Al Maryah Island, named after the iconic Arabian Oryx, is Abu Dhabi’s vibrant waterfront destination, combining luxury living, world-class business, and leisure experiences. Formerly known as Sowwah Island, this 114-hectare development has been transformed since 2007 into one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the UAE, offering a dynamic mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options.

Neighborhood Overview

Al Maryah Island combines the best of residential comfort and business convenience. Its central area, Sowwah Square, hosts the Abu Dhabi Global Market, luxury offices, and event spaces. For residents, the island features high-end apartments, parking, pools, and 24/7 security.

  • Two five-star hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi and Rosewood Abu Dhabi
  • Luxury dining and beachfront cafes, including Nolu’s Cafe, a pet-friendly hotspot
  • Waterfront pedestrian promenade offering panoramic city views
  • Community events at The Galleria, including New Year’s Eve, UAE National Day, and Chinese New Year

Properties on Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island offers a range of residential and commercial properties catering to diverse preferences:

Residential Apartments

  • Studios
  • 1-Bedroom
  • 2-Bedroom
  • 3-Bedroom Penthouses: Up to 3,200 sq. ft., premium waterfront views
  • Luxury Penthouses: 4–5 bedrooms, prime canal view, and high-floor options

Commercial Offices

  • Small offices
  • Large offices

Popular Buildings:

  • Al Maryah Vista & Al Maryah Vista 2
  • Reportage Tower
  • W Residences
  • St. Regis Residences

Lifestyle, Dining, and Entertainment

Shopping

  • The Galleria: Luxury brands, international dining, and regular community events
  • Abu Dhabi Mall: Over 200 stores, 7-minute drive from the island

Dining & Nightlife

From casual eateries to fine dining:

  • Casual: Taqado Mexican Kitchen, Biryani Pot, Sushi Art
  • Fine Dining: Zuma, La Petite Maison, Coya, Bentley Kitchen
  • Hotel Restaurants: Butcher & Still, Eclipse Lounge (Four Seasons), Sambusek (Rosewood)
  • Nightlife: Rooftop bars including Eclipse Terrace Lounge and Cabana Beach Bar

Beaches

  • Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi Beach, Al Sahil Beach: 15-minute drive for family-friendly or private beach outings

Education & Healthcare

Schools

  • GEMS Winchester School: British curriculum
  • Repton Abu Dhabi: UK/IB curriculum, 7-minute drive
  • Emirates National School & GEMS World Academy: 10-minute drive
  • Higher education: INSEAD and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi

Clinics & Hospitals

  • Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi – premier medical care
  • Nearby hospitals: Al Raha Hospital, Burjeel Hospital, Dar Al Shifa Hospital
  • Skin clinics: Kaya Skin Clinic, Lumiere Skin Clinic

Transportation & Accessibility

  • Underground parking available in residential buildings
  • Bus access: Street 19, Bainuna Street (Bus 8, 10, 11)
  • Easy taxi availability across the island
  • 33-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport

Outdoor Activities & Fitness

  • Recreation center ACTIVE (co-branded with Zayed Sports City)
  • Football fields, tennis courts, multipurpose sports courts, and an indoor gym
  • Popular gyms: Fitness First, Power on Fitness, Professional Gym
  • Salons and spas: Hairwaves by Charbel, NStyle Beauty Lounge, Dahlia Spa, Sense Spa

Upcoming Attractions

  • Al Maryah Central Mall: Over 200 retail outlets, entertainment zones, and a Debenhams department store

Why Invest in Al Maryah Island?

Investing in Al Maryah Island means securing a property in Abu Dhabi’s most prestigious waterfront community. The area combines high-end living, exceptional amenities, and strong resale potential. Whether for investment or personal residence, Al Maryah Island offers the best of Abu Dhabi lifestyle.

Brief History of Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island was originally called Sowwah Island and remained largely undeveloped until the late 2000s. In 2007, Mubadala Development Company initiated a large-scale master plan to transform the island into a modern mixed-use district. The vision was to create a business and lifestyle hub featuring high-end residential buildings, commercial towers, hospitals, and leisure facilities.

The development of Sowwah Square—now Abu Dhabi Global Market Square—established the island as the city’s financial core. Over the years, Al Maryah Island has become a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s growth, attracting investors, multinational companies, and residents seeking a luxury waterfront lifestyle.

Why Al Maryah Island Is a Top Choice for Investors and Residents?

Al Maryah Island stands out as a mixed-use destination where luxury meets convenience. It is one of Abu Dhabi’s top freehold areas for buying apartments, making it ideal for both investors and those seeking an upscale lifestyle. Key highlights include:

  • Prime Location: Northeastern Abu Dhabi, just a short drive from the main island.
  • Waterfront Living: Residential apartments with stunning canal and Arabian Gulf views.
  • Lifestyle Amenities: High-end restaurants, boutique hotels, shopping malls, and leisure hubs.
  • Business Hub: Home to Abu Dhabi Global Market (Sowwah Square) with over 40 companies.
  • Vibrant Community: Frequent events, pedestrian promenades, and 24/7 urban life.

Al Maryah Island is a beacon of Abu Dhabi’s luxury lifestyle, offering world-class residential and commercial opportunities, exceptional leisure facilities, and waterfront living unlike any other. From high-end shopping and gourmet dining to international schools and healthcare, the island has it all—making it a top choice for residents, investors, and visitors alike.