Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is the centre of business and governmental activities. It attracts people from all over the world. For the expats and foreigners, the government has designated freehold areas for buying and investing in properties.
Here’s a detailed overview of these freehold areas in Abu Dhabi, but before that let’s differentiate between the two main types of areas: freehold and freezone.
Freehold vs Freezone
Many confuse the Freehold and Freezone areas. Both have significant differences. Freehold property allows one to own the land and property completely. Meanwhile, freezone areas offer several benefits to businesses, such as tax breaks and exemptions from customs duties. However, you typically cannot own the property outright in a free zone.
Top Freehold Areas of Abu Dhabi
Recent changes to real estate in Abu Dhabi have opened exciting opportunities for foreign investment in the UAE capital. If you are interested in the best places, explore these freehold communities that offer an ideal mix of apartments and villas.
Yas Island
The man-made Yas Island is one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in the capital. The island is home to numerous tourist attractions, including Ferrari World, Yas Marina, Yas Links, Yas Mall and the W Hotel.
Additionally, high-end restaurants and hotels make the community an ideal place to live. One can buy waterfront villas or apartments for sale in Yas Island, ensuring a tranquil living experience.
It is only 50 minutes away from Dubai and can be directly accessed via the E10 exit on the Abu Dhabi – Dubai motorway. Moreover, the 190 Bus Route and taxi service are also available for public transport.
Al Reef
Al Reef in Abu Dhabi is a mixed-use development on Abu Dhabi’s outskirts, developed by Manazel Real Estate. With various villas and apartments, Al Reef is a peaceful and family-friendly community. It’s also home to public transport options like buses and taxis and ride-hailing options like Careem and Uber.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is a master development by ALDAR Properties. It is known as Abu Dhabi’s cultural hub. The island has famous museums and cultural attractions, as well as regular art exhibitions and workshops.
Access to golf courses, beaches, and restaurants, alongside urban amenities like supermarkets, schools, and universities, make Saadiyat Island an area of interest for global investors.
Al Raha Beach
If you like waterfront units, Al Raha Beach is a great choice. It is one of the most popular freehold areas in Abu Dhabi, perfect for families and young professionals. In addition, it’s a go-to option for many expatriates who opt for an upscale lifestyle.
You can find lavish villas, townhouses and apartments in Al Raha Beach. With many waterfront properties, residents enjoy calming views and modern amenities. In the Al Raha Beach area, one can find a mall, schools and beaches. It is also well-connected to the rest of the Emirate via the public transport network.
Masdar City
Masdar City is a mixed-use area, developed by Masdar Property Developers. The neighbourhood emphasises a sustainable and energy-efficient lifestyle.
While the community offers both villas and apartments, the latter has made Masdar City one of the top freehold areas in Abu Dhabi. These apartments are part of some of the latest residential projects in the Emirate, boasting modern amenities and facilities.
Moreover, as a resident, you will enjoy easy access to retail shops, educational institutions, parks, and other amenities, making it a family-friendly community. The community is conveniently located near major developments and landmarks like Khalifa City, Al Raha Beach, and Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Al Reem Island
Another popular freehold area is Al Reem Island. It is well-known for its luxury apartments and several off-plan projects. The area is well-connected via public transport and taxis.
Additionally, this community has several sub-communities, including Shams Abu Dhabi and Reem Hills. Al Reem Island is also near some of the top neighbourhoods, such as Corniche and Al Maryah Island.
Al Maryah Island
Among the top freehold areas, Al Maryah Island is an emerging one. This neighbourhood mainly includes apartments. Furthermore, several hotels, restaurants, top facilities, and amenities make Al Maryah Island a top neighborhood in Abu Dhabi.
Residents have easy access to public transportation, including buses and taxis. Moreover, it’s a perfect waterfront destination with investment opportunities and residence options. For a modern lifestyle, you can experience several restaurant options and explore the Galleria Mall.
