You’ll find beautiful beaches, a lively city, and top-notch attractions in both Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai . But, how much will it cost you? Let’s look closely at the costs to see which place is more budget-friendly.
Key Takeaways
- Ras Al Khaimah’s cost of living is significantly lower than Dubai’s, with 25.5% lower consumer prices including rent.
- Rental prices in Ras Al Khaimah are 45.5% cheaper than in Dubai, making it a more affordable option for housing.
- Ras Al Khaimah offers a higher rental yield of 6-8% compared to Dubai’s 5-8%, providing better returns on investment.
- Groceries in Ras Al Khaimah are 4.8% more expensive than in Dubai, but overall living expenses are still significantly lower.
- Local purchasing power in Ras Al Khaimah is 3.6% higher than in Dubai, giving residents more buying power.
Cost of Living Comparison
Housing Costs
When looking at the cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, housing costs stand out as a big difference. In Ras Al Khaimah, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about AED 2,793.95 monthly. In Dubai, the same apartment costs AED 8,229.08, which is 66% more. For a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center, Ras Al Khaimah has an average rent of AED 3,524.08, while Dubai charges AED 5,101.40, a 30.9% difference.
The cost of a 3-bedroom apartment also shows a big gap. In Ras Al Khaimah’s city center, a 3-bedroom apartment averages AED 9,000 monthly. In Dubai, it’s AED 15,218.24, a 40.9% difference. Outside the city center, Ras Al Khaimah’s 3-bedroom apartments average AED 6,000, while Dubai’s average is AED 10,533.33, a 43% difference.
Interestingly, housing in Ras Al Khaimah is more affordable than in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Monthly rents for apartments in Al Marjan Island average at AED 3,083. In Al Nakheel, they average AED 1,333. For villas, Al Dhait has monthly rents averaging AED 4,667, while Mina Al Arab costs more, over AED 8,500 per month.
“Rent prices are significantly lower in Ras al-Khaimah, with a 66.0% decrease in costs for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center compared to Dubai.” - Manuj Garg, CEO of Top Luxury Property.”
Grocery Costs
Grocery prices in Ras Al Khaimah are often lower than in Dubai. For example, milk costs about AED 20.89 in Ras Al Khaimah. In Dubai, it’s up to AED 26.61, which is 21.5% more. A loaf of fresh white bread is AED 3.91 in Ras Al Khaimah but AED 5.27 in Dubai, a 25.8% difference.
Eggs are also cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah, costing AED 9.60 for a dozen compared to AED 11.95 in Dubai, a 19.6% difference. But, not everything is cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah. Local cheese (1 lb) is AED 26.88 there, which is 88.8% more than Dubai’s AED 14.24.
Overall, shopping for groceries in Ras Al Khaimah can save you money on many items. When you look at housing and utility costs too, you get a full picture of living expenses in both places.
| Item | Dubai | Ras Al Khaimah | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 7.03 AED | 5.52 AED | 21.5 % Lower in Rak |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 5.81 AED | 4.31 AED | 25.8 % Lower in Rak |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 11.95 AED | 9.60 AED | 19.6 % Lower in Rak |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 31.39 AED | 59.25 AED | 88.8 % Higher in Rak |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 31.33 AED | 36.49 AED | 16.5 % Higher in Rak |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 36.90 AED | 41.67 AED | 12.9 % Higher in Rak |
| Apples (1kg) | 8.95 AED | 8.79 AED | 1.8 % Lower in Rak |
| Banana (1kg) | 6.78 AED | 6.54 AED | 3.5 % Lower in Rak |
| Oranges (1kg) | 6.96 AED | 6.13 AED | 11.9 % Lower in Rak |
| Tomato (1kg) | 6.21 AED | 4.94 AED | 20.4 % Lower in Rak |
| Potato (1kg) | 4.23 AED | 3.54 AED | 16.3 % Lower in Rak |
| Onion (1kg) | 5.38 AED | 3.41 AED | 36.7 % Lower in Rak |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 6.14 AED | 4.28 AED | 30.3 % Lower in Rak |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 2.21 AED | 1.85 AED | 16.3 % Lower in Rak |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 55.00 AED | 40.00 AED | 27.3 % Lower in Rak |
“Ras Al Khaimah offers a more affordable grocery shopping experience compared to Dubai, with significant savings on a range of essential items.“
Restaurant Costs
Ras Al Khaimah is often cheaper for dining out than Dubai. For a budget-friendly meal, expect to pay about AED 35 in Ras Al Khaimah, versus AED 40 in Dubai - a 12.5% drop. A mid-range three-course meal for two costs around AED 180 in Ras Al Khaimah, but jumps to AED 300 in Dubai - a 40% increase.
