The cost of living in the Emirates in the most famous cities such as Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi
Known for its towering skyscrapers, sparkling skyline and lavish lifestyle, the UAE is a magnet for expats all over the world. Its cosmopolitan aura and tax-free salaries make it an attractive destination for professionals seeking to raise their living standards.
However, living in the UAE is not easy, and there is always a unique set of pros and cons.
In this article, we will delve into the cost of living, lifestyle and potential downsides of living in popular UAE cities like Dubai and Sharjah, with a special focus on the expat community.
The cost of living in the UAE for expatriates
Moving to the UAE offers the lure of a better lifestyle, but the cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. Key factors to consider include accommodations, amenities, transportation, healthcare, groceries, dining, and recreational activities.
Tax-free salaries
While the UAE offers tax-free salaries, the costs of housing, education and leisure activities can be high.
Accommodation is usually the most important part of an expat's budget, and depends on factors such as location and type and size of property. Utilities such as water, electricity and internet are usually not included in the rent and are additional expenses in the budget.
While public transportation in the UAE is well developed, many expatriates choose private transportation, which contributes to increased costs.
Life in the UAE is attractive to many expats, with tax-free salaries and high-quality infrastructure. However, the cost of living can be high, depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.
Here is a breakdown of typical monthly costs for expatriates living in the UAE:
Housing costs in the UAE
The cost of housing varies greatly depending on the location, type and size of the property. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Downtown Dubai may cost between AED 5000 to AED 8500 per month, while in Sharjah it can be as low as AED 1500 to AED 3000.
Utility costs in the UAE
Utilities such as electricity, water and internet usually cost between AED 400 to AED 1000 per month, depending on usage and the size of your home.
Transportation costs in the Emirates
Public transport is relatively affordable, with a monthly Nol card (for buses, trams and metro) costing around AED 350. If you choose to own a car, costs can escalate with car payments, fuel, insurance and maintenance, easily reaching over AED 1500 per month.
Food and drink costs in the UAE
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around AED 30-50, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost between AED 150 and AED 300. It ranges from AED 200 for a movie outing for a family of four, to AED 500 for a day at a water park.
Expect to spend AED 800 to AED 1500 per month on groceries.
Health care costs in the UAE
While many expats have health insurance covered by their employer, out-of-pocket medical costs can still increase. A regular doctor's visit without insurance may cost around 300-500 AED.
Education costs in the UAE
If you have children, education may be one of your big expenses. International school fees vary greatly, with costs ranging from AED 20.000 to over AED 100.000 per year per child.
Remember, these are average costs, and actual expenses can be higher or lower based on individual lifestyles and choices.
Life in the Emirates for expatriates
Life in the Emirates for expatriates is a combination of rich culture, modern lifestyle, diverse food and abundant leisure activities. It is a global center for commerce and innovation, offering diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, the conservative nature of Emirati society may require some adjustment, especially for those coming from more liberal cultures. It is essential to respect local customs and laws to ensure a smooth stay in the UAE.
Disadvantages of living in Dubai
Despite the attractive perks, living in Dubai has its downsides. These include high costs of living, harsh weather conditions, and the transient nature of expatriate communities that may make establishing long-term relationships difficult.
Despite its cosmopolitan outlook, Dubai adheres strictly to its own cultural and societal norms, which can be a big adjustment for some.
Cost of living in Dubai per month
As one of the most luxurious cities in the world, living in Dubai is expensive. A single expatriate may expect to spend an average of AED 900 to AED 10000 per month on housing, while a family may spend between AED 1000 to AED 15000.
When you factor in food, utilities, transportation and leisure activities, a single person might expect to spend around AED 12000 - 15000 per month, while a family might need around AED 20000 - 25000.
Cost of living in Sharjah
Sharjah, compared to Dubai, is a more affordable place to live. The average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Sharjah ranges between AED 2500 – AED 4500 per month, making it a preferred option for families. While Sharjah is less extravagant than Dubai, it has a vibrant arts and culture scene, and its proximity to Dubai makes it an attractive place to live.
