What Is Reem Island?
Reem Island is a natural island located directly adjacent to Abu Dhabi's central business district, connected by a network of bridges that make it effectively an extension of the city rather than a separate destination. The island has been developed over the past 15 years into one of Abu Dhabi's most densely populated residential districts — a vertical urban neighbourhood of high-rise apartment towers that appeals to professionals, young couples, and smaller families who want city life at more accessible prices.
Key developers active on Al Reem include Aldar, Tamouh, and a range of smaller developers. The island's communities include Shams Abu Dhabi (the most established sub-district), City of Lights, and the newer Najmat Abu Dhabi. The waterfront promenade is well-developed, with retail, restaurants, gyms, and schools all accessible within the island itself.
Who Lives Here?
Reem Island attracts a predominantly expatriate professional community — people who work in Abu Dhabi's financial, government, healthcare, and education sectors who want proximity to work without paying Saadiyat or Yas Island prices. The island has a genuine neighbourhood feel, with a mix of cafes, boutique gyms, and local retail that gives it more urban character than the purpose-built resort islands.
Families are also well-represented — several reputable schools serve the island's catchment area, and the waterfront provides safe, family-friendly outdoor space. The ADNOC headquarters and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) on Al Maryah Island are both within easy driving distance, making Al Reem a natural choice for professionals in both districts.
Investment Fundamentals
Reem Island offers Abu Dhabi's best combination of accessibility, yield, and liquidity in the mid-market. Entry prices from AED 500,000 for a one-bedroom, yields of 6–7%, and a deep, consistent rental market driven by Abu Dhabi's large professional expatriate population make this one of the capital's most reliable yield plays. The island is not going to deliver Saadiyat-style capital appreciation — but it will deliver a tenant on Day 1 and a rent cheque every year.
At a Glance
Why Buy Here
- Most accessible Abu Dhabi urban location
- Bridge connection to city centre
- 6–7% yields with very low vacancy
- Deep tenant pool of Abu Dhabi professionals
- Established retail, F&B and schools
- Good resale liquidity vs other AD areas
Watch Out For
- High-rise density — not for those wanting space
- No beachfront (waterfront views only)
- Some older towers are dated
- Competition among similar properties is high
- Less prestigious than Saadiyat or Yas
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The Verdict
Reem Island is Abu Dhabi's most dependable mid-market investment. It is not glamorous, it does not have Formula 1 or Zaha Hadid — but it has something more valuable for yield investors: a deep, consistent pool of professional tenants who need to live close to the city and will pay reliable rent. For buyers seeking a straightforward, low-maintenance Abu Dhabi yield asset, Reem Island is hard to beat.