The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to attract families from across the world looking for better career opportunities, tax-free salaries, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, understanding the latest salary trends and cost of living for families is essential for proper financial planning.

In this 2025 guide, we cover the average salaries across industries and the monthly expenses for a typical family (2 adults + 1 or 2 children) in the UAE’s top cities.

💼 Average Salary Trends in the UAE (2025)

UAE salaries have seen modest growth in 2025, especially in sectors like tech, healthcare, education, and finance. Below is a snapshot of average monthly salaries:

Industry	Average Monthly Salary (AED)
IT & Software	14,000 – 24,000
Engineering	11,000 – 20,000
Doctors & Specialists	22,000 – 55,000
Nurses	7,000 – 13,000
Teachers (K-12)	8,000 – 16,000
Sales & Marketing	9,000 – 18,000
Administration	4,500 – 10,000
Skilled Labor/Technicians	1,500 – 4,000

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Most families rely on a combined household income of AED 15,000 to AED 30,000/month to live comfortably in the UAE.

🏠 Cost of Living for Families in Major UAE Cities (2025)

The cost of living can vary widely depending on location, lifestyle, schooling choices, and housing type. Here’s what a family of four can expect to spend monthly in each major city:

🔹 1. Dubai – High-End Living with High Costs

Dubai offers world-class amenities, but living here as a family can be expensive.

• 🏠 2 or 3 BHK Apartment (City/Community): AED 7,000 – 12,000/month
• 🛒 Groceries & Household: AED 2,500 – 3,500/month
• 🚗 Transportation (car, fuel, school bus): AED 800 – 1,200/month
• 💡 Utilities + Internet: AED 800 – 1,200/month
• 🏫 School Fees (1-2 kids): AED 3,000 – 8,000/month
• 🍽️ Dining & Family Outings: AED 1,000 – 2,000/month

✅ Total Monthly Cost for a Family:
➡️ AED 15,000 – 27,000

🔹 2. Abu Dhabi – Family-Friendly and Slightly Cheaper

Abu Dhabi is a great choice for families seeking a quieter lifestyle with top schools and healthcare.

• 🏠 2 or 3 BHK Apartment: AED 6,000 – 10,000/month
• 🛒 Groceries: AED 2,200 – 3,200/month
• 🚗 Transportation: AED 700 – 1,100/month
• 💡 Utilities + Internet: AED 700 – 1,000/month
• 🏫 School Fees: AED 2,500 – 7,000/month
• 🍽️ Dining/Entertainment: AED 800 – 1,500/month

✅ Total Monthly Cost for a Family:
➡️ AED 13,000 – 23,000

🔹 3. Sharjah – Budget-Friendly Option for Families

Many families working in Dubai choose to live in Sharjah to save on rent.

• 🏠 2 or 3 BHK Apartment: AED 3,500 – 6,000/month
• 🛒 Groceries: AED 1,800 – 2,800/month
• 🚗 Transportation (incl. commuting): AED 700 – 1,200/month
• 💡 Utilities + Internet: AED 600 – 900/month
• 🏫 School Fees: AED 2,000 – 6,000/month
• 🍽️ Dining & Other: AED 600 – 1,200/month

✅ Total Monthly Cost for a Family:
➡️ AED 9,500 – 18,000

💡 Bonus Tips to Reduce Living Costs

• Live in Sharjah or outer Dubai to reduce rent.
• Use discount apps like Smiles, Zomato Pro, or The Entertainer for food and activities.
• Opt for public or shared school transport when available.
• Shop at budget supermarkets like Lulu, Union Coop, and Carrefour.

📌 Final Thoughts

In 2025, the UAE remains a top destination for families due to its tax-free salaries, safety, modern infrastructure, and education options. While the cost of living for families can be high in places like Dubai, there are plenty of affordable alternatives in Sharjah and parts of Abu Dhabi.

For a comfortable family lifestyle, aim for a combined household income of AED 15,000–25,000/month. Higher incomes naturally allow for better schooling, premium housing, and more flexibility.