Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

Flying Drones in the UAE: Updated Guidelines For Personal Use

When Will Ramadan 2025 Begin in the UAE? Astronomers Confirm

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

UAE Will Partially Lift Ban on Using Drones Starting November 25

UAE Visa Amnesty Explained: What Is It and How to Apply For It

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

Smash Rooms in the UAE: Best Places to Go and Vent Out

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

Image: Supplied.

10,000 Backpacks For Students in Need: Volunteer Registrations Open!

Visitors Will Soon Get Health Insurance With Their UAE Tourist Visas

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Abu Dhabi Influencers Now Need a License or Risk Up to AED 10,000 Fine

Reduced Ramadan Work Hours Confirmed for UAE Private Sector Workers

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Working Hours During Ramadan in Dubai and UAE

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

Have a Job Interview? Here's What NOT To Do

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

UAE Employees Can Carry Over Annual Leave Days or Get Cash

What Do the UAE Laws Say About Working Overtime?

The UAE Unemployment Insurance Programme Explained For Expats

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

It's Official: Region's First Disney Theme Park Will Open in Abu Dhabi

School's Out, Fun's On: MOTN Abu Dhabi Keeps the Winter Magic Going Until 4 January

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Seniors Aged 60 and Above Can Now Visit Al Ain Zoo For Free

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

First-Ever Baseball Park in the Middle East Will Be Opening in the UAE

Image: Supplied.

10,000 Backpacks For Students in Need: Volunteer Registrations Open!

Cut Your Hair For a Cause at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital This October

Education

How UAE Families Can Access a World-Class British Education Online

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

What Are the Benefits of Academic Scholarships in Dubai?

Build Your Child's Education Your Way, With King's InterHigh

How to Get Your University and College Degrees Attested in the UAE

UAE Students Cheating Can Risk a Fine of Up to AED 200,000

Redwood Montessori Nursery Branch Opening Soon in Al Marina, Abu Dhabi

Salons & Spas

Where and How to Donate Your Hair in the UAE for a Good Cause

Go On, Spoil Yourself: Spacation Package with Afternoon Tea Review at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

Where You Should Book Your Next Hair Appointment in the UAE

The 8 Best Foods for Your Waistline

Top 10 Reasons to Go to the Spa

How Diet and Exercise Affect Your Skin

Where to Exercise in Abu Dhabi

Best Foods for Amazing Skin

10 Top Beauty at Home Tips for Women in Abu Dhabi

Make-up Expiration Dates

How Botox Works

Money

Insurance

Lawyers in Dubai: Dr. Hassan Elhais' 2026 Recognition Highlights Expertise for Expatriate Families

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

Minimum AED 5,000 Fine for Smoking Near Children in the UAE

Are Family Members Required to Pay Their Relative's UAE Debt?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

How to Get a Free Car Inspection in Abu Dhabi

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

A Guide to Driving in Foggy Weather in the UAE

Higher Fuel Prices Announced in the UAE for March 2024

You Can Now Pay Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines in Installments

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Mediclinic Abu Dhabi Hospital's Minimally Invasive Gynaecology Receives Prestigious Accreditation

Cochlear Implant in Abu Dhabi: Adult & Paediatric Hearing Solutions at Mediclinic

Cut Your Hair For a Cause at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital This October

Mediclinic Al Noor Now Provides IFHAS Comprehensive Screening Programmes

Feeling Stress on Your Neck and Shoulders? Try TrapTox

IFHAS Comprehensive Screening Programme is Now Available at Mediclinic

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

These Are the Nutritional Benefits of Fasting for Ramadan

4 Ways Ramadan Fasting Impacts Your Mental Health

How to Manage Diabetes While Fasting During Ramadan

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

Expat Areas to live in Abu Dhabi

Log in to post new content in the forum.

1

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 13 July 2018 - 00:43

I really like living on Al Reem Island and I think it's a perfect place for expats. There is a lot of new building. ;)

Hi MariaMon - I just got a teaching job at Virginia International School. Is Al Reem close to that?

3

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 18 June 2018 - 12:51

I really like living on Al Reem Island and I think it's a perfect place for expats. There is a lot of new building. ;)

1

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 14 June 2018 - 09:32

180K is plenty for 2 bedroom apartment in Abu Dhabi. We just moved here from Dubai, and we have rented 3 Bedroom apartment on Khaleej Al Arabi street, which is just 5 minutes away from Marina Mall...

Hi Milena, do you still have kefir grand can share with me or do you know where can I get it, please

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 16 March 2015 - 18:49

Many thanks for the advice Milena_Dubai. :) I think a 3 bedroom apartment might be too big for us though (it's only me, hubby and our 16 month old daughter!), but like you said, we may have to consider it if there's no other option. But we'll definitely think about driving around, seeing what's available! <em>edited by Bristol2AD on 16/03/2015</em>

7

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 16 March 2015 - 16:49

180K is plenty for 2 bedroom apartment in Abu Dhabi. We just moved here from Dubai, and we have rented 3 Bedroom apartment on Khaleej Al Arabi street, which is just 5 minutes away from Marina Mall and Cornish area. I found the apartment myself by driving my car in the areas that I wanted to rent and reading all the signs hanging on the property doors. What I found was that there were no 2 bedroom apartments available, but mainly 3 bedroom. And from what I've read, the price difference was like 20 thousand, so may be, you should consider 3 bedroom as well. We thought about Al Reem island for rent - there 2 bedroom apartments start at 120K when I was looking, but I've heard that the traffic going towards Marina Mall and the Abu Dhabi Island is very bad in the morning and evening time, so I just concentrated on Manaseer area, Al Bateen, Khaleej Al Arabi str. All of these areas are low buildings and old development. I hope this helps.

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 14 March 2015 - 23:36

Thanks moverandasheikha for the advice! Our budget is 180k - do you think that will be enough for a 2 bed apartment in Khalidiyah near the Corniche? :) <em>edited by Bristol2AD on 14/03/2015</em>

moverandasheikha

4

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 11 March 2015 - 10:03

It all comes together pretty easily here. Have a look on googlemaps. The corniche has loads and loads of apartment blocks, once you are here, have a wonder around and ask if any are empty. Do you know your allowance yet, as that will determine where you live more than anything! Good luck, it is a very easy life here...

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 March 2015 - 14:20

Thank you AbuDhabiHausfrau and xpatamy for your advice! xpatamy - we might actually try this when we're there, thanks for the suggestion! :)

2

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 March 2015 - 19:04

For apartments in Khalidya I have heard of people just going into buildings in the area they want to live in and asking security if there are any flats available rather than going through estate agents. Good luck!

AbuDhabiHausfra...

2

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 08 March 2015 - 19:25

We live in world trade center, only 10 min. drive from Marina mall. There are lots of expats and kids living here. Not sure if there are any available 2-rooms apartments though.

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2015 - 23:48

Thank you so much lexiefy and xpatamy for your replies - really useful information! I've heard some dodgy things about estate agents in AD, and I guess we'll just have to stay on our toes! I've looked at Propertyfinder, Dubizzle and Justrentals - and sometimes you see the same pictures, but for different ads/properties! I guess it's still quite early to look for properties though (we're planning to move mid-late July), although we're doing as much research as possible to get a feel for prices/what's available… As for apartments - have found a few, but more close to Abu Dhabi Mall/Al Reem side than Corniche/Bateen… If anyone can recommend anymore, we'd most grateful! But we will definitely check out Eclipse Hotel Apartments… :) edited by Bristol2AD on 07/03/2015 <em>edited by Bristol2AD on 07/03/2015</em>

2

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2015 - 23:09

I would recommend staying in a hotel apartment when you first arrive to figure out which area you want to be in. As far as i know you usually have to sign up for 6 months or more likely a year for rental accommodation but I suppose there must be some short term rental places! We stayed in eclipse hotel apartments for a few months first, not too far to marina but there are probably closer ones in al bateen or khalidya. You'll mainly find apartments in khalidya and corniche areas, not villas. Now we live in al Reem. There's a bus from here all the way to marina but takes at least half an hour. Taxis are cheap though! Probably about £4 from here to marina.

14

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 07 March 2015 - 17:44

Hi! The marina mall area is called Breakwater. My husband works there too. He had been staying in apartment hotels since he arrived, unable/unwilling to find more permanent accommodation. He has had bad experiences with some of the real estate agencies on Dubizzle. Some charge a fee to show you a place. Others will put ads on that are just bait. On the phone they ask what your housing allowance is and try to sell you on a property slightly above that amount. I know that negotiation is the name of the game here, but hubby dislikes it with a passion. I tried Airbnb too. Maybe you'll have more luck than I did. No one replied to my offers. Khalidiya is a great neigbourhood for your husband, since he can take the #5 bus to Marina Mall. Apparently, there are a few villas behind Khalidiya Mall that are worth checking out. Otherwise, other not too out of the way areas would be Al Markaziyah, Al Bateen, Tourist Club Area and Al Reem. This last one being where you will find the highest concentration of expats I think. (We did find a place on Dubizzle in the end).

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 19:30

Many thanks for the advice ADEve - much appreciated! :) Can you or anyone else advise if there are any expat compounds in Khalidiyah/Corniche area? If so, are these just large villas, or are there 2 bed villas/apartments too?

