Al Reem Island
One of Abu Dhabi's Fastest Growing Natural Islands
Al Reem Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular waterfront areas. It sits just off the north-eastern coast of the city and has become a prime choice for people who want modern homes close to the capital’s main business and leisure hubs. The area is known for high-rise towers, sea views, canal-side paths, parks, malls, and easy access to Al Maryah Island and Saadiyat Island. Its main highlight is the mix of city life and waterfront comfort. Residents can live in modern towers, walk to cafes, shop close to home, and reach central Abu Dhabi within a short drive.
On The Map
Closest Bus Stop: Shakhbout Bin Sultan St / Al Bahr Towers, Bus Stop
Closest School: Repton School, Abu Dhabi
Closest Hospital: Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi
Zayed International Airport: 28 minutes by car
Al Reem Island is linked to Abu Dhabi city by bridges, which makes daily travel simple by car, taxi, or bus. Key roads connect it to Al Maryah Island, Tourist Club Area, Corniche Road, and Saadiyat Island. Public buses serve the island, with routes such as Service 73 linking Al Reem Island with major parts of Abu Dhabi. Taxis and ride-hailing services are easy to find, while private cars remain the most common option. Zayed International Airport is about 25-35 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. Nearby schools and health options include Repton Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, Reem Hospital, and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island.
The Neighbours
Al Reem Island attracts a wide mix of residents. Many are young professionals, couples, small families, and expats who want a modern home close to the city. The area also suits people who work in Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi Global Market, downtown Abu Dhabi, or nearby office districts. Families like the area because schools, clinics, parks, supermarkets, and malls are close by. Singles and couples value the cafes, gyms, waterfront paths, and quick access to nightlife in nearby areas. The lifestyle is active, urban, and practical, but it still gives residents open views and outdoor spaces.
What To Expect
Al Reem Island mainly offers apartments in high-rise towers, from studios to larger units. Some projects also include penthouses, duplexes, and townhouses, especially in newer master plans. Many homes come with gyms, pools, parking, play areas, security, and shared lounges. The area has a strong lifestyle offer, with Reem Central Park, canal walks, gyms, salons, cafes, and family spots. Notable nearby hotels include Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Beach Rotana, and Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Resort. For leisure, residents use Reem Mall, Snow Abu Dhabi, cinemas, parks, and dining venues on Al Maryah Island.
The Island has strong daily retail options. Reem Mall is the main shopping centre, with more than 400 stores, dining outlets, Snow Abu Dhabi, entertainment venues, and Carrefour Hypermarket. Shams Boutik Mall is another key spot, with Waitrose, cafes, casual food outlets, and useful services for nearby residents. Popular dining choices include Nando’s, La Brioche, PizzaExpress, Café James, Kettle Corner, K-Seoul, Starbucks, and several fast-food and cafe options. For more premium dining, Al Maryah Island is close by, with The Galleria and hotel restaurants only a short drive away. Daily grocery needs are easy to manage through Carrefour, Waitrose, and smaller local stores.
What Not To Expect
Al Reem Island has many strengths, but it may not suit every resident. The area is densely built-up in some parts, with many high-rise towers close together. Traffic can build up at peak times, mainly near bridges, malls, and school routes. Public transport is available, but many residents still prefer a car for comfort and faster trips. Some parts of the island are still under development, so construction noise, road changes, or new project work may affect certain buildings. Parking can also vary by tower. People who want low-rise villa life, large gardens, or a very quiet setting may prefer other areas of Abu Dhabi.
Architecture
Al Reem Island has a modern skyline shaped by glass towers, waterfront plots, podium levels, and mixed-use clusters. The design is focused on vertical homes, sea views, canal edges, and easy access to retail and leisure. Notable buildings and residential projects include Gate Towers, Sun and Sky Towers, The Arc Tower, Marina Square, and Reem Hills. These projects helped define the island as a modern residential hub. Current and upcoming off-plan projects include Renad Tower, Radiant Garden Towers, Reem Hills phases such as Amara and Aman, Seamont Autograph Collection Residences, Sunstone Residences, and The District by Reportage. These projects add more apartments, townhouses, branded homes, and lifestyle spaces.
Al Reem Island is a strong choice for people who want waterfront living near central Abu Dhabi. It offers modern apartments, malls, parks, schools, clinics, supermarkets, dining spots, and quick links to key business districts. The area works well for professionals, couples, and families who want comfort without being far from the city. It is also a useful base for visitors, thanks to its proximity to Al Maryah Island, Saadiyat Island, the Corniche, and downtown Abu Dhabi. While traffic, tower density, and construction can be concerns, the island remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most complete and in-demand urban communities.