If you’ve been considering buying a property in Abu Dhabi, there are high chances that you’ve probably already heard or seen Yas Island in some way or another.
Over the years, it has become one of the most fascinating places to live in the UAE, with a lifestyle that combines comfort, fun, and investment opportunities all in one spot.
Yas Island is different from other places because it has something for every type of buyer.
Families love it here because the neighbourhoods are safe and well-planned, there are international schools, and easy access to everyday amenities.
Young professionals like the elegant apartments and busy social environments, while investors like the strong rental demand and stable capital growth.
Also, the location is perfect: it’s only a short drive from downtown Abu Dhabi, close to the international airport, and easy to get to Dubai.
Although Yas Island has a lot of interesting apartments and amenities, the main question is: where on Yas Island should you buy property?
If you’ve come to this blog, you don’t have to worry about that anymore. We’ll go over the most popular places to buy property on Yas Island.
1. Ansam
Ansam is one of the most popular places to live or buy property in Yas Island. It is directly linked to the Yas Golf Course and gives residents a resort-style lifestyle that is quiet and secluded. Also, it is only a few minutes from all the fun things around Yas Island.
The development has low-rise apartment structures, inspired by the Mediterranean, which makes the area feel cozy.
Community and Lifestyle
Ansam is great for families, couples, and professionals who want to live a relaxed but connected life.
It has:
- Swimming pools for kids and adults
- Fully equipped gyms
- Play places for youngsters
- Community gardens and outdoor spaces
- Safe parking and security around the clock
Golfers appreciate staying here because it’s directly next to Yas Links. Even non-golfers like it for its vast open green views and quiet settings. The community is also adjacent to Yas Mall, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros.
Types of Properties for Sale in Ansam, Abu Dhabi
Ansam mostly has 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom modern apartments, and they are well constructed to let in a lot of natural sunlight. Many units in Ansam have balconies that look out over the golf course, pools, or gardens.
Property Prices in Ansam (2025)
| Property Type | Average Price to Buy | Rental Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | AED 900,000 – AED 1.2M | AED 65,000 – AED 85,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | AED 1.3M – AED 1.8M | AED 90,000 – AED 120,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | AED 2.0M – AED 2.8M | AED 140,000 – AED 180,000 |
| 4-Bedroom Apartment | AED 3.0M – AED 3.8M | AED 200,000 – AED 250,000 |
Prices may vary depending on the exact location within the development, floor level, and view. Units with golf course views or sea views are typically on the higher end.
Most of the time, units with views of the golf course or the sea are more expensive.
Why should you buy an apartment in Ansam?
Here are a few reasons to buy an apartment in Ansam Abu Dhabi:
It has a quiet, resort-style neighbourhood with high-end amenities.
- Beautiful views of the golf course and the sea.
- Perfect for families, professionals, and investors (strong demand for rentals).
- Close to Yas Mall and other fun things to do.
- Properties keep their value over time.
Overall, Ansam is a great choice for property buyers in Yas Island, largely because it strikes a mix of balance between everyday comfort and leisure living.
2. West Yas
If you’re after more space, privacy, and a genuine family-friendly vibe, West Yas is definitely a community worth checking out.
Properties for sale in West Yas are mostly made up of luxury villas with enough space to live, entertain, and grow. This is different from Ansam, which is mostly made up of apartments.
West Yas is close to Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Beach, and has a pleasant suburban vibe, which makes it perfect for family living.
Community and Lifestyle in West Yas
Family living is the main focus here in West Yas, and one of the things that makes West Yas extremely special is that there is a big mosque in the neighbourhood. Also, it has;
- Schools, such as the famous West Yas Academy
- Parks, paths for walking, and coastal promenades
- Grocery stores, stores, and community centres
West Yas has a more laid-back lifestyle than other areas of Yas Island that are full of nightlife and entertainment.
This makes it a good place for families to relax and have some solitude while still being close to attractions like Yas Mall and Ferrari World.
Types of Properties in West Yas
West Yas is mostly made up of 4- and 5-bedroom standalone villas, with modern designs, private gardens, and parking areas.
Villas in West Yas are especially great for large families or people who really cherish vast outdoor spaces.
Property Prices in West Yas (2025)
| Property Type | Average Price to Buy | Rental Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Bedroom Villa | AED 4.5M – AED 6M | AED 260,000 – AED 350,000 |
| 5-Bedroom Villa | AED 5.8M – AED 8M | AED 350,000 – AED 450,000 |
Why Should You Buy Property in West Yas?
