Abu Dhabi, UAE
Cost of living · 2025 · Middle East · Rent +3.5% vs 2024
Rent trend in Abu Dhabi (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Abu Dhabi (2025)
Estimated monthly budget in Abu Dhabi
Based on 2025 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in UAE (2025)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | AED 7,452 | AED 1,501 | AED 393 | AED 693 | — |
| Dubai | AED 8,798 | AED 1,656 | AED 430 | AED 745 | +18.1% |
Other Middle East cities (2025)
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Abu Dhabi in 2025?
In 2025, a single person living in Abu Dhabi needs approximately AED 10,520/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around AED 20,133/month. Abu Dhabi is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Abu Dhabi in 2025?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Abu Dhabi costs approximately AED 7,452/month in 2025. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around AED 13,973/month. Rent has changed +3.5% vs 2024.
How much do groceries cost in Abu Dhabi?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Abu Dhabi are approximately AED 1,501 in 2025. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Abu Dhabi?
A monthly public transport pass in Abu Dhabi costs AED 393 in 2025, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Abu Dhabi?
Monthly utility costs in Abu Dhabi average AED 693 in 2025, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Abu Dhabi expensive to live in?
Abu Dhabi is located in UAE (Middle East). With a 1-bed rent of AED 7,452/month and total single-person expenses around AED 10,520/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Abu Dhabi?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Abu Dhabi costs approximately AED 60 in 2025. Budget around AED 480/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Abu Dhabi changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Abu Dhabi from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 20.6% over this period (from AED 6,336 in 2022 to AED 7,638 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Abu Dhabi?
To live comfortably in Abu Dhabi in 2025, a single person needs approximately AED 10,520/month. This covers rent (AED 7,452), groceries (AED 1,501), transport (AED 393), utilities (AED 693) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around AED 20,133/month.