Marina Island

Marina Island Area Guide

Marina Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most exclusive mixed-use communities, blending residential, commercial, and hospitality projects in a prime coastal setting. Its limited size and premium location make it a highly sought-after destination for luxury living and high-profile developments. The area offers upscale apartments, waterfront villas, five-star hotels, and a range of entertainment options, all within minutes of the city center.

Location and Connectivity

- Located in the northwest of Abu Dhabi, in the Persian Gulf

- Directly connected to the Corniche and central Abu Dhabi via bridges

- 5 minutes by car to Marina Mall, Emirates Palace, and Etihad Towers

- 15–20 minutes to Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Cultural District

- 30 minutes to Abu Dhabi International Airport

Real Estate and Lifestyle

Property Types

Marina Island features a limited but premium selection of real estate, including luxury apartments with panoramic views, exclusive waterfront villas, and serviced residences in branded towers. Hospitality projects and mixed-use developments also add investment diversity.

Pricing & Investment

Due to its exclusivity, entry-level residences on Marina Island are priced above the Abu Dhabi average. Apartments typically start from AED 1.2M, while villas and larger units command multi-million-dirham values. High demand for prime waterfront living ensures stable capital appreciation, with ROI averaging 5–7% depending on property type.

Amenities & Lifestyle

The island offers a resort-like environment with private beaches, marinas, landscaped promenades, retail spaces, and fine dining. Residents enjoy proximity to Marina Mall, five-star hotels, cultural landmarks, and the Corniche waterfront. The blend of leisure, entertainment, and exclusivity makes Marina Island one of Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious addresses.

Education and Healthcare

Schools & Nurseries

Families living on Marina Island have quick access to leading schools nearby, including:
- The British International School Abu Dhabi
- American Community School of Abu Dhabi
- Cranleigh Abu Dhabi (on Saadiyat Island)
- Several nurseries within a 10-minute drive

Higher Education

Universities such as New York University Abu Dhabi and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi are located within 15–20 minutes on Saadiyat Island, while Khalifa University and Zayed University can be reached in under 25 minutes.

Healthcare Facilities

- Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island (15 minutes)
- Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (15 minutes)
- NMC and Mediclinic hospitals in central Abu Dhabi

Investment Appeal

Marina Island is not a high-volume investment market, but rather a niche luxury destination within Abu Dhabi. Its limited land area of 1.7 sq. km ensures that property supply remains scarce, which drives both exclusivity and long-term value appreciation.

Apartments on Marina Island typically start from AED 1.2M, while waterfront villas and branded residences can exceed AED 10M. Yields average 5–7%, in line with Abu Dhabi’s prime market, but the real advantage lies in the stability of demand. The area consistently attracts diplomats, high-net-worth individuals, and senior executives who prioritize privacy, security, and a prestigious waterfront address.

Compared to mid-market communities, Marina Island offers a lower-risk profile, with less rental fluctuation and strong resale prospects. Its proximity to Abu Dhabi’s cultural, leisure, and business landmarks — including Emirates Palace, Marina Mall, and Saadiyat Island — further reinforces its status as one of the city’s most desirable residential and hospitality locations.

With very few plots available for future development, Marina Island remains a scarce, premium investment opportunity, ensuring that both capital values and rental demand remain resilient over the long term.