Fast food is also cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah. A combo meal from McDonald’s or similar costs AED 25 there, but AED 35 in Dubai - a 28.6% cut. Drinks like domestic and imported beer, and cappuccinos are also more affordable in Ras Al Khaimah.
Meal Prices
Dining out is more budget-friendly in Ras Al Khaimah than Dubai. Food prices in Dubai are 32% higher than in Ras Al Khaimah. A basic lunch in a business area costs 95% more in Dubai. Savings are seen across various items, with boneless chicken breast 29% pricier in Dubai, and local cheese 154% more expensive.
| Item | Dubai | Ras Al Khaimah | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inexpensive Meal | AED 40 | AED 35 | 12.5% cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah |
| Mid-range 3-course Meal for 2 | AED 300 | AED 180 | 40% cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah |
| McDonald’s/Equivalent Combo Meal | AED 35 | AED 25 | 28.6% cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah |
The data clearly shows dining out is cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah than Dubai. This makes it a more budget-friendly choice for both locals and visitors.
Transportation Costs
When looking at transportation costs between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, there are big differences. In Ras Al Khaimah, a one-way ticket for public transport costs AED 10. In Dubai, it’s AED 7, which is 42.9% less. Also, the monthly pass for public transport in Ras Al Khaimah is AED 225 on average. This is 25% less than the AED 300 charged in Dubai.
Taxis in Ras Al Khaimah are cheaper, starting at AED 5.50. In Dubai, it starts at AED 12, which is 54.2% more. Fuel prices in Ras Al Khaimah are also lower, at AED 11.05 per gallon. In Dubai, it’s AED 11.35, which is 2.6% more. Car rental costs are often lower in Ras Al Khaimah. Monthly rental prices for different vehicles in Ras Al Khaimah range from AED 1,000 to AED 2,500. In Dubai, these costs are higher.
Overall, transportation costs in Ras Al Khaimah are more affordable than in Dubai. This makes it a better choice for both residents and visitors.
Utility Costs
Ras Al Khaimah is often cheaper for utility costs than Dubai. The average monthly cost for basic utilities like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for a 915 sq ft apartment is AED 547.07. This is 25.3% less than the AED 732.78 in Dubai. Mobile phone plans with calls and 10GB+ data cost AED 177.78 per month here, which is 10.1% less than Dubai’s AED 197.80. High-speed internet with 60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, and cable/ADSL costs AED 358.62 per month, 2% less than Dubai’s AED 365.99.
The lower utility costs in Ras Al Khaimah come from its lower cost of living compared to Dubai. This difference in costs is a big factor for people and families looking at the cost of living in both places.
| Utility Costs | Ras Al Khaimah | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for a 915 sq ft Apartment | AED 547.07 | AED 732.78 |
| Mobile Phone Plans (Calls and 10GB+ Data) | AED 177.78 | AED 197.80 |
| High-Speed Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | AED 358.62 | AED 365.99 |
For those looking to save on utility costs, Ras Al Khaimah is a better choice than Dubai. With lower utility expenses, people in Ras Al Khaimah can enjoy a better quality of life and manage their costs better.
Healthcare Costs
In Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, healthcare costs show some differences. Dubai is a big spot for medical tourism, welcoming about 691000 medical tourists in 2023. By the end of 2020, they expect more than 1 million visitors.
Health insurance prices in the UAE can really vary. A basic plan from Noor Takaful in Ras Al Khaimah starts at AED 500 monthly for one person. But, a top-tier plan from AXA can be AED 2,250 for one or AED 13,000 for worldwide coverage with extra perks. In Dubai, a good health plan costs about 10,000 AED (2,720 USD) a year.
Employers in places like Ras Al-Khaimah don’t have to offer health insurance. But, people living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi must have insurance or face a fine of 500 AED (136 USD).
For those with less money, the UAE offers an Essential Benefits Plan for those making less than 4,000 AED (1,090 USD) a month. It costs between 550 to 650 AED (150 to 175 USD) a year. Also, healthcare costs depend on your age, starting at 100 AED (27 USD) for kids under 10, 200 AED (54 USD) for teens, and 300 AED (82 USD) for adults.
