YAS ISLAND AREA GUIDE

Everything you need to know about living, buying and renting in Yas Island

YAS ISLAND IN BRIEF

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, has become a luxury and lifestyle destination. The island spans 25 square kilometres, and strategic planning has made it more attractive to more people. Its reputation as an entertainment and leisure hub attracts a global audience. Zayed International Airport is 12 minutes away from Yas Island. Key attractions in the community include Ferrari World and Yas Marina Circuit. Yas Island annually hosts the Formula 1 Grand Prix, solidifying its international prominence.

Aldar Properties has significantly shaped Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, developing a diverse portfolio of residential projects catering to various lifestyles. These developments include apartments, villas, and townhouses featuring modern designs, high-quality finishes, and access to various amenities. Key Aldar projects on Yas Island include Yas Acres, which has 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6-bedroom townhouses and villas. Ansam offers luxury apartments. Lea Yas Island provides land for custom-built homes. Mayan showcases luxury waterfront apartments, and Yas Riva features high-end canal-side villas.

These projects are located close to Yas Island's entertainment attractions, such as iFly Dubai, located in City Centre Mirdif, which provides thrilling indoor skydiving experiences; Little Explorers, a fun and educational centre for children; and Magic Planet, a premiere family entertainment centre with arcade games and rides.

COMMUNITY OVERVIEW

Yas Island cultivates a modern, luxurious, family-oriented community vibe, largely shaped by its world-class entertainment attractions. Its urban design integrates high-end residential spaces with family-friendly leisure activities, attracting a diverse population of expatriates, tourists, and locals. Safety is a key focus, with well-maintained public areas and robust security measures, contributing to a high quality of life.

Residents of Yas Island enjoy access to premium amenities, including luxury hotels, fine dining, and diverse retail options. The island's design encourages an active lifestyle, with readily available beaches, parks, and sports facilities.

PROPERTIES IN YAS ISLAND

Yas Island integrates residential and commercial developments, which include apartments, villas, and townhouses available for rent or purchase. Properties feature spacious interiors, premium amenities, and views of the Arabian Gulf. Renowned developments such as Water's Edge offer studios to three-bedroom apartments, while Ansam features units with Andalusian-inspired architecture and views of the Yas Links Golf Club.

Mayan offers studios and four-bedroom apartments with views of the golf course and mangroves. The properties range in size from 450 to 9,000 sq. ft.

Aldar Properties has significantly shaped the island's residential landscape, with projects like Yas Acres, offering villas and townhouses with property sizes ranging from 2,335 sq. ft. to 6,800 sq. ft.; West Yas, featuring spacious villas with sizes ranging from 4,200 to 11,000 sq. ft.; and Mayan, providing modern apartment living. Interiors across these developments are characterised by high-end finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise natural light and contemporary designs that reflect modern aesthetics. Smart home features are integrated to provide a seamless and convenient living experience, enhancing comfort and efficiency.

OFF-PLAN PROPERTIES IN YAS ISLAND

An off-plan property is a real estate unit purchased before construction, such as an apartment, villa, or townhouse. You buy a property based on plans, blueprints, and artist renderings and expect it to be built according to those specifications within a certain timeframe.

Purchasing during the off-plan stage offers a financial advantage as prices are lower than completed units. This presents an opportunity for buyers to secure a property at a reduced cost. Developers often allow payments in instalments, easing the financial burden. If the area gains popularity during construction, the property's value may increase by completion. You'll also get a brand-new place with all the latest amenities; sometimes, you can pick out some of the colours and styles yourself.

Below is a look at a few of the main off-plan properties in Yas Island:

Aldar Yas Golf Collection

Payment Plan: 60/40

Property Sizes: 460-800 sq. ft.

Completion Date: Q4- 2025

The Aldar Yas Golf Collection is a development under construction on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It is located within the Central Capital District and is approximately five kilometres from Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street. The development offers one to three-bedroom apartments and provides 24-hour security and CCTV surveillance.

Aldar Fay Alreeman

Payment Plan: 40/60

Property Sizes: 3,200 - 5,400 sq. ft.

Completion Date: Q4- 2025

Fay Al Reeman is a residential development launched in February 2023. Aldar specialises in high-end properties. The complex will feature 557 villas in Al Shamkha with 4 to 6-bedroom villas. Landscaping will include trees, shrubs, and green lawns, creating comfortable spaces for relaxation and sports.

Aldar Al Reeman

Payment Plan: 30/70

Property Sizes: 5,489 to 10,763 sq. ft.

