Affordable Communities in Abu Dhabi

Finding cheap places to stay in Abu Dhabi is easier than expected. Whether you’re looking for neighborhoods in the city center or peaceful suburbs, a villa or an apartment, you’ll find a cheap residential area in Abu Dhabi that suits your preferences.

Khalifa City

4.3/5

About

Khalifa City is your best bet if you’re looking for affordable properties in the UAE’s capital, both apartments and spacious villas. This community is a family favourite owing to the abundance of great facilities, everything from schools and nurseries to medical services.


Renters in Abu Dhabi are particularly fond of this esteemed residential community for its range of properties that suit every need and close to many iconic locations. If you want to rent an apartment in Abu Dhabi without breaking the bank, check out the apartments for rent in Khalifa City, or the villas here if you're looking for a bigger space.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 150,000 AED/year

For sale : 5,000,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Al Ghadeer

4.1/5

About

This satellite community is located on the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border and offers an easy commute to both the emirates. The lush neighbourhood has jogging tracks, leafy walkways, parks, swimming pools and a host of other amenities such as a grocery store, café, pharmacy, hairdresser and a beauty salon.


Residents can choose from spacious apartments or villas, ideal for families on a budget. However, you are required to have a car since public transport can be hard to come by. It is also rumoured that Al Ghadeer could be the starting point of the world’s first Hyperloop between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Residents can head to Ibn Batutta Mall, a 30-minute drive away, in Dubai to catch a movie, dine out or for more leisure options.


Lifestyle: Relaxed

Neighbours: Families on a budget


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For sale : 900,000 AED

Learn more about prices

Al Shamkha


About

Al Shamkha is a thriving community in Abu Dhabi, offering prospective homeowners and renters alike an abundance of options. It's strategically located near the industrial area Mussafah, the major highway Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Sweihan Road which leads to the outskirts of Abu Dhabi. Families will find the area to be inviting and perfect for raising children thanks to the spacious villas available.


The properties found in Al Shamkha are varied and diverse, ranging from apartments to villas that appeal to different budgets. The buildings are well-designed and offer comfortable living spaces. Common amenities such as gyms, schools, parks, restaurants and salons can be accessed within the community itself and in other nearby areas.


Affordability is also taken into consideration for those on tighter budgets with many properties being reasonably priced compared to other communities in the capital. Those who prefer luxury property can look forward to exclusive residential developments that offer top-notch amenities such as swimming pools, and 24/7 security systems providing complete peace of mind when it comes to safety.


In conclusion, Al Shamkha provides its resident with an array of amenities that make living there truly remarkable, from friendly neighborhoods filled with diverse cultures & cuisines to various daily facilities. For those reasons, it's a great place to call home.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For sale : 3,800,000 AED

Learn more about prices

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Baniyas

3.4/5

About

Baniyas is a tranquil and family-friendly community in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The area is located in the south of Abu Dhabi along the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain highway. It's in close proxmity to neighborhoods such as as Al Wathba, Al Mafraq, Al Shamkha, Shakhbout City, and Mohammed Bin Zayed City. The area is divided into Baniyas East and Baniywas West.


It's an ideal residential location for middle income families and individuals due to its affordable homes. Properties found there range from studio apartments to spacious villas for rent and sale.


The community was developed by the Baniyas Investment and Development Company, with the aim of turning a formerly empty town into a modern, lively community while preserving local culture. Since then, Baniyas has become a thriving residential community with numerous elegant properties available.


Moreover, residents can take advantage of numerous amenities such as hypermarkets, gyms, schools, parks and other recreational facilities, all within easy reach from most areas in the neighbourhood. Furthermore, there are also several healthcare centers found nearby for any medical needs or emergencies that may arise. Not only that, but popular attractions such as Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Yas Island and Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium are relatively close to the area.


With its lively atmosphere and great accessibility to local amenities, Baniyas is an ideal place for families who want to live in the capital, whether they want to buy or rent an apartment in Abu Dhabi, or get a villa.


Mohamed Bin Zayed City

4.1/5

About

Working in Dubai and need a spacious home on a budget? Consider moving to Mohamed Bin Zayed City, which is a 30-minute drive from the centre of Abu Dhabi. Housing spacious villas and a few apartment buildings, this is a haven for families with children, with several good schools located in the community or within a short radius.


Mazyad Mall inside MBZ City houses all the amenities a family needs; think convenience stores, a pharmacy, salons, laundry service and more. You can also head to Capital Mall in Musaffah and Dalma Mall in the neighbouring Abu Dhabi Industrial City.


For your grocery needs, there is a Carrefour Market and a LuLu Express within MBZ City. The community has a public park to cater to fitness buffs and families with children. It’s recommended that you have a vehicle to get around.


Don’t miss: A bird watching opportunity at Al Wathba Wetland Reserve (a short drive away), and explore Masdar City, a trailblazing sustainable city


Lifestyle: Quiet, peaceful


Neighbours: Western and South-east Asian expats


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 32,999 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Al Reef

3.9/5

About

Move to this affordable Abu Dhabi suburb if you’re doing the daily commute to Dubai or are a frequent flyer, as it'a stone’s throw from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Both the villas in Al Reef Village and apartments in Downtown Al Reef here provide value for money.


There is a Select supermarket handy for all your grocery needs, schools are available in the adjacent Khalifa City and Yas Island. For your shopping fix, head to Deerfields Mall, Al Raha Mall, or Yas Mall. The community is child-friendly with many parks, pools, gyms, basketball courts and tennis courts.


Don’t miss: The Italian fare at Il Forno restaurant in Al Reef Downtown


Lifestyle: Lively


Neighbours: Mid-income earners from all nationalities


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 89,999 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Hydra Village

2.4/5

About

Hydra Village is a serene community located on Highway 11 which connects Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It has the perfect combination of modern amenities, scenic beauty and convenience. With its affordable villas and townhouses, Hydra Village offers a wide range of options for people looking for a place to call home.


The atmosphere in the area is relaxing and ideal for families. In addition to the usual amenities such as gyms and schools found in most communities, Hydra Village provides an array of activities such as swimming pools, parks and playgrounds that make living here all the more enjoyable. Moreover, it's close to Yas Island, Al Raha Beach, and Al Raha Gardens, which gives residents access to a wide range of leisure facilities and amenities such as schools and hospitals.


Overall, Hydra village offers an array of exclusive choices when it comes to looking for your dream home among Abu Dhabi's many luxurious communities. Whether you're after a place to call home or a sound investment opportunity – there's something here that can meet any lifestyle preference or budget requirement!


Muroor Area

3.7/5

About

Al Muroor residents have the privilege of staying in the center of Abu Dhabi, yet away from the hustle and bustle of city life.


The area offers affordable villas and apartments for mid-income families and bachelors. Properties in Al Muroor are mainly available for rent, however, you can find a few villas for sale.


The family-friendly district is filled with shops, commercial spaces, schools, restaurants, medical clinics, and more. It offers great connectivity to downtown Abu Dhabi.


Abu Dhabi Muroor’s location neighbors Al Mushrif, Al Bateen, Al Rawdah, and Al Nahyan.

Al Wahda Mall is a short drive away if you want to catch a movie, get your retail fix, or dine out. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s biggest mosques, is only 12 minutes away.

Properties in Muroor Abu Dhabi

Real estate in Al Muroor Abu Dhabi is as diverse as the people who live there. Apartments for rent in Muroor range from studios to 5-bedroom units, while villas start from 3 bedrooms and go up to over 7 bedrooms.


There are also plenty of commercial properties, especially offices, available for rent on Muroor Street Abu Dhabi. The area’s central location makes it a great spot for businesses looking for affordable spaces. You will find both, fitted, and shell and core offices for rent in Muroor Abu Dhabi.

Don't miss: A day out for families at the Umm Al Emarat park


Lifestyle: Busy, fast-paced


Neighbors: Bachelors, families, middle-income expats


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 48,000 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Al Mushrif

3.8/5

About

This is one of the most sought-after residential communities in the UAE’s capital. What’s not to like about tree-lined pavements and vast expanses of green in your neighbourhood?


The community also houses a multitude of churches and prestigious schools, making it a family favourite. Besides various corner stores, residents can head to LuLu Hypermarket in Mushrif Mall for grocery shopping. Even the Al Mushrif Co-operative Society hosts cafes, a supermarket, beauty centre and a pharmacy.


For a day outdoors, head to the Umm Al Emarat Park in the district. In terms of restaurants, there is the popular SALT, a food truck serving sliders, fries and drinks, or other eateries such as Lemon Grass and India Palace.


Don’t miss: Watersports at Al Gurm Resort, teeing off at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, a play date at Little Tree House in Al Mushrif Co-operative Society mall


Lifestyle: Leisurely


Neighbours: Families and young couples


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 99,999 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Al Mushrif

3.8/5

About

Located between Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Al Mushrif is close to Al Bateen Beach and Al Hudayriat Island, and it’s home to Abu Dhabi City Golf Club and Umm Al Emarat Park, so there are plenty of leisure options. It’s also home to many schools making it popular with families looking for cheap accommodation in Abu Dhabi.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 99,999 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Khalifa City

4.3/5

About

Khalifa City is a great choice if you’re looking for a cheap residential area in Abu Dhabi. This peaceful neighborhood is located close to the highway leading to Dubai, and next to Yas Island and Al Raha Beach, meaning fun is always a stone’s throw away. Lots of schools are located here as well. There are many affordable apartments and villas for rent in Khalifa City.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

Villa prices starting from

For rent : 150,000 AED/year

For sale : 5,000,000 AED

* Based on listing prices in last 3 months.

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Muroor Area

3.7/5

About

Bachelors and couples looking for the cheapest rent in Abu Dhabi should consider Muroor Area. It’s full of facilities and is close to Abu Dhabi’s downtown area making your life convenient. Muroor Area comprises residential buildings offering apartments in various sizes.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 48,000 AED/year

Learn more about prices

Reviews from residents


Al Reef

3.9/5

About

Al Reef is a peaceful suburb on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi divided into Al Reef Downtown, which provides apartments, and Al Reef Villas, which offers spacious villas. Al Reef is popular with those looking for cheap apartments for sale in Abu Dhabi as well as many people seeking affordable rentals.


Property types

* Distribution of property types in this community.

For rent : 89,999 AED/year

Learn more about prices

FAQ

<p>The top 10 cheapest areas in Abu Dhabi are: </p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Al Ghadeer</li>
<li aria-level="1">Al Mushrif</li>
<li aria-level="1">Al Reef</li>
<li aria-level="1">Al Shamkha</li>
<li aria-level="1">Hamdan Street</li>
<li aria-level="1">Hydra Village</li>
<li aria-level="1">Khalifa City</li>
<li aria-level="1">Muroor Area</li>
<li aria-level="1">Mohammed Bin Zayed City</li>
<li aria-level="1">Baniyas</li>
</ul>

On average, rental prices are slightly lower than in Dubai, as are utility bills and school fees, though this would all differ from one person and family to another.

A monthly salary of AED 15,000 to AED 20,000 would be comfortable for a single individual, while a family of four would require 25,000 to AED 35,000.