12 cities covered · Currency: AED (د.إ) · Capital: Dubai
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | د.إ36.18 ($9.86) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | د.إ145 ($39.43) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | د.إ10.85 ($2.96) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | د.إ820 ($223) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | د.إ133 ($36.15) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | د.إ350 ($95.29) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | د.إ101 ($27.60) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | د.إ101 ($27.60) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | د.إ26.53 ($7.23) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | د.إ2,497 ($680) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | د.إ1,737 ($473) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | د.إ5,210 ($1,420) | per month |
Dubayy · pop. 4,945,000
Abū Z̧aby · pop. 1,570,000
Ash Shāriqah · pop. 1,247,749
Abū Z̧aby · pop. 766,936
‘Ajmān · pop. 490,035
Ra’s al Khaymah · pop. 115,949
Al Fujayrah · pop. 93,673
Ash Shāriqah · pop. 54,876
Umm al Qaywayn · pop. 44,411
Ash Shāriqah · pop. 39,151
Abū Z̧aby · pop. 29,095
Ra’s al Khaymah · pop. 10,190
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United Arab Emirates
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United Arab Emirates
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United Arab Emirates
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United Arab Emirates
Living costs in United Arab Emirates vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of د.إ4,149 ($1,130) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.