for short-term properties in Masdar City has been AED 8.3k. The monthly rent for different apartment configurations in the area is detailed below.
| Apartment Type | Avg Rent |
| Studio | 7,201 |
| 1-Bed | 8,437 |
| 2-Bed | 10,975 |
Yas Island

Home to attractions like Yas Marina Circuit, Warner Bros World and Yas Waterworld, Yas Island is a vibrant destination. All these aspects increase its potential to host short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi. The island offers a mix of luxury residential units, including modern apartments.
Due to its strategic location, Yas Island offers easy access to popular retail destinations, schools and Abu Dhabi’s public transport network. Moreover, its proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport and major highways ensures convenient travel and city-wide commutes. With world-class hotels, dining spots and leisure venues, it caters perfectly to tourists and business travellers alike.
There is an array of monthly short-term rental apartments in Yas Island. The average rent of the apartments available for short stays has been AED 12.9k. However, the rent varies on the basis of size and number of bedrooms in apartments. Here are the different types of short-term rental apartments in the area and their average monthly rent.
| Apartment Type | Avg Rent |
| Studio | 9,304 |
| 1-Bed | 11,459 |
| 2-Bed | 16,799 |
Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Beach is also a popular destination for vacation rentals in Abu Dhabi. The coastal development is located along the scenic Arabian Gulf. The breathtaking waterfront views of the area are complemented by the modern infrastructure. As a masterfully planned development, it offers a mix of residential properties, commercial units and top-notch recreational facilities.
Another thing that significantly enhances Al Raha Beach’s appeal is its seamless connectivity. The coastal area is known for its proximity to the capital city’s major attractions. Prominent places include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Ferrari World and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Visitors can find many options for monthly short-term rental properties in Al Raha Beach, offering waterfront views. The average rent of the available vacation properties has been AED 12k a month. More details on what tenants have paid for different types of monthly rental apartments in the area are tabulated below.
| Apartment Type | Avg Rent |
| Studio | 11,323 |
| 1-Bed | 11,038 |
| 2-Bed | 12,150 |
Saadiyat Island

Saadiyat Island is among the most sought-after locations for short-term rentals and serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi. It is just a short drive away from the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Highway (E12) and enjoys easy access to other urban hubs. Moreover, Saadiyat Island’s strategic location seamlessly connects it with other residential islands in Abu Dhabi, offering hassle-free commutes.
Those looking for places to stay for their tour to the capital city or a business trip will find many options. There are many daily and monthly short-term rental apartments in Saadiyat Island that visitors can explore. The average rent of the temporary accommodation in the locality is AED 16.5k per month. Now, let’s learn about the average monthly rent of different apartment configurations in the area.
| Apartment Type | Avg Rent |
| Studio | 10,333 |
| 1-Bed | 12,416 |
| 2-Bed | 23,583 |
FAQs
What are the top areas for short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi?
There are many unfurnished and furnished apartments in Abu Dhabi available for short stays. The most sought-after areas that offer them include Al Reem Island, Masdar City, Yas Island, Al Raha Beach and Saadiyat Island.
Are there any specific regulations for short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi require a permit from the Department of Culture and Tourism.
Are there any freehold areas in Abu Dhabi for foreigners to invest in real estate?
Yes. There is a list of freehold property areas in Abu Dhabi for foreigners looking to invest in holiday homes and other types of properties.
This was everything to know about popular areas offering non-luxury and luxury short-term rentals in Abu Dhabi. The capital emirate’s real estate market is constantly growing. Many new projects in Abu Dhabi have resort-style properties in the making. These up-and-coming developments offer all the more reasons to invest and capitalise on the region’s promising potential.
Those searching for a monthly short-term rental property in Abu Dhabi have a host of options available. However, one would find more apartments than any other type of property as holiday homes in Abu Dhabi.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top property blog for more information on citywide and beachfront rentals in Abu Dhabi.