Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City)
About Mohammed Bin Zayed: Overview
Mohammed Bin Zayed City, or MBZ City, is a well-established and peaceful residential suburb in Abu Dhabi, located on the mainland between Zayed City and Mussaffah. Spanning 45 square kilometers and divided into 36 distinct zones, MBZ City has become a top choice for those seeking affordable villas in the capital, according to Bayut’s Abu Dhabi Rental Market Report for 2024.
Named after His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, this community offers a blend of quiet suburban life with convenient urban access. It is popular with both families and singles, providing a comfortable lifestyle with a wide variety of properties, including detached villas and townhouses.
The villas are particularly well-suited for families, often featuring spacious living areas and private gardens. This family-friendly environment is supported by a variety of nearby amenities, including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, parks, and shopping centers.
One of the key advantages of living in MBZ City is its excellent connectivity. The neighborhood is bordered by major highways like Sheikh Zayed Road and Emirates Road, which makes commuting to other parts of Abu Dhabi and even Dubai and Al Ain straightforward. It also provides easy access to key landmarks, including Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island.
Key Highlights of MBZ City
- Affordable and well-developed gated villa community
- Convenient access to both Dubai and Al Ain
- Home to reputable educational institutes
- Family-friendly atmosphere with public parks and amenities
- Bound by a wide network of main roads
Mohammed Bin Zayed City Location Map
Commuting and Connectivity
One of the standout benefits of living in MBZ City is its excellent location, which significantly cuts down on travel time to other major cities and key destinations.
Easy Access to Dubai and Al Ain
While most of Abu Dhabi is about a 90-minute drive from Dubai, residents of MBZ City can make the trip in roughly an hour on a good day. This makes the area a top choice for professionals who live in Abu Dhabi but work in Dubai.
MBZ City also puts you closer to Al Ain, providing a great option for quick getaways from the city on the weekend.
Proximity to Key Landmarks
Although it is a 30-minute drive from central Abu Dhabi, this is easily offset by its close proximity to major landmarks and transportation hubs.
Here’s a quick look at the estimated travel times from MBZ City:
- Abu Dhabi International Airport: 20 minutes
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: 13 minutes
- Yas Island (including Yas Beach and Warner Bros. World): 25–28 minutes
- Abu Dhabi Corniche: 28 minutes
MBZ City’s strategic location near major highways like Al Ain Road (E22) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road ensures that while the community feels peaceful and removed from the city’s hustle, you’re never more than a short drive away from the action.
Properties in Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ)
MBZ City is a residential suburb in Abu Dhabi that offers villas, townhouses, and apartments. It appeals especially to families and investors thanks to its relatively affordable prices (compared to premium areas), good amenities, and growing infrastructure.
Rental Trends in MBZ City
Yearly rents for villas start from AED 65,000, with averages around AED 201,000.
By sub-area:
• In Mohamed Bin Zayed Centre, a 3-bed villa → ~ AED 98,000; 4-bed ~ AED 125,000; 6-bed ~ AED 182,000/year.
• In Zone 19, 3-bed ~ AED 81,000; 4-bed ~ AED 121,000; 6-bed ~ AED 200,000.
Sale / Buying Market in MBZ City
Villas for sale generally range between AED 6,800,000 to AED 12,000,000. Average asking price is about AED 8,431,671 for villas listed on Bayut.
Across all property types, asking prices vary from around AED 3,300,000 up to AED 28,000,000.
Median or typical sale prices for properties in the area are often in the AED 6,000,000-AED 9,000,000 range for larger villas.
What’s Popular & Investment Signals
Most demand is for mid-to-large villas (4-6+ bedrooms).
Five- and six-bedroom homes offer good rental yields, and seven-bedroom plus villas are among the most lucrative in terms of investment potential.
Residential plots are also available and are an option for buyers interested in custom builds.
Key Zones & Areas in Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ)
Mohamed Bin Zayed Centre
The top choice for buying villas in MBZ. Offers 3- to 5-bedroom villas. Amenity-rich: mosques, schools, hospitals. Convenient access to Mazyad Mall, Dalma Mall, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Zone 24
Quiet, family-oriented, with traditional Arabian style villas (4–7 bedrooms). Full access to local clinics, parks, supermarkets. Starting villa prices are higher here.
