▦HIGHLIGHTS
About Zayed Sports City
Famous for housing the UAE’s largest and most prestigious sports stadium, Zayed Sports City is more than just a sporting hub—it is also a thriving residential community. The area features numerous apartment buildings, making it an ideal place to live for professionals, singles, and families.
Located near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE, and Al Bateen Executive Airport, the neighborhood enjoys a prime location within Abu Dhabi. It is also situated close to Rowdhat Abu Dhabi, with Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street serving as one of its main connecting roads. Moreover, Zayed Sports City is recognized as one of Abu Dhabi’s top tourist attractions.
In A Nutshell
- Home to one of the largest stadiums in the UAE
- A sports-centric community within Abu Dhabi
- Close to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE
- Offers a variety of rental apartments
- Features a bowling alley, indoor golf, ice rink, and multiple sports courts
🏠︎NEIGHBOURHOOD
Community Overview
Zayed Sports City is a vibrant and dynamic community, offering a range of world-class sports facilities. Residents and visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art courts and training centers, including the Performance Golf indoor golf course, Bowling Stadium, Sports City Ice Rink, and basketball courts.
In addition to its impressive sports amenities, the area is also home to several government offices, making it a well-rounded community for both recreational and professional pursuits.
Towards the southern part of the community, residents can find retail stores, cafés, and a few supermarkets for daily essentials. The area is also rich in green spaces, offering a refreshing environment. Whether you prefer spending time at one of the sports courts or relaxing at Al Khaleej Al Arabi Park with its stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities.
Properties in Zayed Sports City
Zayed Sports City offers a diverse selection of rental properties, including 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in low, mid, and high-rise residential buildings. One of the most notable residential options is Rihan Heights Towers, a well-known complex featuring five apartment buildings with modern living spaces.
Rental Trends in Zayed Sports City
| Apartment Type | Average Rental Price in AED |
| Apartment Type1-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED77,000 |
| Apartment Type2-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED143,000 |
| Apartment Type3-Bed | Average Rental Price in AED201,000 |
A 1-bedroom apartment in Zayed Sports City typically offers 893 sq. ft. of living space and includes two bathrooms, with an annual rent of approximately AED 77k. The most sought-after 2-bedroom apartments come with three bathrooms and 1,400 sq. ft., costing around AED 120k per year. Those looking for larger living spaces can opt for a 3-bedroom apartment, which features four bathrooms and 5,000 sq. ft., with a rental price of AED 155k per year.
One of the standout residential complexes in the area is Rihan Heights Towers, consisting of five high-rise buildings surrounded by beautifully landscaped courtyards and recreational facilities. The rental apartments in Rihan Heights Towers are available in 1, 2, and 3-bedroom layouts, with 1-bedroom units ranging from AED 60k to AED 90k per year.
Zayed Sports City Floor Plans
Prospective tenants can explore Zayed Sports City floor plans to get a better idea of the available layouts in different residential buildings within the community.
Parking and Transportation in Zayed Sports City
Parking is readily available for residents, with each apartment generally including at least one designated parking space. However, the exact allocation depends on the landlord and tenancy agreement. Additionally, there are plenty of street parking options for visitors and residents who own multiple vehicles.
Public Transportation in Zayed Sports City
For those relying on public transportation, there are several bus stops scattered throughout the community. A trip to Abu Dhabi International Airport typically takes around 45 minutes by public transport.
Amenities, Schools, and Healthcare
Supermarkets in Zayed Sports City
Residents have access to several supermarkets within the area, including Spinneys, SPAR Supermarket Al Fahim, and Carrefour Hypermarket. Additionally, ZOOM mini-mart, conveniently located near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, provides quick grocery essentials.
Carrefour Hypermarket, located in Al Saggar Mall, offers a vast selection of both imported and local products. Spinneys is a top choice for fresh imported produce and a well-stocked bakery. SPAR Supermarket, part of Abu Dhabi Coop Society, is popular for discounted groceries, including a large variety of frozen meats and vegetables. Meanwhile, ZOOM is a convenient mini-mart, ideal for quick shopping needs.
Churches, Temples, and Mosques in Zayed Sports City
A 12-minute drive from Zayed Sports City leads to Al Mushrif, home to 10 churches catering to different Christian denominations, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral, St. George Orthodox Cathedral, and St. Andrew’s Church.
For those of the Hindu faith, a new Hindu temple is under construction in Abu Dhabi, while Sikh residents can visit New Gurudwara Abu Dhabi, located 17 minutes away in Mussafah.
Muslims in the area have the privilege of being close to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE. Additionally, there are three other mosques within Zayed Sports City: Abdul Jalil Mohammed Al Fahim Mosque, Hassan Bin Thabit Mosque, and Ibn Taymiyyah Mosque.
Schools in Zayed Sports City
Falcon British Nursery is the only nursery school within Zayed Sports City. However, just 7 minutes away, near the Embassies District, there are several well-regarded schools, including:
- Lycée Louis Massignon (French curriculum)
- The American International School (blending American standards with an international curriculum)
- Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Bangladesh Islamia Private School
For higher education, Rabdan Academy is near the Embassies District, and the Abu Dhabi School of Management is located in Al Qurm Gardens.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS IN ZAYED SPORTS CITY
Zayed Sports City is home to five clinics, including specialized centers for dentistry and psychiatry. Notable options include:
- British Neurology Psychiatry Center
- Al Taie Center for Laparoscopic & Obesity Surgery
- Imperial College London Diabetes Center, which is part of Healthpoint Clinic
For those in need of hospital care, the area features several large medical facilities, including:
- Specialized Rehabilitation Hospital
- Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital
Nearby Areas
Zayed Sports City is surrounded by several key locations:
- Diplomatic Area (to the west)
- Hills Abu Dhabi (to the south)
- Al Bateen Airport (to the north)
- Khor Al Maqtaa (to the east)
Additionally, the nearby communities of Rawdhat, Al Aman, and Al Maqtaa are easily accessible.