- It is a family-friendly neighbourhood with schools, stores, and mosques nearby
- Large, luxurious villas with contemporary conveniences
- Great long-term investment due to the strong demand for villa living on Yas Island
West Yas is a great place for families that want to live in Abu Dhabi for a long time, because it offers more than simply a place to live. It offers a whole lifestyle.
3. Yas Acres
If West Yas is about big villas and family comfort, then properties in Yas Acres go even further by mixing luxury with fun.
This neighbourhood is constructed around a top-notch golf course, which gives residents beautiful views, wide-open green spaces, and a resort-like lifestyle every day.
Community and Lifestyle
Yas Acres is perfect for people who enjoy a mix of contemporary living and outdoor activities. The community features an 18-hole golf course that boasts beautiful landscaping, along with cycling tracks and jogging paths for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Parks, lakes, and open green areas
- Pools, fitness centres, and leisure spaces
- Local shops, coffee spots, and dining places in the neighbourhood
There are schools, playgrounds, and other family-friendly amenities that make it an amazing place to settle for long-term living. It’s also a good investment choice for people who want high-end houses.
Types of Properties in Yas Acres
Unlike West Yas, which is focused on standalone villas, Yas Acres offers a mix of luxury villas and townhouses.
Buyers and investors can choose from 2-bedroom townhouses up to 6-bedroom villas, catering to both small families and large households.
Property Prices in Yas Acres (2025)
| Property Type | Average Price to Buy | Rental Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 Bedroom Townhouse | AED 2.2M – AED 3.5M | AED 130,000 – AED 200,000 |
| 4-Bedroom Villa | AED 4M – AED 6M | AED 250,000 – AED 350,000 |
| 5-6 Bedroom Villa | AED 6.5M – AED 10M | AED 400,000 – AED 550,000 |
Why should you buy properties in Yas Acres?
- Prestigious lifestyle with a golf course and luxury amenities
- Wide range of options, from townhouses to large villas
- Family-friendly with schools, parks, and community facilities
- Strong rental demand due to its premium setting and prime Yas Island location
- Perfect for those who want both urban convenience and outdoor living
Yas Acres isn’t simply a place to live; it’s a strategic place to go if you want to improve your lifestyle and make good returns on your real estate investment.
4. Mayan
If you want to live by the beach, Mayan is the spot for you. Mayan is a resort-style community on the Arabian Gulf and next to the Yas Links Golf Course. It focuses on luxury, waterfront living, and recreation.
Lifestyle and Community
Properties in Mayan is designed for people who love the idea of holiday-style living all year round. The community features:
- Direct beach access for swimming and water activities
- Infinity pools and sun decks
- Gyms, health clubs, and spa facilities
- Retail outlets and cafes within the development
- 24/7 security and concierge services
Professionals, couples, and investors who desire high-end homes in one of the UAE’s fastest-growing lifestyle destinations often choose this area.
Types of properties in Maya
Mayan offers apartments ranging from studios to 4-bedroom units. These homes are known for their spacious layouts, floor-to-ceiling windows, and balconies with panoramic views of either the sea, mangroves, or Yas Links Golf Course.
Property Prices in Mayan (2025)
| Property Type | Average Price to Buy | Rental Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | AED 750K – AED 1M | AED 50,000 – AED 70,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | AED 1.1M – AED 1.6M | AED 80,000 – AED 110,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | AED 1.8M – AED 2.5M | AED 120,000 – AED 170,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | AED 3M – AED 3.8M | AED 180,000 – AED 230,000 |
| 4-Bedroom Apartment | AED 4.2M – AED 5M | AED 250,000 – AED 320,000 |
Why should you buy property in Mayan?
- Direct access to private beaches and resort amenities
- Beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf and Yas Links Golf Course
- Great for couples and professionals searching for modern waterfront apartments
- High demand for rentals because it’s right on the beach
- Strong potential for capital appreciation as Yas Island grows
Mayan brings together the best of waterfront living, urban convenience, and luxury facilities, making it one of the most sought-after property destinations in Yas Island.
5. Water’s Edge
Properties for sale in Water’s Edge are a great choice for anyone who wants waterfront without incurring a significant expense.
Many young professionals, couples, and investors seeking affordable waterfront homes reside here. It’s one of the most popular neighbourhoods on Yas Island.
Community and way of life at Water’s Edge
As the name implies, Water’s Edge is all about living on the water, but the difference between this place and other waterfront communities in Abu Dhabi is that apartments in Water’s Edge come at a very fair price.
Some of the key lifestyle features of Water’s Edge are:
- Apartments with views of the canal and promenade
- Stores, cafes, and restaurants are all within walking distance.
