Living in Hili Al Ain offers a unique mix of heritage and modern comfort. Known for its ancient archaeological sites and lush palm-filled oasis, Hili is part of the ‘Cultural Sites of Al Ain’, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
Hili is a peaceful residential area popular among tourists for its historical charm. With affordable housing, family-friendly spaces and access to everyday amenities, the area appeals to those seeking a quiet, culturally rich lifestyle away from the hustle of big cities.
Overview
Hili is located about 12 km north of central Al Ain and is one of the oldest residential areas in the UAE. Famous for its rich archaeological heritage, the area is home to the largest Bronze Age site in the country.
Beyond its historical charm, living in Hili Al Ain means enjoying a peaceful lifestyle in a well-developed neighbourhood. The area now features a variety of spacious villas and stylish apartments, many of which are newly built and thoughtfully designed.
With more affordable prices compared to other UAE cities, Hili has become a popular choice for families, professionals and retirees who want a quiet, comfortable place to call home.
Pros of Living in Hili
Hili offers a peaceful and family-friendly lifestyle with several benefits that make it a comfortable place to live, especially for those who prefer a quieter environment.
1. Affordable Housing Options
The most significant benefit of living in Hili is its cost-effectiveness. Renting a house here is significantly less expensive than in other areas of the UAE. Working professionals and families on a tight budget can easily afford modern villas or apartments with decent amenities at affordable costs.
The properties in Hili are often spacious and well-maintained, which makes them ideal for large families. Whether you’re looking for a cosy apartment or a large villa, Hili offers a wide variety of rental options at prices that are easier on the wallet.
The average prices of properties for rent in Al Hili are:
Average Rental Price of Apartments
| Property Type | Average Renting Price (AED/Year) |
| 2 Bedroom Apartment | 35,000 |
Average Rental Price of Villas
| Property Type | Average Renting Price (AED/Year) |
| 4 Bedroom Villa | 89,000 |
| 5 Bedroom Villa | 106,000 |
2. Family-Friendly Environment
Hili is a quiet and peaceful area, away from the traffic and noise of big cities. The neighbourhood has parks, playgrounds and even a theme park, making it perfect for kids and family outings. Hili also has good schools and healthcare facilities within and nearby, adding to its convenience for families.
Schools
- Belvedere International School
- Hili School
- Al Ain School
Hospitals
- Universal Hospital Al Hili
- NMC Speciality Hospital – 11 minutes drive
- Mediclinic Al Ain Hospital – 13 minutes drive
Theme Parks and Play Areas
- Hili Archaeological Park
- Hili Fun City
- Al Hili Park
3. Rich Cultural and Historical Value
One of the most special things about living in Hili Al Ain is being surrounded by history. The area is home to some of the UAE’s most important archaeological sites, including the Hili Archaeological Park and Hili Oasis.
Residents can visit these heritage sites anytime, making Hili a great place for those who love culture and learning. Living in a community that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly special, as it is also one of the best places to visit in Al Ain.
4. Access to Amenities
Hili is well-equipped with a wide range of everyday amenities that make living here comfortable and convenient. Residents have easy access to supermarkets, gyms and various restaurants that suit different tastes and budgets. The area is also home to Hili Mall, a popular shopping destination offering convenience and entertainment for locals.
Supermarkets
- K.M. Hypermarket Hili
- LuLu Hypermarket
- Al Hili Gift Market
Restaurants
- Crystal Diamond Restaurant
- Solidaire Restaurant & Cafe
- Caspian Kabab Restaurant
Gyms
- Fitness First Hili Mall
- Mister Gym
- Next Level Gym
5. Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities
Hili is full of greenery and open spaces, which is perfect for people who enjoy outdoor activities. Parks, walking paths and palm-filled landscapes give the area a calm and refreshing feel. Families can spend time outdoors without travelling far, and kids have safe places to play.
Cons of Living in Hili
Hili has many advantages, but it also comes with a few downsides, especially for those who are used to the lifestyle of a big city.
1. Limited Public Transportation
While Al Ain has a bus network, public transportation in Hili is limited. Residents often rely on private vehicles or taxis for commuting, as bus routes may not cover all areas extensively.
2. Limited Entertainment and Nightlife Options
Hili has some family parks and amusement spots, but it doesn’t offer the same variety of entertainment as bigger cities. If you enjoy nightlife, concerts, cinemas or trendy cafes, you might find the options here limited. Most leisure activities in Hili focus on family, nature or cultural experiences.
FAQs
Yes! Hili is a family-friendly area with parks, schools and a peaceful environment. It’s known as a safe and quiet community, ideal for raising children.
Compared to larger cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the cost of living in Hili is generally lower, especially when it comes to housing and daily expenses.
Public transport options in Hili are limited. There are a few bus routes, but no metro. Most residents use private cars to commute.
Hili is located on the outskirts of Al Ain and is about a 15–20 minute drive from the city centre, depending on traffic.
Hili, Al Ain, is a perfect combination of history, nature and low-cost modern living. With stunning archaeological remains, quiet streets and big houses at affordable rents, it is an excellent option for families, retirees and all those seeking a more peaceful way of life in the UAE.
For more insights about places to live in Al Ain, you can also explore the pros and cons of living in Al Muwaiji on the Property Finder Blog.
