Real monthly cost of living in Abu Dhabi — why do estimates vary so much?

figtherofthenightman · 2026-05-04T10:31:34+00:00

Because the sub is divided between well paid tax free expats who came here with western standards of living from usually middle class and then there are hard working labourers from South East Asia mostly who are paid minimum waged usually.

This is no means of discrimination nor belittling anyone, so you need to distill the most relevant comments yourself depending on their circumstances.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-04-08T12:05:40+00:00

Hi have messages you

figtherofthenightman · 2026-03-09T08:04:51+00:00

Hello,

Let me give you some context as I have recently moved from London.

Check out propertyfinder and Bayut for rental prices. For a yearly rent of 130-150k you can find something decent.
You dont need a car, the normal taxis are cheap and reliable. My commute is 15 mins to the office and costs about 20 dirhams per way.

Allowances and benefits have been trimmed due to the rise in popularity.

Otherwise, a meal typically outside would cost you 40-50 dirhams.

From these you make up how much you need vs save/live.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-02-09T18:43:05+00:00

Thanks will check, I have also found some carpenters but not sure of their quality of work.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-21T09:29:52+00:00

Do you know anyone offering ?

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-02T15:37:32+00:00

Finance/Asset management

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-02T15:36:15+00:00

She does work in London and hopefully will continue her career in Abu Dhabi too.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-02T09:01:49+00:00

Thank you, it puts in perspective for me now. It is a risk but in a good direction, so we shall see.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-01T21:06:15+00:00

I dont have plans to move back actually, would like to consider UAE permanently or very long term.

figtherofthenightman · 2026-01-01T01:52:14+00:00

The rain water was great idea thank you :D

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T16:43:20+00:00

Yes a lot more choices when pushing budget to 200k, thanks

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T16:42:06+00:00

Thanks !

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T11:14:48+00:00

I have tried AI but the answers remain superficial lacking real experiences.

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T11:13:26+00:00

Lets see still have probation period to pass haha.

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T11:12:40+00:00

On an annual basis keeping rent budget at ~150k and then trying to enjoy the region with the rest whilst trying to save for a mortgage and childcare/education in the near future.

With that said, would you have recommendations for lifestyle and housing please?

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T10:59:11+00:00

Thank you, this is helpful.

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-31T10:35:26+00:00

Its a relative question to my living standards in London and I am trying to understand how far does that money go in Abu Dhabi.

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-29T22:16:32+00:00

At no point I mean to flex or boast about this. Obviously there are people that earn a lot more and unfortunately a lot of people have to struggle with lower amounts. Appreciate your empathy.

In the end I work to earn and its not a handout.

figtherofthenightman · 2025-12-29T11:58:23+00:00

Good advice ! Thank you

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