Your Guide to Finding Apartments for Rent in Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island is a man-made archipelago extending 4.5 kilometres into the Arabian Gulf off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah. The development is made up of four coral-shaped landmasses, Breeze, Treasure, Dream, and View islands, connected by roads and lined with 7.8 kilometres of sandy beaches. The atmosphere here is distinctly resort-like: quiet, coastal, and oriented around outdoor living rather than urban density.
Apartments for rent in Al Marjan Island attract a broad mix of residents, from singles and young professionals drawn to the waterfront lifestyle to families and retirees who appreciate the safe, uncrowded environment.
Rental rates sit well below the national average, making this one of the more accessible options for cheap apartments for rent in UAE in a beachfront setting anywhere in the country. The community connects directly to major highways, so the tranquil island setting does not mean isolation.
Market Overview
Al Marjan Island sits at the affordable end of the market for apartments for rent in Ras Al Khaimah, and the gap compared to equivalent waterfront communities in Dubai is significant. Studios average around AED 48,000 per year, one-bedroom units around AED 67,000, two-bedroom apartments around AED 85,000, and three-bedroom units around AED 117,000. These figures represent strong value for beachfront apartments with modern finishes and resort-grade shared facilities.
Demand has been rising steadily, particularly following the confirmed development of the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, scheduled to open in 2027 as the UAE's first gaming facility. Tenants already in the community advise locking in long-term leases now before anticipated price adjustments take effect.
Units across the development typically feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, built-in wardrobes, central air conditioning, and fully fitted kitchens. Many buildings are chiller-free, meaning air conditioning costs are included in the rent rather than billed separately, which reduces monthly utility expenses considerably during summer.
Average Prices and Sizes of Apartments for Rent in Al Marjan Island
- Studio apartments: AED 48,000 per year, 440 to 570 sq ft
- 1-bedroom apartments: AED 67,000 per year, 720 to 1,000 sq ft
- 2-bedroom apartments: AED 85,000 per year, 1,200 to 1,400 sq ft
- 3-bedroom apartments: AED 130,000 per year, 1,800 to 2,200 sq ft
Why Choose Apartments for Rent in Al Marjan Island?
Affordable waterfront living
Rental rates here are substantially lower than comparable beachfront communities in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. For tenants seeking UAE apartments for rent in a genuine coastal setting, Al Marjan Island offers that combination at accessible price points.
Direct beach and promenade access
Residents have immediate access to over 7 kilometres of beach, a 3,500-metre corniche walkway on Treasure Island, and a 2,000-metre waterfront promenade on Breeze Island for jogging and cycling.
Pet-friendly community
The expansive outdoor promenades and landscaped grounds in complexes like Bab Al Bahar make Al Marjan Island one of the more accommodating communities in the UAE for pet owners.
Proximity to an upcoming major development
The Wynn Al Marjan Island resort, opening in 2027, is expected to raise the profile and amenity offering of the island considerably. Early renters are positioned to benefit from today's pricing before demand increases.
Top Locations to Rent Apartments in Al Marjan Island
The Pacific complex
The Pacific development is made up of multiple towers named after tropical destinations, including Samoa, Bora Bora, Polynesia, Tonga, Fiji, and Tahiti. It is the most budget-friendly cluster on the island, with chiller-free policies across the buildings that help keep monthly costs down. A furnished one-bedroom in Pacific Bora Bora averages AED 60,000 per year, and two-bedroom duplexes in Pacific Fiji sit around AED 78,000. Rooftop facilities and gym access are standard. Suits young professionals, couples, and budget-conscious renters who want a lively community atmosphere with direct beach access.
Bab Al Bahar complex
Bab Al Bahar includes the Fayrouz, Yakout, and Kahraman buildings, set among landscaped gardens closer to the interior of the island. The standout feature here is floor plan size; a one-bedroom apartment in Bab Al Bahar can exceed 1,400 sq ft, leasing for AED 60,000 to AED 65,000 per year. Three-bedroom units with large terraces and maid's rooms typically lease between AED 110,000 and AED 149,000. The complex is pet-friendly, well-secured, and close to the upcoming Wynn development. It suits families and those who prioritise space over beachfront proximity.
