Thinking of a new adventure in the UAE? Living in Abu Dhabi as an expat offers a unique balance of luxury, culture, and opportunity.
With endless sunshine, tax-free salaries, and a reputation as one of the world’s safest cities, it’s no wonder more and more people are making the move to a new life in Abu Dhbai. I was lucky enough to head out to this part of the UAE with the Visit Abu Dhabi tourism board, as part of my work for Travelista. The things I loved the most about it was the level of service and how safe it felt – not to mention the year-round sunshine. As a Brit, It’s the type of place you visit and then try to imagine how different your lifestyle could be if were to live there. If you’ve landed on this article, chances are you’re wondering the same thing. So whether you’re relocating solo, with a partner, or as a family, here are 10 reasons to love living in Abu Dhabi as an expat.
10 Reasons to Love Living in Abu Dhabi as an Expat
1. One of the Safest Cities in the World
Let’s start with a big one. Abu Dhabi has repeatedly ranked as one of the safest cities globally. According to Compare the Market’s global crime index, the city scores just 11.6 on the crime scale — making it the safest city in the world. For expats raising kids, walking home at night, or simply enjoying peace of mind, this is a major draw.
2. Tax-Free Income and Financial Freedom
One of the biggest perks of the Abu Dhabi expat lifestyle is the lack of income tax. You get to keep more of your salary, and there’s no capital gains, property, or inheritance tax either. This makes the cost of living in Abu Dhabi feel more manageable — and often allows expats to save more or invest in travel, property, or lifestyle upgrades.
3. A Diverse and Welcoming Expat Community
Living in Abu Dhabi as a foreigner means becoming part of a truly global community. Over 88% of the city’s population is made up of expats from every corner of the world. English is widely spoken, and you’ll find cultural clubs, expat meetups, and plenty of ways to connect. It’s a city where newcomers are not just welcomed — they’re the majority.
4. Luxury Meets Day-to-Day Convenience
Abu Dhabi is known for its elegant hotels, malls, and skyline views — but that’s only part of the picture. Day-to-day life is smooth and convenient, with clean public beaches, delicious (and affordable) street food, and excellent infrastructure. There’s a calmness to the city that makes it feel more liveable than fast-paced Dubai, which is why many expats choose Abu Dhabi vs Dubai when settling down.
5. High-Quality Healthcare
Another reason why expats choose Abu Dhabi? The world-class healthcare. Hospitals are modern, well-equipped, and many employers offer generous private health insurance. Whether you’re getting a routine checkup or dealing with an emergency, the care is consistently excellent — offering reassurance for expats of all ages.
6. Endless Sunshine
If blue skies are a non-negotiable for you, life in Abu Dhabi will suit you perfectly. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, outdoor living is part of the lifestyle. Think weekend beach clubs, winter desert brunches, and sunset strolls along the Corniche — all in December.
7. Career Opportunities and Job Growth
For professionals across industries, Abu Dhabi offers exciting career prospects, especially in sectors like energy, education, healthcare, and tech. Salaries tend to be competitive, and the city’s continued investment in infrastructure and innovation means opportunities are only growing.
8. A Strategic Hub for Global Travel
One of the most practical perks of living in Abu Dhabi is how easy it is to travel. The city sits perfectly between Europe, Asia, and Africa, and Abu Dhabi International Airport makes spontaneous getaways and long-haul adventures incredibly accessible. A long weekend in Sri Lanka? A city break in Rome? All within reach.
9. Family-Friendly Lifestyle
If you’re moving with children, Abu Dhabi ticks a lot of boxes. International schools are well-established, many neighbourhoods feel safe and residential, and there are parks, beaches, and family-friendly attractions across the city. For parents, the work-life balance and sense of safety is a huge selling point.
10. A High Standard of Living
From day-to-day comforts to beautiful architecture and impressive city planning, the overall standard of living in Abu Dhabi is undeniably high. Whether you’re relaxing in a rooftop bar, exploring local souks, or paddleboarding at sunrise — life here is made to be enjoyed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a city that offers sunshine, career growth, financial perks, and a genuinely international lifestyle, living in Abu Dhabi as an expat might be your perfect next chapter. With safety, stability, and luxury rolled into one, it’s no wonder more expats are choosing to call Abu Dhabi home.
Read 7 Things to know before Visiting Dubai
