Expat Choices: Sharjah vs. Ras Al Khaimah
For expats choosing which city in the UAE to live in, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah stand out for their unique attractions, culture, and lifestyle. For instance, Sharjah offers attractive living accommodations for city dwellers while Ras Al Khaimah caters to those on a budget.
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Are you an expat deciding between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah? Are you also looking to stay insured with health insurance? This Pacific Prime Dubai will explore the similarities and differences between these two cities, including the economy, climate, infrastructure, job opportunities, and more.
Exploring Sharjah for Expats
Sharjah is a diverse and culturally-rich city with a plethora of attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a fun day out, Sharjah has something for everyone.
Landmarks and Museums
Sharjah features landmarks and museums that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, with over 5,000 artifacts dating back to the era, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Islamic art and culture.
The museum also hosts various exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year, making it a hub for the art community in Sharjah.
Cultural Events
Sharjah is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with various festivals, events, and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. The Sharjah Heritage Days is an annual event that celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and food.
The Sharjah International Book Fair is another popular event that attracts book lovers from around the world. The fair features over 1.5 million books in various languages and genres, making it one of the largest book fairs in the world.
Economy and Job Opportunities
Sharjah’s economy is diverse and boasts a thriving manufacturing sector as well as a growing services industry. The city is home to several free zones that offer attractive business incentives to companies looking to invest in the region.
There are also various job opportunities available in Sharjah, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors. The city has several universities, colleges, and schools that offer employment opportunities to expats.
In addition, Sharjah is home to several world-class hospitals and healthcare facilities that attract medical professionals from around the world.
Living in Sharjah
If you’re considering living in Sharjah, you’ll be pleased to know that the city offers a high-quality lifestyle with plenty of amenities and attractions. Sharjah is the cultural capital of the UAE and has a lot to offer for those who seek to immerse themselves in a diverse and vibrant community.
Housing Options
Sharjah offers a wide range of housing options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose from apartments, villas, and townhouses. Rental prices vary based on location but generally are more affordable than Dubai.
You can expect to pay around $1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center and around $800 outside of the city center. The cost of living in Sharjah is lower than other emirates and can save you up to 30% on expenses.
Healthcare
Sharjah has an excellent healthcare system with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics. You can find top-rated medical facilities such as Al Qasimi Hospital and University Hospital Sharjah that offer world-class medical services.
Private hospitals such as Zulekha Hospital Sharjah and Prime Hospital Sharjah offer excellent medical services to residents.
Additionally, the government provides free healthcare for all UAE nationals and subsidizes healthcare for expats.
Education
Sharjah has a range of high-quality educational institutions following international standards, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. The city is home to Sharjah American International School, GEMS Millennium School, and the American University of Sharjah.
Recreational Activities
Sharjah offers plenty of recreational activities for you and your family. Visit the Al Majaz Waterfront, a popular waterfront leisure destination that includes restaurants, a fountain show, and a children’s play area.
Other popular attractions include the Sharjah Aquarium, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, and the Sharjah Art Museum.
Community Life
Sharjah is a friendly and welcoming city with people from different nationalities and cultures. You’ll find plenty of social events and activities throughout the year, including festivals such as the Sharjah Light Festival, Sharjah Biennial, and the Sharjah International Book Fair.
The city also has a strong tradition of volunteer work with numerous charities and NGOs helping the less fortunate.
Living in Sharjah offers a unique experience with plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s vibrant culture, attractions, and community life. With its affordable cost of living and high standard of living, Sharjah is a great option for expats.
Sharjah’s Infrastructure
The road network in Sharjah is well developed and maintained, with several major highways connecting the city to other emirates in the UAE. These highways include Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road, and Al Dhaid Road.
Other Essential Services
The city has several banks and financial institutions offering a variety of financial products and services to customers. The Sharjah Postal Service is also a vital component of the city’s infrastructure, providing services such as mail delivery and courier services.
Telecommunication services in Sharjah are advanced and reliable, with several providers offering high-speed internet and mobile services. Etisalat and du are the two leading providers, offering competitive prices and excellent services to customers.
Climate in Sharjah
Sharjah’s desert climate features hot summers and mild winters. The city receives an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 45°C during the summer months. December to February are the coolest months, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 23°C.
The city is mostly dry, with occasional rainfall and high humidity during the summer season.
If you are moving to Sharjah, it’s important to prepare for the climate by dressing appropriately and staying hydrated.
During the summer, it’s advisable to stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day and to limit outdoor activities. The city offers several indoor attractions and recreational activities such as museums, shopping malls, and cinemas.
