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When you think about relocating to a different place, one of the most important things to do is to look at the cost of living. Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, two cities in the UAE, offer quite different ways of life. Therefore, we decided to compare and contrast them financially.
Our goal in writing this guide is to compare Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai in terms of their costs of living. We aim to provide useful information to anyone considering a move by looking at many indexes and providing insights into the economic features of each place.
This comprehensive guide will help potential residents of Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah understand the financial dynamics of the two cities, covering everything from housing and utilities to transportation and everyday costs.
Is Ras Al Khaimah Cheaper Than Dubai?
When comparing Ras al-Khaimah and Dubai in terms of cost of living, it becomes clear that two very different cities have quite different budgetary needs to sustain a comparable level of life.
According to the cost of living plus rent index, the estimated amount needed to live comfortably in Ras al-Khaimah would be about 15,292.2 AED, whereas in Dubai, it would be over 23,000 AED.
Those thinking about relocating can get a full picture from this computation since it considers factors like housing costs and net wages after income tax. Insights like these may be very helpful when weighing the costs and benefits of relocating between these two UAE cities.
Ras Al Khaimah Vs. Dubai: Which is the cheapest emirate in UAE?
When comparing Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai in terms of living costs, Ras Al Khaimah emerges as the more affordable emirate in the United Arab Emirates. Let’s compare these two emirates in terms of rent utility and other factors.
Ras Al Khaimah Vs. Dubai: Consumer Prices
One important metric for gauging living expenses is consumer prices, which provide a clear benefit in Ras Al Khaimah. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Ras Al Khaimah is a great choice since its prices are about 20.0% cheaper than Dubai’s, not including rent.
Ras Al Khaimah is financially more appealing when you take into account rent, which results in an overall consumer price index that is 33.5% cheaper than Dubai. The result is a marked decrease in the cost of living as inhabitants enjoy huge savings on their daily costs.
Dubai Vs. Ras Al Khaimah: Rent Prices
A large chunk of most people’s monthly budget goes toward rent, and rent in Ras Al Khaimah is much cheaper than in other cities. Residents in Ras Al Khaimah, especially expats and those on a tight budget, may take advantage of rents that are 49.5% cheaper than Dubai’s, making the city a great bargain.
This large disparity in rental prices may have a significant effect on household spending, allowing them more leeway to meet other necessities.
Ras Al Khaimah Vs. Dubai: Restaurant Prices
Having a meal out in Ras Al Khaimah is both a lovely and budget-friendly experience. A diversified gastronomic scene is within reach for both locals and tourists thanks to restaurant costs that are 20.5% cheaper than in Dubai. Saving a ton of money on food improves people’s standard of living in Ras Al Khaimah, whether they choose low-cost or medium-priced restaurants.
Dubai Vs. Ras Al Khaimah: Grocery Costs
Ras Al Khaimah has a clear edge when it comes to the cost of food, which is an essential part of everyday life. In general, prices are 11.5% cheaper than in Dubai, and that includes a wide range of necessities. Thanks to the low food costs, people may better control their household budgets, leading to a more frugal way of living.
Ras Al Khaimah Vs. Dubai: Local Purchasing Power
Although Ras Al Khaimah’s local purchasing power is 0.1% less than Dubai’s, this little discrepancy is made up by significant cost reductions in other areas. Despite a little decline in local buying power, people in Ras Al Khaimah are able to make the most of their wages due to the generally affordable consumer products and services that assist in maintaining a balanced cost of living.
Cost of Living Comparison: Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai (January 2024)
Let’s get to more details and know more about price specifications in both emirates:
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Salaries and Financing
| Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference | |
| Mortgage Interest Rate (Yearly, 20 Years) | 5.00 | 5.11 | -2.1% |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | 9,400.00 | 14,158.53 | -33.6% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Utility Costs
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data) | 323.62 | 357.23 | -9.4% |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan | 182.14 | 225.39 | -19.2% |
| Basic Utilities (915 sq ft Apartment) | 465.00 | 779.36 | -40.3% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Clothing Costs
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| 1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes | 314.00 | 377.54 | -16.8% |
| 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes | 337.50 | 378.72 | -10.9% |
| 1 Summer Dress (Chain Store) | 163.80 | 230.88 | -29.1% |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) | 261.00 | 242.78 | +7.5% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Restaurant Prices
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Water (12 oz small bottle) | 1.20 | 2.76 | -56.5% |
| Cappuccino (regular) | 18.75 | 21.11 | -11.2% |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 40.00 | 47.50 | -15.8% |
| McMeal at McDonald’s | 25.50 | 35.00 | -27.1% |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant | 180.00 | 250.00 | -28.0% |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 35.00 | 40.00 | -12.5% |
| Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 35.00 | 45.00 | -22.2% |
| Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) | 3.29 | 4.56 | -28.0% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Grocery Prices
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 37.50 | 60.00 | -37.5% |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 1.74 | 2.40 | -27.2% |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 4.12 | 6.52 | -36.7% |
| Onion (1 lb) | 1.50 | 1.58 | -5.1% |
| Potato (1 lb) | 1.58 | 1.65 | -4.2% |
