Al Ras Al Akhdar - Abu Dhabi
HIGHLIGHTS
ABOUT AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Al Ras Al Akhdar, a vast peninsula situated at the western edge of Abu Dhabi, was once referred to as the 'Malibu of Abu Dhabi.' Aside from being renowned for featuring the luxurious Emirates Palace, one of UAE's most sought-after tourist destinations, it also boasts other prominent landmarks such as the Presidential Palace, Founders Memorial and Etihad Towers.
The peninsula is adjacent to prominent areas like Al Bateen, Al Khubeira, Al Khalidiya and Marina Village as it is disconnected from mainland Abu Dhabi by King Abdullah Bin Aziz Al Saud Street.
IN A NUTSHELL
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
While Al Ras Al Akhdar is renowned for hosting the Presidential Palace and various other tourist sites, there are also a handful of residential and commercial structures situated in close proximity.
The Presidential Palace, known as Qasr Al Watan, serves both as a renowned tourist spot and an official venue in Abu Dhabi. In the vicinity of this location, you can also find Emirates Palace and Founder’s Memorial.
PROPERTIES IN AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Al Ras Al Akhdar offers a variety of properties for rent, including apartments and offices. The apartments available come in different sizes, ranging from 1-bedroom units to 4-bedroom ones, and even luxurious penthouses with up to 5 bedrooms. The minimum floor area for these units is around 722 sq. ft., while the maximum space provided reaches up to 2,788 sq. ft. depending on the type of apartment selected.
The Etihad Towers offer furnished offices with stunning Corniche views, available in sizes between 600 and 1,200 square feet.
RENTAL TRENDS IN AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Al Ras Al Akhdar offers apartments for rent that align with the current market trends.
HOTELS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
The Kempinski Hotel group runs Emirates Palace, an imposing hotel that was recently acquired by Mandarin Oriental in January 2020. With 394 rooms and suites, it is one of Abu Dhabi's most opulent accommodations and attracts famous figures from around the globe.
There are also a number of other prestigious 5-star hotels located on the peninsula.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING IN AL RAS AL AKHDAR
All hotels, including Emirates Palace, provide guests with complimentary and secure parking. However, tourist destinations have restricted parking availability. As for apartment complexes, they offer either ground-level or basement parking facilities.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Regarding the availability of public transportation in the Al Ras Al Akhdar area, there are several bus stops located on West Corniche Road. The Corniche Street/Emirates Palace Hotel Bus Stop provides services for routes 009, 034, and 069. Across the street in the Al Bateen region is the Etihad Towers Bus Stop which services Route 034. Additionally, Yas Express Pink Route can be accessed at Bab Al Qasr Hotel Bus Stop.
Taxis are a component of Abu Dhabi's public transportation system and can be readily found. For those looking to travel, Uber and Careem are also feasible choices.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
SUPERMARKETS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
In the area of Al Ras Al Akhdar, there are various supermarkets available for convenience.
If you're looking for a place to purchase groceries in the district, Seven Days Mini Hypermarket is a viable choice. Another well-known supermarket chain, Waitrose, can be found in Al Ras Al Akhdar and is considered one of Abu Dhabi's top markets. They offer an array of grocery items and non-food products as well as fresh produce and baked goods.
MOSQUES IN AL RAS AL AKHDAR
The area is home to the Ministry of Presidential Affairs Mosque, with an alternative being ADNOC Mosque found in the W42 district of Al Bateen near the ADNOC Headquarters.
Located on Al Kasir Island, just 10 minutes from the area, is the Al Kareem Mosque. Complete with separate prayer halls for both men and women, as well as additional amenities such as Quran recitation rooms and a versatile multipurpose hall.
OTHER PLACES OF WORSHIP NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
By driving for about 20 minutes, you can easily reach several churches in Abu Dhabi, including:
All these churches are situated in Al Mushrif. Among them, St. Joseph's Cathedral boasts the title of being the oldest church in the city. As for St. Andrew's Church, it falls under the Catholic denomination whereas New Vision Tamil Church Abu Dhabi is an Evangelical church catering to Tamil-speaking worshippers.
