Pros and Cons of Living in Abu Dhabi
Last updated on Dec 11, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Abu Dhabi, UAE include its modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare system, low crime rate, and tax-free income. Additionally, the city offers a wide range of cultural activities, a vibrant nightlife, and a variety of outdoor activities. On the other hand, the cons of living in Abu Dhabi include the high cost of living, the hot and humid climate, and the lack of personal freedoms. Additionally, the city is quite conservative and there are strict laws governing dress code and behavior.
What are the pros and cons of living in Abu Dhabi?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Abu Dhabi responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Abu Dhabi, often like the following aspects of living in the city: 1. High standard of living: Abu Dhabi offers a high quality of life with modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and top-notch educational institutions. 2. Tax-free income: One of the main attractions for expats is the tax-free income, which allows them to save a significant portion of their earnings. 3. Safety and low crime rates: Abu Dhabi is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. 4. Cultural diversity: The city is home to a diverse population, with expats from all over the world living and working in Abu Dhabi. 5. Job opportunities: The city offers a wide range of job opportunities, particularly in the oil and gas, construction, and finance sectors. 6. Shopping and entertainment: Abu Dhabi boasts numerous shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. However, there are also some aspects that expats and digital nomads may dislike about living in Abu Dhabi: 1. High cost of living: While salaries may be tax-free, the cost of living in Abu Dhabi can be quite high, particularly when it comes to housing and schooling. 2. Strict laws and regulations: The UAE has strict laws and regulations, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption, dress codes, and public displays of affection. This can be challenging for some expats to adapt to. 3. Traffic and transportation: Traffic congestion can be a problem in Abu Dhabi, and public transportation options are limited compared to other major cities. 4. Summer heat: The extreme heat during the summer months can be unbearable for some, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). 5. Cultural differences: Some expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local culture and customs, particularly in relation to gender roles and social norms. 6. Limited political freedom: The UAE is an absolute monarchy, and there is limited political freedom and freedom of speech. This may be a concern for some expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
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What do expats in Abu Dhabi appreciate most about the local culture?
"They're incredibly generous. If I admire something of they own, they will try to give it to me. They are also highly hospitable," explained one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
"Expats in Abu Dhabi appreciate the hospitality of the local culture, which is reflected in the warm welcome they receive from the locals. They also appreciate the cultural diversity of the city, which is home to people from all over the world. Additionally, expats enjoy the city's modern infrastructure, which makes it easy to get around and enjoy the many attractions the city has to offer. Finally, expats appreciate the safety and security of the city, which is a major draw for those looking to relocate," said one expat in Abu Dhabi.
With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
What do expats find most challenging?
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Abu Dhabi is the conservative dress code. Women are expected to dress modestly and cover their arms and legs, while men are expected to wear long trousers and shirts with collars. Additionally, public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it is important to be aware of local customs and traditions when interacting with locals. Another challenge is the language barrier, as Arabic is the official language of the UAE and English is not widely spoken. Finally, the hot and humid climate can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those coming from cooler climates," said one expat in Abu Dhabi.
"The Emirati population is small compared to the rest of the country, so there are generally less of them around. As a woman, forming friendships w/ an Emirati man can be tricky. The concept of the platonic male/female relationship doesn't exist in their culture. On the flip side, the women tend to have a lot of familial obligations and, at times, limited ability to move freely without a male member of her family, so going out to a restaurant or coffee w/ just the girls has never actually happened for me," said a person living in Abu Dhabi.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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