Sharjah is not prone to tropical cyclones. The city may experience occasional dust storms and strong winds during the summer months. It’s essential to stay informed about weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities in case of severe weather events.
Exploring Ras Al Khaimah for Expats
Get ready to be captivated by Ras Al Khaimah’s fascinating blend of natural and manmade wonders. This emirate offers a diverse array of attractions, cultural experiences, and adventure activities that will leave you awestruck.
Top Attractions
Ras Al Khaimah boasts some of the UAE’s most stunning natural attractions, including the Hajar Mountains, Al Wadi Nature Reserve, and the breathtaking beaches along the Arabian Gulf.
For history buffs, the emirate is home to several fascinating archeological sites, such as the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah and the Dhayah Fort.
| Attraction | Description |
| Jebel Jais | The highest mountain peak in the UAE, offering breathtaking views and adventure activities such as ziplining and hiking. |
| Al Wadi Nature Reserve | A desert oasis with diverse wildlife, such as the Arabian Oryx and gazelles. Visitors can enjoy activities like horseback riding, falconry, and camel trekking. |
| Rak Track | A world-renowned motorsports complex that hosts thrilling events like karting and race car driving. |
Culture and Tourism
Ras Al Khaimah is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history that dates back to the third century BC. Experience the emirate’s vibrant culture through festivals and cultural events such as the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival and RAK Half Marathon.
The emirate’s thriving tourism industry has also led to the development of several luxury resorts and hotels such as the Waldorf Astoria and the Ritz Carlton.
Economy
Ras Al Khaimah’s economy is diverse, with industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and services contributing significantly to its growth. The emirate’s strategic location on the Arabian Gulf and its active seaports have also made it a hub for international trade.
With its favorable business environment and strong support for entrepreneurship, Ras Al Khaimah has become an attractive destination for foreign investors.
Cost of Living in Ras Al Khaimah
To give you an idea of the cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah, here is a comparison table of the prices of basic goods and services:
| Item | Ras Al Khaimah Price (USD) | Dubai Price (USD) |
| Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment | 550–800 | 800–1,200 |
| Monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas) | 150–200 | 200–350 |
| Monthly internet (uncapped ADSL or cable) | 40–60 | 80–100 |
| One-way ticket on local transport | 0.60 | 1.10 |
| Regular cappuccino | 2.70 | 4.30 |
| Fast food meal | 5.30 | 8.00 |
Job Opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah
The emirate’s economy is driven by tourism, manufacturing, and services sectors.
This makes it a hub for job opportunities in hospitality, engineering, finance, and healthcare industries. Some of the biggest companies in Ras Al Khaimah include RAK Ceramics, Julphar Pharmaceuticals, and Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA).
Ras Al Khaimah also offers a favorable tax environment with no personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to grow their wealth. The cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah is also relatively low compared to other emirates in the UAE.
How to Find Job Opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah
If you’re interested in exploring job opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah, there are several resources available to you. You can start by checking online job portals like Bayt, GulfTalent, and Monster Gulf. LinkedIn is also an excellent platform to connect with recruiters and companies in Ras Al Khaimah.
Networking is crucial in the job market in Ras Al Khaimah, and it’s essential to build connections and relationships with people in your industry. Attend industry events and join professional associations to expand your network and increase your chances of finding job opportunities.
FAQ
What are the main differences between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah as expat destinations?
Sharjah is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions, while Ras Al Khaimah boasts stunning natural landscapes and adventure activities. Additionally, Sharjah has a more developed economy and job opportunities compared to Ras Al Khaimah.
What attractions and cultural events can I explore in Sharjah?
Sharjah is home to numerous landmarks, museums, and cultural events, which include the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Arts Museum, and Al Noor Island. Additionally, the Sharjah Art Foundation organizes various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
What is the cost of living like in Sharjah?
The cost of living in Sharjah can vary depending on your lifestyle and accommodation choices. Generally, housing and transportation are affordable, and there are plenty of options for dining and entertainment. It’s always a good idea to research and plan your budget accordingly.
Conclusion
Whichever city you decide to go with, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah both have something for every expat. These two cities make it easy for expats and local citizens alike to explore.
If you are worried about your safety and wellbeing abroad, fret not as Pacific Prime Dubai, an experienced health insurance broker, can help you seek out suitable health insurance plans to ensure your safety abroad amidst the risk of illnesses and injuries.
Whether you’re an expat in Dubai or a local citizen, we can also help you out with completely impartial advice at no additional cost. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or get a free quote for plan comparisons.
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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