Green Communities in Abu Dhabi

Masdar City is Abu Dhabi’s flagship sustainable neighborhood, known worldwide for its commitment to renewable energy and environmental innovation. Designed as one of the world’s first zero-carbon cities, Masdar City is powered primarily by solar energy, with buildings designed to reduce energy and water consumption. The city’s layout encourages a lifestyle marked by walking and cycling, with shaded pathways, bike lanes, and minimal reliance on cars, further reducing its carbon footprint.

In addition to sustainable buildings, Masdar City has green spaces and landscaped gardens, creating a refreshing, natural environment amid its modern, eco-friendly structures. It’s the perfect neighborhood for those who prioritize sustainability, combining green architecture with a forward-thinking approach to urban living.

Yas Island is best known for its entertainment offerings, yet it’s also a green haven with an impressive amount of natural landscaping and outdoor areas. The island is home to Yas Gateway Park, a large, well-maintained park with picnic areas, play zones, and plenty of open green spaces. It’s also home to the large Yas Links golf course, with many properties overlooking the stunning green course. 

The island’s blend of entertainment and green spaces makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities while having access to nature.

Saadiyat Island combines luxury living with a commitment to preserving nature. Known for its cultural landmarks, Saadiyat Island is also home to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, a large green golf course with lakes and dunes that invite wildlife to roam. The management runs the irrigation system sustainably and reduces water consumption.

This preservation effort is part of the island’s dedication to environmental sustainability, balancing residential development with the protection of its natural ecosystem.

For those who want luxury while staying close to nature, Saadiyat Island is an exceptional choice in Abu Dhabi.

Corniche Road is a vibrant and scenic area that stretches along Abu Dhabi’s beautiful coastline, offering residents access to the famous Corniche Beach and lush green parks. This area is ideal for those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle, with plenty of space for cycling, jogging, and strolling along the waterfront.

Corniche Road is home to several well-maintained parks, including Corniche Park, Formal Park, and Family Park. The area’s green spaces and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf create a refreshing atmosphere, perfect for residents seeking a balance between urban life and nature. The Corniche’s commitment to preserving green areas and promoting outdoor activities makes it one of the greenest neighborhoods in Abu Dhabi.

Al Raha Gardens is a suburban, family-friendly community that places a strong emphasis on greenery and open spaces. This residential area is filled with landscaped gardens, parks, and walking paths, offering residents a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Al Raha Gardens is popular among families due to its calm atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and open spaces where children can play safely.

With its emphasis on nature and tranquillity, Al Raha Gardens is an excellent choice for those looking to live sustainably in Abu Dhabi.

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

Tree-lined boulevards, well-appointed lawns, water fountains, large palaces and luxurious villas, that’s Al Bateen in a nutshell. Located on the west of Abu Dhabi island, this is a playground of the affluent and home to some of the most prestigious addresses in the city, both luxurious villas, townhouses and apartments. This opulent green neighbourhood also houses a pristine beach, play areas, schools, medical clinics and supermarkets.

There are diplomatic offices and government centres adding to the wow factor of Al Bateen. For recreation, families can head to Al Bateen Park, Al Bateen Mall or the cinema and bowling centre at Khalidiyah Mall, which is just 10 minutes away. There are premier academic institutes in the community as well, such as the Emirates College of Technology for higher studies, American Community School of Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen Primary Model School and Al Bateen Academy.

Lifestyle: Upscale

Neighbours: Mostly Emiratis, affluent Arab and Western expats

Al Nahyan is a family friendly community named after the UAE's ruling family and it's located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It offers the perfect combination of modern amenities and traditional charm for its residents. With its unique atmosphere, Al Nahyan stands out from other areas in Abu Dhabi, making it a desirable choice for those looking to settle here.

The area is home to the popular Al Wahda Mall, and Al Nahyan Stadium, where Al Wahda soccer club plays. Moreover, it's close to the Mangrove National Park, where people can delight in a forest housing over 60 species of birds, and enjoy kayaking and other water activities.

Not only that, but it's also close to Abu Dhabi Corniche, and has multiple bus routes thanks to the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station located by Al Wahda Mall, so residents can easily access other parts of the capital.

Common property types found in Al Nahyan include apartments, and villas. The apartments come in diverse ranges, from studios to 3 and sometimes 4-bedroom apartments available in both old and new buildings, which affects rental prices. Meanwhile, the villas could go up to 7 or 8 bedrooms and feature a wide array of amenities from maids' rooms to majlis areas.

Residents of Al Nahyan have access to a wide range of facilities including 24-hour security systems, swimming pools, gymnasiums and health clubs, convenience stores, supermarkets and parks all within easy reach of their homes.

In addition to this there are several schools nearby catering to different age groups as well as medical centers equipped with the latest technologies ensuring that all resident’s needs are met within the community itself without having to venture further out into Abu Dhabi.

All in all, Al Nahyan is an attractive destination offering everything needed for a stress free lifestyle - from comfortable homes to essential amenities - making it a convenient place to live in.

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

Al Manhal is an established community situated in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It boasts a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of the city, offering family-friendly activities, and access to various attractions and amenities thanks to its central location. Al Wahda Mall, is within walking distance and Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) is only a few minutes away. Al Manhal is quite close to Qasr Al Hosn and the Abu Dhabi Corniche, so residents have a lot leisure activities to choose from.

The area is extremely affordable for those looking to settle down in Abu Dhabi with prices lower than many other parts of the city for villas and apartments, as well as amenities such as gyms and shops. Al Manhal also offers several schools for those families who wish to raise their children locally making it an ideal location for families looking to live here.

Another great highlight of Al Manhal is its diverse range of amenities ranging from well-maintained parks for outdoor recreation to multiple sports courts both outdoors and indoors perfect for all ages to enjoy some fun activities together. It also has plenty of restaurants offering delicious cuisines catering to all tastes along with shopping malls where you can find almost anything you need at reasonable prices.

Finally, living in Al Manhal ensures maximum safety and security with 24/7 surveillance cameras placed in residential buildings. All these facilities make Al Manhal one of the preferred communities in Abu Dhabi for those who want to live in the capital and enjoy its charm and culture.