Al Abar is an affordable suburban residential area in eastern Sharjah, UAE, near the Ajman border, known for its detached villas with gardens. It offers a quiet, family-oriented environment and exceptional value but involves long commutes to Dubai, car dependency, and a lack of local amenities. This guide provides a factual analysis of living in this district.

Where is Al Abar Located in Sharjah?

Al Abar is situated in eastern Sharjah, close to the border with the emirate of Ajman. It is accessed via the E88 (Sharjah Ring Road) and is adjacent to the industrial area of Al Sajaa.

This location on the periphery provides spacious, low-traffic streets but places it far from central business districts.

What is the Lifestyle and Community Vibe in Al Abar?

Al Abar has a stable, quiet, and family-focused community atmosphere. It is a classic suburban "bedroom community" with a slow-paced, residential rhythm.

The social vibe is neighborly and private, attracting middle-income Arab and South Asian families who prioritize space and affordability over urban convenience.

Al Abar Housing Villas, Townhouses, and Market Prices

The housing market is dominated by standalone villas offering strong value. Market specialists like Eplog offplan Properties note its appeal for budget-conscious families seeking square footage.

Primary Property Types:

• Standalone Villas: 3-4 bedroom homes built from the 1980s-2000s, featuring walled gardens and driveways.
• Townhouse Compounds: Newer, gated clusters offering a more modern alternative with shared facilities.
• Low-Rise Apartments: Older apartment blocks providing an entry-level option.

Current Estimated Annual Rental Ranges:

• 3-Bedroom Villa: AED 50,000 - AED 70,000
• 4-Bedroom Villa: AED 60,000 - AED 85,000
• 3-Bedroom Townhouse: AED 55,000 - AED 75,000
• 2-Bedroom Apartment: AED 35,000 - AED 50,000

Daily Life, Amenities, and Green Space in Al Abar

The area functions as a suburban base. Daily needs require short drives, and recreational green space is absent.

• Shopping: Served by local branches of Al Madina Supermarket and Al Maya. For hypermarkets, residents drive to Carrefour in Al Sajaa or Ajman (10-15 mins).
• Dining: Options are modest, featuring local cafeterias and a few Lebanese grill restaurants.
• Green Space: A significant deficit. No public parks or playgrounds exist within Al Abar. Families drive to the Ajman Corniche or Al Majaz Waterfront for recreation.

Transport, Commute Times, and Car Dependency

A car is essential. Commutes are defined by the area's peripheral location.

• Key Advantage: Proximity to Ajman enables manageable commutes of 15-25 minutes for those working in the neighboring emirate.
• Major Disadvantage: Long commutes to Dubai. Using highway E311, peak-time drives often take 60 to 90+ minutes.
• Parking: Ample and stress-free, with each villa having a dedicated driveway or carport.

Schools, Healthcare, and Family Life in Al Abar

The area supports a quiet family lifestyle but lacks immediate facilities.

• Schools: No schools are located within Al Abar itself. Children are bused or driven to schools in other parts of Sharjah or Ajman.
• Healthcare: Local clinics are available. Major hospitals are a 15-20 minute drive away in either Sharjah or Ajman.
• Family Life: The environment is safe and quiet, ideal for children, though the lack of neighborhood parks and schools is a significant trade-off.

Who Should Live in Al Abar Analysis?

Al Abar is IDEAL for:

• Families seeking an affordable villa with a garden in a quiet, secure community.
• Residents who work in Ajman or the nearby Al Sajaa industrial zone and have a short reverse commute.
• Those who prioritize a private, peaceful home environment and do not mind driving for amenities and entertainment.

Al Abar is LESS SUITABLE for:

• Daily commuters to Dubai or central Sharjah seeking a short, predictable drive.
• Singles or couples desiring a walkable, vibrant social scene with diverse dining and nightlife.
• Families who require a school within walking distance or easy access to public parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1: What is the main advantage of living in Al Abar, Sharjah?

The main advantage is achieving affordable, detached villa living with a private garden in a quiet, family-friendly suburb, offering exceptional value for money.

2: What is the biggest downside to living in Al Abar?

The biggest downside is the long and often stressful commute to Dubai and central Sharjah, alongside a general lack of within-walking-distance amenities, schools, and parks.

3: Are there good schools near Al Abar?

While Al Abar itself has no schools, several schools are located in neighboring districts of Sharjah and Ajman, typically requiring a 15-25 minute drive or school bus ride.

4: Is parking easy in Al Abar?

Yes. Parking is one of its strengths. Virtually every villa has a dedicated driveway or carport, and townhouse compounds provide assigned parking, eliminating daily stress.

5: Is Al Abar a walkable neighborhood?

No. The internal streets are quiet and suitable for evening walks, but accessing shops, restaurants, or services requires a car. It is a car-dependent suburb.