The right salary to live in Dubai
The right salary to live comfortably in Dubai depends on your lifestyle and personal expenses. However, due to the high cost of living, a single person must earn at least AED 15000 - AED 20000 per month to live comfortably. For families, a monthly income of between AED 30 and AED 000 is recommended to cover housing, education, groceries and other living expenses.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, also has many attractions for expats. Like Dubai, it has a high cost of living, although slightly lower overall. Accommodation is relatively expensive, with the average price of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranging between Dh5000 and Dh8000 per month. Utility costs are also high, with electricity, cooling and water costing between AED 500 to AED 1000 per month.
Abu Dhabi also has a developed transportation system. Many expats prefer to drive, and the cost of gasoline is very low, although purchasing and maintaining a car can be expensive. Public transportation is a cheaper option, with a public bus ticket costing around 80 dirhams per month.
Groceries in Abu Dhabi are moderately priced, and eating out is similar in price to Western countries. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around AED 30, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around AED 200.
Abu Dhabi lifestyle for expatriates
Abu Dhabi offers an enriching lifestyle to its residents with a wide range of activities to enjoy – from beaches, parks and sporting events to shopping, dining and a vibrant nightlife. The city is more traditional than Dubai, with a stronger focus on local Emirati culture. Despite this, it is a diverse city with residents from all over the world, and English is commonly spoken.
Cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the most affordable emirates in the UAE. The cost of living in a two-bedroom apartment in the city center is around AED 2000 to AED 4000 per month. Grocery and dining prices are also affordable compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around AED 20, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around AED 100. Utilities are slightly cheaper than their counterparts in major cities, with a monthly cost of around AED 400 to AED 700 for an 85 sqm apartment.
Ras Al Khaimah offers a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle compared to the bustling cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It's a great place for families and those who enjoy outdoor activities, with stunning scenery, including mountains, deserts and beaches. It is also home to many historical sites, giving expatriates the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Emirates.
Cultural differences in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE is a melting pot of different cultures and nationalities, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. However, local Emirati culture is rooted in Islamic traditions, and it is important for expats to respect them. Wear modest clothing in public places, refrain from showing affection in public places, and know local customs and traditions during the holy month of Ramadan.
Despite these cultural differences, most expats find the UAE to be a welcoming and tolerant place. It is a community where respect for others is highly valued, and this is reflected in the friendly and hospitable nature of the locals.
Please remember that all prices are approximate and will vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle choices. It is always best to do thorough research and plan your finances before moving.
Life in the UAE offers a unique combination of high-quality lifestyle and cultural richness. However, it comes with its own set of challenges and costs. Thorough research, budgeting, and understanding local customs can greatly enhance your experience in the UAE.
Whether you are a single professional or a family, the UAE offers many opportunities for growth, adventure and a luxurious lifestyle.
What are the monthly costs of housing in the UAE?
1,500-2,500 AED for a small apartment, 3,000-5,000 AED for a medium-sized apartment.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Rental prices for apartments in Dubai and Abu Dhabi range from AED 15,000 to AED 100,000 per month, depending on location, size and furnishings.
What are the prices of food in the UAE?
The price of food in the UAE varies and depends on many factors such as product type, location and brand. In general, prices of basic food items such as bread, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables range between 5-25 AED per unit.
What is the cost of education in international schools?
Because international schools and their requirements vary, there is no uniform price for tuition. The price varies from one school to another depending on the location, facilities and programs offered. The cost usually ranges from 20,000 to 100,000 AED per year.
What are the monthly bills for services such as electricity and water?
1 riyals for electricity and XNUMX riyals for water
Is the cost of living in the UAE higher than other countries?
Yes, the cost of living in the UAE is higher than most other countries. These costs include rent, utilities, transportation, food, and other supplies.
What are the prices for entertainment and social activities in the UAE?
Tourism and entertainment in the United Arab Emirates have varied prices ranging from reasonable to high. Popular activities include visits to museums and attractions and recreational activities such as cruises and desert safaris. Visitors can find options suitable for different budgets.
How do taxes affect the cost of living in the UAE?
Taxes affect the cost of living in the UAE in many ways. The most important of which is the absence of income tax, and low tax rates on goods and services. This is what helps maintain the high standard of living in the UAE compared to other countries.
What are the tips to reduce the cost of living in the UAE?
Tips to reduce the cost of living in the UAE:
Rationalizing energy and water consumption
Take advantage of public transportation and walk as much as possible
Buy in bulk to reduce expenses
Find affordable housing
Take advantage of discounts and promotions