Al Shamkha
Al Shamkha is one of the top freehold areas in Abu Dhabi, and it is particularly favoured by investors. Despite its location far from the main neighbourhoods in the capital, its peaceful and serene atmosphere compensates for the distance. Additionally, residents can access all the city amenities and facilities needed for an upscale lifestyle.
The community features luxury villas in various configurations. These beautifully designed homes are near basic and advanced facilities, such as quality schools, supermarkets, and clinics.
Even though it is located away from the main city, Al Shamkha is well-connected via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, providing an easy commute to the mainland and Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Nurai Island
Nurai Island is a stunning man-made vacation spot in Abu Dhabi, featuring beautiful seaside homes. It is located just minutes from the coast, making it accessible by boats and ferries.
Moreover, the island is renowned for its luxurious resorts, such as Zaya Nurai Island, and boasts 11 hectares of white sandy beaches. Buyers and investors can discover luxurious villas and holiday homes with various specifications to suit different preferences, all surrounded by picturesque lagoon views and lush greenery.
Muroor Area
Muroor in Abu Dhabi is central yet quiet, ideal for families looking for budget-friendly options. The area offers affordable villas and apartments to rent. Moreover, the neighbourhood has high-rise towers with Corniche views, offering units with stunning views.
Nearby schools, supermarkets, clinics, popular restaurants, and cafes make it one of the top areas.
Explore all properties for sale in Abu Dhabi
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Apartment
Listed 22 hours ago
7,290,000 AED
HOT DEAL | Corner | Duplex 2BR | Beachfront Living
Fahid Beach Residences, Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi
2
3
1,663 sqft
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Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
3,300,000 AED
Hot Deal |Elite 1BR| Premium Layout |Prime Area
Mamsha Gardens, Saadiyat Cultural District, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
1
2
957 sqft
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Villa
Listed 2 days ago
7,900,000 AED
Hot Deal | Huge 4BR+Maids Room | Nearby the Beach
Al Naseem, Al Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
4
6
8,336 sqft
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Villa
Listed 20 hours ago
5,400,000 AED
Double Row | Corner Villa | Stunning Layout
Fay Alreeman, Al Shamkha, Abu Dhabi
6
7
5,222 sqft
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Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
4,399,999 AED
Hottest Deal | 3BR+Maid | L-Shaped Balcony
Nawayef Park Views, Al Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
3
4
2,503 sqft
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Villa
Listed 3 days ago
5,000,000 AED
Single Row | Corner Unit | Huge Plot | Negotiable
Fay Al Reeman II, Al Shamkha, Abu Dhabi
5
6
5,433 sqft
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Land
Listed 2 days ago
2,991,600 AED
Wadeem Plot| Huge Size| Great Investment| High ROI
Wadeem, Al Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
none
6,544 sqft
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Apartment
Listed 1 day ago
735,000 AED
High Floor | Spacious Unit | Great Investment
Reeman Living, Al Shamkha, Abu Dhabi
1
1
484 sqft
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Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
1,100,000 AED
High Floor 1BR Junior| Fully Furnished| Pool View
Al Maryah Vista, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
1
1
533 sqft
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Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
495,000 AED
Hot Deal| Cozy Studio| High ROI|Invest Now
Reeman Living, Al Shamkha, Abu Dhabi
studio
1
279 sqft
FAQs
Cost-friendly places to live in Abu Dhabi are usually located on the outskirts, such as Al Shamkha and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.
The best areas in Abu Dhabi include Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, and Yas Island, which are known for their attractive points and lifestyles.
Yes, you can buy freehold property in designated areas. These allow complete ownership of the properties for a lifetime. You can also explore Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s free zones more.
These were all the freehold areas in Abu Dhabi. The capital real estate market has experienced significant expansion, drawing interest from both domestic and international investors.
Freehold property zones enable foreign investors to purchase properties in the city and potentially yield lucrative returns. So, you can now buy a property in Abu Dhabi but only in these freehold neighbourhoods.
