Popular Residential Islands in the UAE

Are you seeking a waterfront lifestyle in a resort-style location? If yes, the UAE islands never disappoint. With serene ambience, powdery beaches and modern amenities, they attract tenants and investors. From chic apartments and spacious villas to luxurious townhouses, these islands offer something for every taste.

Read ahead to discover more about islands in the UAE, with insights into property pricing.

• Best Islands in Dubai
• Best Islands in Abu Dhabi
• Best Islands in Other Emirates
• FAQs

Best Islands in Dubai

Are you thinking of living on an island in Dubai? There are plenty of options, each offering an unparalleled living experience. Let’s look at some of the best UAE islands situated off the coast of Dubai:

1. Bluewaters Island

Do you want to live by the clear shores of a stunning man-made island? Al Meraas Development’s iconic project, Bluewaters Island, offers just that. What sets it apart from other islands is its central landmark, Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest observation wheel. It is directly accessible by Sheikh Zayed Road and a bridge.

It has 10 residential buildings, each featuring 1- to 4-bedroom apartments, villas and penthouses. Sale and rental apartments in Bluewaters are themed around Scandinavian architecture, with high-quality finishes and aesthetic designs.

With over 31 restaurants, multiple leisure destinations, luxury resorts and beach access, there is never a dull moment at Bluewaters. These perks make it a prime residential and investment opportunity.

Location

Off the coast of Jumeirah Beach Residence near Dubai Marina, Dubai

Popular Attractions

• Ain Dubai
• Brass Monkey
• Madame Tussauds Dubai
• Illusion City Dubai

Nearby Communities

• Jumeirah Lake Towers: 13-minute drive
• Discovery Gardens: 14-minute drive
• Dubai Marina: 16-minute drive

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2. Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah stands out for its unique palm-tree design, luxury amenities and Palm Jumeirah Monorail. Titled the ‘World’s Largest Man-made Island’, it covers an impressive area on the Arabian Gulf. It is divided into three districts:

• The Trunk: A mixed-use residential and commercial area.
• Fronds: Features several residential properties.
• Outer Crescent: Boasts resorts for recreational purposes.

Speaking of residential properties, the island boasts studio to 6-bedroom apartments and penthouses and 3- to 10-bedroom villas and townhouses. For renting apartments in Palm Jumeirah, you can consider Shoreline Apartments.

Living in Palm Jumeirah is a unique experience, with relaxing beaches, resorts like Atlantis the Palm and highlights such as Aquaventure Waterpark.

Location

Off the coast of Jumeirah, close to Dubai Marina, Dubai

Popular Attractions

• Aquaventure Waterpark
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Aquaventure World
• The View Palm Jumeirah

Nearby Communities

• Al Sufouh: 7-minute drive
• Dubai Media City: 8-minute drive
• Dubai Marina: 12-minute drive

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3. The World Islands

Developed by Nakheel Properties, The World Islands is a man-made archipelago of 300 small islands. It is designed as a world map, divided into seven continents, with each island named after a country. These islands boast apartments, villas, mansions and lands, attracting tenants and investors.

It is especially popular for its flagship development, The Heart of Europe, which features world-class resorts.

Location

Persian Gulf, off the coast of Dubai

Popular Attractions

• Royal Island Beach Club
• The Heart of Europe

Villa Sale Prices

4. Dubai Harbour

Dubai Harbour is next on our list of the best UAE islands, offering a chance to live near the largest marina. It is the right choice for everyone, whether you want to call it your home or invest for high returns. You can choose from apartments, villas and penthouses, ranging from cosy spaces to spacious layouts.

With its central, easily accessible location, residents are closer to schools, supermarkets and leisure destinations.

Location

At the intersection of Bluewaters and Palm Jumeirah, near King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Nearby Attractions

• Barasti Beach: 1-minute drive
• Dubai Marina Walk: 6-minute drive
• Marina Beach: 12-minute drive
• Aqua Fun Waterpark: 12-minute drive

Nearby Communities

• Dubai Media City: 8-minute drive
• Dubai Internet City: 8-minute drive
• Emirates Hills: 14-minute drive

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Best Islands in Abu Dhabi

Is a lifestyle by the shore enough to excite you? If yes, explore the list of the top UAE islands located in Abu Dhabi:

1. Yas Island

Looking for a lifestyle that feels like an escape to a staycation? Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is your answer! Titled the ‘Entertainment Capital of Abu Dhabi’, the island offers a resort-style lifestyle. You can buy or rent an apartment in Yas Island and experience upscale living.

Living on Yas Island is all about enjoyment, thrill and relaxation. From Ferrari World to Yas Waterworld, there are countless attractions for leisure seekers.

Moreover, the island is well-served by Abu Dhabi public transport and has several bus stops for easy and fast commutes.

