Expats’ Guide: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah

Whether you’re considering a move to the United Arab Emirates or just planning a visit, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are two popular destinations for expats. The former offers luxurious living and a vibrant culture while the latter boasts more affordable pricing and a wealth of outdoor opportunities.

In this guide by Pacific Prime, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of living in each city, the best places to visit in those cities, the hotels and resorts to stay at, the weather patterns, the cost of living, and safety measures. 

Best Places to Visit: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah

Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah offer visitors a wealth of experiences and attractions to explore. Whether you’re interested in cultural landmarks, natural wonders, or leisure activities, both cities have plenty to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah.

Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is known for its opulence and modern architecture, but it also has a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Abu Dhabi:

Best Places to Visit in Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is a natural playground with a wealth of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Ras Al Khaimah:

Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah, both cities have plenty of attractions to offer visitors. 

Hotel Options: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah

When it comes to choosing a hotel in Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah, you have a plethora of hotel options ranging from budget-friendly accommodations to luxurious resorts. Let’s take a closer look at what each city has to offer.

Consider your budget and the type of experience you’re looking for when choosing a hotel in either city. Do you want to indulge in luxurious amenities or immerse yourself in a natural setting? Whatever your preference, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah have you covered.

Weather: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah 

Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah offer vastly different climates. The temperature and humidity levels in Abu Dhabi are generally higher than that of Ras Al Khaimah.

Abu Dhabi Weather

Abu Dhabi’s weather is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 80°F (27°C) in the winter months to 110°F (43°C) in the summer. From May to September, the city experiences high humidity levels, and occasional sandstorms are common.

Ras Al Khaimah Weather

Ras Al Khaimah’s weather is cooler and less humid than Abu Dhabi’s. Temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) in the winter months to 100°F (38°C) in the summer. The city experiences occasional rainfall from November to March, but it is generally dry throughout the year.

Cost of Living: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah 

If you’re planning to move to Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah, it’s important to consider the cost of living in each city. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you can expect to encounter in both places:

As you can see, the cost of living in Abu Dhabi is generally higher than in Ras Al Khaimah. Housing, transportation, and utilities are significantly more expensive in Abu Dhabi than in Ras Al Khaimah. The cost of groceries and dining out is relatively comparable in both cities.

Note: These are rough estimates, and your expenses may vary depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences. 

Safety: Abu Dhabi vs. Ras Al Khaimah 

Both Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are considered to be extremely safe for residents and tourists alike. The UAE has strict laws and regulations to ensure citizens’ and visitors’ safety and security.

Abu Dhabi has a larger police presence and more advanced security systems. There are CCTV cameras installed throughout the city, and police patrols are visible on the streets. The city has a low crime rate, and incidents of theft or violence are rare.

Ras Al Khaimah, on the other hand, is a smaller city and sees fewer tourists. It has a more laid-back vibe and a lower crime rate than Abu Dhabi. The city also has an effective emergency response system, ensuring that any accidents or incidents are dealt with promptly.

Driving Safety

Both Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah have strict traffic laws to keep drivers safe. The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy towards drunk driving, and penalties for driving under the influence are severe. Speeding and reckless driving are also strictly prohibited.

It is essential to wear your seatbelt at all times while driving. Children under the age of four must be in car seats, and children between four and eight must be seated in a booster seat. Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations before driving in either city.

General Safety Tips

Although Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are safe cities, it is always important to take some precautions to ensure your safety while living or traveling there. Here are a few general safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night.
• Do not leave valuable items unattended in public places.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and ensure nobody is watching you enter your PIN.
• Dress modestly in public areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah?

Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and offers a more cosmopolitan and bustling atmosphere. Ras Al Khaimah, on the other hand, is known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

What are the top tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Abu Dhabi include the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and the stunning Corniche waterfront.

What are the best places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah?

Ras Al Khaimah is famous for its Jebel Jais mountain range, the historic Dhayah Fort, and Al Marjan Island with its beautiful beaches and resorts.

Which city has better hotel options, Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah?

Both Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah offer a wide range of hotels and resorts to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxurious five-star properties to more affordable options, you’ll find plenty of choices in both cities.

How does the weather differ between Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah?

Abu Dhabi generally has hot and dry summers, while Ras Al Khaimah experiences slightly cooler temperatures due to its proximity to the mountains. Both cities have warm and pleasant winters.

Is it expensive to live in Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah?

Abu Dhabi tends to have a higher cost of living compared to Ras Al Khaimah. Prices for housing, transportation, and groceries are generally higher in Abu Dhabi.

Which city is safer, Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah?

Both Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are considered safe cities with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions and stay informed about your surroundings.

Conclusion

Both Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah have their own charms and are both ideal destinations catering to expats pursuing different lifestyles. No matter which one you choose, it is wise to secure international health insurance to ensure a safe and smooth transition.

International health insurance in Dubai will come in handy to satisfy visa insurance requirements and if you need to settle unexpected bills. It will cover treatment expenses through direct billing in hospitals within your insurer’s network, giving you peace of mind and a sense of assurance.

Pacific Prime has over 20 years of experience in helping expats find and secure law-compliant health insurance plans and in providing dedicated support along their journey abroad.

Contact our team of insurance experts today!

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Eric Chung

Content Creator at Pacific Prime Dubai

Eric is an experienced content writer specializing in writing creative copies of marketing materials including social media posts, advertisements, landing pages, and video scripts.

Since joining Pacific Prime, Eric was exposed to a new world of insurance. Having learned about insurance products extensively, he has taken joy and satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses manage risks and protect themselves against financial loss through the power of words.

Although born and raised in Hong Kong, he spent a quarter of his life living and studying in the UK. He believes his multicultural experience is a great asset in understanding the needs and wants of expats and globe-trotters.

Eric’s strengths lie in his strong research, analytical, and communication skills, obtained through his BA in Linguistics from the University of York and MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Bristol.

Outside of work, he enjoys some me-time gaming and reading on his own, occasionally going absolutely mental on a night out with friends.

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