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:
High-rise towers
Lush promenades
Shopping malls
Beachfront living
Proximity to cultural and economic hubs
It’s a preferred destination for expatriates, professionals, and UAE nationals seeking modern urban living close to nature.
🏡 Living on Reem Island
📍 Residential Communities
Reem Island offers a range of living options, including:
Sky Tower & Sun Tower – Ideal for luxury seekers
Marina Square – Great for families and young professionals
Shams Abu Dhabi – A lifestyle hub with cafes, parks, and walkways
City of Lights – A rapidly developing district with affordable options
💡 Why Live on Reem Island?
Modern infrastructure
Close to Abu Dhabi City (5-10 mins drive)
Sea and skyline views
Community parks & jogging tracks
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:
Skate parks
Jogging tracks
Fountains
Beach access
Cafes and play areas
2. Shams Boutik Mall
A boutique shopping mall offering:
Supermarkets
Dining spots
Pharmacies
Fashion stores
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:
Reem Bridge and Shams Bridge — directly connecting to the Abu Dhabi mainland
Public buses and taxis — regularly available
Rideshare apps — like Uber and Careem
✈️ Nearest Airport:
Abu Dhabi International Airport – 30 minutes by car
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:
Camel rides
Desert BBQ dinners
Traditional Bedouin camp stays
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:
Reem Mall (opening soon) – Will feature over 400 stores, an indoor snow park, and cinemas
The Galleria Al Maryah Island – Just minutes away, for luxury brands and fine dining
🍽️ Top Eateries:
First Clique Café
Smoking Doll (Pan-Asian)
Jones the Grocer
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:
Saadiyat Beach Club
Corniche Beach
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:
Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi
Beach Rotana Hotel
Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
Perfect for travelers exploring Abu Dhabi while staying connected to serene island life.
💰 Pricing & Cost of Living
🏠 Rent (Monthly Averages)
1-Bedroom: AED 50,000–80,000
2-Bedroom: AED 80,000–120,000
Luxury Penthouses: AED 200,000+
🛒 Groceries & Utilities
Mid-range grocery bill for a family: AED 2,000/month
DEWA (utilities): AED 500–700/month
Internet: AED 300/month
⚠️ Safety & Travel Tips
Reem Island is exceptionally safe, with 24/7 security in most towers.
Traffic can get busy during peak hours — plan accordingly.
Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time updates.
Dress modestly in public areas, especially during Ramadan.
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 suitable for families?
Yes! It offers parks, schools, and safe communities — making it perfect for families with children.
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