I've lived in many places and this is by far the most calming," says interior designer Salma Saad of the Al Bandar community in Abu Dhabi where she lives. "As an interior designer, I was also attracted to the high quality of design, fittings and use of space here."
Mohammad Abdullah Al Zaabi, director of estates at Aldar Properties, says he's not surprised Saad enjoys the area so much. "The Al Bandar community is a good mix of about 60 different nationalities."
Al Bandar offers modern, high-quality, peaceful living with ample, luxurious facilities, including a concierge service, 24-hour security and customer service, a free-form pool and lap pools, a Jacuzzi, clubhouse, gym, squash courts, saunas, crèche, reading, TV and games rooms and much more. Tennis courts will be included in the near future. "It's definitely one of the most desirable places to live in the Abu Dhabi area," says Al Zaabi.
There are five buildings on Al Bandar from which one can rent or buy; Naseem A, B and C as well as the Barza Loft and Manal Tower.
"All apartments have a sea view," says Al Zaabi. "As we're surrounded by water, marine life is a key element. We've even had a turtle and dolphin come to visit!"
According to Al Zaabi there are unfurnished studios, one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments on offer, and most come with parking depending on the contract signed, with rents starting from Dh80,000 per year.
In terms of surrounding stores and amenities, Al Zaabi says there are already supermarkets, coffee shops and a pharmacy nearby with a music school, beauty parlours, laundry services, exchange outlets and a selection of other international stores due to open soon. "Al Bandar is a very relaxed environment. There will be more of a buzz when the marina and further retail outlets open but the community has been designed to be calming."
Says Saad, "I used to worry about living so far from the centre of Abu Dhabi but now, since the new Shaikh Zayed bridge is open to traffic, even the drive to work and back is relaxing."
Call 800 Aldar (800 253 27) or Aldar Customer Service on 02 556 4422 to find out about the apartments available for rent at Al Bandar.
Prices
- Studios - Start from Dh80,000
- One-bedroom apartments - Start from Dh115,000
- Two-bedroom apartments - Start from Dh140,000
- Three-bedroom apartments - Start from Dh200,000
- Four-bedroom apartments - Start from Dh300,000
