×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Cost of Living in UAE | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Cost of Living in the UAE

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Nov 21, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in the UAE is generally high, especially in the larger cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in the UAE can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in the UAE can range from $20 to $50 per person.

Is the cost of living in the UAE high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in the UAE, they wrote:

"The cost of living in the UAE varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living is higher than in many other countries, with rent and utilities being the most expensive items. Groceries, transportation, and entertainment are also relatively expensive. However, the UAE is known for its tax-free salaries, which can help offset the cost of living," remarked one in UAE.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Will I save money living in the UAE?

"Living in the UAE can be more cost-effective than living in the United States in many ways. The cost of living in the UAE is generally lower than in the US, with rent and utilities being significantly cheaper. Additionally, food and transportation costs are also lower in the UAE. Furthermore, the UAE has no income tax, which can help to reduce overall expenses," remarked one expat in UAE.

What is the average cost of housing in the UAE?

If you are thinking about moving to the UAE, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Much Much higher. A four-bedroom house or apartment in a convenient area can cost $100,000 a year. Most expats negotiate a relocation package where their employer pays for their housing," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi.

"The cost of housing in the UAE varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in the UAE is quite high, with prices ranging from around AED 40,000 to AED 200,000 per year. Buying a property in the UAE can be even more expensive, with prices ranging from AED 500,000 to AED 10 million or more," explained one expat living in UAE.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are typical rental prices for expats in the UAE?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in the UAE can vary depending on the location and amenities, but generally ranges from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $2,500 to $5,000 per month," wrote one expat.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in the UAE what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in the UAE typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, microwave, and other small appliances," remarked one expat in UAE.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides