Top Islands to Live on in Abu Dhabi in 2025

When it comes to top islands to live in Abu Dhabi, seven of the island names come to mind instantly: Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Hudayriat Island, Al Maryah Island, Al Lulu Island, Al Reem Island, & Al Jubail Island.
These fabulous islands stand out not just for their beauty, but also for their lifestyle, potential of investment, & the world-class amenities that it extends.
In this blog, we will walk you through each of these islands offering insights & data to guide your decision, whether you are looking at property for sale in Abu Dhabi or planning a waterfront move.

Best Islands in Abu Dhabi for Investment

Before we discuss the islands, here’s a quick reality check: Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector has surged considerably.

In Q1 2025 alone, the emirate recorded AED 25.3 billion worth of transactions – a remarkable 34.5 % year-on-year jump, driven largely by strong interest in Saadiyat & Yas Islands. Abu Dhabi real estate prices rose 11 % in 2024, with rental rates up 20 % . With that, let us now uncover what makes each of these islands shine.

Yas Island

Yas Island is one of the most popular, dynamic & vibrant locations in Abu Dhabi today.

Well-known for its booming infrastructure & invariably lively lifestyle, this place has become a top pick for both residents as well as investors alike.

• Entertainment offerings – Yas Island is home to top attractions like Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, the F1 Yas Marina Circuit, and the upcoming Disney theme park making it Abu Dhabi’s ultimate entertainment destination.
• Facilities – This popular island offers innumerable facilities. Some of the very significant ones which we can’t go away without mentioning like the Yas Mall, healthcare centers, & international schools.
• Community feel – This island offers built-in modern residential enclaves, ideal for families to get a comfortable and hassle-free living.
• Investment insight – The demand jumped 163 % after SeaWorld opened in 2023, with apartment prices averaging AED 1,648/ft².
• Growth in price – Luxury properties grew by ~6.6 % in early 2025.
• Why live here? – This famous island of Abu Dhabi offers a perfect blend of lifestyle, convenience, & all properties are found to have a very strong resale value.

Related Blog: Yas Island Property Trends and ROI

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Saadiyat Island

When it comes to Saadiyat Island, we must say that it is a cultural hub which meets luxury waterfront living.

Saadiyat Island is home to several iconic landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the upcoming Guggenheim Museum. Also, this island has some of the most serene beaches in the region. It is designed to accommodate up to 145,000 residents & is ideal for those who enjoy exclusivity, art, and tranquillity.

No matter if you are looking at luxury villas or high-end apartments, Saadiyat promises steady growth. With an average rental yield of 4.24%, this particular island is considered a hotspot for Abu Dhabi property investment.

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Al Hudayriat Island

Al Hudayriat Island is Abu Dhabi’s rising lifestyle destination, and is ideal for active families and fitness enthusiasts. It offers modern homes, vibrant leisure spaces, and eco-friendly features.

Highlights include jogging trails, cycling paths, water sports facilities, and the scenic Marsana waterfront promenade. With promising residential projects like Hudayriat Villas and waterfront townhouses, the island combines comfort, sustainability, and attractive investment potential.

It is perfect for active living, family-friendly amenities, and smart, sustainable property investments.

Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island has presently become the financial heartbeat of Abu Dhabi. It houses the Abu Dhabi Global Market, Cleveland Clinic, & several luxury hotels like Four Seasons.

This island is surely perfect for professionals who want their residence to be close to work and upscale dining. With Aldar’s commercial expansion & mixed-use developments, Al Maryah combines work-life convenience with ultra-luxury living.

When you consider this island, you can expect a high-end lifestyle with the most premium returns on both commercial as well as residential property investments.

Al Lulu Island

Al Lulu Island is a hidden gem with a massive future potential. Though this island is largely undeveloped, the government has earmarked it for some promising green projects, including eco-resorts & public parks.

For investors, this island presents a golden opportunity to get in early before major development drives prices up to a considerable extent. This island is ideal for those who are interested in sustainable & eco-conscious living while staying close to the core of Abu Dhabi.

Al Reem Island

When it comes to Al Reem Island, this place presents an opportunity of city living with a residential twist which best describes Al Reem Island. Located just off the north-eastern coast of Abu Dhabi city, this particular island already boasts a bustling population of 20,000+ residents.

Well-known for its high-rise apartments, waterfront views, & close proximity to central business districts, it is a popular choice for young professionals as well as an ideal spot for family living.

Residents of this island enjoy retail outlets, Reem Mall, schools, & clinics all within walking distance. With its options of freehold ownership, transparent leasing policies, & strong infrastructure, Al Reem continues to be a very reliable choice for both living as well as for long-term investments.

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Al Jubail Island

Peaceful, pristine, & highly exclusive—Al Jubail Island is indeed perfect for those who seek privacy without compromising on luxury. Nestled between Yas & Saadiyat, this particular island offers upscale villas, surrounded by mangroves & marine life.

Al Jubail has emerged as a top pick for eco-conscious buyers & nature lovers. Its low-density design & strong emphasis on green spaces make it one of the most desirable places to invest in, especially for those investors who are looking forward to invest in waterfront properties in Abu Dhabi.

