Affordable rents and shorter commutes make Sharjah and Ajman the new go-to for expats fleeing Dubai’s rental boom.
In the heart of Dubai, Ahmed Abdel Moneim faced a tough choice. Rents were skyrocketing, and his one-bedroom apartment, once affordable, now demanded 40,000 dirhams a year. Adding to this, monthly utilities cost 1,800 dirhams. The solution? A move to Ajman, where a spacious two-bedroom apartment cost him only 30,000 dirhams annually.
Ahmed’s story is not unique. Sharjah and Ajman are attracting expats with lower rents and a more affordable cost of living. UAE’s economic boom is driving expats to reconsider their choice of employment and relocate to other emirates outside of Dubai.
The Rental Surge in Dubai
Dubai’s real estate market has seen unprecedented growth. Average rents surged by 20.8% in November, with the average rental price reaching 24,600 dirhams. Demand is high. Everyone wants one and two-bedroom apartments, amidst high demand from expats relocating to the Emirates, but there just aren’t enough of them.
The introduction of the new smart rental index in January 2025 aims to stabilise the market, but its long-term effects remain to be seen.
Sharjah: A Viable Alternative
Sharjah, Dubai’s northern neighbour, offers a compelling alternative. With rents for studios ranging from 12,000 to 40,000 dirhams and one-bedroom apartments from 14,000 to 55,000 dirhams annually, Sharjah provides considerable savings. The emirate’s appeal isn’t just about cost. Sharjah boasts a rich cultural heritage and is investing heavily in infrastructure.
Projects like Aljada, a 9.5 billion dirham development, promise to enhance Sharjah’s appeal with new homes, shops, and recreational facilities.
Ajman’s Growing Appeal
Ajman, another northern emirate, also attracts Dubai expats. Rents for studios and one-bedroom apartments range from 12,000 to 34,000 dirhams and 15,000 to 50,000 dirhams, respectively. While rents in Ajman and Sharjah are rising due to increased demand, they remain lower than in Dubai.
This makes Ajman a practical choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
The Commute Consideration
The commute between Sharjah, Ajman, and Dubai is a factor, but not a deterrent. Many expats find the financial benefits and improved lifestyle outweigh the travel time. Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority offers extensive taxi services and car rental options, making the commute more manageable.
A New Chapter
As Dubai deals with soaring rents, amidst soaring demand, Sharjah and Ajman emerge as beacons of affordability. Expats like Ahmed Abdel Moneim find solace there, where lower rents and a rich cultural scene offer a balanced life. The new smart rental index may help reshape Dubai’s rental market, but Sharjah and Ajman currently offer affordable housing options for expats priced out of Dubai.
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