Prices in Abu Dhabi

In the picturesque capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is often recognized for its cultural richness and stunning modern architecture. As a city that’s brimming with luxurious hotels, dining options, and vibrant markets, it’s important to navigate the financial aspects of living or visiting here. This guide unveils the cost details of various necessities, from housing and dining to the everyday shopping lists, shedding light on what one can expect financially in Abu Dhabi in 2025. With comparisons drawn between other Emirati cities, this guide serves as a beacon for the curious traveler or potential resident aiming to budget wisely.

The Cost of Housing in Abu Dhabi

In 2025, Abu Dhabi’s housing landscape remains diverse yet notably expensive, significantly influenced by location and property size. Opting to live in the city center might attract higher rental costs but offers the convenience of being near business hubs, restaurants, and shopping facilities. Conversely, choosing properties in outskirts like Khalifa City or Mohammed Bin Zayed City can ease the rental burden, though it may add to commuting costs.

The average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center stands at roughly AED 5,200, whereas renting in the surrounding areas like Khalifa City averages AED 3,600. Those seeking more room for a family might consider a three-bedroom apartment in the city center, priced around AED 11,000 per month, or slightly less at AED 8,400 in the outer areas.

Whether buying or renting, understanding the variation in property costs depending on location helps tremendously. For instance, a one-bedroom in Al Reem Islands averages about AED 5,500 monthly. Meanwhile, properties in Al Reef are more affordable with three-bedroom villas costing around AED 8,916 monthly, presenting viable options for families. Fortunately, choosing older buildings or properties bundled with amenities can help reduce costs significantly. It is essential to consider additional costs such as utilities, parking spaces, or maintenance fees when budgeting for housing.

Property Type	City Center (AED)	Outside Center (AED)
1-Bedroom Apartment	5,200	3,600
3-Bedroom Apartment	11,000	8,400
Villa (3-Bedroom)	N/A	8,916

When planning a budget for living in Abu Dhabi, understanding these differences in housing costs can greatly impact whether you decide to live in the city or its outskirts.

Everyday Necessities: Grocery Prices in Abu Dhabi

Supermarkets across Abu Dhabi offer a range of products, allowing residents to find items that suit their dietary preferences and budgets. Stores like Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Choitram are prominent in Abu Dhabi, known for providing a diverse selection of goods that cater to the cosmopolitan lifestyle prevalent in the city.

The price for commonly purchased groceries is generally lower than in many Western countries. For example, a liter of milk is approximately 7.00 AED, a loaf of bread costs around 5.65 AED, and a dozen eggs are priced at about 12.70 AED. For protein lovers, the price of chicken breast stands at 40.00 AED per kilogram, while fresh fruits such as bananas and apples are available for 6.60 AED and 8.44 AED per kilogram, respectively.

Utilizing conveniences like Union Coop, Nesto, and Abu Dhabi Co-operative Society, Abu Dhabi residents can also find competitive pricing, especially during promotion periods. These supermarkets often have special offers or loyalty programs to help further reduce costs, making it an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious shoppers.

Item	Price (AED)
Milk (1 liter)	7.00
Bread (500g loaf)	5.65
Chicken Breast (1kg)	40.00
Bananas (1kg)	6.60
Eggs (12)	12.70

With this variety in options and accessibility, maintaining a balanced diet in Abu Dhabi doesn’t break the bank, given the careful selection of where and when to shop, especially in Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket known for their expansive product ranges.

Transport Costs in Abu Dhabi: Getting Around

Transport expenses in Abu Dhabi offer a reasonable middle ground, balancing convenience with cost. For public transportation lovers, a single bus ride in the city is priced at AED 2.00, while a monthly pass is approximately AED 90, catering efficiently to daily commuters. Abu Dhabi is notably less scattered than Dubai, ensuring shorter travel periods and potentially lower transport costs.

