Cost of living in Abu Dhabi

A truly special blend of modernity, tradition and extreme luxury is incredibly well represented by Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Stunning architecture, a wealthy cultural heritage, along with a thriving economy, draw expatriates and tourists worldwide.

For anyone considering relocation to, or a prolonged visit in, Abu Dhabi, a thorough comprehension of the many costs associated with living there is deemed important. Living expenses in Abu Dhabi, including housing, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare, education and entertainment, are thoroughly and comprehensively detailed in this helpful guide by Car rental in Abu Dhabi.

Housing Costs

Abu Dhabi residents’ most large expense is frequently housing. Several factors, including location, size, as well as type of property, influence the wide variation in accommodation costs. Informed decisions about where to live in this truly energetic city are it’s readily made by those who understand these important factors.

Abu Dhabi’s rental homes offer diverse choices for multiple preferences and budgets.

Apartment renting is a common choice for many single people as well as many couples. City center one-bedroom apartments usually cost between a very reasonable AED 6,000 and a slightly higher AED 12,000 monthly. Multiple amenities, such as shopping malls, restaurants, along with cultural attractions, define the city center. Monthly rents for many one-bedroom apartments outside the city center, offering a quieter environment, range from AED 4,000 to AED 8,000. Many such areas offer ample space and family-friendly settings.
Villas appeal to families or those needing more space. Monthly villa rental costs, for three bedrooms, range from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000, varying by location plus amenities. Private gardens, swimming pools along with other features are often found in villas.
These features cater to many families’ needs. Rental prices are importantly affected by the villa location choice, properties in more prestigious neighborhoods commanding higher rents as well.

Housing Utilities

Residents must budget for utilities, along with rent. A standard apartment’s monthly utility bills, including electricity, water, cooling, as well as internet, typically cost between AED 500 and AED 1,000. Individual usage along with the season influence utility costs.

Soaring summer heat really jacks up utility bills when you need that AC. During busy summer months, when cooling expenses importantly increase, you should really plan your budget carefully.

Transportation Costs

A well-developed transportation network with many options easily allows many Abu Dhabi residents to navigate the city. Budgeting living expenses absolutely requires understanding transportation costs, whether you use public transit or your car.

Efficient buses and taxis, part of Abu Dhabi’s investment in public transport, serve residents and visitors. City travel uses public transportation. It is a cost-effective method. But if you want more comfort, monthly car rental in Abu Dhabi is your best choice (more info here – https://octane.rent/monthly-car-rental-abu-dhabi/ ).

Daily commuting becomes affordable because a single bus fare costs between AED 2 to AED 4. A truly wide-ranging bus network connects residents in many city areas to important locations, such as shopping centers, schools, along with business districts.
Taxis are easily and readily available all over the city for those preferring a much more convenient way to travel. Taxi rides usually begin at about AED 12. Additional charges apply for every kilometer driven. For longer trips or a truly comfortable ride, taxis are often readily chosen.

Car Ownership Prices

Several meaningful costs associated with car ownership in Abu Dhabi must be carefully considered before you buy a car. Fuel, insurance, along with maintenance constitute several major expenses.

Around AED 2.50 per liter is the average fuel price in the UAE, relatively low compared to many other countries. Low car prices attract many residents, offering them more flexible and convenient commutes and city exploration.
Vehicle owners should consider car insurance. The type of vehicle, coverage options, plus the driver’s history determine insurance costs, typically ranging from a minimum of AED 1,500 to a maximum of AED 5,000 per year. Find many insurance options for the best rates and coverage.

Car Rental

Abu Dhabi provides many car rental choices, offering great flexibility for renters. The type of vehicle and rental agency determine daily rental rates.

For short-term visits or limited-time needs, you can affordably rent economy cars for AED 100 to AED 300 daily. City driving is often found suitable for these vehicles, along with their fuel efficiency.
Luxury vehicle rentals offer a truly decadent driving experience for those seeking something special. Daily rental costs for these can exceed AED 800, varying by make as well as model. A truly luxurious car rental importantly improves your Abu Dhabi experience, letting you explore the city with impressive style.