⛾ LIFESTYLE
Shopping, Dining And Nightlife
Malls in Zayed Sports City
Zayed Sports City features a small community mall known as Al Saggar Mall. However, for a more comprehensive shopping, dining, and entertainment experience, residents can take a 10-minute drive north to Al Seef Village Mall, located next to Al Bateen Executive Airport.
Al Seef Village Mall offers:
- A food court with a diverse selection of restaurants and cafés
- A gaming zone
- A children’s play area
Restaurants in Zayed Sports City
Zayed Sports City is home to around eight restaurants, many of which are located within the major sports facilities in the area.
At the Bowling Centre, you can find a selection of Asian restaurants such as Noodle Bowl, Ortego’s Deli, and Foo Man Choo. For casual American dining, Lucky Strike Cafeteria and Summer Breeze are great options. If you’re looking for a quick bite, Tasty Box at the ice rink is a convenient choice.
One of the most popular dining spots in the area is The Sportsman’s Arms, a pub-style restaurant with an extensive food menu, located within The International Tennis Centre.
Additionally, several restaurants are part of the Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi, including:
- Noche Chill-Out Lounge – Specializing in South American cuisine
- Oceana – Offering buffet and à la carte dining
- Rouge – Serving upscale Asian dishes
For a more relaxed experience, guests can visit The Link Cafe or the Pool Bar & Terrace.
Beaches Near Zayed Sports City
One of the advantages of living in Zayed Sports City is its proximity to some of Abu Dhabi’s finest beaches. The nearest option is Al Qurm Beach, just 9 minutes away. Another popular destination is Al Bateen Beach, a well-maintained public beach featuring:
- Lifeguards on duty
- Public restrooms and showers
- Food stalls
- Children’s play areas
- Green spaces ideal for picnics
Leisure Activities And Notable Landmarks
A major landmark near Zayed Sports City is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most iconic religious sites in the UAE. However, visitors are required to adhere to a dress code before entering. Modest attire is mandatory, and women must wear a headscarf. If needed, the mosque provides abayas for visitors who do not have appropriate clothing.
Zayed Sports City is not just a residential area; it is also a major landmark in Abu Dhabi, home to some of the largest sports facilities in the UAE.
Key Attractions and Stadiums
- Zayed Sports City Stadium – The largest stadium in the UAE, with a seating capacity of over 44,000 spectators.
- The International Tennis Centre – Features nine tennis courts, an outdoor stadium with 5,000 seats, event spaces, and two exhibition courts.
- Zayed Sports City Ice Rink – The only Olympic-sized ice rink in Abu Dhabi, accommodating 1,280 spectators.
- Mubadala Pavilion – A private indoor event space for various activities.
- Football & Rugby Training Pitches –
- 20 natural grass pitches with floodlights for night games.
- Three regulation rugby pitches.
- One dedicated softball pitch.
Additional Sports Facilities
- Three basketball courts
- Three courts for beach volleyball and beach tennis
- The largest billiards hall in Abu Dhabi
- The biggest bowling center in Abu Dhabi
- Facilities for boxing, cycling, football, golf, paintball, and netball
With its state-of-the-art sports amenities, Zayed Sports City stands as a hub for both professional athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts.
Outdoor Activities, Fitness And Beauty
Zayed Sports City is the ideal residential area for those who enjoy an active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle. In addition to world-class sports facilities, the community features several parks and fitness centers, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Zayed Sports City Park (formerly Old Airport Garden) – One of Abu Dhabi’s top public parks, featuring shaded walkways and dedicated play areas for children.
- Al Khaleej Al Arabi Park – A family-friendly park with grassy open spaces, barbecue facilities, a water fountain, a jumping castle for kids, and a small café for refreshments.
Fitness and Wellness Centers
For those who prefer indoor workouts, there are several gyms and wellness centers nearby:
- Residents of Rihan Heights have access to a fully equipped gym within their building.
- Nearby fitness centers include Elite Fitness Ladies, Lifeline Wellness, and Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club.
- For yoga enthusiasts, The Room Abu Dhabi offers some of the best yoga classes in the city, along with a café, community space, and library.
- Relaxation and self-care options include Pause Salon & Spa, Estetica Salon, and Dreamworks Spa.
Things To Consider
While Zayed Sports City offers an excellent lifestyle, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- No villas – The area only offers apartments for rent, with no villas available for rent or purchase.
- No freehold properties – Currently, there are no options for property ownership, making it a rental-only community.
- Limited public transportation – The best way to commute in and out of the area is by private vehicle, as public transport options are somewhat limited.
Despite these considerations, Zayed Sports City remains an excellent choice for sports lovers, families, and professionals seeking an active and vibrant lifestyle in Abu Dhabi.
FAQs about Zayed Sports City
Where is Zayed Sports City?
It is in Abu Dhabi, 20 minutes away from the Downtown in the vicinity of Rowdhat Abu Dhabi.Yes, Al Reem Island is a pet-friendly community. Many pet owners enjoy taking their pets to Al Reem Central Park and the canal promenade located within the park.
What is Zayed Sports City Stadium location?
It is on the Airport Road, Al Rawdah on the island of Abu Dhabi, UAE.
⚲ LOCATION
- Several large parks within the neighbourhood
- Right next to Al Bateen International Airport
- 8 minutes from UAE’s largest mosque, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Downtown Abu Dhabi is 20 minutes away
- A 34-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport