Best Areas for Renting in Abu Dhabi Based on Your Salary

Are you considering renting a property in Abu Dhabi? As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi offers a diverse housing market with options to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio or an expansive villa, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone.

Before diving into the rental market, it’s crucial to understand the cost of living in Abu Dhabi, particularly the expenses associated with rental housing.

To make informed decisions, we have considered the price ranges that align with various salary brackets.

To determine suitable options for affordable accommodations in Abu Dhabi, we have analyzed the average percentage of earnings that tenants allocate to housing expenses.

In general, most tenants spend around 30% to 40% of their earnings on rent. Therefore, we recommend having a minimum monthly salary of AED 5,000 to AED 8,000 to comfortably afford rental housing in the emirate.

Apart from recurring rental payments, it’s essential to consider the initial costs involved in renting a property.

These costs include security deposits, processing tenancy contracts, and setting up utilities.

For instance, setting up an account as a residential customer with the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), the official authority for water and electricity, requires paying insurance fees. These initial expenses contribute to the overall cost of renting a property in Abu Dhabi.

Rent Payment Process and Contract Details

Rent in Abu Dhabi is typically paid in the form of upfront cheques.

While some landlords may require the full annual rent upfront, others may agree to accept two to four post-dated cheques, cashed in at specific dates throughout your rental contract.

This flexibility provides tenants with different payment options to suit their financial circumstances.

Once you have found and chosen a property, you will be required to pay a security deposit.

Typically, the security deposit amounts to 5% of the total rent. This deposit is refundable upon the expiration of your rental contract, ensuring a fair and secure rental process.

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Best Areas for Renting in Abu Dhabi Based on Salary Brackets

Salary Range: AED 5,000 to AED 8,000

For individuals with a monthly salary ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 8,000, several areas in Abu Dhabi offer affordable rental options.

The following areas are recommended for their budget-friendly accommodation choices:

  • Al Muroor

Al Muroor is an excellent option for affordable rentals within your salary bracket.

Whether you are seeking a studio or a one-bedroom apartment, Al Muroor provides a range of options.

Studios in this area start at AED 22,000 per annum, while one-bedroom flats in Al Muroor can be rented for as low as AED 28,000.

Mussafah is another favorable area for individuals with entry-level jobs and a limited budget.

One-bedroom apartments in Mussafah start at AED 28,000 per year, providing affordable housing options for tenants in this salary range.

Al Mushrif offers attractive rental options for individuals earning between AED 5,000 and AED 8,000 per month.

With annual rents ranging from AED 24,000 to AED .

Salary Range: AED 8,000 to AED 12,000

If your monthly salary falls between AED 8,000 and AED 12,000, there are more options available to you in terms of affordable rental areas in Abu Dhabi. The following areas are recommended for this salary range:

Al Reem Island is a popular choice for individuals with a higher salary bracket within this range.

You can find studio apartments starting at AED 21,000 per year.

Additionally, 1-bedroom apartments in Al Reem Island have a starting price of AED 40,000 per year.

  • Al Muroor

Al Muroor continues to be an affordable option for renting in Abu Dhabi. The rental prices in this area range from AED 24,000 to AED 38,000 per year for flats.

Mussafah remains a favorable area for individuals with a monthly salary between AED 8,000 and AED 12,000.

The starting rent for 2-bedroom apartments in Mussafah is AED 35,000 per year.

Salary Range: AED 12,000 to AED 18,000

As you progress in your career and have a higher salary range of AED 12,000 to AED 18,000 per month, you can consider more indulgent housing options. The following areas are recommended for this salary range:

Al Reem Island offers a range of housing options for individuals with a higher salary bracket. Studios for rent in Al Reem Island start at AED 24,000 per year, while 1-bedroom apartments can be found for as low as AED 38,000 per year.

  • Al Khalidiyah

Al Khalidiyah is another area where you can find suitable flats for rent based on your salary. Studios in Al Khalidiyah start at AED 24,000 per annum.

  • Hamdan Street

Hamdan Street is a central and vibrant district in Abu Dhabi, offering affordable rental options. Studios for rent in Hamdan Street fall within the budget range of AED 12,000 to AED 18,000 per year.

Salary Range: AED 18,000 to AED 25,000

If your monthly salary falls between AED 18,000 and AED 25,000, you have a wide range of upscale neighborhoods to choose from. The following areas are recommended for this salary range:

Al Raha Beach is known for its luxurious properties and waterfront views. Studios for rent in Al Raha Beach start at AED 45,000 per year, and 1-bedroom apartments can be found for as low as AED 38,000 per year

  • Corniche Area

The Corniche Area is a central and prestigious location in Abu Dhabi. Studios in this area start at AED 40,000 per year, and there are a variety of options available for couples and families.

  • Khalifa City A

Khalifa City A offers spacious 3-bedroom villas for rent starting at AED 90,000 per year, providing ample space for families in this salary range.

Salary Range: Above AED 25,000

With a monthly salary above AED 25,000, you have a wide range of luxurious options available in Abu Dhabi. The following areas are popular for high-income earners:

  • Corniche Area

The Corniche Area is another desirable location for high-income earners. Apartments in this area offer luxury finishing and stunning views, with a variety of options available for different preferences.

Al Raha Beach offers luxurious apartments and villas for rent. Single professionals can find upscale studios and 1-bedroom apartments with starting prices at AED 45,000 per year. Families can also consider larger 2 and 3-bedroom apartments in this vibrant community.

Khalifa City A, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, and Al Mushrif
These areas offer popular villa communities with a range of upscale rental properties for families.

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