Cost of Living

United Arab Emirates

Live cost-of-living data across 2 cities in United Arab Emirates — average cost index 36/100 (New York = 100), ranging from 30 to 42. Sourced by AI, refreshed regularly.

36/100
Avg cost index
Abu Dhabi
Cheapest
2
Cities tracked
Yes
Nomad visa
Digital Nomad Visa
UAE Virtual Working Program
Stay up to 1 year · free to apply · see all visa countries

Cost of living by city in United Arab Emirates

Ranked cheapest first. Cost index anchored to New York = 100.

Abu Dhabi30Dubai42

Frequently asked questions

Is United Arab Emirates cheap to live in?

Across 2 cities in United Arab Emirates, the average cost-of-living index is 36 (New York = 100) — from 30 in Abu Dhabi to 42 in Dubai. It's meaningfully cheaper than the US and Western Europe.

What is the cheapest city in United Arab Emirates?

Abu Dhabi is the most affordable city we track in United Arab Emirates, with a cost-of-living index of 30 (New York = 100) and a 1-bedroom city-center rent around $1,850/month.

Does United Arab Emirates have a digital nomad visa?

Yes. United Arab Emirates offers the UAE Virtual Working Program, allowing stays of up to 1 year with no application fee. Always confirm current requirements with the official immigration portal.

How much does it cost to live in United Arab Emirates per month?

A single person can live comfortably in the cheaper cities of United Arab Emirates for roughly $600–$840/month. Costs scale up toward Dubai. See the full city-by-city breakdown above.

Compare Abu Dhabi with anywhere

Dig into any United Arab Emirates city, or see where your salary stretches furthest worldwide.