United Arab Emirates Cost of Living Analytics

Living expenses and utilities

Basic Utilities (85m²)

$186

Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m² apartment

Mobile Phone Plan

$59

Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data

Internet (60 Mbps)

$94

Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) monthly cost

Average Monthly Salary

$4,090

Average monthly net salary after tax

Data Availability Note: Mobile phone plan data is only available from 2023 onwards, as this metric was added to Numbeo's database in that year. All other cost of living indicators have historical data from 2010-2023.

Basic Utilities (85m²)

Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m² apartment

Mobile Phone Plan

Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data

Internet (60 Mbps)

Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) monthly cost

Average Monthly Salary

Average monthly net salary after tax

Additional Insights

Expert analysis of United Arab Emirates Cost of Living trends and investment implications

Market Overview

The cost of living in the United Arab Emirates for expats and remote workers is moderate with utilities and internet forming a significant portion of monthly expenses. Despite rising salaries, the affordability of living costs can be challenging, particularly for those in lower income brackets. Investors should note the increasing digital infrastructure and its implications for remote work viability.

Key Findings

Data-driven insights

•Average monthly utility costs are approximately $272, which represents about 10% of the average monthly salary of $2,720.
•High-speed internet plans cost around $100 per month, suitable for remote work but a notable expense.
•Mobile plans average $50 per month, which, combined with internet, accounts for 5.5% of the average salary.
•Average monthly salary has increased by 150% over the last two decades, but living costs have also risen significantly.

Market Trends

Historical patterns

•Utilities and internet costs have increased at a rate slightly faster than inflation over the past 20 years.
•Salaries have generally kept pace with inflation, but increases in housing and connectivity costs have outstripped salary growth.
•The UAE has seen significant investment in digital infrastructure, improving internet speed and reliability, beneficial for remote work.

For Investors

Actionable takeaways

•Expats should budget around 15% of their salary for utilities and connectivity expenses.
•Although costs are rising, the UAE remains an attractive option for digital nomads due to high internet speeds.
•Investors should consider the growing tech infrastructure as a positive indicator for long-term property value appreciation.
•Monitor salary trends and cost of living closely to ensure sustainable investment returns in the property market.

Market Context

Compared to similar economies like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, the UAE offers competitive living costs with superior digital infrastructure, making it a preferred destination for remote workers and tech-savvy expats.

💡 Insights based on historical data. Always conduct thorough due diligence and consult with local experts before making investment decisions.