Completion Date: Q1- 2027

The Al-Reeman project combines modern design with a focus on luxurious lifestyle. This development offers a range of homes, including two, three, and four-bedroom options. Residents benefit from easy access to Shawamekh and the airport. Al-Reeman features custom-built homes, apartments, and villas. Community amenities include bicycle paths, nurseries, mosques, and community centres.

The Sustainable City

Payment Plan: 60/40

Property Sizes: 770 to 3,350 sq. ft.

Completion Date: Q4- 2025

The Sustainable City Yas Island, by Aldar Properties, is a new residential development in Abu Dhabi. It offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments and three and four-bedroom townhouses. The development provides access to entertainment, leisure, sports, and health facilities. The project aims to create a sustainable urban environment.

The Bay Residence

Payment Plan: 85/15

Property Sizes: 450 to 3,550 sq. ft.

Completion Date: Q3- 2025

The Bay Residence on Yas Island is a 12-story residential development that offers studios, one to three-bedroom apartments, townhouses, and penthouses. The development aims to enhance community living and provide a unique opportunity for creative lifestyles. The architecture blends with the surrounding waters and landscapes. The development features 242 premium units that exemplify modern living.

HOW MUCH IS IT TO RENT A PROPERTY IN YAS ISLAND?

Location plays a key role in Abu Dhabi's rental market. Yas Island's strategic position makes its rental properties highly sought after. Villas and apartments represent the most common rental options available.

The average rents in Yas Island are:

HOW MUCH IS IT TO BUY A PROPERTY IN YAS ISLAND?

A wide selection of properties allows residents to experience the dynamic Yas Island lifestyle fully. Apartments offer modern living spaces, starting at AED 887,000 for studios and reaching AED 4,316,000 for five-bedroom units. Villas that provide luxurious accommodations range from AED 3,150,000 for two-bedroom residences to AED 14,000,000 for expansive six-bedroom estates. Investing in Yas Island grants access to world-class entertainment venues, picturesque views of the Arabian Gulf, and a dynamic, cosmopolitan community, ensuring a premium living experience.

To buy the property in Yas Island, average sale prices are:

IS YAS ISLAND PROPERTY A GOOD INVESTMENT?

Yas Island attracts investors due to its strategic location, strong rental demand, and luxury appeal. Its proximity to Abu Dhabi and Dubai and easy airport access make it highly accessible. The island's luxury appeal stems from world-class entertainment, high-end residences, and premium amenities. Ongoing development and infrastructure upgrades contribute to capital appreciation, with land scarcity further driving potential resale values. High rental yields, supported by consistent demand, provide a reliable income stream. These combined factors make Yas Island a prime investment destination.

Yas Island presents a diverse range of properties which allow residents to experience the Yas Island lifestyle fully. 

• In 2024, 146 out of 147 launched units were sold, achieving a 99% sales rate.
• The cash collected from these sales is AED 1,547 million.

The strong rental potential and wide array of residential amenities have made Yas Island an ideal location for real estate investment.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ROI FOR YAS ISLAND PROPERTY?

The average ROI for Yas Island is given below:

Investment returns in Abu Dhabi's key areas vary significantly. Yas Island demonstrates strong returns, driven by its entertainment and tourism attractions.

Khalifa City have a Return on Investment (ROI) of 3.81%. In contrast, Yas Island offer 5.71% returns for investors. Residing on Yas Island provides a lively lifestyle enriched by its exceptional entertainment and leisure offerings. 

MOST POPULAR BUILDINGS IN YAS ISLAND

Mayan

Mayan offers apartments ranging from studios to four-bedroom units, which attract families due to its extensive amenities. Residents benefit from communal spaces, gyms, and ample parking. The development's proximity to leisure facilities further enhances its desirability. Property sizes vary from 450 to 9,000 sq. ft.

Average Sales and Rental Prices:

• 2-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 170,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 300,000
• 2-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 2,400,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 5,550,000

Ansam

Ansam is one of four buildings within the Ansam project. The low-rise building draws inspiration from Andalusian architecture and features studios to three-bedroom units with double-glazed windows and spacious interiors. Residents benefit from various amenities, including infinity swimming pools, children’s pools, and gyms. A mosque and parks are also available within the community. Property sizes range from 530 to 600 sq. ft.

Average Sales and Rental Prices:

• 2-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 138,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 325,000
• 2-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 1,700,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 3,700,000

Water Edge

Water's Edge Building offers 2,262 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. This building provides a good option for renting near Yas Island. Every apartment features a thoughtful design. Spacious living rooms, open-plan kitchens, and balconies ensure comfortable living. Property sizes range from 450 to 1,500 sq. ft.

