Most remote workers in the UAE live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, which both have full guides. This page compares them with two cheaper emirates.
The costs are ballpark figures for a comfortable month for one person in a furnished apartment, eating out often, with coworking, transport and a social life.
The Bases at a Glance#
| Base | Comfortable month | Best months | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | about $4,000 | November to March | Big city, community, nightlife |
| Abu Dhabi | about $3,600 | November to March | Calmer capital, culture |
| Sharjah | $2,300 to $3,000 | November to March | Cheaper, conservative, near Dubai |
| Ras al-Khaimah | $2,300 to $3,000 | November to March | Beaches, mountains, quiet |
Dubai#
The UAE’s biggest city, with the most coworking spaces, a large nomad and expat community, beaches, malls and nightlife. Dubai Marina, JLT, Downtown and Business Bay are popular areas. See the Dubai digital nomad guide.
Abu Dhabi#
The capital is calmer, greener and more cultural, with the Louvre Abu Dhabi, beaches and Hub71’s startup scene. See the Abu Dhabi digital nomad guide.
Sharjah#
Next to Dubai, with much lower rents, museums and a more conservative atmosphere: alcohol is not sold. Traffic into Dubai is heavy at rush hour.
Ras al-Khaimah#
The northernmost emirate has beaches, the Hajar mountains (with Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak) and a slower pace, at lower cost. A car is essential.
Choosing Your Base#
- Come from November to March, and plan to leave or stay indoors in summer.
- Dubai for community, Abu Dhabi for calm, the northern emirates for value.
Where to Base FAQs#
Where do most digital nomads live in the UAE?
Dubai, followed by Abu Dhabi.
What is the cheapest place in the UAE for digital nomads?
Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah, at about $2,300 to $3,000 a month.
Can I live in Sharjah and work in Dubai?
Many people do, for the lower rents, though rush-hour traffic between them is heavy.