Al Bandar

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See how the locals live

You might start your day with coffee overlooking moored yachts at Al Bandar Marina, and perhaps charter a boat of your own for an afternoon drifting across sheltered waves. But here, the ocean can be experienced from many different angles. How about a gentle paddle in a kayak, or taking to the sky with a parasail? Al Bandar is also the perfect half-day stop: its eclectic restaurant scene – think Lebanese, Thai and Mediterranean – guarantees a lunch as lovely as the views.

It’s not Abu Dhabi's busiest neighbourhood, and it’s certainly not the biggest, but that’s exactly why it feels so special. It’s your reminder that, sometimes, less really is more.

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Where to stay near Al Bandar

Al Bandar itself is a residential community without hotel accommodation, but its location and accessibility places you near some of Abu Dhabi’s most convenient, well-connected places to stay. 

Just a 10-minute drive away is Al Raha, a waterfront destination with Al Raha Beach Resort and Spa, known for the popular Al Raha Beach Marina. Across the water and accessible by bridge, entertainment hub Yas Island offers a wide selection of hotels ranging from family-friendly resorts to luxury beachfront properties – all within a 10- to 15-minute drive from Al Bandar.

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Getting to Al Bandar

Al Bandar is conveniently located on Abu Dhabi’s northern waterfront, just a 10-minute drive from Zayed International Airport and around 20 minutes from the city centre. It sits within the larger Al Raha Beach development, with direct road access via Al Raha Street and Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (E10). Arrive by car, taxi or ride-hailing app – the journey is smooth and well-signposted.

There’s plenty of parking available near the marina, making it easy to visit for a few hours or spend the day exploring the promenade and waterfront. While there’s no public transport stop directly on the island, nearby bus routes service the surrounding area. Specifically, Bus 170 and 175 include a stop at Al Rahah St/Al Bandar St. From here, it's just a 4-minute walk to the waterfront.

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See our Abu Dhabi Islands and Watersports Guide

Discover must-see islands, lively waterfronts and a range of water-based experiences across the emirate in our ultimate guide to the coast.
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FAQs about Al Bandar

Al Bandar is located on the northern coast of Al Raha Beach, just off the mainland and overlooking the waters between Yas Island and Abu Dhabi city. It’s part of the Al Raha development that offers waterfront living and leisure in a prime location.

Yes, Al Bandar has a curated selection of restaurants and cafés along its marina promenade, including TIKI Pacifico and Salt & Caramel.

Al Bandar offers a well-rounded mix of residential, recreational, and marina amenities. The area features luxury apartments, a full-service marina, swimming pools, fitness centres and walking paths.

Al Bandar is approximately 10 minutes by car from Yas Island and around 25 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi. It’s conveniently located just off the E10 highway, so it’s easily accessible from both the city and the airport.