Al Reem Island: Your Complete Guide
Ready to discover island life in Abu Dhabi? Here's your guide to Al Reem Island.
Al Reem Island is Abu Dhabi's most significant urban development project, representing a natural 633-hectare island transformation into a comprehensive mixed-use metropolitan community. When complete, the island will accommodate 280,000 residents and provide comprehensive commercial, residential, hospitality, and recreational infrastructure.
Development Scale
The master development spans 633 hectares (1,563 acres) developed by three major companies: Sorouh Real Estate (merged with Aldar Properties), Tamouh, and Reem Investments. Each developer independently created distinctive communities within the island's comprehensive framework, with total investment costs exceeding $30 billion.
Major Communities
Shams Abu Dhabi
Occupying approximately 25% of the island (1.32 million sqm), Shams is developed by Aldar Properties and features:
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22,000 potential residential units
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Housing capacity for approximately 100,000 people
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One of the largest parks in the UAE (1 million sqm)
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The Gate Shams Abu Dhabi with 8 gateway buildings
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Two bridges connecting to mainland Abu Dhabi
Marina Square
The first development on Al Reem Island, Marina Square is the second-largest community featuring:
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14 residential towers
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Studios to 5-bedroom residences and penthouses
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Mixed offices, retail, and hotel units
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1-bedroom rental rates: approximately AED 80,000 annually
City of Lights
A 140-acre waterfront development with 60 towers accommodating 80,000 residents with modern amenities and waterfront living.
Najmat Abu Dhabi
A commercial and mixed-use development south of City of Lights providing diverse urban living options.
Landmark Structures
The tallest building on Al Reem Island is Sky Tower Abu Dhabi, a 389-meter (1,276-foot) super-tall skyscraper with 83 floors. The tower includes offices and residential complexes housing thousands of people and resembles Singapore's Marina Bay Sands in architectural design.
Integrated Infrastructure
Al Reem Island features:
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Schools and educational institutions
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Medical clinics and healthcare facilities
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Shopping malls and retail centers
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Restaurants and dining establishments
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Sports facilities and recreation areas
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Hotels and resort properties
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Beautiful beaches and green spaces
Freehold Opportunity
Al Reem Island operates as a free zone where foreign nationals can purchase property on a 50-year leasehold basis, making it accessible to international investors and expatriate residents.
Transportation & Accessibility
The island is strategically positioned with excellent connectivity:
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Direct access via main roads from Abu Dhabi Island
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Multiple bridges connecting to mainland
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Proximity to Al Maryah Island (Central Business District)
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Easy access to shopping centers and entertainment districts
Real Estate Market
Al Reem Island offers diverse property options across different price points and communities, attracting families, professionals, and investors seeking modern urban living integrated with comprehensive amenities and waterfront access.
Photography Tips
Al Reem Island's diverse architecture, waterfront settings, and modern skyline provide excellent photography opportunities:
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Marina views: Boats and water reflections
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Sky Tower: Iconic architecture and island landmark
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Waterfront promenades: Evening light on buildings
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Parks & recreation: Community life and green spaces
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Bridges: Architectural infrastructure connecting to mainland