How much is rent for a two bedroom in Abu Dhabi 2026?

Expect AED 85,000 to AED 110,000 per year on Al Reem or Yas Island.

What are average school fees in Abu Dhabi?

British curriculum schools charge AED 55,000 to AED 72,000 annually.

Is Abu Dhabi cheaper than Dubai for expats?

Rent and school fees are 15 to 25 percent lower in Abu Dhabi.

Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi 2026: Honest Numbers

Rent and Housing

One bedroom apartments in central Abu Dhabi average AED 55,000 to AED 70,000 per year in 2026. Two bedroom units in family areas such as Al Reem Island or Yas Island range from AED 85,000 to AED 110,000. Three bedroom villas on Yas or in Khalifa City start at AED 140,000. RERA registered contracts require one or two post dated cheques, and most landlords still ask for a 5 percent security deposit paid upfront.

International School Fees

Annual tuition for British curriculum schools averages AED 55,000 for primary and AED 72,000 for secondary. American curriculum schools charge AED 48,000 to AED 65,000. Indian curriculum fees sit between AED 28,000 and AED 42,000. Most schools require a non refundable registration fee of AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 and ask for payment in two or three instalments.

Groceries and Dining

A weekly shop for a couple at Carrefour or Spinneys costs AED 280 to AED 380. Imported cheese, olive oil and fresh salmon push totals higher. Eating out at casual restaurants averages AED 65 per person, while mid range dinner for two with drinks reaches AED 280 to AED 350. Delivery apps add AED 8 to AED 12 per order plus a small service fee.

Transport and Utilities

Annual RTA car registration plus insurance for a standard sedan runs AED 4,200. Petrol costs about AED 2.85 per litre. A monthly DEWA bill for a one bedroom apartment averages AED 380 including water and electricity. Two bedroom homes pay AED 520 to AED 650. Unlimited Nol Silver cards for public buses and metro cost AED 180 per month.

Healthcare and Visas

Private health insurance for a single adult starts at AED 6,800 per year. Family cover for two adults and one child averages AED 18,000. ICP medical fitness tests cost AED 300 and are valid for one year. A two year residency visa renewal including Emirates ID and stamping currently totals AED 1,050 for most employment sponsored expats.

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Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →