Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi for Bachelors & Family in 2024

abu dhabi city

Abu Dhabi is located on an island in the Persian Gulf, which attracts inhabitants from all over the world. The cost of living, including a 0% income tax, excellent security, and decent quality of life, are the key reasons for the emirate's rising popularity. 

This emirate is a popular choice for foreigners settling in the UAE. Are you considering shifting to this city? Here is a summary of monthly costs in Abu Dhabi to help you prepare accordingly. 

This article offers helpful information, such as factors determining the cost of living in Abu Dhabi, tips on reducing the cost of living, and more.

Table of Contents

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What is the Average Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi provides all the amenities required for a pleasant existence. See the table below for additional information on Abu Dhabi's average cost of living for bachelors, students, couples, and families:

Area of Expense Cost
Rent AED 17,000 - 29, 000
Groceries AED 150 - 1,090
Basic utilities AED 136 - 410
Transport AED 100 - 1,500
Shopping AED 80 - 2,000
Schooling of children AED 600 - 26,300

Cost of Living in Dubai for Bachelors

The cost of living in Dubai for bachelors includes rent, utilities, transport, etc. Check out the table below for more specific numbers:  

Area Of Expenses Bachelors
Accommodation AED 25,00 - 4,000
Groceries AED 1,025
Transport AED 400 - 1,500
Utilities AED 1,000
Entertainment AED 440 - 600
Wifi AED 30 - 80
Bus Pass / Metro Pass AED 22 - 44
Miscellaneous AED 100 - 200

Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi for Students

If you are a student residing in Abu Dhabi, then defining a budget for the living expenses in Abu Dhabi is necessary. The table below outlines some of the significant expenses:

Area of Expense Students
Rent (shared apartment) AED 11,305 - 32,403
Rent (single room PG) AED 2,000 - 3,000
Food (monthly) AED 5,000 - 10,000
Transportation (monthly) AED 750 - 1,181
Utilities (monthly) AED 1,000 - 2,500
Household expenses AED 1,000 - 3,500
Miscellaneous AED 400 - 900
Bus Pass/Metro Pass AED 500 - 900

Cost of Living in Dubai for a Family

Family expenses include accommodation, transport, groceries, schooling and more. Take a look below for an approximate monthly expenses for a family:  

Area of Expense Families
Accommodation AED 5,900 - 12,000
Groceries & Food AED 4,000 - 6,000
Transport AED 2,000 - 3,000
Utilities AED 2,760
Entertainment & Shopping AED 500 - 800
Education & Daycare AED 6,000 - 12,000
Housemaid AED 88 - 150
WiFi AED 20 - 40
Miscellaneous AED 40 - 80

Cost of Living in Dubai for Couples

The cost of living for a couple in Dubai typically includes accommodation, entertainment, dining out, etc. Look at the table below for detailed information: 

Area of Expense Couples
1 BHK apartment for rent AED 5,000 - 9,000
2 BHK apartment for rent AED 8,000 - 12,000
Electricity bill AED 88 - 100
Bus pass AED 22 - 30
Wi-Fi AED 20 - 40
Groceries AED 350 - 500
Meal for two AED 100 - 300
Housemaid AED 80 - 150
Miscellaneous AED 50 - 80

Factors That Determine the Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi

There are many factors on which the average cost of living in Abu Dhabi depends. Take a look below for detailed information:

 

1. Accommodation

The table below shows the price range of renting a living space in Abu Dhabi.

Classification of Rentals Price Range
1 BHK AED 85,000/year
2 BHK AED 115,000/year
3 BHK AED 160,000/year

Posh Areas of Abu Dhabi

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate costs of  renting in some of the most affordable and posh areas of Abu Dhabi:

Area 1BHK 2BHK
AI Reem Island AED 59,000 AED 88,000
Khalifa City AED 41,000 AED 62,000
AI Muroor AED 39,000 AED 53,000
AI Reef AED 48,000 AED 60,000

Affordable Areas Of Abu Dhabi

Area 1BHK 2BHK
MBZ City AED 35,000 AED 50,000
Hydra Village AED 40,000 AED 48,000
AI Shamkha AED 30,000 AED 45,000
Mussafah AED 45,000 AED 60,000

2. Transportation

Transportation costs in Abu Dhabi are moderate. Here are some estimates; please see the chart below:

Category Approximate Cost
One-way ticket (public transport) AED 2 - 3
Monthly pass (public transport) AED 87
Taxi Start AED 12
Taxi 1 Hour AED 30 - 50
Gasoline AED 2.75 - 3.50

3. Groceries

For someone living independently, the cost of groceries plays a crucial role in deciding the average cost of living in Abu Dhabi.