Anyone considering a move to Abu Dhabi must understand its many living costs. Rent and utilities, along with housing costs, really eat up a huge chunk of monthly spending, but thankfully, transportation is readily available and quite convenient. Planning and budgeting for expenses guarantees a smooth transition to life in Abu Dhabi, whether you rent a city-center apartment or a quieter neighborhood villa.

Food and Grocery Costs

Lifestyle choices, along with dining preferences, importantly influence the wide range of food costs in Abu Dhabi.

Inexpensive restaurants offer many meals costing between AED 30 as well as AED 70, making eating out quite affordable. AED 100 to AED 250 may be charged by mid-range restaurants for a three-course meal for two. Local or imported choices affect grocery prices.
Between AED 1,000 and AED 1,500, an important amount for a single person’s monthly grocery bill, can be spent, depending on individual dietary choices. AED 4 is the price of approximately one liter of milk, AED 3 is the price of about 500g of bread, AED 12 is the price of roughly a dozen eggs, AED 25 is the price of around one kilogram of chicken breast and AED 6 is the price of approximately one kilogram of apples.

Healthcare Costs

High-quality healthcare services are available in Abu Dhabi. Meaningful healthcare costs, especially for expatriates, can be incurred. Abu Dhabi mandates health insurance, with costs varying by coverage. Annual costs for many basic health insurance plans can begin at approximately AED 500, reaching up to about AED 1,500, whereas many thorough plans’ yearly costs are estimated to fall between roughly AED 2,000 as well as AED 10,000. General practitioner consultation fees range from AED 200 to AED 500. Medical expenses can be high. Some specialist consultations can be expensive.

Education

Expatriates with children must consider education. Education is important. A range of international schools, each with varying fees, is found in Abu Dhabi. International schools typically charge large tuition fees, with many schools demanding between AED 30,000 to AED 80,000 annually, the specific cost varying according to the institution as well as the student’s grade.

Registration fees, uniforms, plus extracurricular activities might very well incur extra costs. Tuition fees ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 80,000 per year, depending on the institution plus course of study, are offered by Abu Dhabi universities to those seeking higher education.

Entertainment and Cultural Places

A wealth of entertainment options, including cultural experiences and outdoor activities, awaits you in Abu Dhabi. A monthly gym membership costs between AED 150 and AED 500, whereas cinema tickets usually cost between AED 40 and AED 60. Entrance fees at several museums and parks typically cost between AED 20 and AED 100.

Many museums and several cultural sites in Abu Dhabi offer residents discounted entrance fees, presenting the emirate’s wealthy cultural heritage. Year-round events, along with festivals, offer free or low-cost entertainment.

Lifestyle choices along with personal preferences importantly influence Abu Dhabi’s cost of living. This energetic city boasts a high quality of life, despite large housing expenses along with education costs. Modern conveniences, cultural richness and safety attract expatriates, and residents to Abu Dhabi. Understanding living expenses helps you prepare for your move or visit to this dynamic city and enjoy all it offers.

Look At The UAE From The Other Side – How To Have Fun

When most people think of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), images of futuristic skyscrapers and extravagant shopping malls come to mind. While the UAE dazzles with its bold architecture, extraordinary wealth, flashy cars, and exclusive yacht rental there’s another side to the country that offers a deeper, richer understanding of its history. If we look at the UAE from that “other side,” we find a country that proudly embraces its history and keeps its heritage very much alive.

In this article, we look at how to have some fun with cultural traditions in the UAE.

The Desert – A Connection to the Past

The UAE’s desert landscape evokes the nostalgic era of the country’s historic roots: its Bedouin ancestors.

Long before the discovery of oil that gave the country the wealth and prosperity it enjoys today, nomadic Bedouins traversed the vast Arabian Desert, living in tents made of goat and camel hair. They made bags from goat or camel skins to store milk and water and used animal hair to weave intricate colorful rugs and carpets – a craft that has survived to this day and can still be bought in the country’s many traditional souks (markets).

