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Al Raha
An unfiltered snapshot of local life
Al Raha in Abu Dhabi is one of those neighbourhoods that locals know all about, but visitors might miss. Set just off the highway between the airport and the city centre, it’s the type of place you might drive past without a second look. That’s because at first glance, it’s mostly residential, with low-rise apartments like the Al Raha Beach Plazas, schools and supermarkets filled with families and strollers. But step closer to the water, and things change. Al Raha opens up into marinas, boardwalks and casual waterfront hangouts that are a hallmark of contemporary coastal life in the capital.
At the Al Muneera and Al Bandar waterfronts, you’ll find a string of cafés, restaurants and shaded walkways that are popular with residents and anyone in the know. You won’t find mega-malls or blockbuster attractions here, but you will find Al Raha Mall, a local favourite that takes care of the essentials.
Al Bandar Marina connects the area to the Arabian Gulf, providing a launch point for activities like jet skiing, fishing charters, kayaking and even scuba diving, while the private marina at Al Raha Beach Hotel & Resort gives longer-stay visitors direct access to the ocean for the full experience of the local lifestyle. Al Raha may not be on every tourist itinerary, but for many, this is the version of Abu Dhabi that feels most like home. Come take a closer look.
Coastal experiences in Al Raha
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Where to stay in Al Raha
Al Raha boasts a handful of well-situated accommodation options that suit its relaxed, residential feel. The standout is the long-established Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, a beachfront property with direct access to the water, the private Pelican Marina and views across the Gulf. For those after more space and privacy, the Al Raha Beach Hotel Villas next door offer a quieter alternative with easy access to the same facilities.
Al Raha may not have the dense hotel cluster of more tourist-heavy areas, but its convenient location – close to Yas Island, Zayed International Airport and main highway routes – makes it a practical base for longer stays. Many visitors also opt to stay on Yas and drop into Al Raha for a slower-paced day of dining and waterfront walks.
Getting to Al Raha
Nestled along the E10 highway, Al Raha is easily accessible and located just 10 minutes from the airport and approximately 25 minutes from the city centre. A private car, taxi or ride-hailing app will get you there with ease.
Al Raha is also serviced by several public bus routes. Bus 170 and 175 stop at Al Rahah St/Al Bandar, just a short walk from the main waterfront areas, while Bus 407 connects Al Zahiyah in central Abu Dhabi with Al Raha Mall – check out the schedule to plan your trip.
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FAQs about Al Raha
Is Al Raha a city?
No, Al Raha is not a city; it’s a residential and leisure district located in Abu Dhabi. It sits along the city’s eastern coastline, just off the main highway between the airport and downtown. The area includes several sub-neighbourhoods, such as Al Raha Beach, Al Muneera and Al Bandar.
What is there to do in Al Raha Beach?
Al Raha Beach offers a relaxed waterfront atmosphere with a strong focus on local lifestyle. Visitors can stroll the scenic Al Muneera and Al Bandar promenades, enjoy casual dining with marina views or explore smaller retail outlets and cafés tucked along the boardwalks.
Water activities are a major draw, with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, jet skiing and fishing all available. For those seeking luxury, the Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa offers beach access and day passes.
w far is Al Raha from downtown Abu Dhabi and the airport?
Al Raha is conveniently located approximately 25 minutes by car from downtown Abu Dhabi and just 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport. It sits along the E10 highway, making it an easy base for exploring the wider emirate.
What amenities and facilities are available in Al Raha?
Al Raha is a well-established, mostly residential area equipped with schools, clinics, supermarkets, marinas, gyms, cafés and salons. Al Raha Mall serves as the local retail hub, while the surrounding waterfront areas are dotted with restaurants and walking paths. There are also private beaches, hotel beach clubs and access points for water sports and boat rentals.