Expert Info
on 20 Feb 2012
Hi friends,
I wish 2know whether a salary of 2900 DHs with a free one bedroom accommodation and transport to the school be enough for my survival in Abu Dhabi.How much can i save there and what are the other things that i should consider before thinking of joining the job?
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Accommodation will certainly be your largest cost in Abu Dhabi, so if they are providing this, then you won't have to worry about the most sizeable expense. That said, you should enquire about whether the free one bedroom includes utility costs (electricity, water, etc). Also, even though they provide transport to the school ( I assume you're considering a teaching job), what about getting around otherwise. Abu Dhabi's public transport system is far from comprehensive, and most expats find they need a car in the emirate, which can cost 2500 AED a month for a mid-range vehicle. Obviously your salary would not be enought to cover this cost, so you'd have to take the buses (only 1 dirham), or you would need to ask your employer for a car allowance.
Also, make sure your employer is going to offer you private health insurance in Abu Dhabi, this is required by law.
Finally, overall, this is not a very lucrative salary at all. You likely won't be able to save too much. That said, I'm not sure of your current sitaution, so perhaps it's better than what you're currently earning.
Have a look at the Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi page for more info.
First of all, has your company offered you an accommodation allowance or provided you with housing ? This will obviously be your biggest expense and if this is sorted that you may be able to survive on AED 3,200.
Whether you can save or not will depend on your preferences and lifestyle. The expat lifestyle in Dubai is great and people enjoy eating out and socialising but overtime this will cause a dent in your income.
I suggest you use the Expat Arrivals page on the Cost of Living in Dubai to draw up a budget and decide if the salary offer is enough for both you and your spouse.
Best of luck.
Shantalie.