Dubai vs. Sharjah vs. Abu Dhabi: Rent, living costs, pros & cons

When it comes to deciding which emirate to settle in the UAE, there are three main options: Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Each of these emirates has its own attraction, and their rent prices, living costs, and lifestyle factors differ.

Knowing the pros and cons of each will help you make an informed decision if you're relocating for work, education, or investing in property. Let's dive a little deeper into the differences between the two cities, in terms of rent, living costs, and what each has to offer.

1. Rent and Housing Costs

Dubai

Dubai is the UAE's most populous and economically vibrant city; the cost of renting here is some of the highest in the region. Rental costs for an apartment will vary significantly depending on the area and type of property. Areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah are known to charge high rents, sometimes AED 100,000+ per year for a one-bedroom apartment. However, places such as Dubai Silicon Oasis and International City can be more budget-friendly, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around AED 40,000-50,000.

Sharjah

Sharjah is much more economical in terms of rent compared to Dubai. Sharjah can be expensive, especially if one is taking a one-bedroom apartment as the average annual rent will cost between AED 20,000 and AED 40,000. Thus, this makes Sharjah an excellent choice for those who require a relatively more affordable lifestyle. Among such areas is Al Nahda, Al Majaz, and Al Qasimiya, where many expats settle in relation to affordability, closeness to Dubai, and availability. However, although rent is cheaper, living in Sharjah means higher transportation costs and longer commutes if you work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, falls in between Dubai and Sharjah in terms of rent prices. The apartment rentals in Abu Dhabi may be in the range of AED 60,000 to AED 90,000 annually depending on the location. A one-bedroom apartment in the center of Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, and Corniche costs around AED 60,000 to AED 90,000 per year. In comparison, other areas such as Mohammed Bin Zayed City or Khalifa City can start with a rental of AED 40,000 to AED 60,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. While the rent in Abu Dhabi may be higher than Sharjah, it’s still generally more affordable than Dubai’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

2. Living Costs

Dubai

Dubai is the most expensive of the three emirates in terms of overall living costs. Aside from higher rent, daily expenses like dining out, groceries, and utilities are also on the pricier side. For instance, an average meal in a mid-range restaurant would cost AED 100-200 per head, while groceries for small families can run to more than AED 600. Conversely, Dubai offers so much diversity, from the most expensive mall to the most budget-friendly store, giving room for spending on a flexible basis.

Sharjah

Living in Sharjah is much cheaper for grocery shopping, dining out, and transportation. Diners at mid-range restaurants usually pay between AED 50-100 per head for a meal. Utilities like electricity, water, and cooling are also generally lower in Sharjah. Families, students, and those with tight budgets find Sharjah to be an attractive destination due to lower rent and the overall cost of living. On the other hand, it does not offer the same luxuries and entertainment options as the city of Dubai.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s living costs are slightly higher than Sharjah but lower than Dubai. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, with groceries for a small family averaging around AED 500-700 monthly. Dining out is affordable, with mid-range restaurants charging between AED 80-150 per person. Although the cost of living in Abu Dhabi may not be as high as in Dubai, it is still more prestigious in terms of standard living and luxury facilities, especially when considering the waterfront and cultural districts.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Each City

Dubai

Advantages:

• Superb infrastructure and facilities

• High pay and good job opportunities

• International life with various cultures

• A variety of entertainment, dining, and shopping options

• Expats love the cosmopolitan atmosphere

Disadvantages:

• High rent and cost of living

• Traffic congestion and long drive times

• High real estate value

• Expensive lifestyle especially in prime areas

Sharjah

Advantages:

• Low to moderate rent and living expense

• Family-friendly with quiet neighborhoods

• Close proximity to Dubai (works well for short drive to work)

• Improved cultural and educational facilities

• More relaxed and slow-moving pace of life

Disadvantages:

• Fewer entertaining and dining options than those in Dubai

• Tighter restriction on alcohol consumption and public behavior

• Longer drive times especially if working in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

• Less international as well as fewer luxury products

Abu Dhabi

Advantages:

• High standard of living with modern amenities

• More relaxed lifestyle compared to Dubai

• Rich in culture, arts, and education with world-class museums and galleries

• Proximity to key business centers, government offices, and embassies

• Attractive for families with excellent healthcare and schools

Cons:

• Rent and living costs can still be high compared to Sharjah

• Slower pace of development and fewer entertainment options than Dubai

• Traffic congestion during peak hours

• Less vibrant expat scene than Dubai

4. Conclusion: Which City is Best for You?

Dubai is better suited for those who are interested in a fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle with much job opportunity and world-class amenities. It is a great place for professionals, young singles, or anyone looking for a vibrant lifestyle and can afford the higher living cost.

Sharjah is a great option for those looking for affordable living without the need to compromise on closeness to Dubai. It provides an almost quieter, more laid-back lifestyle with excellent value for money but demands longer commutes for those working in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is somewhere in between, offering more luxury than Dubai and still being affordable as Sharjah. It is best suited for those who prefer a high standard of living in a quiet environment yet close to business hubs and cultural attractions. It is, therefore, ideal for both families and professionals seeking a more refined lifestyle.

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