Sharjah, often called the cultural heart of the UAE, attracts expatriates and families with its unique blend of traditional charm, a strong sense of community, and affordability compared to neighbouring Dubai. While living costs in the UAE can be high, Sharjah is a more budget-friendly alternative, particularly for those working in Dubai but preferring a quieter lifestyle. Here’s a deep dive into what it really costs to live in this vibrant city.
Housing & Utilities
Housing in Sharjah is among the most budget-friendly in the UAE, making it an ideal choice for those seeking affordable living without compromising on comfort. I have been living in Sharjah for almost my whole time since I moved to the UAE.
Accommodation:
Studio Apartments in areas like Muweilah range from 1200 to 1800 AED per month. I have lived in Muweilah, Sharjah, where I rented a bed space. The cost of a bed space ranged from 350 to 500 AED per month, depending on several factors such as the number of tenants in the room or flat, the cleanliness and condition of the space, available facilities, the specific location within Muweilah, and whether the bed space was in a lower or upper bunker.
| Accommodation | Starting Price | Maximum Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bedspace (Bunk Bed) in Muweilah | 350 Dhs | 500 Dhs |
| Bedspace (Single Bed) in Muweilah | 550 Dhs | 1000 Dhs |
| Bedspace (Single Bed) in Al Musalla | 550 Dhs | 800 Dhs |
Utilities
Utility costs in Sharjah are generally manageable, especially with AC-inclusive rentals. Monthly electricity, water, and gas bills for a small apartment can range between 300-600 AED, while a larger household may pay between 700-1,200 AED, particularly if air conditioning is heavily used during the summer.
| Utilities | Min Range | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity, Water and Gas (SEWA) Bill of 1-3 Tenants | 300 Dhs | 700 Dhs |
| Electricity, Water and Gas (SEWA) Bill of 4-7 Tenants | 600 Dhs | 1200 Dhs |
| Internet Wifi 5G Router | 299 Dhs |
Food and Grocery Expenses: A Range of Affordable Choices
Food costs vary depending on lifestyle and where you shop, but Sharjah’s diverse range of supermarkets and eateries offers options for every budget.
- Grocery Shopping: Shopping at large supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu Hypermarket provides the best variety and value. Monthly grocery bills average around 800-1,000 AED for a single person, 1,500 AED for a couple, and up to 3,000 AED for a family of four. Basic items like bread cost about 3 AED, a litre of milk around 5 AED, and fruits and vegetables average 6-15 AED per kilogram, depending on type and season.
- Dining Out: If you enjoy eating out, Sharjah has an abundance of affordable options. A meal at a local eatery can be as low as 15 AED, while mid-range restaurants may charge around 30-50 AED per person. For a family dinner at a popular restaurant, expect to pay between 200-300 AED. You’ll also find plenty of cafeterias and snack joints where a coffee and pastry cost about 10-20 AED.
Transportation Costs: Commuting on a Budget
Getting around Sharjah is convenient, especially for those who use public transport or commute to Dubai.
- Public Transport: Sharjah has an extensive bus network, with routes connecting the city to Dubai and other emirates. A single bus fare is around AED 8 if paid in cash or AED 6 if used travel card know as Sayer Card, and frequent travellers can benefit from monthly passes costing about AED 225.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are affordable for short distances, starting at around 12 AED and charging around 1.5 AED per kilometre. Ride-sharing apps like Careem and Uber are also popular, although they tend to be slightly pricier than local taxis.
- Owning a Car: Many residents choose to drive, with fuel prices in Sharjah remaining reasonable. A small sedan costs around 40,000-60,000 AED to purchase, while monthly leasing options start from around 1,500 AED. Fuel costs depend on usage but typically amount to 300-500 AED monthly for a regular commuter.
| Average Price | Range | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 liter (1/4 gallon) of Petrol | 2.50 AED | |
| Monthly public Bus pass | 225 AED | |
| Taxi trip on a business day, basic tariff, 8 km. (5 miles) | 50 AED |
Healthcare Costs: Accessible and Reliable
Healthcare in Sharjah offers a range of options from public to private facilities, ensuring quality care at various price points.
- Public vs. Private Care: Public hospitals are affordable, with minimal fees for residents, but private facilities like Medcare and University Hospital Sharjah offer high-quality services with shorter wait times.
- Health Insurance: It’s mandatory for residents to have health insurance. Company-provided insurance plans cover basic needs, while family coverage starts at around 1,500-2,500 AED annually, depending on coverage.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: A general practitioner’s visit costs between 100-300 AED at private clinics, with specialist consultations ranging from 400-600 AED. Routine prescriptions average around 50-100 AED per visit.
Education Costs: A Key Consideration for Families
For families, schooling is an important factor when budgeting for life in Sharjah.
- Schools: Many popular international schools in Sharjah, like Victoria International and GEMS, offer high standards but come at a premium, with annual fees ranging from 20,000 AED for younger students up to 50,000 AED for higher grades.
- Nurseries and Daycare: Nursery fees range from 1,000-3,000 AED monthly, with options like Blossom Nursery providing quality care for children under five.
- Higher Education: For students aiming for higher education, institutions like the University of Sharjah offer programmes from around 25,000 AED per year, making it relatively affordable compared to international universities.
Leisure and Entertainment: Affordable Family Fun
Sharjah’s rich culture offers a variety of entertainment, and many of its attractions are either free or budget-friendly.
- Gyms and Fitness: A standard gym membership costs between 200-400 AED monthly, while higher-end fitness centres charge more. Many outdoor parks, however, are free and provide excellent fitness areas.
- Museums and Attractions: With a strong focus on arts and culture, Sharjah has a variety of museums and exhibitions, such as the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, with entrance fees starting at around 10 AED. Al Noor Island and the Sharjah Aquarium are popular family-friendly destinations, with tickets priced between 20-35 AED per person.
- Shopping and Markets: Shopping in Sharjah includes both high-end malls and traditional souks. Local markets like the Souq Al Jubail offer great bargains for fresh produce, seafood, and traditional items, making it affordable for regular shopping.
Monthly Breakdown: What to Expect
To give you an idea of total monthly costs:
- Single Individual: 3,000-4,500 AED (basic lifestyle)
- Couple: 6,000-8,500 AED (mid-range lifestyle)
- Family of Four: 10,000-15,000 AED (comfortable lifestyle)
Conclusion
Living in Sharjah offers an appealing balance of affordability and quality, especially for families and expats seeking a more cost-effective alternative to Dubai. With a lower cost of living and strong community feel, Sharjah makes for a welcoming and financially manageable place to call home. Whether you’re a single professional or moving with family, Sharjah provides everything you need to live comfortably without breaking the bank.
