Moving Your FamilyAbu Dhabi
Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi for Families
A realistic breakdown of rent, schooling, groceries and healthcare for families moving to Abu Dhabi.
6 min readUpdated 24 Oct 2026
City guide · United Arab Emirates
Living in Abu Dhabi
The UAE capital, calmer than Dubai, with strong government, energy and culture sectors.
Cost of living
Compare with another city| Item | AED | USD |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment (city centre) | AED 6,978 | $1,900 |
| 3-bed apartment (family area) | AED 15,792 | $4,300 |
| Utilities (monthly) | AED 881 | $240 |
| Groceries (single, monthly) | AED 2,277 | $620 |
| Dinner for two (mid-range) | AED 1,396 | $380 |
| Transport (monthly) | AED 845 | $230 |
| International school (yearly) | AED 5,876 | $1,600 |
| Private health insurance (monthly) | AED 735 | $200 |
Neighbourhoods
Al Khalidiyah
midOlder central apartments close to the Corniche and offices.
Best for: Value near the Corniche
Schools: Al Khubairat Community School, The British School Al Khubairat
Family friendly72Lifestyle74- Studio / mo
- $900
- 1-bed / mo
- $1,300
- 3-bed / mo
- $2,800
- To centre
- ~10 min
Al Reem Island
midModern towers close to the city centre with waterfront promenades.
Best for: Professionals and couples
Schools: Repton School Abu Dhabi, Cranleigh is 15 min away
Family friendly74Lifestyle82- Studio / mo
- $1,300
- 1-bed / mo
- $1,900
- 3-bed / mo
- $4,100
- To centre
- ~10 min
Khalifa City
midSpacious villas near the airport and many schools.
Best for: Families
Schools: Raha International School, Al Yasmina Academy
Family friendly90Lifestyle60- 3-bed / mo
- $3,800
- To centre
- ~30 min
Saadiyat Island
premiumBeaches, the Louvre and top schools, at a premium price.
Best for: Premium family living
Schools: Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, Redwood Montessori
Family friendly92Lifestyle80- Studio / mo
- $1,700
- 1-bed / mo
- $2,600
- 3-bed / mo
- $7,000
- To centre
- ~20 min
Abu Dhabi guides