Is a 17000 Dirham Salary Sufficient for Life in Abu Dhabi?

When it comes to determining whether a 17000 Dirham salary is sufficient to live comfortably in Abu Dhabi, a lot hinges on one's lifestyle and financial choices.

Assessing the Salary

A salary of 17000 Dirhams per month, or approximately 4500 Dirhams per week, can indeed support a comfortable lifestyle in Abu Dhabi if managed wisely. However, this amount may be deemed insufficient for others, particularly those with a more luxurious or extravagant lifestyle.

Division of Expenses

Based on a philosophy that divides salary categories, here's how one might allocate a 17000 Dirham monthly salary for a family of four (including a spouse and two children).

Savings: 30% (4500 Dirhams) - If invested over 20 years, this amount can grow to 3.4 million Dirhams, ensuring a similar lifestyle for the next 30 years.

Rent: 30% (4500 Dirhams) - This could cover a modest 2-bedroom apartment in older buildings.

Expenses: 30% (4500 Dirhams) - 1400 Dirhams for a car and fuel, a modest 1600 Dirhams for children's education, 2000 Dirhams for groceries living frugally, 1000 Dirhams for utilities, and 500 Dirhams for miscellaneous expenses.

Entertainment: 10% (1500 Dirhams) - Any entertainment spending should be carefully managed to avoid overspending.

This division would result in a shortfall of 2000 Dirhams, either from the savings or by cutting back further on expenses for a more frugal lifestyle.

Enhancing the Lifestyle

For those with a more luxurious lifestyle or a family of four, a 17000 Dirham salary may feel inadequate. Abu Dhabi offers a vast array of luxury options, from high-end apartments to top-tier cars and schools, but these come at a premium price.

Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi

The cost of living in Abu Dhabi can vary significantly depending on one's lifestyle. Here are a few factors to consider:

Location: Living in more expensive areas like the Corniche or Al Maryah Island will naturally increase living costs. Education: Sending children to international or private schools can be expensive. Housing: Rent and property prices in Abu Dhabi can be quite high, even for smaller, more modest living spaces. Transport: Owning a car and maintaining it can be a significant expense.

However, for those looking to live a more frugal life, the same 17000 Dirham monthly salary can still support a comfortable standard of living with careful budgeting.

Conclusion

A 17000 Dirham salary can indeed be sufficient to live comfortably in Abu Dhabi if managed wisely. It is a question of striking a balance between luxury and necessity. Whether you plan to live a modest or luxurious life in Abu Dhabi, this salary can be a stepping stone to achieving your financial goals.

Embracing a balanced and frugal lifestyle can ensure that your savings grow and that you can live a fulfilling life while keeping within your means.