Looking for a modern island lifestyle with waterfront views, luxury living, and quick access to Abu Dhabi city? Reem Island might be your dream destination.
This complete guide to Reem Island covers everything you need to know — from real estate and daily life to attractions, cultural experiences, travel tips, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a tourist planning a UAE adventure or a local exploring places beyond the desert dunes, this guide offers the full scoop.
🏝️ What is Reem Island?
Al Reem Island is a stunning residential and commercial development located about 600 meters off the coast of Abu Dhabi. Connected by bridges, this man-made island is known for its:
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High-rise towers
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Lush promenades
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Shopping malls
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Beachfront living
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Proximity to cultural and economic hubs
It’s a preferred destination for expats, professionals, and UAE nationals looking for modern urban living close to nature.
🏡 Living on Reem Island
📍 Residential Communities
Reem Island offers a range of living options, including:
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Sky Tower & Sun Tower – Ideal for luxury seekers
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Marina Square – Great for families and young professionals
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Shams Abu Dhabi – A lifestyle hub with cafes, parks, and walkways
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City of Lights – A rapidly developing district with affordable options
💡 Why Live on Reem Island?
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Modern infrastructure
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Close to Abu Dhabi City (5-10 mins drive)
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Sea and skyline views
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Community parks & jogging tracks
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Private schools and healthcare facilities
If you’re also interested in weekend getaways, you can easily escape to nature or even enjoy a Desert Safari Dubai experience by heading eastward through the UAE. (Explore thrilling dune bashing and camel rides with Desert Buggys.)
Also Read: Reem Central Park: Abu Dhabi, How to Reach, Timings, Activities
🌟 Top Attractions on Reem Island
1. Reem Central Park
A vibrant green space at the heart of the island with:
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Skate parks
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Jogging tracks
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Fountains
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Beach access
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Cafes and play areas
2. Shams Boutik Mall
A boutique shopping mall offering:
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Supermarkets
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Dining spots
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Pharmacies
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Fashion stores
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Fitness centers
3. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
A cultural and educational landmark, this is the UAE branch of the famous French university. It brings a touch of European influence and fosters an educated expat community.
Also Read: Khalifa Park: Abu Dhabi, How to Reach, Ticket Price, Library
🚗 How to Get to Reem Island
Getting to Reem Island is simple via:
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Reem Bridge and Shams Bridge — directly connecting to Abu Dhabi mainland
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Public buses and taxis — regularly available
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Rideshare apps — like Uber and Careem
✈️ Nearest Airport:
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Abu Dhabi International Airport – 30 minutes by car
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Dubai International Airport – 1.5 hours via Sheikh Zayed Road
Looking for adventure while you’re in the UAE? Visit Desert Buggys to book your next adrenaline-pumping quad biking or dune bashing desert tour!
🧭 Things to Do Near Reem Island
Reem Island is a peaceful residential zone, but it’s close to several cultural and tourist hot spots:
🕌 Qasr Al Hosn
The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi — a must-visit for those intrigued by Bedouin heritage and traditional Emirati life.
🏜️ Desert Adventure Day Trips
Although Reem Island itself isn’t in the desert, you’re only a short drive away from authentic desert experiences:
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Camel rides
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Desert BBQ dinners
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Traditional Bedouin camp stays
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Star gazing and falconry shows
Book a trusted and safe desert tour through Desert Buggys — the ultimate UAE desert experience!
🛒 Shopping & Dining on Reem Island
🛍️ Malls Nearby:
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Reem Mall (opening soon) – Will feature over 400 stores, indoor snow park, and cinemas
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The Galleria Al Maryah Island – Just minutes away, for luxury brands and fine dining
🍽️ Top Eateries:
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First Clique Café
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Smoking Doll (Pan-Asian)
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Jones the Grocer
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Nolu’s Downtown (Afghan-Californian fusion)
🏖️ Beaches Near Reem Island
While Reem Island itself offers public beach zones and private beach clubs, nearby alternatives include:
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Saadiyat Beach Club
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Corniche Beach
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Al Bateen Beach
These spots offer a serene contrast to the golden dunes of Desert Safari Dubai, where sandboarding and thrill rides await!
Also Read: Al Nahda Pond Park: Dubai, Timing, Activities, Ticket Price
🛏️ Hotels on or Near Reem Island
While Reem Island is more residential, there are great hotels nearby:
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Rosewood Abu Dhabi
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Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi
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Beach Rotana Hotel
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Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
Perfect for travelers exploring Abu Dhabi while staying connected to serene island life.
💰 Pricing & Cost of Living
🏠 Rent (Monthly Averages)
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1-Bedroom: AED 50,000–80,000
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2-Bedroom: AED 80,000–120,000
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Luxury Penthouses: AED 200,000+
🛒 Groceries & Utilities
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Mid-range grocery bill for a family: AED 2,000/month
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DEWA (utilities): AED 500–700/month
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Internet: AED 300/month
⚠️ Safety & Travel Tips
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Reem Island is extremely safe, with 24/7 security in most towers.
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Traffic can get busy during peak hours — plan accordingly.
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Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time updates.
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Dress modestly in public areas, especially during Ramadan.
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Stay hydrated — UAE summers can get intense!
Looking for cooler adventures? Try a sunset desert safari in Dubai — complete with shisha lounges, henna painting, and live Tanoura shows. Visit Desert Buggys to book!
❓ FAQ: Reem Island Travel and Living
Q1: Is Reem Island good for families?
Yes! It offers parks, schools, and safe communities — perfect for families with kids.
Q2: Can tourists visit Reem Island?
Absolutely. It’s ideal for short-term stays and long walks along the waterfront.
Q3: Is Reem Island close to the desert?
While not in the desert, it’s only a 1.5–2 hour drive to Dubai’s desert adventure spots — easily accessible for dune bashing and camel rides.
Q4: Are there cultural attractions on Reem Island?
Yes, including Reem Central Park, Sorbonne University, and proximity to downtown Abu Dhabi museums and historical sites.
Q5: Is parking available on Reem Island?
Yes, most buildings offer basement or podium-level parking. Public parking is also available.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Reem Island is more than just a residential project — it’s a lifestyle. With stunning sea views, modern comforts, and easy access to both urban and natural attractions, it’s a great place to live or explore.
And while you’re in the UAE, don’t miss the thrill of the desert — from quad biking and camel rides to BBQ dinners under the stars.
👉 Explore your next adventure at Desert Buggys