Ras Al Khaimah vs. Ajman: Which is Better for Expats?
Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman both offer a unique and diverse expat experience. While choosing your destination can be daunting, factors such as lifestyle and costs can help make your decision easier.
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Are you an expat deciding between these two cities in the UAE? Are you also looking to stay insured while abroad? This Pacific Prime Dubai article will explore the similarities and differences of these cities to help you make an informed decision about where to live as an expat.
Attractions and Tourism in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
Whether you’re interested in exploring the great outdoors or immersing yourself in local culture, both cities have something to offer:
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, and the Hajar Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
If you’re looking for something more laidback, the beaches here are renowned for their soft white sand and turquoise waters. The city is also home to several historic sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Jazirat Al Hamra.
Ajman
Ajman may be small, but it has a big personality. The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its museums and historical landmarks, such as the Ajman Museum and the Ajman Fort.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, Ajman has several pristine public beaches, including the popular Ajman Corniche.
Cost of Living in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
In this section, we will compare the cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, helping you to budget and plan accordingly:
Housing Costs
Housing costs in both Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman are relatively affordable compared to other UAE cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
However, Ras Al Khaimah generally offers lower rental prices than Ajman, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $810 in Ras Al Khaimah vs. $920 in Ajman.
| Ras Al Khaimah | Ajman | |
| One-bedroom apartment (average monthly rent) | $810 | $920 |
| Three-bedroom apartment (average monthly rent) | $1,550 | $1,700 |
| Buying an apartment (price per square meter) | $1,170 | $1,615 |
Transportation Costs
Both cities offer affordable transportation options, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. The cost of gasoline is also relatively low in the UAE, making car ownership an attractive option.
However, Ajman has a more developed public transportation system, which could result in reduced expenses if you rely on it for daily commuting.
Groceries Costs
Grocery prices in both Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman are generally similar, with some variations based on location and product availability. A weekly shopping cart of basic groceries for a family of four will cost around $110 in both cities.
However, imported and specialty food items tend to be more expensive due to the additional transportation costs.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs in both Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman are reasonable compared to other countries. The UAE has a universal healthcare system that provides basic medical services at affordable rates.
However, private medical services and specialty treatments can be more expensive, so it’s essential to have health insurance to cover these costs.
Overall, the cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah is generally lower than Ajman, particularly when it comes to housing expenses. However, your personal lifestyle and preferences will play a significant role in determining which city is the more affordable option for you.
Employment Opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
Ras Al Khaimah has a strong tourism sector, with many hotels and resorts providing job opportunities for expats. Meanwhile, Ajman has a growing industrial sector, with a focus on manufacturing and construction.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the job prospects in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has a diverse economy, with opportunities for employment across a range of industries. Additionally, Ras Al Khaimah has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in industries such as cement, pharmaceuticals, and ceramics.
If you’re interested in working in the healthcare sector, Ras Al Khaimah has several hospitals and clinics offering employment opportunities for medical professionals.
English is widely spoken in Ras Al Khaimah, making it a relatively easy destination for expats to find work. Many companies operating in the emirate are seeking English-speaking employees, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Ajman
Ajman is a smaller emirate than Ras Al Khaimah, but the healthcare sector in Ajman is expanding, with new hospitals and clinics opening up and providing job opportunities for medical professionals.
English is also widely spoken in Ajman, making it easier for expats to find jobs. However, job availability may be more limited in Ajman compared to Ras Al Khaimah.
Real Estate and Housing in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman offer various housing options such as apartments, villas, and townhouses while the former offers a range of communities and the latter is known for affordability. Let’s take a closer look at the real estate and housing markets in each city.
Housing Options
- Ras Al Khaimah: There are many housing options in Ras Al Khaimah, including apartments, villas, and townhouses. The city offers a range of communities, from waterfront developments to quieter residential areas.
- Ajman: Similarly, Ajman offers a variety of housing options, with apartments, villas, and townhouses available. The city is known for its affordable housing prices, making it a popular choice for expats on a budget.
