Mohammed Bin Zayed City, often abbreviated as MBZ City, is one of Abu Dhabi’s most rapidly growing residential and commercial suburbs. Named after the UAE President and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, this city is known for its affordable housing, family-friendly environment, and strategic location between Abu Dhabi Island and Al Ain.
For those seeking a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle of the city center—but still well-connected—Mohammed Bin Zayed City offers the perfect blend of space, convenience, and value for money. Whether you’re a resident, investor, or tenant, this guide covers everything you need to know about living in or relocating to MBZ City.
Where Is Mohammed Bin Zayed City?
MBZ City is located just off E11 and E30 highways, giving it excellent road connectivity to:
- Abu Dhabi city center (25–30 minutes)
- Abu Dhabi International Airport (15–20 minutes)
- Khalifa City and Mussafah
- Dubai (approx. 1 hour by car)
Its proximity to major industrial and business zones makes it a preferred choice for working professionals and families alike.
Key Features of Mohammed Bin Zayed City
✅ Spacious and Affordable Living
Unlike central Abu Dhabi, where apartments can be compact and expensive, MBZ City offers:
- Larger villas and flats for lower rental prices
- Ample parking and less traffic congestion
- Independent villas and compound-style communities
✅ Family-Friendly Environment
- Numerous schools, parks, and mosques
- Quiet, suburban vibe with low noise pollution
- Secure and gated villa communities
✅ Well-Developed Infrastructure
- Roads, public transport access, and wide streets
- Supermarkets, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities
- Close proximity to Mussafah Industrial Area and ICAD
Property Types in MBZ City
MBZ City offers a wide range of properties for rent and sale, making it suitable for various income groups and preferences.
🏡 Villas
- 3 to 7-bedroom options
- Standalone or within gated compounds
- Large gardens, private parking, and maid’s rooms
🏢 Apartments
- Studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom configurations
- Ideal for singles, couples, or small families
- Some buildings have retail shops on the ground floor
🏘 Townhouses and Duplexes
- Modern layouts with shared amenities
- Found in newer sub-communities or compounds
Rental Prices in Mohammed Bin Zayed City (As of 2025)
| Property Type | Average Annual Rent (AED) |
|---|---|
| Studio Apartment | 18,000 – 30,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 28,000 – 45,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | 40,000 – 60,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Villa | 70,000 – 100,000 |
| 5-Bedroom Villa | 100,000 – 140,000 |
Tip: Many villas are available with private entrances and multiple parking spots—great for large families.
Popular Communities and Streets in MBZ City
MBZ City is divided into multiple zones and sectors, often named by number (Zone 1 to Zone 25). Some popular areas include:
- Zone 10–12: Near Mussafah, with more commercial and villa developments
- Zone 14–18: Quieter, family-oriented neighborhoods with many large villas
- Zone 20–25: Newer developments with modern apartments and retail hubs
Nearby Facilities and Amenities
Living in Mohammed Bin Zayed City means you have easy access to everything needed for daily life.
🛒 Shopping and Groceries
- Mazyad Mall: Large shopping center with Lulu Hypermarket, restaurants, cinema
- Safeer Mall: Family-friendly shopping with food court and entertainment
- Spinneys, Carrefour, and Baqala stores are found across the city
🏥 Hospitals and Clinics
- Burjeel Medical Centre – MBZ City Branch
- NMC Royal Hospital – Khalifa City
- Mediclinic Airport Road – 15 mins away
🎓 Schools and Nurseries
- Al Dhafra Private School
- Emirates Future International Academy
- International Indian School
- Multiple nurseries like Bright Beginnings and Little Smarties
Transport and Connectivity
While MBZ City is primarily car-dependent, improvements in public transport are gradually increasing access.
- Taxi and ride-hailing services (Careem, Uber) are readily available
- Public buses connect to Mussafah, Abu Dhabi Island, and Baniyas
- Easy access to E11 highway for Dubai commutes
For daily commuters working in Abu Dhabi city or Mussafah, MBZ offers shorter travel times and fewer traffic bottlenecks than central Abu Dhabi.
Investment Opportunities in MBZ City
Real estate investors are increasingly turning to Mohammed Bin Zayed City due to:
- High rental yields (especially for villas)
- Strong tenant demand from professionals and families
- Affordability of land and property compared to downtown Abu Dhabi
Developers are also launching new mid-rise buildings and compounds, offering ROI between 5–7% in many sectors.
Pros and Cons of Living in MBZ City
✔️ Pros:
- Affordable housing with more space
- Quiet, safe, and community-oriented neighborhoods
- Close to schools, malls, and medical centers
- Great for families and large households
❌ Cons:
- Limited nightlife or entertainment options
- Fewer high-rise towers or modern condos
- Requires a car for daily commuting
Still, for anyone prioritizing comfort, affordability, and a calm environment, MBZ City is one of the best suburban areas in Abu Dhabi.
MBZ City vs Other Residential Areas in Abu Dhabi
| Feature | MBZ City | Khalifa City | Downtown Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affordability | ✅ High | ✅ Moderate | ❌ Low |
| Space | ✅ Generous | ✅ Spacious | ❌ Compact |
| Access to City | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Excellent |
| Community Vibe | ✅ Quiet & Family | ✅ Family-oriented | ❌ Busy/Urban |
| Public Transport | ❌ Limited | ❌ Limited | ✅ Well-developed |
Conclusion: Mohammed Bin Zayed City Is Ideal for Affordable Family Living
Mohammed Bin Zayed City represents a well-planned, affordable, and growing suburb that perfectly suits families, professionals, and long-term tenants in Abu Dhabi. With spacious villas, growing infrastructure, and easy access to the city, MBZ offers a peaceful lifestyle without compromising on convenience.
Whether you’re looking to rent a home, invest in real estate, or move your family to a quiet neighborhood with all essential services, MBZ City is one of Abu Dhabi’s top residential choices for 2025 and beyond.
