Most Walkable Communities in Abu Dhabi

Corniche Road is undoubtedly one of the best places to walk in Abu Dhabi. Feast your eyes on the sea on one side, or the commanding Abu Dhabi skyline on the other. The 8km promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants and always has people walking and jogging. Discover the apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi Corniche to make this place your home.

Not only is Saadiyat Island one of the most luxurious areas in Abu Dhabi, but it’s also one of the most walkable. Home to Mamsha Al Saadiyat, this premium seafront neighbourhood has a long promenade along the sea, dotted with upscale restaurants.

Another very walkable spot on Al Saadiyat Island is around the Louvre Museum. While the museum itself is pretty big and has a lot to offer, the surrounding Cultural District is filled with walkways offering stunning views of the museum.

Looking for properties here? Explore the Saadiyat villas for sale or rent, as well as Saadiyat Island apartments for rent and sale.

Al Reem Island is a nice place to walk in Abu Dhabi because it’s home to waterfront promenades, and several parks such as Reem Central Park and Al Fay Parks.

Who said that Yas Marina Circuit was just for Formula 1? Thanks to TrainYas, The 5.55km track is actually open on some weekdays to let you run, walk, or cycle, just make sure you register online. It’s certainly one of the best places to walk in Abu Dhabi.

One of the swankiest communities in Abu Dhabi, Al Raha Beach includes 3 sub-communities Al Bandar, Al Muneera and Al Zeina. Think waterfront views, al fresco dining by the sea and promenades: Al Raha Beach offers all that and more.

Ideal for both singles, couples and big families owing to the variety of properties, this community scores high on accessibility, both to the Abu Dhabi International Airport, Dubai and downtown Abu Dhabi. It’s very family-friendly, with a host of supermarkets, reputed schools within a short driving distance in Khalifa City, and eateries in the community. Water sports enthusiasts can rejoice as Halla Walla offers waterskiing and kayaking in the community.

Don’t miss: Pacifico Tiki for some Mediterranean dishes, Leopold’s of London and Jones The Grocer

Lifestyle: Upmarket

Neighbours: Singles and couples in Al Bandar, big families in Al Muneera and Al Zeina

Al Maryah Island is a beautiful waterfront community based in Abu Dhabi. It offers a luxurious atmosphere and highlights that make it special for all its visitors and inhabitants. This family friendly community mainly has offices, modern apartments, and penthouses.

During the day you can enjoy the fresh air while taking part in activities such as volleyball or beach soccer at the nearby beaches or take a leisurely stroll around one of Al Maryah's many parks. In the evening, you can choose to relax at home or explore one of the vibrant bars located nearby.

Mubadala, the developer of Al Maryah Island, has taken care to ensure that all amenities needed are available within easy reach. These include shops offering goods ranging from fresh food produce to clothing and items for daily needs, as well as gyms, spas, schools and universities catering for all ages.

The island also has its own world class healthcare facility, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, offering medical services that include primary care clinics as well as specialist diagnostic centers and emergency services. It's also home to The Galleria Al Maryah Island, a high-end mall offering designer brands and upscale eateries.

Overall Al Maryah Island is an ideal place for families looking for somewhere safe and peaceful while still being close to exciting nightlife options.

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

The UAE government never fails to put the world in awe for the innovative projects it develops. Masdar City in Abu Dhabi is another jaw-dropping project that is a huge leap into the future. The Masdar City project is a mini example of how the world can operate using clean energy.

All Masdar City buildings are designed to reduce water and energy consumption and use recycled materials. They are built using recycled aluminum and low-carbon cement.

Another reason why Masdar City is an excellent project is that it has a free zone, so investing there is easy!

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 Zahiyah, formerly known as Tourist Club, is an area in Abu Dhabi known for its vibrant atmosphere and highlights. Located near the Corniche, it offers a variety of family-friendly attractions and facilities. Residential properties in Al Zahiyah are apartments which range from studios to 4 bedroom units, and can be quite affordable given the location.

Al Zahiyah is surrounded by amenities that make everyday life easier for residents including several supermarkets within walking distance from almost any point in the area, multiple gyms offering both traditional exercises as well as more modern activities like yoga or pilates.

The area is also home to the large Abu Dhabi Mall which offers a wide range of international brands, diverse restaurants, supermarkets, and leisure facilities.

Moreover, banks are located all around the community providing convenient services such as money transfer or credit cards facilities as well various schools to cater to different ages, allowing families to raise their children close by.

Overall Al Zahiyah provides an excellent combination of family friendly attractions, vibrant nightlife options in addition to modern amenities making it an attractive option for those looking for luxury living combined with convenience near the city center.