Your guide to finding Al Zahia apartments for sale
Al Zahia is a fully gated residential community in Sharjah's Muwaileh Commercial district, developed through a partnership between Majid Al Futtaim Properties and Sharjah Asset Management. It holds the distinction of being Sharjah's first BREEAM-certified residential neighbourhood, a recognition that reflects its focus on sustainable design, green infrastructure, and quality of life.
The community draws a broad mix of residents: families, young professionals, students, and university staff. University City sits right on the border, which keeps demand steady and gives the area an active, campus-adjacent energy. Six themed parks, a sensory park, cycling paths, and shaded walking routes make outdoor living a natural part of the daily routine here.
Buyers looking for apartments for sale in Al Zahia will find a mix of low- to mid-rise buildings alongside villas and townhouses. The location along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) makes it a practical choice for people who work in Dubai but want to avoid Dubai-level property prices. Commutes to Dubai typically take 20 to 25 minutes, and both Sharjah International Airport and Dubai International Airport are within a 15-minute drive.
Apartment for sale in Al Zahia prices
Property prices here sit well below the UAE national average. The average sale price across the community is approximately AED 937,000, with unit sizes ranging from around 360 to 1,500 square feet and an overall average of about 910 square feet.
Current listings for Al Zahia apartments for sale break down as follows:
- Studio apartment for sale in Al Zahia: AED 470,000 to AED 600,000, 330 to 500 sq ft
- 1-bedroom apartments for sale in Al Zahia: AED 600,000 to AED 1,100,000, 590 to 1,130 sq ft
- 2-bedroom apartments for sale in Al Zahia: AED 1,200,000 to AED 1,450,000, 1,160 to 1,450 sq ft
- 3-bedroom apartments for sale in Al Zahia: AED 1,195,000 to AED 1,215,000, 1,500 to 1,510 sq ft
Because prices fall below the national average, buyers tend to get more square footage for their budget. Investors often target studios and 1-bedroom units to capture rental demand from nearby university students and faculty. Families and end-users tend to focus on 2- and 3-bedroom units, many of which come with built-in wardrobes, central air conditioning, and walk-in closets. Ground-floor units in the gated clusters frequently include private garden terraces, which add value for buyers who want outdoor space.
Why buy an apartment in Al Zahia?
Suburban calm with city access
Al Zahia offers a quieter, greener alternative to downtown Sharjah or Dubai, without cutting residents off from either. The E311 puts both cities within reach, and the community's internal layout keeps noise and traffic contained.
Strong purchasing power
Because average prices sit below the UAE national average, buyers have more room to go bigger. A budget that would get you a studio elsewhere in the region can stretch to a 1-bedroom or even a 2-bedroom here.
Retail and entertainment built in
City Centre Al Zahia sits within the community and houses international brands like Zara, H&M, Sephora, and Dior, alongside a large Carrefour hypermarket. VOX Cinemas, Magic Planet, and Yalla! Bowling is also there, so residents rarely need to travel far for leisure.
A community designed for outdoor living
The BREEAM certification is not just a label. The neighbourhood was genuinely planned around green space, with six themed parks, a central park, cycling tracks, and pedestrian-friendly paths throughout.
Who should buy an apartment in Al Zahia?
Families
The gated layout, park access, proximity to over 20 schools, and spacious 2 and 3-bedroom units make Al Zahia a natural fit for families.
Investors
Studios and 1-bedroom apartments for sale in Al Zahia attract consistent rental demand from university students and staff, supporting steady occupancy.
First-time buyers
Entry-level prices, practical layouts, and a well-maintained community environment make it accessible for those stepping onto the property ladder.
Dubai commuters
The E311 connection makes Al Zahia a cost-effective base for residents who work in Dubai but want lower property costs and a calmer home environment.
Amenities & lifestyle
Schools
Several curricula are represented across the area, from international to national programmes.
- Copperstone Education
- Amity Private School
- GEMS Millennium School
- Al Zuhour Private School
Universities
University City borders the community directly, providing access to:
- American University of Sharjah
- Skyline University
- University of Sharjah
Healthcare
- Medcare Medical Centre
- Thumbay Hospital Daycare
- Aster Clinic
Shopping
- City Centre Al Zahia: Zara, H&M, Sephora, Dior, Carrefour hypermarket
- North Hub: community retail for everyday needs
Dining & entertainment
- Tony Roma's
- Vapiano
- Starbucks
- %Arabica
- VOX Cinemas (IMAX screens)
- Magic Planet
- Yalla! Bowling
Parks & fitness
- Central park
- Six themed parks and a sensory park
- Multiple swimming pools
- Sports courts
- Cycling paths and walking tracks
Location & transportation
Al Zahia borders Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), one of the main arterial routes connecting Sharjah and Dubai. This gives residents straightforward access across the emirates without needing to navigate busy secondary roads.
Both Sharjah International Airport and Dubai International Airport are within a 15-minute drive. Commutes to Dubai typically take 20 to 25 minutes, though border traffic can occasionally extend that.
Public transport is limited within the residential clusters, so most residents rely on personal vehicles or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. The Muwaileh Bus Terminal, located outside the immediate community, provides wider transit connections for those who need them.
Pros & cons of buying an apartment in Al Zahia
Pros
- E311 access puts Dubai within a 20 to 25-minute commute
- Six themed parks, cycling tracks, and walkways support an active, outdoor lifestyle
- City Centre Al Zahia provides retail, grocery, and entertainment within the community
- Prices fall below the UAE national average, offering solid value for money
- Most buildings include shared pools, gyms, and round-the-clock security
Cons
- Parts of the wider Muwaileh Commercial area remain under active development, with some ongoing construction activity
- Public transport inside the residential clusters is limited, making a personal vehicle necessary for comfortable daily travel
FAQs about Al Zahia apartments for sale
Who can buy property in Al Zahia?
Arab and GCC nationals can purchase on a freehold basis. Non-Arab expatriates can buy under a 100-year renewable leasehold agreement.
What is the average price of an apartment for sale in Al Zahia?
The average sale price is approximately AED 937,000, though prices vary depending on unit size, floor level, and sub-community.
Is Al Zahia suitable for families?
Yes. The gated layout, themed parks, child-friendly facilities, and access to more than 20 educational institutions make it a strong choice for families.
Is the Al Zahia community pet-friendly?
Yes. Several buildings within Al Zahia are pet-friendly, with outdoor walking tracks and open green spaces that make daily routines with pets straightforward.
What features typically come with buying an apartment in Al Zahia?
Most units include built-in wardrobes, central air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and walk-in closets. Residents also have shared access to pools and gyms.
How far is Al Zahia from Dubai?
Via the E311 highway, the drive to Dubai typically takes 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Who developed the Al Zahia community?
Al Zahia was developed as a joint venture between Majid Al Futtaim Properties and Sharjah Asset Management.
Is Al Zahia a good investment?
Studios and 1-bedroom apartments for sale in Al Zahia see consistent rental demand from the nearby university population. Combined with below-average purchase prices, the community offers a reasonable entry point for property investors in Sharjah.