Rental Prices
Both Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman offer relatively affordable rental prices compared to other cities in the UAE.
| City | 1-bedroom apartment (monthly rent) | 3-bedroom apartment (monthly rent) |
| Ras Al Khaimah | $700 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Ajman | $400 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
As you can see, Ajman offers lower rental prices than Ras Al Khaimah, but Ras Al Khaimah has a wider range of housing options and communities to choose from.
Neighborhoods in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
Both cities have a variety of neighborhoods to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Popular neighborhoods include Al Hamra Village, Mina Al Arab, and Al Nakheel. Al Hamra Village offers waterfront living with a golf course and marina, while Mina Al Arab is a family-friendly community with parks and shops. Al Nakheel is known for its location and affordability.
- Ajman: Popular neighborhoods include Al Rashidiya, Al Jurf, and Ajman Downtown. Al Rashidiya is a popular expat community with plenty of amenities, while Al Jurf is known for its luxurious villas. Ajman Downtown is the city’s commercial center, with many shops and restaurants.
Ultimately, the choice between Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman comes down to personal preferences and priorities. While Ajman offers lower rental prices, Ras Al Khaimah has a wider range of housing options and communities to choose from.
Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and job location when making your decision.
Lifestyle in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman
Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman feature their own unique selection of healthcare, education, activities, and more, catering to every expats’ unique needs. Your decision will largely depend on your personal preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider.
Healthcare in Ras Al Khaimah vs. Ajman
Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman both have modern healthcare facilities, with hospitals and clinics providing a high level of care. However, Ras Al Khaimah has several internationally accredited hospitals, making it a better choice if you require specialized medical treatment.
Education in Ras Al Khaimah vs. Ajman
Both cities offer a good selection of schools for expat families, with a mix of international and local institutions. However, Ras Al Khaimah has a slightly wider range of options, including several prestigious international schools.
Recreational Activities in Ras Al Khaimah vs. Ajman
Ras Al Khaimah boasts a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and watersports. If you love nature and the great outdoors, this could be the perfect place for you.
However, Ajman has plenty to offer in terms of recreational activities as well, with a lively beach scene and several shopping malls.
Community Vibes in Ras Al Khaimah vs. Ajman
Ajman is a small and tightly-knit community, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. If building close relationships and a sense of belonging is important to you, Ajman may be the better choice.
On the other hand, Ras Al Khaimah has a larger expat community, providing more opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Ultimately, the lifestyle you can expect in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman will be influenced by a variety of factors. Consider your personal preferences and needs, explore the options available, and make an informed decision that will best suit your lifestyle as an expat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman for expats?
While both cities offer unique opportunities for expats, there are some significant differences to consider. Ras Al Khaimah has a larger population and offers more diverse business opportunities, while Ajman is known for its affordable cost of living and family-friendly environment.
What are the top attractions in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman?
Ras Al Khaimah boasts stunning natural landscapes, including the Jebel Jais mountain range and the Al Wadi Nature Reserve. Ajman, on the other hand, is home to beautiful beaches and historical sites such as the Ajman Museum and the Al Jerf Archaeological Site.
How does the cost of living compare between Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman?
Generally, Ajman has a lower cost of living compared to Ras Al Khaimah. Housing and transportation expenses are more affordable in Ajman, while Ras Al Khaimah may have higher costs in these areas.
Conclusion
With numerous factors to choose from such as housing, lifestyle, tourist attractions, and budget, expats can decide which city will work for them that align with their preferences and budget.
Whichever destination you choose, always be mindful of the risk of injuries and illnesses, as medical bills abroad may be more expensive compared to your home country. Fortunately, this is where Pacific Prime Dubai comes in by simplifying insurance.
As an experienced international health insurance broker, we have helped numerous expats and local citizens, along with their families, seek out suitable health insurance plans. What’s more, we also offer completely impartial advice at no additional cost.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with us and get a free quote with us.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also be interested in our comparison between Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain or Fujairah and Ajman.
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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