If hiring a car feels more appealing, rental prices average around AED 327 for a basic model per day, presenting a feasible option for those preferring the comfort of a personal vehicle despite the added fuel costs. The cost of fuel is relatively low compared to global standards, with a liter priced around 3.21 AED, making driving a plausible choice for many.

Taxis also remain a popular choice with a starting fare at 12 AED and an approximate cost of 1.90 AED per kilometer. Notably, ride-sharing services are expanding, offering additional options to navigate the scenic offerings of Abu Dhabi. Embarking on a journey on the efficient roads of Abu Dhabi, be it through public transport, hiring a vehicle, or leasing a bicycle, provides a blend of luxury and cost-efficiency.

Transport Type	Cost (AED)
One-way Ticket (Bus)	2.00
Monthly Public Transport Pass	90.00
Taxi Start Fare	12.00
Gasoline (1 Liter)	3.21

Dining and Entertainment: Abu Dhabi’s Diverse Palette

The culinary scene in Abu Dhabi is a vibrant tapestry woven with flavors from around the world. Whether you fancy French, Japanese, or local Middle Eastern cuisine, the city doesn’t disappoint, with dining experiences available for a range of budgets.

A casual dinner for two can tally up to 227 AED in a local pub, while a more high-end experience in an Italian restaurant, with appetizers and wine, might cost around 523 AED. As for fast food, a typical combo meal comes in at about 35 AED, ideal for quick and affordable dining.

Recreational activities are equally varied. Cinema tickets cost approximately 50 AED, while a cappuccino in a trendy café is about 22 AED, inviting residents and tourists alike to enjoy a relaxing café culture. For those craving an adrenaline rush, the outdoor and indoor entertainment scene, including golfing, theme parks, and cultural festivals, promises to light up weekends.

A sound advice when planning entertainment is to keep an eye on promotions or discounts offered by popular attractions or eateries, ensuring a delightful experience without overextending financially.

Activity	Cost (AED)
Dinner for Two (Local Pub)	227.00
Italian Dinner (Expansive)	523.00
McDonald’s Combo Meal	35.00
Cinema Ticket	50.00
Cappuccino	22.00

Healthcare and Insurance: Ensuring Well-being in Abu Dhabi

Healthcare in Abu Dhabi is synonymous with quality and advancement, bringing assurance to residents and visitors with facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology. However, understanding the financial implications is crucial for adequately preparing your healthcare budget.

The price range for a basic individual health plan varies from 800 AED to 2,000 AED annually, offering coverage for essential health services. Comprehensive plans could range significantly higher, from 3,000 AED to 10,000 AED, ensuring broader coverage across various health needs.

For expatriates, securing employer-provided health insurance might serve as an economical choice as these often encompass coverage for the entire family. Exploring government-supported programs like “Thiqa” for eligible residents can also provide cost-effective solutions.

Insurance Type	Price Range (AED)
Basic Individual Health Plan	800 – 2,000
Comprehensive Individual Plan	3,000 – 10,000
Family Health Plan (4 people)	17,000 – 33,500

Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise and a balanced diet can reduce the frequency of doctor visits, effectively managing healthcare expenses. While the healthcare costs can be significant, leveraging various insurance schemes can substantially ease the financial burden.

FAQs About Costs in Abu Dhabi

• 💡 What currency is used in Abu Dhabi? The currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
• 💡 Is Abu Dhabi more expensive than Dubai? Abu Dhabi is generally about 9% cheaper than Dubai, especially in terms of housing and general expenses.
• 💡 How much does living comfortably cost in Abu Dhabi? A comfortable lifestyle for a family generally averages around AED 20,000 to AED 25,000 per month.
• 💡 Where can I find affordable groceries in Abu Dhabi? Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Choitram are popular for affordable groceries with frequent promotions.
• 💡 Is public transportation a viable option? Yes, with affordable monthly passes and coverage in major areas, public transportation provides an economical commuting solution.