Zone 20
Popular for those needing spacious villas, good mix of services (gyms, medical centres, grocery stores) nearby.
Zone 22 & Zone 25
Attractive for investment: multiple bedrooms (3-6 or 7), close to retail outlets, mosques, schools, and commercial amenities.
Zone 12
More affordable, with villas & townhouses (2-5 bedrooms), attractive for families. Amenities like schools, clinics, and supermarkets are nearby.
Why These Areas Stand Out
Good infrastructure & amenities: All these zones give easy access to essentials, schools, clinics, supermarkets.
Proximity to malls & leisure: Mazyad Mall and Dalma Mall are common nearby attractions. Also, proximity to cultural landmarks aids appeal.
Family-friendly environment: Quiet neighborhoods, large villas, gardens, parks.
Variety of property sizes: 2- to 7-bedroom villas, some townhouses; gives buyers/renters flexibility.
Transportation and Parking
Living in Mohammed Bin Zayed City means most residents rely on personal vehicles to get around. The neighborhood is well-connected by a network of major roads, including Al Ain Road (E22) and Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road (E11), which makes commuting straightforward.
For residents, finding parking is generally not an issue, as most villas have dedicated spaces, and street parking is also widely available.
Public Transportation
Taxis and ride-sharing services
While most people prefer to drive, public transport is an option. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available and provide a convenient way to travel, though they can be more expensive than buses.
Bus Transportation
For a more budget-friendly option, two main bus routes, M1 and M2, serve the community with stops located throughout the area. The main bus station is the MBZ City bus station, also known as Mussaffah Bus Station, which serves as a central hub for bus travel in and out of the area.
Amenities, School and Healthcare
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is designed to provide residents with a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, with all essential amenities located close by.
Shopping
For everyday needs and family outings, Mazyad Mall is a popular choice within the community. It includes a variety of retail stores, a supermarket, a pharmacy, and a gym.
Residents also have easy access to Dalma Mall, one of the largest malls in Abu Dhabi, which is just a short drive away. Additionally, for grocery shopping, there are numerous supermarkets and convenience stores scattered throughout the area, along with a Carrefour Hypermarket and a Lulu Hypermarket in nearby Capital Mall.
Supermarkets and Groceries in MBZ City
Mohammed Bin Zayed City provides residents with several convenient options for both daily and monthly grocery shopping. The community features a variety of supermarkets right within its borders, offering everything from fresh produce to household essentials.
Local Supermarkets
For daily needs, residents can visit local supermarkets like Leemar Supermarket and Little Star Supermarket. These stores are well-stocked and offer a wide range of goods to meet the community’s needs. Many also provide the added convenience of online ordering and home delivery, which is especially helpful for families and those with busy schedules.
Nearby Hypermarkets and Shopping Centers
For larger shopping trips, residents have easy access to several major hypermarkets and shopping centers just a short drive away:
- Spinneys: Located in the neighboring community of Mussaffah.
- Carrefour: A hypermarket outlet is available at the nearby Dalma Mall, making it ideal for monthly grocery hauls.
- Safeer Centre: A nearby shopping center that caters to the community’s day-to-day needs
Places of Worship in MBZ City and Nearby
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is a diverse and multicultural community that offers residents access to a variety of places of worship. The area is well-equipped to meet the spiritual needs of its residents, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.
Mosques in MBZ City
Numerous mosques are conveniently located throughout MBZ City, providing Muslim residents with places for daily prayers and religious services. The call to prayer is distinctly audible five times a day, and these mosques serve as important community hubs. A notable mosque in the area is the Mosque of Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak.
Churches and Temples
For residents of other faiths, several places of worship are easily accessible with a short drive:
The American Church of Abu Dhabi
- The American Church of Abu Dhabi, located in the neighboring community of Mussaffah, is approximately an 8-minute drive away.
BAPS Hindu Mandir
- The BAPS Hindu Mandir for the Hindu community is situated along Al Taf Road (E16).