Location

On Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Highway, Abu Dhabi

Popular Attractions

• Ferrari World
• Yas Waterworld
• Yas Marina Circuit
• Yas Beach
• Warner Bros. World

Nearby Communities

• Al Muneera: 13-minute drive
• Al Seef: 17-minute drive
• Al Raha Gardens: 18-minute drive

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2. Saadiyat Island

For all culture enthusiasts and art lovers, Saadiyat Island checks all the right boxes. It is the cultural centre of the capital, housing famous museums and art galleries like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat. Its awe-inspiring beauty, cultural attractions and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the best UAE islands.

When it comes to residential properties, the island offers a mix of apartments, villas, penthouses and duplexes. Redefining elegance, each residential unit offers stunning waterfront views.

If you love living by the beach in a cultural hub, consider buying or renting an apartment on Saadiyat Island.

Location

Near Abu Dhabi International Airport and Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi

Popular Attractions

• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Manarat Al Saadiyat
• Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
• Zayed National Museum

Nearby Communities

• Al Zahiyah: 16-minute drive
• Al Maryah Island: 19-minute drive

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3. Al Reem Island

Al Reem Island is another well-loved residential island in Abu Dhabi, divided into residential, commercial and leisure districts. Set 600 metres off Abu Dhabi’s coast, residents and tourists can access this natural island via two pedestrian bridges.

Everyone, from tenants to investors, can find their desired property on Al Reem Island. Property types include studio to 5-bedroom apartments, 3- to 5-bedroom villas, 2- to 5-bedroom townhouses and 3- to 5-bedroom penthouses.

Living on Yas Island connects you to top-notch amenities, including supermarkets, malls, parks and dining options.

Location

Off the northeastern coast of Abu Dhabi, near Saadiyat Island and Al Maryah Island

Popular Attractions

• Cove Beach Makers District
• Reem Central Park

Nearby Communities

• Al Maryah Island: 9-minute drive
• Al Zahiyah: 12-minute drive

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Best Islands in Other Emirates

Picture a lifestyle on an island surrounded by sandy shores and upscale amenities. If this is what you are seeking, consider the residential islands in Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain:​

1. Maryam Island – Sharjah

Developed by Eagle Hills, Maryam Island offers the right balance of waterfront views, competitive prices and connectivity. Divided into four sub-communities, namely Cyan, Azure, Sapphire and Indigo, it offers studio to 4-bedroom, well-furnished apartments.

It is best for families looking for a nature-inspired lifestyle and investors seeking high returns. Additionally, the island boasts a 900-metre promenade, lined with restaurants, cafés and leisure attractions.

Location

Near Al Khan and Al Majaz, Sharjah

Nearby Attractions

• Al Majaz Waterfront: 13-minute drive
• Al Mamzar Beach Park: 16-minute drive

Nearby Communities

• Al Khan: 10-minute drive
• Al Majaz: 12-minute drive

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2. Al Marjan Island – Ras Al Khaimah

Picture waking up to the sound of waves, spending evenings by the shore and enjoying a holiday vibe. Al Marjan Island, one of the famous UAE islands, offers a similar lifestyle. Set in Ras Al Khaimah, it is a man-made archipelago of four coral-shaped islands.

If you want to live in Ras Al Khaimah while staying connected to Dubai, Al Marjan Island is a top choice. An intercity bus operates from Dubai International Airport to this island, connecting residents to the main locations of Dubai.

For affordable rental prices, you can consider apartments for rent on Al Marjan Island. Other property types include villas, penthouses and duplexes.

Location

Along the Arabian Gulf coast, Ras Al Khaimah

Nearby Attractions

• RAK Track: 12-minute drive
• Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village: 13-minute drive

Nearby Community

• Al Hamra Village: 11-minute drive

Apartment Rental Prices

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3. Sobha Siniya Island – Umm Al Quwain

Sobha Siniya Island by Sobha Realty is a much-awaited off-plan development. The villas for sale on Siniya Island are available in 4 to 6-bedroom sizes, starting from AED 11 million. Redefining resort lifestyle, every residential unit incorporates natural earth tones.

It is a true haven for families and nature lovers, offering upscale amenities, serene beaches and lush landscapes. Here are a few amenities included in the project:

• Yacht club
• Health club
• Helicopter and air taxi landing pad
• Golf course
• Community mall
• Fiesta square

Location

Al Seanneeah, Umm Al Quwain

Nearby Attraction

Dreamland Aqua Park: 7-minute drive

Nearby Community

Al Salamah: 16-minute drive

FAQs

That concludes our list of the most popular UAE islands. With stunning beaches, leisure destinations and well-furnished properties, these islands truly enhance your living experience. Start a lifestyle that feels like a holiday year-round!

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