Is the cost of living in Sharjah really cheaper than Dubai? Planning to move.

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I have a job offer in Dubai (Deira area). My office is in Deira and I'm trying to decide where to live. Everyone says Sharjah is much cheaper. But won't the commute be bad?

I'm a single female. Is Sharjah safe? What are the monthly costs realistically for accommodation and food? Any Sri Lankan community in Sharjah?

Kamal Perera · Accepted Answer

Sharjah is a great choice for single women actually — it's more conservative and very safe. The Sri Lankan community in Sharjah is large and friendly.

SHARJAH VS DUBAI COSTS:
• 1BR in Sharjah Al Nahda: AED 1,500–2,200/month
• 1BR in Dubai Deira (your office area): AED 3,500–5,500/month
You save AED 2,000-3,000/month just on rent!

COMMUTE:
Al Nahda, Sharjah → Deira, Dubai: About 20-40 minutes by bus or taxi depending on traffic. Morning rush can be longer.
Bus options: RTA buses cross from Sharjah to Dubai (Routes E307, E303). Cost: AED 5-10 per trip.
Taxis: AED 25-45 each way.

IMPORTANT: Sharjah has conservative laws. No alcohol sold in Sharjah (unlike Dubai). Dressing more modestly expected.

For a single female: Many Sri Lankan families live in Al Nahda, Muweilah, Al Qasimiyah. Very safe, community-oriented areas. Highly recommend!

Nadeeka Fernando · Answer

Adding on — I lived in Sharjah for 2 years before moving to Abu Dhabi. Sharjah has excellent Sri Lankan restaurants (especially Al Wahda area), Sri Lankan grocery shops, and a temple.

For Deira commute, the E307 bus is what most Sri Lankans use. AED 5 each way. Takes 35-45 min in morning. Very manageable! You can easily save AED 20,000-25,000 per year by living in Sharjah.

Is the cost of living in Sharjah really cheaper than Dubai? Planning to move.

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