Move to Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates · Expat Guide for Tech Workers

Rent (1BR)

$1,400

Rent (2BR)

$2,000

Transport

$70/mo

Expat Community

4/5

🌟 Why Abu Dhabi?

  • ✓ Tax-free income with slightly lower cost of living than Dubai
  • ✓ Growing tech ecosystem (Hub71, Masdar City)
  • ✓ Cultural capital with Louvre Abu Dhabi and upcoming Guggenheim
  • ✓ More relaxed pace of life compared to Dubai

🏠 Best Neighborhoods

Al Reem Island map

Al Reem Island

Modern towers, waterfront, growing community

$1,500/mo
Saadiyat Island map

Saadiyat Island

Cultural district, Louvre Abu Dhabi, beach access

$2,000/mo
Corniche map

Corniche

Waterfront promenade, central, parks, family-friendly

$1,600/mo
Khalifa City map

Khalifa City

Suburban, affordable, villas, near Masdar City

$1,100/mo

✈ Airport

AUH (Abu Dhabi International - new Midfield Terminal)

☔ Weather

Desert: very hot summers (40C+), pleasant winters (18-25C). Slightly more humid than Dubai. Rare rain.

🎓 Schools

Many options (British, American, French, IB schools)

💻 Coworking

Growing (WeWork, Regus, Hub71, Ma'reef)

✅ First Week Checklist

  1. Complete visa and Emirates ID process
  2. Get a Hafilat card for public buses
  3. Open a bank account (FAB, ADCB, or ADIB)
  4. Get a du or Etisalat SIM card
  5. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

🏗 Top Industries

Oil & Gas Finance Tech Government