Public hospitals in the UAE are cheaper but might take longer to see a doctor. Private hospitals are quicker but cost more. Also, public insurance often doesn’t cover things like eye surgery, hearing aids, or dental check-ups. You might need extra insurance for your family.
| Location | Average Annual Health Insurance Cost |
|---|---|
| Ras Al Khaimah (single person) | AED 6,000 - AED 26,000 |
| Dubai (single person) | AED 10,000 (around USD 2,720) |
| UAE (family of four) | AED 17,000 (around USD 4,625) |
In summary, healthcare costs in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai differ but offer many choices. People should look into their options to find the best health plan and budget plan.
Entertainment Costs
Ras Al Khaimah is a great place for entertainment at lower prices than Dubai. It gets over 1.1 million tourists a year, offering hotel stays from AED 300 to 600 per night. This is cheaper than Dubai, where hotels average AED 800 to 1,500 per night.
Enjoying the outdoors in Ras Al Khaimah is easy on the wallet. Movie tickets here are AED 47.50, a bit cheaper than Dubai’s AED 50. A fitness club membership in Ras Al Khaimah costs about AED 185 a month, which is AED 316.49 in Dubai, saving 41.5%.
| Activity | Ras Al Khaimah | Dubai | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movie Ticket | AED 47.50 | AED 50 | 5% Lower in Rak |
| Fitness Club Membership (Monthly | AED 185 | AED 316.49 | 41.5% Lower in Rak |
| Tennis Court (1 hour, weekend) | AED 60 | AED 159.38 | 62.4% Lower in Rak |
Playing tennis for an hour on the weekend costs AED 60 in Ras Al Khaimah, much less than Dubai’s AED 159.38. You can also enjoy water sports, falconry shows, cruises, seaplane rides, and camel races at lower prices in Ras Al Khaimah.
Ras Al Khaimah is a better choice for entertainment and leisure at lower costs than Dubai. It offers a wide range of attractions at prices that are easy on the wallet. This makes it a great spot for those looking for fun without spending a lot.
Salaries and Cost of Living
Average Monthly Net Salary
The average monthly net salary in Ras Al Khaimah is AED 8,828.75. This is 32.7% less than the AED 13,113.98 average in Dubai. But, the cost of living in Ras Al Khaimah is lower, especially for housing. This means the local purchasing power is only 9.6% lower than in Dubai.
You would need about AED 17,125.70 in Ras Al Khaimah to live as well as you do with AED 23,000 in Dubai. This is assuming you rent in both cities.
The cost of living in Ras al-Khaimah is 11.2% lower than in Dubai (without rent). Rent prices are 45.5% lower. This makes up for the 32.7% lower average monthly net salary in Ras Al Khaimah compared to Dubai. Also, the cost of living including rent in Ras al-Khaimah is 25.5% lower than in Dubai.
The average monthly expenses for a single person in the UAE is AED 4,000. For a family of four, it’s AED 14,000. The cost of living in the UAE is about 20% lower than in the United States.
Cost of Living for Singles
If you’re thinking of moving to the United Arab Emirates as a single person, it’s key to know the living costs. The average monthly expenses for a single person in the UAE are between AED 2,100 to AED 3,200. This includes rent for a studio, utilities, mobile, internet, TV, and groceries.
Ras Al Khaimah is cheaper than Dubai for singles. Rent for a studio there is AED 2,000 to AED 8,000 a month. In Dubai, it’s AED 3,500 to AED 15,000. Plus, living in Ras Al Khaimah is about 20% cheaper overall.
In Dubai, a single person’s monthly expenses, not counting rent, are about AED 4,000. But in Ras Al Khaimah, it’s around 20% less, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
Ras Al Khaimah is great for young professionals, recent graduates, or anyone wanting to save money. It offers lower rent and living costs. This means you can live comfortably without spending too much on basics.
Cost of Living for Couples
Ras Al Khaimah is a great choice for couples looking to save money in the UAE. A married couple can live here for AED 3,300 to AED 4,900 a month. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, and other daily costs.
Living in Dubai costs much more for couples. A 1-bedroom apartment in Dubai’s city center can be over AED 5,000 a month. So, Ras Al Khaimah is a better choice for those wanting a good life without spending a lot.
Ras Al Khaimah has many affordable homes for couples, like furnished villas starting at AED 36,000 a year. This is much cheaper than Dubai, where a 4-bedroom villa can be AED 200,000 to AED 265,000 a year.
