Many expats choose to move to Abu Dhabi for its tax-free income, top-class safety and infrastructure and high quality of life. Interestingly, foreign nationals account for more than 80% of the population of the Emirate. Many are also attracted to lucrative employment contracts that include perks, such as housing stipends, health coverage and annual flights home.
Abu Dhabi also ranks as one of the safest global cities with negligible crime rates, along with offering well-lit public spaces and secure neighbourhoods. World-class healthcare and education are other features of Abu Dhabi, while its strategic geographic location bridges the gap between East and West seamlessly. The steady influx of expats has also led to higher demand for furnished apartments. Why are they ideal solutions for expats shifting to Abu Dhabi? Let us learn more about them below.
Key Features of Furnished Apartments that Make them Suitable for Expats
Furnished apartments in Abu Dhabi offer a more convenient housing solution for expats shifting to the Emirate. They offer several key benefits worth knowing about:
- Ready to Move: These units are ready to move into, offering everything from furnishings to appliances and utilities from day one. This eliminates the money and time spent on shipping furniture and essentials. At the same time, expats do not have to rush around to set up everything upon arrival in Abu Dhabi. It also bypasses the need to buy or rent furniture, kitchenware, linen and more. You can focus on your work instead of having to deal with these aspects.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Many companies and expats prefer furnished apartments for long-term stays initially in Abu Dhabi. They are ideal semi-permanent bases until something more permanent is found. There are flexible weekly/monthly rates with discounts for longer stays, covering utilities, housekeeping and high-speed internet. Kitchens and in-unit laundry also eliminate two major costs for newcomers.
- Flexibility: Flexible living is an essential feature of a furnished apartment. There are convenient short or long-term leases (often extendable) which help you stay just as long as you want without rigid long-term commitments. It also helps test out various neighbourhoods before making a permanent choice.
- Space, Privacy and Amenities: Apartments offer multi-bedroom layouts with separate living and dining areas, outdoor spaces and abundant privacy. Home-like comfort also combines with great amenities like Wi-Fi, work desks, flat-screen televisions, plush furnishings, housekeeping, laundry, kitchens and concierges/receptions. Many apartments also offer access to on-site amenities like fitness centres, pools and cafes.
While furnished apartments are ideal for expats moving to Abu Dhabi, it is important to choose the right neighbourhood to make the most of your stay.
Best Neighbourhoods for Expats in Abu Dhabi
There are several prime neighbourhoods where expats may consider booking furnished apartments in the city. Some of them include:
Al Reem Island
Al Reem Island is a vibrant high-rise waterfront community with modern buildings and easy access to central Abu Dhabi. There are several bridges linking the neighbourhood directly to downtown Abu Dhabi, while the airport is around 30 minutes away.
Amenities/Infrastructure: Top-tier medical clinics, supermarkets, nurseries, schools and fitness centres.
Business Hubs: Downtown Abu Dhabi commercial district and the Al Maryah Island financial centre.
Tourist Landmarks: Reem Central Park and Abu Dhabi Corniche.
Shopping and Dining: Reem Mall (with indoor snow park) and Shams Boutik Mall.
Suitable For: Growing families and young professionals who want an urban lifestyle.
Al Maryah Island
Al Maryah Island is a stylish free zone in Abu Dhabi and makes up the city’s urban core, with gleaming skyscrapers and high-rises. There are multi-bridge and road links to Reem Island, downtown and Saadiyat Island.
Amenities/Infrastructure: Top-class healthcare centres (Cleveland Clinic and others), concierge services at buildings and luxury spas.
Business Hubs: Global corporate headquarters and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) square.
Tourist Landmarks: Central monuments and waterfront promenades.
Shopping and Dining: The Galleria Al Maryah Island with premium dining and shopping.
Suitable For: Finance professionals, corporate executives and luxury seekers.
Yas Island
Yas Island is a lively entertainment-focused island with a resort-like vibe and contemporary low-to-mid-rise apartment communities. There is direct access to the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Highway, while the airport is only 15 minutes away from the neighbourhood.
Amenities/Infrastructure: Golf courses, theme parks, leading schools, marinas and medical clinics.
Business Hubs: Tawazun Industrial Park and Masdar City.
Tourist Landmarks: Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and Warner Bros. World.
Shopping and Dining: Yas Mall and waterfront dining at Yas Bay.
Suitable For: Families, entertainment lovers and couples.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat Island is a premium cultural and coastal destination known for its beach-facing homes and low-density developments. There is easy access to Yas Island and downtown Abu Dhabi through several highway bridges.
Amenities/Infrastructure: Public beaches, top-tier educational institutions, art spaces and premium beach clubs.
Business Hubs: Al Maryah and downtown commercial offices.
Tourist Landmarks: Louvre Abu Dhabi, upcoming Guggenheim and Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Shopping and Dining: The Collection Saadiyat and Mamsha Al Saadiyat beachfront restaurants.
Suitable For: Affluent expats, culture seekers and couples looking for tranquil lifestyles.
Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Beach is a well-established and relaxed coastal neighbourhood that is home to several mid-rise apartment blocks. It is directly located on the main highway to Dubai, offering quick access to the city centre. There are several 1 bedroom apartments in Abu Dhabi nearby, along with studio, 2 and 3 bedroom configurations.
Amenities/Infrastructure: Children’s playing areas, supermarkets, fitness centres and easy beach access.
Business Hubs: Khalifa City, Al Raha Gardens business parks and the Abu Dhabi Airport free zones.
Tourist Landmarks: Al Bandar Marina and Al Raha Creek.
Shopping and Dining: Al Raha Mall and community retail promenades with restaurants and cafes.
Suitable For: Families and mid-to-senior-level professionals who want a beach-oriented lifestyle.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi is a favourable destination for expats looking for tax-free income, an elevated lifestyle and top-tier public infrastructure and safety levels. Compare the neighbourhoods listed above and book furnished apartments in advance to bypass last-minute surges in demand and rates.