Nowadays, the desert is a popular attraction with tourists keen to experience authentic Bedouin culture by going on desert safaris, riding camels, sleeping in traditional Bedouin tents, and enjoying Bedouin meals around a campfire under the stars.

Camping in the desert is an almost surreal experience, taking one back in time: the snort of camels nearby, the peaceful serenity of the vast desert, watching the magic of a golden sunset over the dunes as the shadows make changing patterns in the sand, and gazing up at the stars into a crisp and clear sky as night falls. For those wanting to relive a true slice of history, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Traditional Souks

The UAE, especially Dubai, is famous for its high-end skyscrapers, yachts, cars but most of all for its shopping malls. But there’s another side to this commerce, one that is steeped in history: its traditional souks (markets). Souks have the power to transport one back in time when life was simpler and vigorously haggling over prices was (and still is) a time-honored Arabian tradition.

Souks date back to the UAE’s earliest trading history when visiting merchants traveled from as far afield as Persia, India, and East Africa, trading goods such as spices, textiles, and pearls.

Today, these lively bazaars with their narrow winding alleys and enticing fragrances, are lined with shops and stalls that sell anything from aromatic spices, gold, textiles, pottery, and perfumes, to handmade crafts.

Taking a few hours to immerse oneself in the bustling atmosphere of a souk is about more than just wanting to buy things – it’s a cultural experience where, for a brief moment, you’re transported back in time and can truly feel connected with history.

Camel Races and Falconry

Camels were the foundation of every aspect of the old Bedouin way of life. They served as a mode of transport (hence their description as the “ships of the desert”), as well as a source of food, milk, and textiles. But they were also used for entertainment as racing animals. Although camel racing, often called the “sport of sheiks,” is a centuries-old practice based on early Bedouin culture, it is still alive and well today, and you can attend frequent camel races in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Similarly, falconry is another ancient tradition that is still alive. These strong, fast, and agile birds were traditionally used for hunting. The Bedouins captured falcons and trained them to hunt desert game, including large birds, rabbits, and even small gazelles. Today. Falconry exhibitions in the desert give visitors a glimpse into this centuries-old tradition.

Conclusion

From its desert roots to its trading past, the UAE is a place where history and the modern world have been blended over time in unique and fascinating ways. For history buffs, it’s definitely worth taking the time to step away from the malls and the high-tech glitz for just a moment to savor a world that is rich in tradition and grounded in history – and still very much alive.

Description

The UAE (United Arab Emirates) dazzles with its bold architecture and extraordinary wealth, but if we look at the UAE from the “other side,” we find a country that proudly embraces its history and keeps its heritage very much alive.

The top-5 less hypes places of interest in the UAE

Interesting places to visit in the UAE

Luxury, chic and elegance. The unforgettable atmosphere of the UAE. The visitor dives into posh in every corner of Dubai. The world’s largest building, Burj-Khalifa, and the world’s most luxurious hotel, Burj Al Arab, are undoubtedly on a visitor’s wish list. But there is much more than that.

What about less hyped places of interest that are able to impress tourists and give them a feeling of meeting something unique and authentic?

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Dubai is now among the most expensive and wished-to-visit cities in the world. Meanwhile, the city commenced its history as a small village rooted back to 1799.

The Al Fahidi neighborhood is ready to disclose the historical page for visitors. More than 50 ancient buildings tell about what Dubai looked like two centuries ago. At present, the district is the epicenter of museums, art galleries, independent boutiques, and restaurants. Al Fahidi Fort is the most known place of interest as its walls remember the first inhabitants of Dubai.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

Some 30-40 minutes to the southeast from Burj-Khalifa, and one will find himself in the heart of desert lands.

A lot of local companies unlock one of the most demanded services – Land Rover Defender rent Dubai rentals. Get a ‘desert-born’ SUV and be ready for adventures. Pristine dunes, desert plants, and mind-blowing sunsets are something you ought to experience in the UAE. Feel the lifestyle of Arab tribes who have been living there for centuries.