Living in Ras Al Khaimah is also cheaper for things like utilities, food, clothes, and transport. It’s perfect for couples who want to save money and live well.
| Cost Comparison | Ras Al Khaimah | Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Rent for 1-bedroom apartment | AED 17,000 - AED 30,000 per year | AED 30,000 - AED 50,000 per year |
| Rent for 2-bedroom apartment | AED 24,000 - AED 36,000 per year | AED 80,000 - AED 100,000 per year |
| Rent for 4-bedroom villa | AED 36,000 - AED 48,000 per year | AED 200,000 - AED 265,000 per year |
| Monthly public transport cost | AED 150 - AED 200 | AED 350 for a metro pass |
| Utility bills for an 85 m2 apartment | AED 500 - AED 600 per month | AED 710 per month |
Ras Al Khaimah is more affordable for couples than Dubai. It offers a good life without spending too much.
Cost of Living for Families
Choosing between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai can greatly affect a family’s budget. In Ras Al Khaimah, a family of four might spend between AED 6,200 to AED 9,800 a month. This covers rent, utilities, food, transport, and school fees for two kids. Dubai, however, costs much more, with a 3-bedroom apartment averaging over AED 15,000 a month in the city center.
Ras Al Khaimah offers a better deal for families wanting a good life in the UAE. A 3-bedroom apartment there costs about AED 2,942 a month, much less than Dubai’s AED 7,400 for a one-bedroom. Utilities for a family of two in Ras Al Khaimah are around AED 1,126 a month, versus Dubai’s AED 2,000 (USD 544) a month.
For families with kids, Ras Al Khaimah can save a lot of money. School fees for expat kids in Dubai are capped at AED 6,000 a year, while international schools cost between AED 13,630 to AED 120,000 annually. In Ras Al Khaimah, families can find cheaper housing and schools, helping them save more.
Overall, living in Ras Al Khaimah is much cheaper than in Dubai. It’s a great choice for families looking for a quality life without the high cost.
Is Ras Al Khaimah cheaper than Dubai?
Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai have different costs of living in the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah is often cheaper for people moving or visiting.
Rent in Ras Al Khaimah is 45.5% lower than in Dubai. Eating out is 24.6% cheaper, and groceries are just 4.8% more expensive. Transport and utilities are also cheaper in Ras Al Khaimah.
Getting to Ras Al Khaimah is easy, with main hotels less than an hour from Dubai Airport and costing about $60 by taxi. Starting in November 2023, Qatar Airways will make flying to Ras Al Khaimah even easier.
Hotels in Ras Al Khaimah are often cheaper than in Dubai. The Waldorf Astoria offers pools, a big beach, and dining options at a good price. The Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Ras Al Khaimah has beach villas with private pools, great for honeymooners, at a budget-friendly rate.
Ras Al Khaimah is a more affordable choice for living or visiting the UAE. It has lower costs in housing, dining, transport, and fun activities compared to Dubai.
| Comparison | Dubai | Ras al Khaimah |
|---|---|---|
| Purchasing Power Index | 122.52 | 110.77 |
| Safety Index | 83.66 | 82.93 |
| Health Care Index | 69.74 | 71.76 |
| Climate Index | 50.27 | 36.10 |
| Cost of Living Index | 59.07 | 52.44 |
| Property Price to Income Ratio | 5.47 | 6.96 |
| Traffic Commute Time Index | 36.35 | 26.25 |
| Pollution Index | 48.82 | 51.64 |
| Quality of Life Index | 173.39 | 166.76 |
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cheaper place to live instead of Dubai, consider Ras Al Khaimah. It’s much more affordable in many areas like housing, food, transport, and fun activities. While Dubai is known for luxury and a busy life, Ras Al Khaimah offers a calm vibe. It has great beaches and focuses on comfort.
Ras Al Khaimah is a great choice for those wanting to enjoy the UAE without spending a lot. It has lower property prices and the government is investing in big projects. This makes it popular with people wanting a quality life but at a lower cost. The new Wynn gaming resort has also made it more appealing to wealthy individuals.
Whether you’re alone, with a partner, or have a family, Ras Al Khaimah is a good alternative to Dubai’s high costs. It’s close to Dubai but offers a more laid-back lifestyle. For those asking why choose Ras Al Khaimah over Dubai, it’s clear it’s a better choice for a lower cost of living in the UAE.