- There are jogging and biking paths along the waterfront.
- Family-friendly amenities, including pools, gyms, and play areas.
- The environment is lively, making it a great place for people who like community living.
Water’s Edge has a lively metropolitan vibe, which is different from some of the more secluded developments in Abu Dhabi. This makes it a fantastic place for people who like to be in the middle of everything.
Property Prices in Water’s Edge (2025)
| Property Type | Average Price to Buy | Rental Range (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | AED 550K – AED 700K | AED 38,000 – AED 48,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | AED 850K – AED 1.2M | AED 55,000 – AED 75,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | AED 1.3M – AED 1.7M | AED 80,000 – AED 105,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | AED 1.9M – AED 2.4M | AED 110,000 – AED 140,000 |
Why should you buy a property at Water’s Edge?
- It is one of the least expensive waterfront projects on Yas Island
- There is a high ROI on rental properties here because the prices are very affordable, and the location is great.
- The area is great for both end-users and investors looking for a good return on investment.
- It is a great place for people who want to be close to Yas Island attractions while living in a lively, connected, and affordable neighbourhood.
Water’s Edge is Yas Island’s answer to affordable waterfront living. It gives owners the option to enjoy the joys of island life without having to pay the high prices of communities like Mayan or Yas Acres.
Things to Know Before Buying an Apartment in Yas Island
Buying a property in Yas Island is a significant investment, whether you want to live there or for investment purposes.
The communities themselves are great, but you should think about the wider picture before buying.
Here are the most important things you should have in mind before buying a property in Yas Island:
Purpose for Buying: Investment or Personal Use?
If you’re buying to live in, then you need to think about comfort, lifestyle amenities, how close it is to schools, healthcare, and everyday necessities.
Places like West Yas or Yas Acres are the go-to options when it comes to family living and convenience in Yas Island.
If you wish to invest, you should look at rental yields, tenant demand, and resale value. Investors like apartments in Ansam and Water’s Edge, because there is a high demand for them, and the buying costs are not too high.
Budget and Financing
Prices for properties on Yas Island range from AED 970,000 for studios to more than AED 12+ million for luxury villas.
Make a precise budget for the purchase price as well as any other costs, such as registration fees, agency commissions, service charges, and mortgage processing.
A lot of banks in the UAE offer mortgages to both residents and non-residents; however, the standards for eligibility and down payments are different. Before making a decision, buyers should look at more than one way to get financing.
Rental yields and ROI (return on investment)
Yas Island is a popular place to rent because of its entertainment options, location, and lifestyle.
- Apartments, notably those in Ansam and Water’s Edge, tend to have greater yields, averaging between 6% and 8% per year.
- Villas in Yas Acres and West Yas have slightly lower yields, but they are likely to appreciate over time.
This makes Yas Island a good place for both short-term investment and long-term homeownership.
Location and Accessibility
Yas Island is in a good spot between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with major highways connecting it to both cities. It’s also only 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Before buying a property in Yas Island, it is wise to check how close it is to;
- Yas Mall, which has shopping and restaurants.
- Yas Marina Circuit (F1)
- Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World (fun for the whole family)
- Yas Beach and golf courses (for fun and relaxation)
Living close to these kinds of attractions not only makes your life better, but it also makes sure that there is a lot of demand for rentals, if your goal is for investment purposes.
The developer’s reputation and the quality of their work
Aldar Properties, one of the most well-known real estate developers in the UAE, builds most of its projects on Yas Island.
Aldar projects are renowned for completing on schedule and maintaining high standards, which instills confidence in investors and homeowners.
Also, there are other developers whose works can be traced on Yas Island. So, before you buy, always check the developer’s history.
Service Costs and Maintenance
The service cost on Yas Island depends on the type of property and the neighbourhood. Mayan and other high-end complexes may have higher yearly service fees than mid-range ones like Water’s Edge. To minimize surprises later, always include these fees in your entire budget.
Legal and Ownership Considerations
Yas Island is a freehold area, which means that both UAE citizens and foreigners can buy and own property there.
Also, all transactions must be registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
Foreign investors should also make sure they follow the UAE real estate laws and rules, preferably with the guidance of a professional agent or lawyer.
In short, before you buy a home in Yas Island, think carefully about your reasons for doing so (personal or investment), your budget, the rental income you anticipate making, and the community’s long-term worth.
Yas Island has lifestyle benefits that other areas can’t beat, but the greatest decision for each buyer will depend on what they value most: price, luxury, or return on investment.
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