Al Reem Island
Waterfront towers next to Abu Dhabi city centre.
Living in Al Reem Island
Al Reem Island is a large island of residential towers right next to Abu Dhabi city centre, linked by several bridges. It is the most popular place in the capital for expats to rent and buy apartments, thanks to its waterfront views, newer buildings and central location.
The island is divided into districts such as Shams Abu Dhabi, Marina Square and Najmat, each with towers, promenades and parks. Reem Mall, cafés, clinics and schools are spread across the island, and the business district of Al Maryah Island is just across the water.
Waterfront promenades and parks run along much of the island, and many towers have views over the water.
Property types
Studios to four bedroom apartments in high rise towers, plus some townhouses and penthouses. New towers continue to be built.
Best for
Professionals working in the city centre or on Al Maryah Island, and investors looking for strong rental demand.
Prices and rents in 2026
Typical ranges for 2026, based on recent transactions and listing reports in Abu Dhabi. Apartments here average around AED 1,700 per sq ft.
Studio
Around AED 800,000 to 1.1 million to buy
AED 60,000 to 75,000 a year to rent
One bedroom
Around AED 1.1 to 1.6 million to buy
AED 85,000 to 105,000 a year to rent
Two bedrooms
Around AED 1.7 to 2.5 million to buy
AED 115,000 to 140,000 a year to rent
For investors
Al Reem Island usually returns around 6% to 6.5% gross, among the better yields for newer towers in Abu Dhabi. Demand is steady because many professionals want to live close to the city centre and Al Maryah Island.
Supply is still growing, so towers with good views, management and facilities hold their rents best. We compare service charges, recent rents and resale prices tower by tower.
For families
Families like the parks, promenades and the schools on the island, including Repton School Abu Dhabi. Hospitals including Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi are close by on Al Maryah Island. Families wanting a villa often look at Yas Island or Saadiyat Island.
Getting around
Bridges connect Al Reem Island to the city centre, Al Maryah Island and the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Highway. Downtown Abu Dhabi is about 5 to 10 minutes away, Zayed International Airport about 25 minutes and Dubai around an hour and 15 minutes. Buses run across the island.
Taxis are easy to find across the island, and many residents walk to the malls and promenades.
Nearby
Reem Mall, Boutik Mall and The Galleria on Al Maryah Island cover shopping and dining. Al Maryah Island is next door, and Saadiyat Island is about 10 minutes away.
What people like
- Central location next to the city centre
- Waterfront views and promenades
- Strong rental demand
- Schools and hospitals close by
What to watch
- A lot of new supply
- Traffic on the bridges at peak times
- Quality varies between towers
- Few villas
Common questions
Where is Al Reem Island?
It is next to Abu Dhabi city centre, linked by bridges, about 5 to 10 minutes from downtown.
How much is rent on Al Reem Island?
In 2026 a one bedroom is around AED 85,000 to 105,000 a year, and a two bedroom around AED 115,000 to 140,000.
Is Al Reem Island a good investment?
It offers yields of around 6% to 6.5% gross with strong demand. Choose a tower with good management and views.
Is Al Reem Island good for families?
Yes. It has parks, schools and hospitals close by.
Can foreigners buy on Al Reem Island?
Yes. Al Reem Island is an investment zone open to buyers of any nationality.
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This guide gives general information, last reviewed in October 2026. Prices, availability and project details change, so ask an advisor for current figures before making a decision. Photo by Sa7er90 on Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY SA 4.0.