Apartments & Flats for Rent in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. The city has been named the safest city in the world for nine consecutive years (2017 - 2025).
This, and other factors such as flexible real estate regulations have made Abu Dhabi a prominent name in the UAE’s real estate market, especially when it comes to the rental market.
Abu Dhabi moves at a slower, more planned pace than Dubai. It has quiet neighborhoods, long-standing customs, and a modern infrastructure that makes daily life easy and comfortable.
You can find a property for rent here that feels like home, whether you want a cosy studio, a luxury one-bedroom, or a large two-bedroom apartment.
Apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi offer more than just four walls and a roof. They offer a new start, whether you're moving here for work, to start over, or just to find a better way to live.
Types of Apartments to Rent in Abu Dhabi
There are different types of properties for rent in Abu Dhabi, which are fit for every lifestyle, budget, and even future plans.
Here are some of the most common types of rental apartments you can easily find in Abu Dhabi.
Studio Apartments for Rent in Abu Dhabi
A studio for rent in Abu Dhabi can be just what you need if you want a clean, simple apartment that has everything you need and doesn't need a lot of upkeep.
In most cases, these apartments have an open floor plan that combines the bedroom, living area, and kitchen. They're great for students, those who work alone, or people who travel a lot.
Many studios come with furniture, and if you just need to stay for a short time, you can also locate furnished studio apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi on a monthly basis. This gives you flexibility without having to buy furniture or sign long-term contracts.
One Bedroom Apartments for Rent in Abu Dhabi
A 1-bedroom apartment for rent in Abu Dhabi has the ideal amount of space and structure that is greatly different from that of a studio apartment.
It is the best option in the case where you wish to keep your living area and sleeping area separate.
This plan provides you with the ability to work from home, have visitors over, or just relax in the living room.
A 1 BHK for rent in Abu Dhabi is perfect for couples, or professionals who desire comfort without the size or cost of bigger two- or three-bedroom flats.
You may find these flats all around the city, from cheap places in the middle of the city to beachfront towers on Al Reem Island and Al Raha Beach.
Two Bedroom Apartments for Rent in Abu Dhabi
A two-bedroom apartment for rent in Abu Dhabi is a good alternative for young families, roommates, or anyone who needs a home office or guest space.
Most of these apartments have two bathrooms, a big kitchen, and a big living room. Some even have maid rooms and balconies.
The second bedroom gives you more options, which is something that gets more important over time.
This is true especially if you live with a partner, kids, or a roommate. People often pick two-bedroom flats in Abu Dhabi not simply because they have more room, but also because of the way they live and the convenience it brings.
Three- and Four-Bedroom Apartments for Rent in Abu Dhabi
Most rental demands may be met with studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom flats in Abu Dhabi.
However, Abu Dhabi also provides larger apartments, such as three-bedroom, four-bedroom, and even penthouse units, for bigger families or people who seek luxury and space.
You can commonly find these in nice places like Corniche Road, Yas Island, and Saadiyat Island.
They're great for people who want to live there for a long time, executives, or anyone who just wants their house to be a safe or luxurious place.
These flats usually have more than one balcony, a bathroom with a shower, a parking space, and the best facilities.
Each type of apartment has its own way of living, and in Abu Dhabi, you get to choose the size, pace, and layout that works best for you. There is a space for you, whether you want to downsize, start over, or grow.
Best Areas to Rent an Apartment in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, luxury is more than simply looks; it's also about how it feels. Abu Dhabi has a lot of places to live that are both ambitious and elegant if you're looking for that kind of lifestyle.
If you want to rent a luxury apartment in Abu Dhabi, these are the best places to rent a house.
Al Reem Island
When people talk about high-end living in Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island is usually the first word that comes to mind.
This island community is only a few minutes from the city centre and has modern towers with amazing views of the water and the skyline.
There are furnished studios and high-floor 3- and 4-bedroom apartments here. Many of them have floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, gyms, pools, and even direct beach access.
Most of the people who choose to rent apartments in Al Reem Island are professionals, couples, and families who desire the convenience of the city and the peace of the island.
Saadiyat Island
Saadiyat is a great place for people who love both art and nature. It has the Louvre Abu Dhabi, luxury resorts, and one of the city's best beaches. The flats in Saadiyat Island are made to be spacious, bright, and peaceful.
There are high-end one- to four-bedroom apartments in Saadiyat Island, many of which are in gated communities with concierge services, health clubs, and access to the beach.
