Expat Life in Abu Dhabi vs. Sharjah: Which is Better?
Moving to Abu Dhabi may be the better choice than Sharjah for expats looking for a more cosmopolitan feel, though which city is better will be a personal preference. Both cities offer a rich cultural experience, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, and Sharjah focuses on maintaining UAE traditions.
Are you considering moving to the UAE? Both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are some of the best places to live in the UAE. In this article, we will look at how both cities offer unique cultural experiences, amenities, and lifestyles for expats.
Exploring Abu Dhabi and Sharjah: A Comparative Analysis
Abu Dhabi and Sharjah may be located in the same country, but there are many differences between the two emirates that are worth exploring. Whether you’re an expat looking to move to the UAE or a tourist, understanding these differences can help you make the most of your time in these two cities.
Attractions in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
When it comes to attractions, Abu Dhabi has many wonders to offer, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Sharjah, on the other hand, is known for its cultural landmarks, including the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and the Sharjah Art Museum.
Comparison
Abu Dhabi and Sharjah have distinct differences in terms of their overall vibe. As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a more modern and cosmopolitan city that offers plenty of high-end amenities, while Sharjah is more traditional and cultural, preserving the history and heritage of the UAE.
Differences
- Abu Dhabi is bigger and more spread out, while Sharjah is more compact
- Abu Dhabi has more high-end shopping and dining options, while Sharjah is more affordable
- Abu Dhabi is home to more luxury hotels and resorts, while Sharjah is more focused on cultural tourism
These differences may seem small, but they can make a big impact on your overall experience in the UAE. If you’re looking for a more affordable place to live or visit, Sharjah may be the better choice. For a high-end experience with all of the bells and whistles, Abu Dhabi may be more your style.
Population and Economy: Abu Dhabi vs. Sharjah
When considering a move to either Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, it’s important to take a closer look at the population and economic factors at play in each city.
Population
Abu Dhabi has a larger population than Sharjah, with an estimated 3.79 million residents as of 2023. Sharjah, on the other hand, has a population of approximately 1.83 million people as of 2023.
With a larger population, Abu Dhabi may offer a wider range of social opportunities and a more bustling city atmosphere. However, Sharjah’s smaller population may provide a tighter-knit community and a more intimate feel.
Economy
Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, two prominent UAE cities, have robust economies largely driven by the oil and gas industry, with both investing heavily in infrastructure development. However, Sharjah distinguishes itself by actively diversifying its economy through tourism, arts, and culture sectors.
Abu Dhabi boasts a strong economy, largely driven by the oil and gas industry. The city has made significant investments in infrastructure, including the development of a world-class transportation system and the creation of several large-scale commercial and industrial projects.
Sharjah, on the other hand, has a more diversified economy. While oil and gas still play a significant role, the city also has a thriving tourism industry, as well as a growing arts and culture sector. Sharjah has also made significant investments in infrastructure.
| Abu Dhabi | Sharjah | |
| GDP per Capita | USD $84,900 | USD $32,100 |
| Cost of Living
(Single person excluding rent) |
USD $948.3
(AED 3,483) |
USD $830.4
(AED 3,050) |
| Key Industries | Oil and Gas, Construction, Tourism | Oil and Gas, Tourism, Arts and Culture |
As you can see in the table above, Abu Dhabi has a higher GDP per capita than Sharjah. Both cities have their economic strengths, making it important to evaluate your individual career goals when considering a move.
- In Abu Dhabi, you may find ample opportunities in the oil and gas industry or the growing tourism sector.
- In Sharjah, you may find a more diverse range of career options, including opportunities in the arts and culture sector.
Embracing Culture: Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are both rich in history and culture, providing expats with plenty of opportunities to explore and learn. From museums and galleries to festivals and traditions, both cities offer a vibrant cultural scene.
Historical Significance
Abu Dhabi has a history dating back over 5,000 years, with archeological evidence indicating that the Bani Yas tribe, the ruling family of Abu Dhabi, can trace their origins to the region.
In contrast, Sharjah has a more recent history, with the earliest accounts of the city dating back to the 16th century. Sharjah’s focus on preserving its cultural heritage has contributed to its recognition as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO.
Festivals and Traditions
Both cities celebrate their cultural traditions through various festivals and events. Abu Dhabi hosts the Abu Dhabi Festival, a month-long celebration of music and arts, as well as the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which brings together authors and publishers from around the world.
In Sharjah, the annual Sharjah Light Festival illuminates the city’s landmarks, while the Sharjah Heritage Days celebrates the emirate’s cultural heritage through traditional dances, crafts, and food.
Tourism Industry
The tourism industry in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah is thriving, with a range of attractions and activities available for visitors. Abu Dhabi boasts the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Hosn provide visitors with insight into the emirate’s history and culture.
Sharjah’s cultural offerings include the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, the Sharjah Art Museum, and the Sharjah Archaeology Museum.
Getting Around and Education: Abu Dhabi vs. Sharjah
When deciding where to live as an expat, transportation and access to education are essential considerations. Abu Dhabi and Sharjah both have reliable public transportation systems and a range of educational options.
Transportation
Abu Dhabi has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system that connects major cities in the UAE. The buses are affordable and reliable, with air-conditioned interiors that provide relief from the hot desert sun. Taxis are readily available and metered.
Sharjah also has a good public transportation system, with buses that run throughout the city and taxis available on the streets. However, Sharjah does not have a metro system like Abu Dhabi.
Education
Both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah have a diverse range of educational options, including international schools and universities.
In Abu Dhabi, there are several international schools offering curriculums from around the world, including the International Baccalaureate program. The city is also home to prestigious universities, such as New York University Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi campus of Sorbonne University.
Sharjah also has a variety of international schools, providing education in languages including English, Arabic, and French. The American University of Sharjah and the University of Sharjah offer higher education options for students.
FAQ
Is Sharjah more affordable than Abu Dhabi?
Sharjah is considerably more affordable compared to Abu Dhabi. The cost of living, excluding rent, in Sharjah is approximately 12.4% cheaper than in Abu Dhabi. The cost of living, including rent, in Sharjah is approximately 22.2% lower than in Abu Dhabi.
How do rental prices differ between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah?
Rent is typically more expensive in Abu Dhabi compared to Sharjah. The average cost of a 1 bedroom apartment in the city center in Abu Dhabi is about USD $1,401.6 (AED 5,148). In Sharjah, the average cost of rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in the city center is about USD $881 (AED 3,236).
Does Abu Dhabi have better healthcare than Sharjah?
Abu Dhabi has a more extensive healthcare infrastructure compared to Sharjah. The capital is home to several world-class hospitals such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, and Burjeel Medical City.
Conclusion
When considering between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it is important to consider different aspects such as the availability of amenities and lifestyle options.
Abu Dhabi offers a wider range of amenities, with luxurious residential areas, high-end shopping, and various entertainment options such as theme parks, water parks, and world-famous cultural and artistic events.
Sharjah offers a more affordable cost of living, with a focus on parks and nature reserves, museums, and select malls and shopping destinations.
Ultimately, when choosing between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it comes down to your personal preference and lifestyle goals. Do you prefer the high-end, cosmopolitan lifestyle offered by Abu Dhabi, or are you looking for a more traditional, affordable expat experience in Sharjah?
No matter which emirate you decide is better, it is crucial that you secure a health insurance plan as medical coverage is mandatory in the UAE. This is where Pacific Prime can help you.
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Born and raised in the cultural melting pot that is Hong Kong, and having studied at an international school, Vista has developed a multicultural perspective that he uses in his writing and strives to connect to people of different backgrounds.
In his free time, Vista enjoys immersing himself in different worlds, from video games to light novels and movies. His hobbies help him expand his writing style by putting himself in the point-of-view of different people and characters.
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