Al Noor Island

Placed in a 20-minute ride from Dubai, Al Noor Island is among the best highlights of the Sharjah emirate.

An award-winning picturesque lagoon island combines two different worlds. Imagine yourself diving into the beauty of nature, smelling the flowers, listening to the birds singing, and penetrating into the kingdom of butterflies with more than 20 species. And the next moment you enjoy the beauty of Sharjah skyscrapers. This place harmoniously combines masterpieces made by nature with ones made by human beings.

Find a car rental service in Dubai to get a luxury vehicle and make your trip even more memorable.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

One can find a small piece of Paris in the UAE. Louvre Abu Dhabi rented some world-known masterpieces from its Parisian ‘elder brother.’ Visitors may enjoy the great works painted by Leonardo da Vinci, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and other art geniuses. Furthermore, ancient collections from China, India, Congo, Iraq, and other countries are exhibited in the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

For art lovers, this place is definitely among the must-visit ones. It takes you 1.5 hours from Dubai to reach the museum.

Jumeirah Mosque

The mosque falls into the category of core Dubai symbols. Open to representatives of all religions, the Jumeirah Mosque is a diamond of Arab architecture. As for tours, those are available six days per week. Guides both tell about the mosque’s history and disclose Islamic traditions and customs.

The mosque takes place in Jumeirah, one of the most luxurious and elite districts of Dubai.

How to Visit Everything on Time?

The given places of interest are just the tip of the cultural and historical iceberg waiting for you in the UAE. Tourists meet the splendid combination of modern chic with natural beauty and historical traits. The well-scheduled trip is everything you need to visit everything.

First and foremost, apply to a car rental service to get the car of your dreams. Don’t you know that luxurious vehicles are exceptionally affordable in Dubai? Cool and powerful Land Rover or gorgeous Ferrari? Dubai makes it possible to rent such cars for not all the money in the world and enjoy your vacation without being tied to the schedule of public transport.

Luxury Halal Resorts and Hotels in Morocco

From the rolling dunes of the Sahara to the serene beaches, Morocco offers a traditional travel experience to tourists. Muslims often seek Halal Holidays to make their travel memories. Morocco, with its range of luxury halal resorts, is an ideal place to visit. This guide explores the top luxury Muslim-friendly hotels in Marrakech.

1- Royal Mansour Marrakech

Nestled amidst the bustling city of Morocco, this luxury hotel is an antique artistry. Featuring serene yards, old designs, and lush gardens, it welcomes guests with the soothing sound of rippling water. Filled with a floral aroma, each riad in the hotel has its plunge pool and yard. With hand-carved wood and top furniture, King Mohammed VI built this haven in 2010.

Here, guests can enjoy a wide array of halal foods in an alcohol-free zone. Thus, it is an ideal spot for Muslim tourists seeking halal holidays. Apart from aesthetics, this place is famous for its old spas, offering Hammam. From butler services to janitor’s aid, the hotel’s staff ensures a notable stay to the tourists.

2- La Mamounia Hotel

Designed with artistic Moorish patterns, this storied hotel is a blend of history and modernity. Its halal-certified kitchens, offering an array of tasty local and global dishes, are a culinary delight for many guests. Not only in the food but in every amenity, this hotel maintains halal standards.

Equipped with old patterns, prayer mats, and Qurans, each room is a comfy place to reflect and pray. Water sounds from ornate fountains and fragrant blooms of lush gardens add to the beauty of this resort. Other than antique spas, the hotel has a fitness center, pool, and tennis courts to amuse guests.

3- Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort

Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, this resort is near the old city of El Jadida, Morocco. With halal-certified kitchens and values, this hotel is a haven for people seeking halal holidays. Being on a prime location, this place offers awesome views of the ocean and easy access to the sandy shores. In a Gray Player-designed golf course of this resort guests can play rounds amidst coastal areas.

