Tips and Insights
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has emerged as a global hub for business, culture, and innovation. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with the most up-to-date information for relocating to Abu Dhabi in 2024, offering insights into every aspect of life in this dynamic metropolis.
Abu Dhabi offers an unparalleled quality of life, combining luxury, safety, and cultural diversity.
Safety and Security: Abu Dhabi has been ranked the safest city in the world for the eighth consecutive year, with an impressive 87.1 on the Safety Index and 12.9 on the Crime Index.
Cultural Diversity: The city’s multicultural environment is evident in its demographics, with expatriates making up a significant portion of the population.
Luxurious Lifestyle Opportunities: Exclusive beach clubs and resort-style living. and world-class shopping malls and designer boutiques.
Climate and Outdoor Activities: Year-round sunshine, green spaces and parks for outdoor recreation, desert safaris, beach activities, and water sports.
Abu Dhabi’s financial landscape remains attractive for expatriates and entrepreneurs in 2024.
Tax Benefits: No personal income tax, no capital gains tax on property sales and corporate tax rate of 9% for businesses with profits over AED 375,000.
Cost of Living: Abu Dhabi’s ranking in the cost of living index jumped from 164th to 75th in the first half of 2024.
Banking and Finance Options for Expats: Wide range of international and local banks, digital banking solutions tailored for expatriates and cryptocurrency-friendly regulations and fintech innovations.
Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system continues to evolve, offering world-class facilities.
World-Class Healthcare Facilities: 12,922 licensed doctors. As of 2024, Abu Dhabi has 3,323 healthcare facilities, including 67 hospitals and 1,068 pharmacies.
Mandatory Health Insurance Requirements: Compulsory health insurance for all residents. The employers required to provide basic health coverage for employees
Abu Dhabi’s transportation infrastructure continues to expand, offering efficient and diverse options for commuters and travelers.
Public Transportation System: Abu Dhabi has launched a ‘Green Bus’ service, powered by clean hydrogen and electric energy, initially operating on Route 65 between Marina Mall and Shams Boutik on Al Reem Island.
Ease of Getting Around the City: Integrated public transport card for seamless travel. And ride-hailing apps and taxi services widely available.
International Connectivity: Abu Dhabi International Airport serving numerous international destinations.
Abu Dhabi’s education sector caters to a diverse international community with high-quality options at all levels.
International Schools and Curricula Options: British, American, IB, and other international curricula available and 459 schools across private, public, and mixed options for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Higher Education Opportunities: Numerous higher education institutions. and branch campuses of renowned international universities.
Abu Dhabi’s real estate market continues to offer diverse options for expatriates, with new developments and areas emerging in 2024.
Range of Housing Options: Standalone and compound-style in gated communities. From studio to penthouses in high-rise buildings and offering a middle ground between apartments and villas.
Popular Expat Areas: Al Raha, Saadiyat Island and Mohammed Bin Zayed City0w
Rental Process and Considerations: The occupancy rate for Abu Dhabi residential buildings is currently between 85% and 90%. The average annual apartment and villa rents in Abu Dhabi stood at Dh66,375 and Dh166,261, respectively. As per the 2024 H1 rental property market report for Abu Dhabi, rental costs in the affordable segment increased by up to 9% for apartments and 7% for villas.
Abu Dhabi’s business landscape continues to evolve, offering numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals in 2024.
Job Market for Expats: Top sectors for expat employment the construction sector, Finance and insurance sector, Manufacturing, Wholesale and retail trade, Transportation and storage sector and Real estate.
Innovation and AI: The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry registered over 400 AI companies in Abu Dhabi by the end of the second quarter of 2024, showing a 41.3% annual surge in new AI companies.
Sustainability Focus: The strategy also aims to create 50,000 new green jobs by 2030. Abu Dhabi is committed to the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase the contribution of clean energy in the total energy mix to 30% by 2030.
Business Setup Opportunities: Free zones offering 100% foreign ownership. Mainland company setup with 100% foreign ownership now possible in most sectors.
Abu Dhabi continues to expand its offerings in leisure and entertainment, cementing its position as a global tourist destination.
Shopping Experiences: Yas Mall one of the largest shopping centers in Abu Dhabi. The Galleri Luxury shopping destination on Al Maryah Island.
Cultural Attractions and Events: Abu Dhabi Art an annual international art fair. Louvre Abu Dhabi the world-class museum showcasing global art and culture. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque the iconic architectural marvel and cultural landmark.
Sports and Recreational Activities: Ferrari World the world’s first Ferrari-themed park. Yas Marina Circuit home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Abu Dhabi continues to offer expatriates a unique blend of opportunities, luxury, and cultural experiences. With its robust economy, world-class infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies, the city remains an attractive destination for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons in 2024 and beyond.
Dubai continues to offer expatriates a unique blend of opportunities, luxury, and cultural experiences. With its robust economy, world-class infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies, the city remains an attractive destination for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons in 2024 and beyond.
Dune Business Advisors: Your Partner for a Seamless Transition
Relocating to a new country can be daunting, but with careful planning and the right support, your Dubai adventure can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Dune Business Advisors is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth transition and helping you unlock the full potential of the Dubai market.
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