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Whether it’s the stunning architecture, thrilling theme parks, quiet beaches, or national parks, in Abu Dhabi there is always something to do. If you’re thinking of moving to Abu Dhabi to save on income taxes or advance your career, then this guide is for you. We’ll talk about moving costs, visa options, living expenses, and more. Including a moving to Abu Dhabi checklist!
Your Abu Dhabi moving costs are dependent on the distance, the volume of the items, services like packaging and storage, and potential price fluctuations due to seasonality. When moving to Abu Dhabi, removal services almost always include customs clearance and door-to-door delivery, but we recommend double-checking with your mover.
Below are the average costs for your move to Abu Dhabi when using sea freight—the cheapest and most common moving method. While air freight is faster, it’s more expensive.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom flat | £3,700 – £4,400 |
| Three-bedroom house | £5,900 – £6,850 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.
To receive a personal quote for your move from the UK to Abu Dhabi, use the calculator below.
Estimate Cost of My Move to Abu DhabiMake your move to Abu Dhabi a headache-free process with these renowned international moving companies. These relocation services are among the best-rated in the UK and are experienced with international moves to Abu Dhabi.
Top 5 international moving companies from the UK to Abu Dhabi:
Bringing pets to Abu Dhabi from the UK is allowed but requires a bit of planning, as the country has strict requirements for hairy pals. Here are the requirements for pet relocation to Abu Dhabi:
A Rabies Titer Test, as well as tapeworm and tick treatments, are generally not required when moving pets from the UK to Abu Dhabi. However, make sure to confirm this with local authorities closer to your Abu Dhabi move.
UK citizens visiting Abu Dhabi can enter with a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival. There’s a 10-day grace period and no need to apply in advance. After these 30 days, you can extend for an additional 30 days via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
If you move to Abu Dhabi to work and live, you’ll need a more permanent visa.
There are a few routes you can take when moving to Abu Dhabi for work.
Residence visas are for UK citizens who plan to live in Abu Dhabi long-term through employment, investment, or as a dependent. This visa offers residency for two to three years. After getting the employment visa, your employer or family sponsor can apply for residency. The process includes a health check and Emirates ID.
Are you moving to Abu Dhabi with your family? British expats joining their spouse or children can apply for a family visa through the GDRFA or other emirate-specific authorities. The expat worker (sponsor) has to meet certain income requirements and provide proof of relationship, like a marriage or birth certificate.
Can You Live in Dubai and Work in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can live in Dubai and commute to Abu Dhabi for work, but the commute could take around one to two hours each way. There are no restrictions against living in one emirate and working in another, but your residency visa is tied to the emirate where your employer is based or where you’re registered.
With its luxury lifestyle options, top-notch healthcare, and bustling activities, Abu Dhabi offers a vibrant experience filled with cultural heritage. Workers and families moving from the UK to Abu Dhabi are drawn to safety, modern infrastructure, and high standards of living.
Without rent included, you need around £4,091 in Abu Dhabi to maintain the same lifestyle as £6,800 in London. Let’s see the cost of living in Abu Dhabi compared to the UK.
| Item | Abu Dhabi, UAE | London, UK |
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | £8.38 | £20.00 |
| Pint of Beer | £8.38 | £6.50 |
| Regular Cappuccino | £4.47 | £3.72 |
| Single Transport Ticket | £0.52 | £2.75 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre) | £1,018.68 | £2,156.92 |
| Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Centre) | £764.43 | £1,591.27 |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | £2,964.17 | £3,448.28 |
Source: Numbeo
While just 90 minutes apart, the two cities offer different expat experiences. Abu Dhabi is laid-back, cultural, and more conservative, while Dubai has a vibrant nightlife and luxury.
Abu Dhabi has lower living costs, specifically for rent and schooling. Many British citizens move to Dubai for career opportunities in tech or finance, while Abu Dhabi is great for family-friendly living and jobs in the government and oil sector.
Both cities are considered expensive, but the costs of living in Abu Dhabi are around 7% lower than in Dubai. Rent prices are 29% lower. Abu Dhabi offers a more affordable lifestyle, while Dubai has a more international and touristic appeal that drives up the prices for luxury goods, dining, and recreational activities.
The best place to live in Abu Dhabi depends on your lifestyle and family needs. With plenty of entertainment options and culture, there is a neighbourhood for everyone.
Many British expats in Abu Dhabi pick areas where community, schooling, and recreational activities are all available. International schools can be found in the more quiet areas of Al Reem Island and Khalifa City. Al Raha Beach is a popular pick for expat life in Abu Dhabi too, with its luxury flats with waterfront views, shopping malls, and nice restaurants.
Abu Dhabi is safe and family-friendly, with plenty of international schools and things to do. Expat families enjoy visiting the beach, going to the theme parks on Yas Island, or diving into Abu Dhabi’s culture. There is a strong sense of community and high-quality healthcare.
Wondering why you should move to Abu Dhabi? Let’s go through the pros and cons of moving to Abu Dhabi, so you know what to expect.
When working in Abu Dhabi as a British expat, expect a formal yet diverse work culture where seniors are respected and decision-making happens at higher levels. Average weeks run from Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, though the private sector also follows Sunday to Thursday work weeks. By law, workdays are shorter for Muslims and non-Muslims during Ramadan.
Many expats are drawn to Abu Dhabi for the tax-free salaries and relocation packages. Negotiate housing or schooling perks in your employment contract, as these costs can easily add up when moving to the UAE.
The main thing when moving to Abu Dhabi is to secure a job in advance. Having a sponsor makes the process much easier. In this checklist, we’ve collected the main steps to move to Abu Dhabi stress-free.