The world-class spas of this resort are famous for relaxing the guests with unique massages. From horseback riding on the beach to fun-filled days, this place is best for families seeking halal holidays. Magazan stands out with its women-centric private pools and beaches. Respecting privacy and Islamic laws, these areas offer endless fun to the women.

Besides the beach and kitchen, the hotel’s halal-friendliness is seen in all its services. Hence, this place is the top choice for those seeking a calm beach getaway with halal values.

4- Les Dunes d’Or

Located in the city of Agadir, this resort is a blend of comfort and Moroccan heritage. The resort’s big rooms amuse guests with breathtaking sea views. Ensuring the halal foods, this hotel caters to the needs of Muslims. From water sports to other fun activities, this hotel is best for families. Whether basking in the sun or exploring the local customs, this place amuses guests in the best possible ways. Offering warmth with high-end perks, this place offers an unforgettable stay to the guests.

5- Palais Faraj Suites & Spa

Located in Fes, this resort is a sign of Arab-Moorish Art. Equipped with deluxe suites, it offers a comfy and notable stay to the guests. Here, old Moroccan dishes are made with halal ingredients. For wellness offerings, serene spas are available in the hotel.

These spas have a calm area to relax guests with Hammam rituals. Using time-honored methods, these rituals are designed to cleanse the body and mind. From the complex tilework to the handcrafted furniture, this hotel shows local culture in every detail. Hence, this place ensures an enriching experience for the tourists.

6- L’Hotel Marrakech

Made by an esteemed designer Jasper Conran, this hotel is famous for its chic 19^th-century riad. With only five deluxe suites, this resort offers halal foods and careful services. Offering tailored services, this place ensures a unique stay for every guest.

Besides this, the hotel’s grounds are a lush oasis, calling guests to relax. Here, the rooftop terraces offer a calm space to pray and reflect. The hotel’s food menu meets the halal values. Hence, from lavish rooms to the calm outdoors, each aspect of this hotel ensures a deluxe for the guests.

7- Oasis Lodges

Nestled just 5km from lush Menara Gardens, this hotel has rooms with terraces. Here, guests can bask in the natural beauty without leaving the comforts of their lodgings. Equipped with modern perks and old local charm, this place is ideal for rest.

With a wide array of flora, the hotel’s garden is a center of attraction for guests. Here, tourists can stroll, relax, and pray without any uproar. The hotel’s comfy fitness centers cater to both casual people and fitness lovers. Being close to the Menara Gardens, this resort allows guests to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Hence, it is an ideal place to stay in Morocco.

8- Riad Anya & Spa, Marrakech

Located a mere 150m from the lush Jardins de La Mamounia, this riad is one of the top attractions of Muslim tourists. With a focus on relaxation and wellness, this hotel is highly picked for its halal-friendly environment. Each place in Riad Anya is thoughtfully curated to offer peace and luxury. Aligning with Islamic laws, the resort offers immense spa facilities to the guests. Besides focusing on wellness, this hotel ensures the halal standards of each cooked meal. From offering prayer mats and Qurans to alcohol-free settings, the hotel’s halal-friendliness is evident in every detail. Hence, it is the best hotel for those who want easy access to Morocco’s ancient sites.

9- Les Jardins de Touhina, Marrakech

Just 12 km away from the Saadian Tombs, this resort is a quiet place in Morocco. Here, tourists can enjoy the roomy stays and beautiful sights. With modern perks, this hotel is a comfy and stylish place to stay. Besides offering special prayer areas, this place is renowned for its halal-friendly meals. From lavish pools to wonderful gardens, one can make a memorable stay in this antique hotel. Plus, tourists can also see the Saadian Tombs and other nearby sites, while staying in this hotel. Hence, it is a must-visit resort for Muslim families.

Morocco’s top-notch halal resorts are a blend of old charm and modern comforts. They are ideal spots for Muslim tourists, seeking fun without compromising the Islamic rules. From big rooms and calm gardens to the lavish pools and spas, here one can find comfort and fun altogether.