Spring of Life Abu Dhabi, which is a branch of the Redeemed Christian Church of God based in Lagos, Nigeria and led by Pastor Adeniyi Ibrahim, provides services. The Coptic Church known as Cathedral of the Great Saint Anthony operates according to the teachings of Saint Mark.
Located 28 minutes away in Musaffah, lies the Gurudwara Mata Sahib Kaur Ji - a modest establishment founded by Abu Dhabi's Sikh community. Despite its unassuming exterior that blends in with nearby shops and retail outlets, it serves as a place of worship for Sikhs.
The initial Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, BAPS Hindu Mandir, is situated at a distance of 45 minutes from Ras Al Akhdar.
SCHOOLS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Some of the famous educational institutions located in close proximity to Ras Al Akhdar are:
The Lycée Français Théodore Monod (LTM) was established in Al Bateen in 2006, and is devoted to implementing the French National Curriculum. The institution's name honors Theodore Monod, a distinguished French biologist, scientist, and humanitarian.
The American Community School of Abu Dhabi is a non-profit, co-educational institution that implements the American educational plan. In addition to this, it provides students in grades eleven and twelve with an opportunity to select the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
The German International School in Al Zaab is located just 17 minutes away. It provides education based on the State of Thüringen curriculum and caters to students from Kindergarten up to Grade 12. This private and co-educational institution has been recognized among Abu Dhabi's top schools.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
There are several medical facilities located nearby Ras Al Akhdar that can be accessed within a 10 to 15-minute drive. Among them are:
NEARBY AREAS
Localities adjacent to Al Ras Al Akhdar include:
Al Kasir, situated beyond a breakwater from Al Ras Al Akhdar, is another peninsula that houses various residential and tourist establishments including Marina Village. Nareel Island forms the southern edge of Al Bateen and overlooks Al Ras Al Akhdar. It is currently under construction as part of a project by Aldar Properties.
Al Khubeirah, a residential community with waterfront access, sits across from Al Ras Al Akhdar. Abu Dhabi Corniche is located adjacent to Al Ras Al Akhdar, while to the southeast lies the prominent residential and commercial neighborhood of Al Bateen.
LIFESTYLE
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
MALLS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
Several malls located in the vicinity of Al Ras Al Akhdar are considered as some of the top shopping destinations within Abu Dhabi, such as:
The Marina Mall is a 10-minute destination that boasts over 400 well-known stores, as well as a hypermarket, dining establishments, banks and specialty shops. Furthermore, one can participate in the thrilling activities offered by the mall. These include Magic Planet, Bounce, Emirates Bowling Village and VOX Cinemas.
Situated just a brief 14-minute car ride away is Khalidiyah Mall, boasting over 120 retail establishments. This particular shopping haven belongs to LuLu Group International, who have enriched the mall experience with an assortment of dining options, as well as a Carrefour Hypermarket and entertainment facilities like Cine Royal Cinema and Sparky's Amusement Centre.
Situated at a distance of 17 minutes, there exists another LuLu Group International's creation named Al Wahda Mall. This mall boasts over 350 stores and provides amenities like Gold's Gym, spas, numerous eateries and cafes along with multiple platforms for entertainment such as Al Wahda Cinema, Challenge Chambers Escape Room, Dungeon Games Hall, Games Corner, Orange Hub, Orange Wheels and Rolling Wheels Entertainment. It lies in the vicinity of the Al Wahdah community.
RESTAURANTS NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
In Al Ras Al Akhdar, the majority of dining options are located within Emirates Palace. However, Khalidiya by Rayhaan Rotana and Conrad Abu Dhabi also offer stylish choices. Emirates Palace holds five-star status and presents a selection of elegant dining experiences alongside a bar, café and several casual restaurants.
Emirates Palace offers a selection of cafes and casual dining establishments.