Island Comparison

Island	Best For	Lifestyle Focus	Key Attractions
Yas Island	Families, Expats, Investors	Entertainment & Retail	Ferrari World, Yas Mall, Yas Marina
Saadiyat Island	Art lovers, Luxury Seekers	Culture & Beaches	Louvre Abu Dhabi, NYU, Saadiyat Beach
Al Hudayriat	Active Families, Fitness Lovers	Nature & Sports	Marsana, Bike Tracks, Beachfronts
Al Maryah Island	Professionals	Urban Luxury & Finance	ADGM, Cleveland Clinic, The Galleria
Al Lulu Island	Eco-investors, Visionaries	Future-Ready Green Living	Planned Eco-Resorts, Public Parks
Al Reem Island	Expats, Young Professionals	City + Waterfront Living	Reem Mall, Sorbonne Uni, Central Park
Al Jubail Island	Nature Seekers, Families	Privacy + Sustainability	Mangroves, Jubail Island Villas

Choosing the Right Island

Each island in Abu Dhabi has its own charm & strength.

• Yas Island offers an extraordinarily vibrant, entertainment-focused lifestyle with strong investor interest & rising prices. If you are into family fun, waterparks, & global entertainment hubs, Yas is for you.
• Saadiyat Island brings a great blend of culture & luxury. With its interesting museums & serene beaches, it is ideal for art lovers & those seeking an upscale lifestyle with a solid rental ROI.
• Al Hudayriat Island is great option for active families and outdoor lovers. It has bike tracks, water sports, and eco-friendly homes.
• Al Maryah Island is the go-to for those professionals who want a luxurious urban lifestyle with a proximity to workspaces and high-end health & dining facilities.
• Al Lulu Island appeals to forward-thinkers who are willing to invest in eco-conscious, future-ready zones. Its development potential makes it a smart long-term bet.
• Al Reem Island is indeed the best suited for urban dwellers. With numerous modern apartment complexes, retail options, & good schools, it offers an all-in-one city experience for families as well as professionals alike.
• Al Jubail Island caters to those who value serenity & sustainability. Its waterfront villas & commitment to green design make it one of the most unique islands in the capital.

Conclusion

If you are considering buying property in Abu Dhabi, these six islands offer unmatched value & variety:

• Yas Island: entertainment-driven with a very strong investor interest.
• Saadiyat Island: cultural elegance, and healthy returns.
• Al Hudayriat Island: for families, wellness seekers, and eco-conscious buyers.
• Al Maryah Island: work-life integrated luxury ideal for ambitious yet luxury-loving professionals
• Al Lulu Island: untapped eco-chic living, great for investment.
• Al Reem Island: family-friendly urban ease.
• Al Jubail Island: tranquil waterfront exclusivity.

Ready to Explore?

Investing in the waterfront apartments Abu Dhabi or a villa here means harnessing optimum growth & lifestyle in equal measure. If you would like to explore property for sale in Abu Dhabi, you may check out the available listings & personalized help on:

• Yas Island
• Saadiyat Island
• Al Reem Island
• Al Raha Beach

Each of these islands offer something very unique and interesting thing to explore. And today, with momentum stronger than ever, now is an ideal time to invest.

This guide aims to make your journey easier, more well-informed, & completely filled with real possibilities. If you are looking into Abu Dhabi property investment, these islands offer the desired modern lifestyle & outcomes you have been searching for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best island to live on in Abu Dhabi?

Yas Island is one of the best choices for living in Abu Dhabi. It offers a dynamic lifestyle with theme parks, retail hubs like Yas Mall, beautiful beaches, and excellent amenities. It’s ideal for families, professionals, and investors looking for strong rental yields and resale value.

What are the best areas in Abu Dhabi for families?

Some of the most family-friendly areas include:

• Yas Island: Offers international schools, kid-friendly beaches, and communities like Gardenia Bay.
• Saadiyat Island: Perfect for families who value culture, education, and luxury living in gated villa communities.
• Hudayriat Island: Ideal for active families with cycling tracks, beaches, sports courts, and eco-friendly living.
• Al Reem Island: Combines waterfront living with urban convenience. Features schools, parks, and family-ready apartments.
• Al Jubail Island: A serene, low-density community surrounded by nature—great for families seeking peace and privacy.

Where do most expats live in Abu Dhabi?

Expats typically prefer:

• Al Reem Island: Waterfront high-rises, close to city center, with modern amenities and international schools.
• Yas Island: Vibrant lifestyle, theme parks, retail, and entertainment—all within a modern, family-friendly setting.
• Saadiyat Island: Cultural and luxury hotspot with beachfront villas and proximity to world-class institutions.
• Al Maryah Island: Ideal for professionals seeking upscale urban living close to business and healthcare centers.
• Al Jubail Island: A peaceful escape with luxury villas, mangroves, and eco-conscious design.

Which is better: Yas Island or Saadiyat Island?

It depends on your lifestyle:

• Yas Island is great for entertainment lovers, families, and investors looking for high rental yield and long-term value.
• Saadiyat Island suits those who prefer a quieter, luxury lifestyle surrounded by culture, art, and pristine beaches.

Is Abu Dhabi a good place to invest in property?

Yes. Abu Dhabi offers excellent property investment opportunities with strong ROI, freehold zones for foreigners, Golden Visa eligibility, and stable growth. Islands like Yas, Saadiyat, and Al Reem continue to attract both investors and end-users.