With the rental increase cap back in effect in the UAE capital, renting properties in Abu Dhabi has become even more affordable for prospective tenants. As the sturdy economy of the emirate continues to create jobs and work opportunities, Bayut.com helps us find the localities that are currently most popular with tenants looking for apartments in the city.

Al Reem Island

In the outgoing month of December 2016, Al Reem Island topped Bayut’s list of most sought after localities for renting apartments. The locality is fast becoming the go-to place for residents in Abu Dhabi due to its modern architecture, new residential buildings, unique views of the Persian Gulf and accessibility to the main island. It is closely associated with high-end living as well. Al Reem Island is also home to iconic structures like the Gate Towers and the Arc and the community provides ample space for residents to indulge in outdoor physical activities.

Pros: Fresh residential units, planned communities, space for physical activities, pet-friendly

Cons: Noise, location is not central, prices are high

Corniche Area

Occupying the second spot in the popularity rankings for rental apartments in December 2016 was Corniche Area, one of the most sought after addresses in the capital city. This area is best known for being the business, financial and commercial hub of Abu Dhabi. In addition, Corniche Area also has a number of parks, modern educational institutes, hospitals, malls and other amenities associated with hassle-free living.

Pros: Centrally located, provides all basic amenities of life, well connected, close to beautiful beaches

Cons: Populated, traffic problem, noisy

Al Raha Beach

Al Raha Beach was at the third spot in the list of five most popular areas for renting apartments in Abu Dhabi. The locality is close to Emirates Park Zoo, the airport, Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World, and has several public beaches. For adrenaline junkies, this locality provides a Mountain Bike Trail Area to facilitate residents in pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. This particular locality is ideal for those wishing to settle down with families.

Pros: Close to international airport, accessible beaches, entertainment facilities

Cons: Far away from settled areas, noisy due to construction activities

Khalifa City A

Khalifa City A took the fourth spot on Bayut.com’s list in December. Population concentration is high here due to the area’s central location. Due to this reason, the locality is perfect for living with one’s family as it has facilities like parks, schools, restaurants, malls and hospitals. Moreover, its close proximity to the airport, entertainment facilities on Yas Island and the financial and business hubs situated on the main island make it one of the popular residential areas.

Pros: Centrally located, ideal for family, easily accessible, close to public transport facilities

Cons: Populous, pet culture missing

Al Khalidiyah

Al Khalidiyah grabbed the final spot on the list of popular apartment renting localities in December 2016. Located along Abu Dhabi Corniche, the area boasts of facilities like parks, hospitals, educational institutes and malls. The residential area at Al Khalidiyah is a short drive away from the Emirates Palace, Etihad Towers, the Emirates Palace and Marina Mall. The locality also has a mega mall of its own, namely Khalidiyah Mall.

Pros: Centrally located, ample parks and malls, entertainment outlets are aplenty, beach, good educational institutes

Cons: Crowded locality, vehicular traffic is a problem, area is noisy

Author: Khan Babrak Yousafzai, is a journalist and a real estate analyst at Bayut.com