Pullman Resort Marjan Island
The Pullman Resort offers premium hotel apartments with panoramic sea views and high-end finishes. Larger layout apartments for rent in Pullman Resort lease for approximately AED 100,000 to AED 125,000 per year. Housekeeping, concierge services, and full resort facilities are integrated into the living experience. It suits professionals or retirees who want a fully serviced lifestyle without managing a standard tenancy.
Who Should Rent an Apartment in Al Marjan Island?
Families
Family-friendly living with spacious homes, beach access, safe streets, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Young professionals and expats
Affordable beachfront rents and highway access attract professionals seeking coastal living.
Pet owners
Pet-friendly policies and scenic promenades make it ideal for residents with pets.
Budget-conscious renters
Al Marjan Island offers affordable waterfront apartments with strong value per square foot.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Schools
- RAK Academy
- International School of Choueifat Ras Al Khaimah
Nurseries
Supermarkets
- Leptis Fresh Supermarket
- Boardwalk Bab Al Bahr
Dining and entertainment
- Vespa Ristorante
- Claw BBQ RAK
- Karma Kafé RAK by Buddha Bar
- Five-star resort dining venues throughout the island
- Al Hamra Mall (approximately 30 minutes by car)
Healthcare
- Regional Medical and Dental Center
- RAK Medical Center Al Jazeera
- RAK Medical Center Al Hamra
Fitness and recreation
- Running and cycling tracks throughout the island
- Temperature-controlled swimming pools in most residential buildings
- 7.8 kilometres of beach access
- RAK Half Marathon annual route passes through the community
- Barbecue areas and children's playgrounds within residential complexes
Location and transportation
Al Marjan Island connects to the mainland via the E311 and E611 highways, giving drivers straightforward access across Ras Al Khaimah and toward Dubai. The drive to Dubai International Airport takes approximately 45 minutes, which makes the island practical for professionals who travel regularly but do not need to commute to Dubai daily.
Nearby communities include Al Hamra Village and Mina Al Arab, both accessible within a short drive and offering additional retail, dining, and marina facilities.
Public transport options are limited. There is no metro service, and the nearest bus stop is the RAK Bus Station, approximately 32 minutes away. Most residents rely on private vehicles or taxis for daily movement. Ride-hailing services are available but less frequent than in larger cities, so planning around private transport is advisable.
Pros and Cons of Renting an Apartment in Al Marjan Island
Pros
- Beachfront rental rates remain below the national average.
- Residents enjoy direct access to 7 km of beaches and promenades.
- Most towers offer gyms, pools, and covered parking.
- Chiller-free Pacific buildings help lower utility costs.
- Pet-friendly setting with ample outdoor walking spaces.
- Freehold status allows expatriates to own property.
Cons
- Limited public transport makes private vehicles necessary.
- Schools, hospitals, and malls require mainland travel.
- Resort and area developments may cause noise and traffic.
- Quiet surroundings offer limited nightlife and entertainment.
FAQs about Apartments for Rent in Al Marjan Island
Are utilities included in the rent at Al Marjan Island?
In many buildings, particularly within the Pacific complex, apartments are chiller-free, meaning air conditioning costs are covered within the rental price. Other utility costs, such as electricity and water, are typically billed separately through the relevant authority.
Is Al Marjan Island suitable for expatriates looking for long-term rentals?
Yes, the island is a designated freehold area with a diverse international community. Long-term leases are widely available, and the community is set up to accommodate expatriate residents across all stages of life.
Are pets allowed in Al Marjan Island apartment buildings?
The majority of residential complexes on the island are pet-friendly, and the outdoor promenades are well-suited to daily walks. It is still advisable to confirm the specific pet policy with the building management before signing a tenancy agreement.
How long does it take to commute from Al Marjan Island to Dubai?
Via the E311 and E611 highways, the drive to Dubai International Airport takes approximately 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Daily commuting to central Dubai is manageable but more suited to occasional rather than daily travel.
What shared facilities can tenants expect in Al Marjan Island apartments?
Most residential towers offer gym access, swimming pools, barbecue areas, children's play areas, and covered parking. Hotel apartment buildings like the Pullman Resort also include housekeeping and concierge services as part of the package.
Are cheap apartments for rent available in Al Marjan Island compared to Dubai?
Yes, studios and one-bedroom apartments here are priced significantly below comparable units in Dubai Marina or JBR, while offering the same coastal setting and modern building amenities. For tenants prioritising beachfront living at a lower cost, Al Marjan Island is one of the strongest options among apartments for rent in the UAE.