Grocery Price
Milk (regular), (1 litre) AED 4- 10
Fresh Bread (500g) AED 3- 13
Rice (white), (1kg) AED 4- 17
Eggs (regular) (1 dozen) AED 6- 22
Local Cheese (1kg) AED 19 - 80
Chicken 1 kg (boneless) AED 15 - 45
Apples (1kg) AED 4- 10
Banana (1kg) AED 5- 10
Oranges (1kg) AED 3- 12
Tomato (1kg) AED 2- 10
Potato (1kg) AED 2- 6
Onion (1kg) AED 2- 8
Lettuce (1 head) AED 3- 10

4. Utilities

Monthly utility bills typically cover essential services such as electricity, water,  mobile bills, and internet access. Check out the table below:

Monthly Utilities Price
Basic (heating, cooling, electricity, water) for a house AED 350 – 1000
Prepaid mobile bill AED 100 – 300
Internet for cable, ADSL, unlimited data AED 300 – 450

5. Entertainment

Dining out and other recreational activities also contribute to the cost of living. Here are some expenses you can check in the table below:

Area of Expense Approximate Cost
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant AED 15 - 100
Meal for 2 People AED 160 -425
Water AED 1 - 3
Cappuccino AED 11 -35
Coke / Pepsi AED 3 - 8
Three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant AED 180 - 500
McMeal at McDonald's AED 30 - 40

6. Childcare

Apart from all the factors, the cost of living in Abu Dhabi also depends on childcare.

Schools and Childcare Price
Preschool or kindergarten, full day, private, monthly for 1 Child AED 1500 – 4822
Primary schools AED 25000 – 80, 000
International primary school, yearly for 1 child AED 30, 000 – 90, 000

Tips on Reducing the Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi

Reducing the cost of living in Abu Dhabi can be challenging, but with some strategic adjustments, it is possible to manage expenses more effectively. Here are some tips:

  • Renting a shared apartment or house can significantly lower your rent and utility bills.
  • Abu Dhabi has a well-connected public transport system. Buses and taxis can be more economical than owning a car, primarily if you don't commute frequently.
  • Preparing meals at home can save you a substantial amount. Look for fresh products at local markets and grocery stores.
  • Many restaurants and supermarkets offer promotions and discounts. Keep an eye out for these deals.
  • Abu Dhabi offers many accessible or affordable attractions, such as parks, beaches, and cultural sites. Go there when you want a break.
  • Track your income and expenses to see where your money is going and identify areas for reduction.

By making these few lifestyle changes and being mindful of your spending, you can effectively reduce your cost of living in Abu Dhabi.

Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi vs Other Metro Cities

Abu Dhabi and Dubai have higher living costs than others. Sharjah and Kuwait have moderate and affordable living costs. Dubai has the highest overall prices, while Sharjah is the most affordable of the four cities.

Check out the table below for more details:

Area of Expense Abu Dhabi (AED) Dubai (AED) Kuwait (AED) Sharjah (AED)
Accommodation AED 1,200 - 1,800 AED 700 - 2,500 AED 500 - 1,500 AED 600 - 1,000
Utilities AED 150 - 250 AED 130 - 200 AED 100 - 150 AED 100 - 200
Groceries AED 200 - 600 AED 200 - 600 AED 150 - 400 AED 100 - 300
Transportation AED 50 - 80 AED 90 - 180 AED 40 - 80 AED 40 - 100
Dining Out AED 120 - 300 AED 150 - 350 AED 100 - 300 AED 100 - 200
Entertainment AED 100 - 200 AED 100 - 400 AED 100 - 200 AED 100 - 250
Education AED 200 - 600 AED 200 - 1000 AED 100 - 800 AED 100 - 500
Healthcare AED 300 - 500 AED 300 - 900 AED 200 - 500 AED 200 - 600
Overall Cost AED 1600 - 4,000 AED 2000 - 5,000 AED 1100 - 2,500 AED 1050 - 2,000
Overall Verdict High Very High Moderate Moderate

Important Things to Know Before Moving to Abu Dhabi

Here are some essential things to keep in mind before making the move to Abu Dhabi:

Visa

Ensure you have a valid work visa, which your employer typically sponsors. Family members can be sponsored under specific conditions, such as meeting income and accommodation requirements.

Housing

Housing costs vary by location and type of accommodation. Consider the area carefully, as rent can be significantly higher in certain neighbourhoods.

Local Laws and Customs

Abu Dhabi has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption, public behaviour, and dress codes, especially in public spaces. Be mindful of these rules to avoid legal issues.

Cultural Sensitivity

As a Muslim country, Abu Dhabi's Islamic traditions are central to life. Respect for religious practices, such as prayer times and Ramadan, is very important.

Weather

Abu Dhabi experiences extremely hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. So, prepare yourself to adjust to the heat, especially if you are moving from a cooler climate.

Healthcare

Abu Dhabi has excellent healthcare facilities, but health insurance is essential, as medical care can be expensive without it.

Taxes

There is no personal income tax in the UAE, which can be a financial benefit. However, value-added tax (VAT) is applied to goods and services.

FAQs about the Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi