Complete guide to living expenses, housing costs, and lifestyle budgets in the UAE's most vibrant cities
Detailed analysis of monthly living expenses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, from housing and transportation to entertainment and savings
Rent & utilities
Getting around the UAE
Meals & groceries
Leisure activities
Compare monthly living expenses across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman
| Expense Category |
Dubai (Premium) |
Abu Dhabi (Similar to Dubai) |
Sharjah (40-50% Cheaper) |
Ajman (Budget Option) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed Apartment (Annual) | 60,000 - 90,000 | 55,000 - 85,000 | 35,000 - 55,000 | 28,000 - 45,000 |
| 2-Bed Apartment (Annual) | 80,000 - 130,000 | 75,000 - 120,000 | 45,000 - 75,000 | 38,000 - 60,000 |
| 3-Bed Villa (Annual) | 120,000 - 250,000 | 110,000 - 220,000 | 70,000 - 140,000 | 60,000 - 110,000 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | 600 - 1,200 | 500 - 1,000 | 400 - 800 | 350 - 700 |
| Groceries (Monthly for 2) | 2,000 - 3,500 | 1,800 - 3,200 | 1,500 - 2,800 | 1,400 - 2,600 |
| Dining Out (Monthly) | 1,500 - 3,000 | 1,400 - 2,800 | 1,000 - 2,000 | 900 - 1,800 |
| Transportation (Monthly) | 1,200 - 2,000 | 1,100 - 1,900 | 900 - 1,500 | 800 - 1,400 |
| Health Insurance (Annual) | 6,000 - 15,000 | 6,000 - 15,000 | 5,000 - 12,000 | 5,000 - 12,000 |
| Int'l School (Annual/Child) | 35,000 - 90,000 | 30,000 - 85,000 | 25,000 - 70,000 | 22,000 - 65,000 |
| Entertainment (Monthly) | 1,500 - 3,000 | 1,300 - 2,800 | 800 - 1,800 | 700 - 1,500 |
| TOTAL MONTHLY (Couple, No Kids) | 12,000 - 18,000 | 11,000 - 17,000 | 7,500 - 12,000 | 6,500 - 10,500 |
Living in Sharjah or Ajman while commuting to Dubai can cut housing costs by 40-50% compared to living in Dubai.
Sharjah to Dubai commute: 45-90 min. Factor in traffic and toll costs (Salik) when choosing where to live.
Housing typically accounts for 40-60% of monthly expenses. School fees add significantly for families with children.
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Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to make informed decisions about living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Connect with our experts for personalized advice.
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