Etihad Plaza, Abu Dhabi: A Comprehensive Guide
Etihad Plaza is located in the Al Raha Beach / Khalifa City area of Abu Dhabi. It comprises a mid-rise residential and commercial complex developed by Aldar Investments (via acquisition).
The complex originally catered to employees of Etihad Airways and includes retail, office and residential uses.
What is Etihad Plaza known for?
A Self-Sustained Community of Comfort and Convenience
Etihad Plaza is best known for being a self-sustained, all-in-one community. It blends residential, retail, and commercial spaces in a way that promotes convenience and accessibility. Residents can live, work, and shop in the same area without the need to travel far.
Etihad Plaza stands out for its calm, family-oriented atmosphere. While it serves many Etihad Airways employees, it is also home to professionals from different fields and families looking for a safe and quiet neighborhood that still offers plenty of nearby conveniences.
Here are key factors:
- A mixed-use development featuring 15 low- to mid-rise towers comprising residential apartments for Etihad’s crew and personnel.
- A combination of office space (≈17,940 sqm), retail space (≈11,000 sqm) and residential units (789 units) added to Aldar’s portfolio through a major acquisition.
- A location within a planned community, offering quiet access to Abu Dhabi’s amenities yet still within reach of major infrastructure.
Who is it ideal for?
Etihad Plaza is suitable for:
- Professionals and families seeking residences near Abu Dhabi’s airport or Al Raha Beach district.
- Retail and small-office tenants looking for presence in a mixed-use community with built-in captive demand from residents.
- Companies wanting a quieter base away from the central urban core but still connected by road to Abu Dhabi’s business hubs.
Amenities & features
Key amenities and features of Etihad Plaza include:
- Residential apartment towers housing Etihad staff, offering 1- to 4-bedroom unit types.
- Retail outlets, food & beverage venues, café spaces, and medical/clinic facilities integrated at the ground/ podium levels.
- Office and commercial space within the complex, enabling mixed-use business and residential synergy.
- Supporting services such as landscaping and grounds-keeping, parking, building maintenance, fire-alarm/CCTV systems.
Residential types & floor plans
While detailed floor-plans are not publicly listed in full, the summary data indicates:
- Residential towers containing 789 units, of which many were leased long-term to Etihad Airways personnel.
- Unit mix likely includes 1-bed, 2-bed, 3-bed and possibly 4-bed residences (mentioned “one to four bedrooms” for Etihad staff) within the residential towers.
- Commercial floor-plates of approx. 17,940 sqm for office space and 11,000 sqm retail space.
Dining, Shopping, and Leisure
Etihad Plaza offers a balanced mix of leisure and lifestyle options. The retail area within the plaza features cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and international dining chains, creating a lively environment throughout the day. Residents can easily find coffee shops for casual meetups or restaurants for family dinners without leaving the neighborhood.
A variety of convenience stores, grocery outlets, and service centers make everyday living simple. The plaza’s community-oriented design means residents can shop for essentials, enjoy a quick meal, or relax at a café all within a few steps from home.
For larger shopping experiences, Al Raha Mall and Yas Mall are both just a short drive away, offering everything from entertainment to luxury brands.
Connectivity and Nearby Attractions
Etihad Plaza’s location is one of its strongest advantages. It sits strategically near several key destinations:
- Abu Dhabi International Airport: Less than 10 minutes away, making it ideal for frequent travelers and aviation staff.
- Yas Island: A short drive from entertainment landmarks such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Yas Mall.
- Masdar City: Nearby for professionals working in sustainability and tech sectors.
- Khalifa City: Offers additional schools, healthcare centers, and residential communities.
The area is also well-connected by major highways, ensuring smooth access to both central Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Public transportation and taxi services are readily available for residents without private vehicles.
Community Atmosphere and Lifestyle
Life in Etihad Plaza is peaceful and community-oriented. Unlike the crowded urban centers, this neighborhood provides a slower pace with a focus on comfort and convenience. Families often gather in the landscaped outdoor spaces, and residents enjoy the feeling of belonging that comes from living in a smaller, more connected community.
The plaza regularly hosts pop-up markets and local events that bring residents together. There’s a sense of balance here — the development feels both private and communal, providing residents with all the essentials while maintaining a calm, suburban charm.
Conclusion:
Etihad Plaza represents a strong option for those seeking a well-integrated mixed-use complex in Abu Dhabi that balances residential living with commercial opportunity.
While it is not as central as the downtown core, the quieter surroundings, built-in amenities and proximity to major infrastructure make it attractive, especially for families or professionals who prefer a more relaxed environment.
For businesses, the availability of office and retail units adds flexibility. If you’re considering moving or investing there, it’s worth reviewing current listings to check available unit types and pricing in the residential towers and commercial spaces.
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