12

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 March 2015 - 17:51

From Khalidya to Marina mall would be about 10 minutes? At the max! Depending on traffic it might also be 5 minutes. Cost would be about 7 dirhams I think, 10 at the max. It's very cheap. If your husband will be working in the Marina mall area, Khalidya is a great place to live. I have some friends living there and they really like it because of the restaurants, cafe's, supermarkets and it's very close to the Corniche beach. They do live in the newer buildings though, so make sure to look into these rather than the older ones. Also the WTC residences/Burj Mohammed Bin Rashid building may be an option for you, it's also downtown and easy to go to Marina. However, I'm not sure if there are still a lot of apartments available there.

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 March 2015 - 14:43

Thanks PollyE for the tip - will definitely bear this in mind! Can anyone advise roughly how long it may take by car/taxi from Khalidiyah to the Marinal Mall? Also roughly how much it may cost for a taxi fare to get there? Thanks in advance. :)

3

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 March 2015 - 00:43

Take the property search websites with a pinch of salt, a lot of entries are fictional. Be very careful dealing with estate agents out here, they operate very differently from what I was used to in UK. You'll find loads of advice about them online - try expatforum (look at the Dubai postings) for no holds barred info. ...good luck. edited by PollyE on 02/03/2015 edited by PollyE on 02/03/2015

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 01 March 2015 - 18:58

Thanks Lettie, that's a really interesting link - will definitely check out some of those places mentioned! Does anyone here live in Khalidiyah and is able to give us some advice on the area? :-)

300

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 01 March 2015 - 07:34

It is common to stay in a short-term rental apartment when you arrive as you can not rent an apartment before you have a residence visa. I saw this yesterday, maybe it will help you: http://abudhabiweek.ae/short-term-accommodation-guide/

Bristol2AD105475

19

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 01 March 2015 - 00:55

Thanks Lettie and busybee2 for your replies. As far we are aware, they're still constructing my husband's workplace! But we've been told it's not too far from the Marina Mall, hence why we're probably veering towards Khalidiyah for accommodation. Can anyone suggest or advise re: short term (1-2 month) 2 bedroom apartment rentals, which we will probably have to consider at the beginning? Where's best to look for them? Did anyone else rent like this at the beginning too?

4747

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 28 February 2015 - 21:11

its not so much as slow... but its a pain logging in to the site, so only do so every so often!

4747

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 28 February 2015 - 21:11

marina island... (its not called that) but presumbly the new hotel/villas they are building on it by marina mall etc. khalidya would be quite close but apartments and may find one for that, much better than reem which is the other side of the island. u will not find a villa even up at 160 mark they are usually 200k plus on the island... for a villa you would need to go to al reef/kca etc. 2 beds are the most sought after and so command a higher price etc.

Log in to post new content in the forum.

Professional Lawyer in Dubai and Abu Dhabi | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Lawyers in Dubai: Dr. Hassan Elhais' 2026 Recognition Highlights Expertise for Expatriate Families

Online British teachers and tutors for UK curriculums

How UAE Families Can Access a World-Class British Education Online

Managing Anxiety during Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

The Middle East's First Disney Theme Park Will Be Opening at Yas Island Abu Dhabi

It's Official: Region's First Disney Theme Park Will Open in Abu Dhabi

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

Flying Drones in the UAE: Updated Guidelines For Personal Use

Flying Drones in the UAE: Updated Guidelines For Personal Use

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Bridgerton Candlelight Concert in Abu Dhabi 2025 news

Bridgerton Fans! Enjoy a Magical Evening in Abu Dhabi With an Exclusive Candlelight Concert

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Are "own visa" Domestic Workers legal in the UAE?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Minimally Invasive Gynaecology surgery at Abu Dhabi at Mediclinic Airtport Road Hospital

Mediclinic Abu Dhabi Hospital's Minimally Invasive Gynaecology Receives Prestigious Accreditation

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

Where to See Animals in the Wild in the UAE

UAE food delivery scam news

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

A Guide to Smash Rooms in Dubai and UAE

Smash Rooms in the UAE: Best Places to Go and Vent Out

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

Where to get cochlear implant in Abu Dhabi and UAE

Cochlear Implant in Abu Dhabi: Adult & Paediatric Hearing Solutions at Mediclinic

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

How to Get a Free Car Inspection in Abu Dhabi

How to Get a Free Car Inspection in Abu Dhabi

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

Health insurance will be included in UAE tourist visa

Visitors Will Soon Get Health Insurance With Their UAE Tourist Visas

UAE Union Pledge Day on July 18: A Guide

A Guide To the UAE's Union Pledge Day: What Is It and When Is It Celebrated?

Illegal domestic helpers in the UAE

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Mediclinic hospitals Abu Dhabi Thiqa card IFHAS health services

IFHAS Comprehensive Screening Programme is Now Available at Mediclinic

Healthy heart tips in the UAE

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE