Al Ras Al Akhdar: Your Complete Guide
Planning to visit Al Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi? Let me be your local guide to this destination.
Al Ras Al Akhdar is Abu Dhabi's most prestigious and exclusive waterfront district, located at the western tip of the Corniche between Marina Village and Abu Dhabi Island proper. This captivating peninsula is renowned for its stunning skyline, diplomatic significance, and concentration of iconic landmarks, positioning itself as one of the Emirates' finest locations.
Iconic Landmarks
The neighborhood is home to Abu Dhabi's most recognizable structures:
-
Emirates Palace: Iconic 8-star luxury hotel and official state guesthouse
-
Etihad Towers: Distinctive glass landmark with panoramic observation decks
-
Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace): Working presidential palace and cultural landmark available for guided visits
-
Marina Walk: Sophisticated waterfront promenade with fine dining and entertainment
Qasr Al Watan Details
The Presidential Palace serves as both a working palace and major cultural attraction offering:
-
Guided palace tours (AED 65 adult / AED 30 children)
-
Qasr Al Watan Library and House of Knowledge
-
Spirit of Collaboration exhibition hall
-
Free and ample parking at Visitor Centre
-
Valet parking available (AED 80)
-
Operating hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM daily
Diplomatic & Government Presence
The area hosts numerous embassies, government offices, and diplomatic residences, contributing to its secure, exclusive atmosphere.
Real Estate Market
Luxury residential properties command premium pricing:
-
Average pricing: AED 13,000-15,000 per sq. meter for apartments
-
Luxury penthouses: Exceed AED 18,000 per sq. meter
-
Monthly rents: Start from AED 10,000 (1-bedroom) to exceed AED 25,000 (high-end residences)
Residential Character
Al Ras Al Akhdar attracts diplomatic personnel, executives, and long-term expatriates seeking sophisticated urban living with unparalleled waterfront access and prestige. The area combines residential privacy with professional services and world-class amenities.
Shopping & Dining
Premium retail and dining establishments:
-
The Avenue at Etihad Towers: High-end retail and gourmet dining
-
Marina Mall: Upscale shopping and restaurants
-
Fine dining establishments with sea views
-
Luxury boutiques and specialty shops
Transportation & Accessibility
Excellent connectivity via King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Street and Corniche Road, connecting to main Abu Dhabi business and entertainment districts. Taxi services and ride-sharing available throughout.
Schools & Education
-
Al Bateen Academy
-
American Community School
-
Proximity to international educational institutions
Healthcare
Excellent medical facilities:
-
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
-
NMC Royal Hospital
Recreation & Lifestyle
-
Corniche Beach: Direct access to pristine public beach
-
Marina Walk: Waterfront promenade for walking, dining, entertainment
-
Emirates Palace Gardens: Historic gardens and manicured landscapes
-
Sophisticated, serene lifestyle emphasizing privacy and exclusivity
Photography Tips
Al Ras Al Akhdar offers exceptional photography opportunities:
-
Etihad Towers: Iconic architecture and distinctive glass design
-
Corniche waterfront: Dramatic sunset reflections
-
Marina Walk: Elegant promenade lighting and waterfront scenes
-
Presidential Palace: Architectural grandeur and formal gardens
-
Skyline views: Modern Abu Dhabi icons against Arabian Gulf backdrop