Sikh temple
- A Sikh temple is also within a 13-minute drive from the community.
The proximity of these diverse religious centers makes MBZ City an inclusive and welcoming neighborhood for people of all backgrounds.
Nurseries and Schools in MBZ City
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is an ideal community for families, thanks to its wide selection of high-quality educational institutions. Residents have convenient access to a variety of schools and nurseries, many of which are located directly within the neighborhood.
Top Nurseries in MBZ City
For your youngest learners, MBZ City offers several popular nurseries known for their welcoming and nurturing environments. These include:
Little Helpers Nursery
About the Nursery
The nursery is dedicated to providing a secure, warm, and inviting setting for children aged 45 days to 4 years. Children are grouped into classes according to their age and developmental abilities, and the curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Location:
Located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Zone 3, Villa 15 A, the nursery is situated opposite the KG2 gate of the Emirate National School.
British Orchard Nursery
About the Nursery
The nursery follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) British curriculum, which focuses on developing a child’s foundational skills through a variety of engaging, play-based activities. It’s situated directly opposite the Emirates National School.
Location:
Located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ), Zone 5, Villa 125, British Orchard Nursery provides a comprehensive early childhood education experience.
Honey Buns Nursery
Located in Zone 5, this nursery provides a safe and positive environment for toddlers to learn essential life skills and foundational academic concepts.
Teddy Bear Nursery
Situated in Zone 36, this nursery focuses on developing children’s social-emotional, cognitive, and literacy skills through a fun and wholesome approach.
Leading Schools in Mohammed Bin Zayed City
The community provides a diverse range of schools offering different international curricula to meet the needs of every student.
Emirates National School (ENS) MBZ City
This school offers an American curriculum from Pre-KG to Grade 12. ENS is well-regarded for its modern facilities, which include science labs, a swimming pool, and a cafeteria, all designed to support a comprehensive learning environment.
Abu Dhabi International School (AIS) MBZ
With an outstanding ADEK rating, AIS follows both the US Curriculum and the UAE Ministry Curriculum. It aims to prepare students for top universities by fostering both academic and intellectual skills.
Ajyal International School MBZ
Located in Zone 15, this school provides an education that meets international standards while incorporating local traditions. It uses advanced technology and collaborates with the wider community to create a hands-on learning experience.
Schools Near MBZ City
Residents also have easy access to several excellent schools just a short drive away, including:
The Private International English School
A highly-rated school offering the CBSE curriculum from KG1 to Grade 12.
Emirates Future International Academy
Situated just a 5-minute drive away, this academy also follows the CBSE curriculum from preschool to Grade 12.
The British International School
Located on Abu Dhabi Al Ain Road, this school is just a 9-minute drive from the community.
Hospitals and Clinics in MBZ City
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is well-equipped with a variety of excellent healthcare options, ensuring residents have access to high-quality medical services right within their community.
Leading Hospitals and Medical Centers
Several major healthcare providers have a presence in MBZ City, offering a wide range of specialties from general medicine to advanced surgical procedures. Some of the most popular options include:
Bareen International Hospital
This facility provides comprehensive medical care around the clock, with departments covering everything from cardiology and dermatology to family medicine and pediatrics.
Burjeel Medical City
A well-known name in Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Medical City offers top-tier services in various specialties
NMC Royal Family
As part of one of Abu Dhabi’s largest healthcare networks, this clinic is highly regarded for its patient care and specialized services, including fertility treatments.
SEHA Mohammed Bin Zayed City
This patient-centric facility is part of the extensive SEHA network, providing high-quality medical care to the community.
Clinics and Other Facilities
In addition to these hospitals, residents can also access several clinics located both within MBZ City and in the nearby Mussafah area. These include the Madinat Mohammed Bin Zayed Healthcare Center, Aster Medical Clinic, Oasis Medical Center, and Ever Care Medical Clinic.
With a team of qualified and experienced medical professionals and advanced equipment, the healthcare facilities in Mohammed Bin Zayed City are well-prepared to serve the community’s need
Lifestyle and Leisure in MBZ City
Mohammed Bin Zayed City provides a peaceful, family-friendly lifestyle with all the amenities needed for daily life. While it’s slightly removed from the central city, residents have a wide range of options for shopping, dining, and leisure.