Legma, a convenient outlet in the visitor center, offers grab-and-go options. Cascades is a Greek eatery situated by the poolside at West Beach Club, with a delightful menu and play area for children. For an assortment of European delicacies along with beverages like herbal tea, you can visit Le Café.
Emirates Palace is home to a variety of bars and upscale dining establishments.
At Havana Club, you can relish convivial get-togethers with handmade cigars and swift bites such as popcorn shrimp, Wagyu beef sliders, and cheese boards. The venue also features live performances. Similarly, Breeze Lounge is an open-air spot that serves global delicacies.
Mezzaluna is an Italian eatery while Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi focuses on Indian cuisine. BBQ Al Qasr offers grilled and BBQ dishes, with particular emphasis on steaks, as indicated by its name.
Hakkasan, a distinguished fine dining establishment in Abu Dhabi, is renowned for its exceptional dim sum. Additionally, it boasts one of the city's finest selections of Chinese cuisine.
Le Vendome in Abu Dhabi offers a diverse selection of international cuisines ranging from Thai to Mexican and European. This renowned restaurant is particularly well-known for its authentic Thai cuisine.
BEACHES NEAR AL RAS AL AKHDAR
If you're looking to bask in the ocean, make your way to the public beaches located close to Al Ras Al Akhdar; namely:
West Corniche Street provides access to Corniche Beach, which can be reached in just 10 minutes. This beach is situated in Abu Dhabi's Corniche and boasts stunning vistas of LuLu Island. It also includes amenities such as designated areas for both families and individuals, plenty of parking options, and cabanas for rent.
Al Bateen Beach, at a mere 16 minutes' distance, has the added advantage of a private ladies beach. This scenic spot is widely regarded as one of Abu Dhabi's top beaches and shares many similarities with Corniche Beach. Spanning an impressive 800 metres, Al Bateen Beach offers visitors a peaceful retreat in addition to its range of exciting water sports activities like kayaking, jet skiing and paddle boarding.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
The district of Al Ras Al Akhdar boasts several remarkable sites in Abu Dhabi, such as the Emirates Palace, Presidential Palace, and Founder's Memorial. Additionally, it is where Etihad Towers can be found - one of the iconic structures in the city that is among its most renowned buildings.
Al Ras Al Akhdar is home to several notable landmarks in the vicinity.
If you have a penchant for the history of the country, then Sheikh Zayed's Founder Memorial is an optimal destination to explore. This place also goes by the name of The Founder's Memorial and offers complimentary admission.
In addition to various architectural wonders, Qasr Al Watan Palace boasts expansive public libraries and art installations. At 7:30 pm, visitors can enjoy a 14-minute light show that tells the story of the UAE's past, present, and future through three acts.
Situated on the 74th floor of Etihad Tower, the Observation Deck at 300 provides visitors with an unparalleled view of Abu Dhabi. Not only does it offer a panoramic 360-degree vista, it also features a café for refreshments. It is considered one of the top activities to do in Etihad Tower and is especially popular as a romantic spot for couples in Abu Dhabi.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
At Al Ras Al Akhdar's Emirates Palace, there are abundant activities and amenities available. The spa offered at the palace spans an impressive 1500 metres and boasts a variety of lavish treatments and facilities such as a Moroccan Hammam, ice cave, and Jacuzzi. Within the vicinity lies Gentlemen's Tonic - an exclusive salon catering to masculine grooming needs. Additionally, Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio is located in the area for those seeking foot care services.
Patrons of the Emirates Palace Beach Club have complete privileges to numerous leisure activities, like a water-based sports hub, an exclusive seaside area, two deluxe pools, and various other amenities.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
The Founder's Memorial hosts special events in honor of the UAE National Day and other occasions.
In addition to this, Emirates Palace offers a range of event spaces. Similarly, several other hotels in the area hold diverse events throughout the year.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
The island of Al Ras Al Akhdar is not only an ideal tourist destination, but also a luxurious residential location. If one desires more economical housing options, nearby areas like Abu Dhabi Corniche or Al Bateen may be considered.