Cost of Living in the UAE
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.

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-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 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-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.
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 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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to the UAE?
- Where should I setup a bank account in the UAE?
- Will I be able to find a job in the UAE?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in the UAE appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the UAE accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in the UAE like?
- How are healthcare services in the UAE?
- What are medical services in the UAE like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the UAE?
- What are emergency services like in the UAE?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in the UAE?
- How are local medical facilities in the UAE?
- As a foreigner living in the UAE, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?