Saadiyat Island has everything you need for a luxurious vacation, including a lot of art and culture.
Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Beach is a great place to live and enjoy luxury. It is one of the most family-friendly premium neighbourhoods, with broad walkways, beachside cafes, and private marinas. The apartments in Al Raha Beach feel like a getaway since they are big, have peaceful views of the sea, and are well-designed.
Most furnished apartments in Abu Dhabi aren’t much more beautiful than the ones you’ll find in Al Raha Beach.
They are perfect for families who desire a quiet life or couples who want to live near the water.
Yas Island
Yas Island has everything you need if you think of luxury as being near world-class entertainment. It's home to Ferrari World, Yas Mall, and the Formula 1 track.
The apartments for rent in Yas Island are modern, luxurious, and they come with access to resort-style amenities. Young professionals, corporate renters, and families who want to mix work and play love it.
Abu Dhabi luxury apartments reflect thoughtfulness, wellness, and intention. These communities are the kind of home you'll enjoy coming home to every day, whether you're renting or settling in.
Cheap Areas to Rent a Flat in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi knows not everyone wants luxury—thankfully. Several neighbourhoods offer affordable rent without sacrificing safety, cleanliness, or infrastructure.
These areas have strong communities, affordable rent, and easy access to daily life. Here are some of the top popular areas where you can easily find cheap apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi
Musaffah
Mussafah is one of the cheapest places to live and work in the city. This is a great spot to look if you're on a limited budget or just starting out in Abu Dhabi.
Most of the apartments in Musaffah here are older, however you can find studios and 1 BHKs for much less than in the centre.
Although Musaffah is an old community within Abu Dhabi, it has great supermarkets, mosques, schools, and places to dine, which means that you still have the convenience and accessibility, though spending a relatively small amount on rents.
Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City)
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is a good place to hunt for bigger apartments at a fair price. MBZ City sits on the outskirts of urban Abu Dhabi and is recognized for its large apartments and peaceful, domestic vibe.
You can easily find one- and two-bedroom apartments in Mohammed Bin Zayed City that are less than those in the city centre and often have greater square footage.
Families like this location a lot, especially those who work in healthcare, education, or logistics.
Shakhbout City (Khalifa City B)
Shakhbout City is one of Abu Dhabi's less expensive suburbs. It is especially popular with families and professionals who want a lot of room and peace, and quiet.
The buildings are mostly newer than those in Mussafah, yet the rents are still thought to be reasonable.
You can rent flats in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi that are either empty or furnished, and the costs are lower than in more central areas.
Since it's a growing town, you might have to give up certain city comforts, but the savings usually make up for it.
Khalifa City A
Khalifa City A is a little more developed than its neighbours, but it still has cheap apartments for rent, especially for people who want to stay for a long time.
It has a good layout, is close to schools and grocery stores, and is closer to the airport.
You can find studio apartments, 1 BHKs, and 2-bedroom flats here, and they are usually cheaper than other areas in Abu Dhabi. Teachers, people who work in aviation, and small families choose to live here.
Al Muroor and Al Nahyan
If you want to be close to central Abu Dhabi but don't want to pay a lot, Al Muroor and Al Nahyan are worth checking out.
These neighbourhoods aren't the cheapest in the city, but they do have older flats that are fairly priced, especially if you're okay with simple décor and fewer facilities.
They're well-connected, safe, and a great choice for people who want to save money and don't equally want to spend a lot of time getting to work within the city.
While these areas may lack the flash of waterfront towers or high-rise amenities, they offer affordability, community, and a chance to build a life without financial pressure.
Rental Laws in Abu Dhabi
Finding the right apartment in Abu Dhabi isn't enough—you also need to know your rights and responsibilities.
The emirate has rental laws to protect tenants and landlords, so knowing them helps you avoid confusion.
Rental agreements must be written and state the rental amount, payment schedule, and contract duration—usually one year.
Most landlords take 1–4 post-dated checks. A refundable security deposit of 5% of the annual rent is also required.
Abu Dhabi does not require Ejari-registered tenancy contracts, unlike Dubai. However, landlords use the Tawtheeq system to register the lease with Abu Dhabi Municipality and set up utilities.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport allows rent increases after the contract period, but only under certain conditions. To avoid surprises, discuss renewal terms in advance.
If there are problems, the Rental Dispute Settlement Committee helps tenants resolve disputes legally.
Understanding these basics gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on settling into your new home in Abu Dhabi.
You can also refer to our blog: Things You Need To Know About Apartment Rentals in UAE
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