| Tomato (1 lb) | 2.10 | 2.80 | -25.0% |
| Oranges (1 lb) | 3.03 | 3.09 | -2.2% |
| Banana (1 lb) | 2.95 | 3.19 | -7.7% |
| Apples (1 lb) | 3.70 | 3.83 | -3.5% |
| Beef Round (1 lb) | 21.55 | 17.02 | +26.6% |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | 10.76 | 13.53 | -20.5% |
| Local Cheese (1 lb) | 14.86 | 19.71 | -24.7% |
| Eggs (regular, 12) | 9.08 | 11.27 | -19.5% |
| Rice (white, 1 lb) | 2.95 | 3.62 | -18.5% |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | 3.88 | 5.35 | -27.5% |
| Milk (regular, 1 gallon) | 21.41 | 27.30 | -21.6% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Transportation Costs
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l (Or Equivalent) | 103,475.00 | 82,376.53 | +25.6% |
| Volkswagen Golf 1.4 (Or Equivalent) | 98,650.00 | 120,000.00 | -17.8% |
| Gasoline (1 gallon) | 11.27 | 11.62 | -3.0% |
| Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | 30.00 | 35.00 | -14.3% |
| Taxi 1 mile (Normal Tariff) | 3.22 | 4.83 | -33.3% |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 5.50 | 12.00 | -54.2% |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 150.00 | 300.00 | -50.0% |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 12.50 | 7.00 | +78.6% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Recreation Costs
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 40.00 | 50.00 | -20.0% |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 50.00 | 171.61 | -70.9% |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 193.75 | 320.83 | -39.6% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Childcare Costs
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| International Primary School, Yearly | 33,000.00 | 51,622.56 | -36.1% |
| Preschool, Full Day, Monthly for 1 Child | 890.00 | 2,728.53 | -67.4% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Rent and Real Estate Prices
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms, Outside of Centre) | 6,886.83 | 11,735.49 | -41.3% |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms, City Centre) | 7,750.00 | 16,350.06 | -52.6% |
| Apartment (1 bedroom, Outside of Centre) | 3,599.38 | 5,005.00 | -28.1% |
| Apartment (1 bedroom, City Centre) | 2,632.65 | 8,272.69 | -68.2% |
Ras al-Khaimah vs. Dubai Apartment Purchase Prices
| Item | Ras al-Khaimah (AED) | Dubai (AED) | Difference |
| Price per Square Feet (Outside of Centre) | 650.32 | 1,070.06 | -39.2% |
| Price per Square Feet (City Centre) | 1,068.38 | 1,935.58 | -44.8% |
Is Ras Al Khaimah Cheaper Than Dubai for Tourists
Dubai is a popular tourist destination because of its reputation for magnificent scenery, restaurants, and hotels, but it is also known for its exorbitant prices. However, for those looking for a more affordable option in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah presents an appealing alternative.
Ras Al Khaimah is a great alternative to Dubai for travelers who want to see the country’s natural beauty without paying Dubai prices. For those looking to visit the UAE on a budget, the Emirate is a great choice due to its broad array of attractions, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
What Is a Good Salary in Ras Al Khaimah?
Salary expectations in Ras Al Khaimah are subjective and based on things like family size, personal tastes, and way of life. Nonetheless, mid-level employees in Ras Al Khaimah should expect to earn an average monthly income of 5,000 to 15,000 AED.
Salary ranges outside of this range are possible for professionals in more senior or specialized positions. Expenses related to housing, education, and healthcare must be carefully considered when estimating an appropriate salary.
Minimum salary to live in Dubai vs Ras Al Khaimah
- Minimum Salary to Survive in Dubai: The monthly net wage for a single person should ideally be between 3,000 and 10,000 AED, taking into account living expenditures, transportation costs, and other daily needs.
- Minimum Salary to Survive in Ras Al Khaimah: A person may pay their necessary living expenditures with monthly net earnings of at least 2,500 to 7,000 AED.
What About Entertainment Costs in Dubai?
Dubai has a plethora of entertainment alternatives, from cultural events to famous landmarks. Visiting the city’s famous attractions, theme parks, and cultural places is a great way to experience everything that Dubai has to offer.
And yet, there are usually hidden fees associated with these kinds of adventures. Dojoin, a site that offers cheap tickets to attractions in Dubai, is a game-changer. If you want to tour Dubai’s attractions without breaking the budget, Dojoin is a good option because of its reasonable rates and occasional discounts.
Why DoJoin?
For those in need of affordable tickets to Dubai’s most popular sites, your search ends here at Dojoin. Get out of your comfort zone, see other cultures, and record breathtaking moments. If you’re looking for economical thrills, Dojoin is more than simply a ticketing site.
With Dojoin by your side, you can avoid the crowds, enjoy the discounts, and make the most of your time in Dubai. With the help of Dojoin, you can easily get inexpensive tickets to unforgettable activities.
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Conclusion
When looking at cost-effective options, Ras Al Khaimah stands apart from Dubai. The total cost of living is cheaper since there are significant price disparities in rent, restaurants, and groceries.
When making such a selection, it is important to take into account not only individual tastes but also work prospects and lifestyle choices.
FAQs
Are Utility Costs Significantly Different Between the Two Cities?
Yes, utility costs, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, are notably lower in Ras Al Khaimah, with a difference of 40.3%.
How Does Transportation Cost Vary Between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah?
Gasoline and cab fares are often less expensive in Ras Al Khaimah. The one-way cost of local transportation is much more expensive.
Is Education More Affordable in Ras Al Khaimah?
Yes, both preschool and primary school education are more cost-effective in Ras Al Khaimah, with significant savings for parents.
Is Ras Al-Khaimah a Suitable Choice for Individuals With an Active Lifestyle?
Indeed. If you value recreation and fitness, Ras al-Khaimah is a great place to visit due to the variety of affordable leisure opportunities it offers.
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