Average Sales and Rental Prices:

• 2-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 110,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for rent: AED 150,000
• 2-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 1,400,000
• 3-bedroom apartment for sale: AED 1,850,000

SCHOOLS AND NURSERIES

Yas Island provides several educational options. Yas Island offers a comprehensive range of educational institutions catering to students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. These include Yas American Academy, which provides an American curriculum, and Sabis International School, which delivers the Sabis educational system. For kids under 5, a branch of Blossom Nursery is conveniently located on the island. Additionally, West Yas Academy, part of Aldar Academies, offers an American curriculum for students across all grade levels. This variety of educational options ensures that families residing on Yas Island can access various reputable schooling for their children.

HEALTHCARE

Residents and visitors of Yas Island can have access to several of the best medical facilities. The Yas Marina Circuit Medical centre is located within the Yas Marina Circuit. Burjeel Medical Centre operates within Yas Mall and offers various specialities, including dental care, paediatrics, physiotherapy, dermatology, and cosmetology. Al Yas Island Advanced Hospital is situated on Mohamed Khalaf Al Mazrouei Street. This hospital offers services such as a dental centre, cardiology, dermatology, digestive diseases, and paediatrics.

Medicina Pharmacy in Yas Island is a top-tier pharmacy offering a wide range of medicine and cosmetic products. It provides a one-stop shop for health and beauty needs.

OUTDOOR SPACES AND PARKS

Yas Island offers a self-contained leisure environment that meets various recreational needs. Visitors and residents can access many key attractions. Yas Waterworld has 45 aqua-themed rides for those seeking aquatic adventures, including thrilling water slides, tornado water coasters, and more. Another leisure option is Ferrari World, an indoor theme park with high-speed roller coasters and driving experiences.

Warner Bros is another leisure option within the community where the world brings beloved characters to life, from DC Comics superheroes to classic cartoons. The park offers over 30 rides and family-friendly experiences within a climate-controlled environment.

For outdoor entertainment, Etihad Park hosts major concerts and events, while West Yas Waterfront Park offers scenic walking and jogging paths along the coastline. Another community park, Al Mangrove Park, provides a unique pet-friendly space, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors with their animals. These varied attractions ensure that residents and visitors find suitable leisure activities, contributing to Yas Island’s dynamic and engaging lifestyle.

TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING

Yas Island is well-connected through multiple transport options. The 190 bus route provides direct transit between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Taxis offer convenient and on-demand travel within the island. For private vehicles, the Yas Island Tunnel is accessible via the E10 highway, ensures efficient access. Another transport option is the Yas Express shuttle service, which links key attractions across the island. These options enhance the internal connectivity for residents and visitors.

Parking facilities on Yas Island are extensive. Residents benefit from dedicated parking spaces within their residential complexes. Public parking is also available, although demand increases during events and weekends.

SHOPPING, DINING, AND LIFESTYLE

Yas Island offers residents an active lifestyle with various activities and events. Yas Mall is the main shopping centre in the area. It offers a variety of brands and also serves as a community space by hosting events. Dining experiences are varied, including casual restaurants like Texas Roadhouse and P.F. Chang's, alongside upscale options such as Angar and Atayeb, which provide international cuisines. 

The lifestyle on Yas Island is active. Supermarkets such as Carrefour and Spinneys serve the community, and Yas Grocery provides additional shopping options. Several mosques serve residents, including the ADNOC Mosque and Yas Mall Mosque. 

YAS ISLAND LANDMARKS

The Astronaut Monument

The Astronaut Monument on Yas Island celebrates space exploration. This landmark recognises the UAE's space travel achievements. It particularly highlights the nation's first successful space mission. The monument offers a backdrop for photography. Visitors capture the spirit of exploration and innovation.

Yas Marina Circuit

Yas Marina Circuit is the UAE's premiere motorsports venue. It hosts the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The circuit features fast straights and winding corners around Yas Marina. Thousands attend action-packed events annually, which include circuit racing, drag racing, and karting at Yas Kartzone.

W Abu Dhabi

This five-star hotel provides a great island holiday. It has a free beach bus, shops nearby, a gym, and is close to famous places. Guests can swim in the pool and use the spa. The hotel sits on top of the race track and has 499 rooms. Guests can watch the races or see the marina.

YAS ISLAND EXPERTS

Get a free consultation from our experienced Yas Island agents.