Yas Island
Homes beside Abu Dhabi's theme parks and racing circuit.
Living in Yas Island
Yas Island is Abu Dhabi's home of entertainment, between the city and the border with Dubai. It hosts Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World, SeaWorld, the Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Mall, along with beaches, golf and a busy calendar of concerts and events.
Away from the attractions, Yas has grown into a large residential island developed by Aldar. Neighbourhoods such as Yas Acres, West Yas and Water's Edge offer villas, townhouses and apartments with parks, pools and cycle tracks, and many people who work in Abu Dhabi and Dubai choose to live here.
Many residents use the island's cycle tracks for evening rides.
Property types
Studios to three bedroom apartments, plus two to six bedroom townhouses and villas. New neighbourhoods are still being launched.
Best for
Families who want space and leisure on the doorstep, and investors looking at short and long term rentals.
Prices and rents in 2026
Typical ranges for 2026, based on recent transactions and listing reports in Abu Dhabi. Apartments here average around AED 2,400 per sq ft.
One bedroom
Around AED 1.4 to 2.2 million to buy
AED 95,000 to 125,000 a year to rent
Two bedrooms
Around AED 2.2 to 3.5 million to buy
AED 140,000 to 190,000 a year to rent
Four bedroom villa
Around AED 6.5 to 9 million to buy
AED 320,000 to 380,000 a year to rent
Five bedroom villa
Around AED 9 to 12 million to buy
AED 400,000 to 450,000 a year to rent
For investors
Yas Island usually returns around 5% to 6% gross. Tenants are drawn by the attractions, the new homes and the location between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and holiday rentals can perform well around big events such as the Formula 1 race weekend.
Aldar continues to launch new neighbourhoods, which adds supply. Ready homes in established areas tend to hold their rents best. We compare off plan and ready prices across the island before you decide.
For families
Families like the parks, beaches, cycle tracks and the endless weekend activities. There are nurseries and schools on the island, with more a short drive away in Al Raha and Khalifa City. Families often compare Yas with Saadiyat Island and Al Raha Beach.
Getting around
Yas sits on the main highway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Zayed International Airport is about 10 minutes away, Abu Dhabi city centre about 25 minutes and Dubai Marina around an hour. Free buses run around the island, but most residents drive.
Nearby
Yas Mall, Yas Bay Waterfront, Etihad Arena and the theme parks are all on the island. Al Raha Beach is across the water, and Saadiyat Island is about 15 minutes away.
What people like
- Theme parks, beaches and golf on the doorstep
- New homes from a major developer
- Close to the airport
- Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai
What to watch
- Busy on big event days
- New supply still being launched
- Far from the old city centre
- A car is essential
Common questions
Where is Yas Island?
Yas Island is on the main highway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, about 10 minutes from Zayed International Airport.
How much is rent on Yas Island?
In 2026 a one bedroom is around AED 95,000 to 125,000 a year, and a four bedroom villa around AED 320,000 to 380,000.
Who develops Yas Island?
Most residential neighbourhoods on Yas Island are developed by Aldar.
Is Yas Island good for families?
Yes. It has parks, beaches, schools nearby and plenty of activities.
Can foreigners buy on Yas Island?
Yes. Yas Island is an investment zone open to buyers of any nationality.
Similar communities
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. Image courtesy of Aldar.0.