Are you looking for super relaxing holidays? Contact Muslims Holy Travel, known for its top-notch halal holiday services. Grab its special deal of December Umrah Packages 2024 and embark on the spiritual trip, with a serene Moroccan retreat.

Discover Budget-Friendly Ways to Explore the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has pilgrimage sites for Muslims. It is also the birthplace of Islam. Followers of Islam yearn to be at the Holy Kaabah and pour their hearts out in front of Allah Almighty. Even though everyone wants to perform the pilgrimage, not everyone can afford to. Therefore, everyone wants to discover budget-friendly ways to explore the holy land of Saudi Arabia.

Most people know Saudi Arabia for its religious tourism, but this spectacular region offers much more. It has ancient archaeological sites and beautiful landscapes that leave everyone in awe. The expansive desert also adds a lot to the personality of this stunning tourist destination. It is also a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity that intrigues everyone. You will see historical landmarks in the country and sky-high buildings that represent the modern and luxurious side of KSA.

Saudi Arabia recently started promoting tourism in the region. If you are a Canadian citizen who wants to explore KSA, you must remember that it is not a budget-friendly holiday destination. But if you consider the right tips, you can make an affordable trip to this much-anticipated region.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Ways to Explore Saudi Arabia

Travel During the Off-Season

If you want to explore Saudi Arabia but have a tight budget, travelling during the off-season will give you the most cost-effective trip. Those who wish to perform Umrah on a budget must know that Ramadan is the most in-demand time for performing Umrah. Therefore, you must avoid travelling to the region during this time.

Undoubtedly, the additional rewards of performing Umrah during this time are tempting, but the high demand will also cost a lot. So, plan your trip during the lesser in-demand season to get a budget-friendly Umrah package from Toronto.

If you want to explore the tourist attractions of Saudi Arabia, you can plan your trip during the summer season. It is the cheapest time to visit the region because of its high temperatures.

Book an Affordable Flight at the Right Time

Flight is a significant expense of any trip. If you want a cheap trip to KSA, you must look for an affordable flight. After deciding the perfect time to visit the region, you can start comparing flights from different airlines to choose the best option for yourself. You can also look for budget airlines as they offer cheaper flights. Moreover, when travelling during the off-season, you must keep an eye on various deals and discounts the airlines provide.

Book your flight in advance to avoid paying extra on last-minute flights. If you travel frequently, you might know that booking your flights several months ahead is the best way to get the cheapest deals.

Look for Cheap Accommodation

Another significant expense of your trip will be accommodation. Whether you are in the region for the pilgrimage or tourism, you will find numerous accommodations throughout the country. You can look for budget hotels that offer basic services at a low cost. Moreover, you can also consider renting a vacation property or an Airbnb. These types of accommodation are cheaper and allow you to experience the local lifestyle and culture in the region.

If you are in the region for the pilgrimage, you can also look for religious guesthouses in Makkah and Madinah. These guesthouses are explicitly built for the pilgrims and can be cost-effective.

Use Public Transportation in the Region

Exploring the destination can only be cost-effective if you use public transportation instead of private cars and taxis. There are numerous public trains and buses in the region that you can use to travel within the country.

You can also rent a car if you want to explore multiple cities. It will give you the flexibility to explore the cities in a better way and will cost less than changing numerous buses and trains to get to the cities.

Explore Affordable Dining and Free Tourist Attractions

It is very important to stay within the determined budget while dining and exploring tourist attractions in the region. You cannot spend too much on food and tourist attractions if you have a tight budget.

It is essential to look for affordable dining options and free tourist attractions to ensure that you have the most memorable holiday experience within your budget.

Summing Up

If you have availed services of an Islamic travel agency but are still curious about how to have the most affordable Umrah, now you know some perfect tips after reading this blog. Saudi Arabia is an excellent destination with countless explore-worthy tourist experiences. Not only do Muslims want to explore this beautiful region on a budget, but now travellers worldwide have developed quite an interest in the region. So, start planning your budget-friendly trip to Saudi Arabia.