Malls and Shopping
Residents have access to several popular shopping destinations, catering to everything from daily errands to weekend outings.
Mazyad Mall
Located on 28th Street, this mall is a central hub for the community. It’s home to a variety of brand stores, a spa, a gym, and essential services like banks, money exchange centers, and a pharmacy. It also has a supermarket and a wide selection of restaurants.
Dalma Mall
Just a 12-minute drive away, Dalma Mall is one of Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping destinations. It’s a favorite for families, featuring a cinema, play areas for kids, and an indoor adventure park. It’s also a great spot for those looking for gold shops.
Supermarkets
For everyday grocery needs, residents can visit local supermarkets like Leemar and Little Star. Nearby options include Spinneys in Mussafah, Carrefour in Dalma Mall, and the Safeer Centre, which is just a 15-minute drive away.
Dining and Restaurants
The dining scene in MBZ City features a mix of Indian, Arabic, and fast-food cuisines. You’ll find a variety of cozy cafes and restaurants in Mazyad Mall and Dalma Mall. Some of the most popular local spots include:
- El Machbous El Emirati: A popular family-run restaurant.
- Efendi Istanbul: Known for its Turkish cuisine.
- ChuLiuXiang: Serving a variety of Chinese dishes.
- Fast-Food Chains: The area also hosts well-known fast-food chains like Just Burger and KFC, along with local gems like Tea Junction Mohammed Bin Zayed City.
For more upscale fine dining experiences, residents can take a short drive to Abu Dhabi’s city center.
Outdoor Activities and Fitness
Mohammed Bin Zayed City is a great place for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
MBZ Park
Located in Zone 19, this public park is a fantastic spot for jogging, picnics, and leisurely walks. The park features a children’s play area, a tennis court, a small football pitch, and covered seating areas. The entry fee is just AED 1.
Gyms and Fitness Centers
The community has plenty of options for staying active, including Future Fit and Uform Fitness Gym in Mazyad Mall, as well as the women-only Leen Fitness Club.
Salons and Spas
Residents can also pamper themselves at various salons and spas like La Riche Spa Lounge and Tips and Toes, which offers a wide range of services from nail care to massages.
Beaches and Notable Landmarks
While there are no beaches directly in MBZ City, several popular public beaches and major landmarks are a short drive away:
Yas Beach
Yas Beach is a stunning private beach located on Yas Island, a popular leisure and entertainment hub in Abu Dhabi. It’s known for its pristine white sands, clear waters, and scenic views of the natural mangroves.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE CENTRE
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre is an iconic national and cultural landmark, and a leading global destination.
It is one of the world’s largest mosques, featuring stunning architecture and intricate art, including the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and a spectacular chandelier. and it’s just a 15-minute drive away.
Theme Parks
Adventure lovers will appreciate the proximity to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (25-minute drive) and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi (28-minute drive).
Community Events
Most community events are held at Mazyad Mall, which regularly hosts special entertainment and activities for both children and adults during major holidays and celebrations like Eid, National Day, Diwali, and Ramadan.
FAQs about Mohammed Bin Zayed City (MBZ City)
Why MBZ City is non-freehold?
Mohammed Bin Zayed (MBZ) City is a non-freehold area because it is designated for ownership primarily by UAE and GCC nationals, not by the general public or expatriates, who are allowed to purchase property only in specific freehold zones elsewhere in Abu Dhabi.
Is MBZ City a good place to live?
Living in Mohammed Bin Zayed City offers a peaceful and family-friendly lifestyle, making it a top choice for those who value a calm residential setting. The community is supported by modern infrastructure, a wide range of amenities, and diverse housing options.
How far is central Abu Dhabi / major landmarks from Mohammed Bin Zayed City location?
From the Mohammed Bin Zayed City location, the center of Abu Dhabi lies approximately 30 to 31 kilometers away, with a driving time of around 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. In addition, major landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Corniche, and Abu Dhabi International Airport are all easily reachable within short driving distances, adding to the community’s convenience and accessibility.