People who work in Dubai often choose to live in Sharjah. This preference is understandable as Sharjah offers a more affordable and quieter lifestyle. While lacking in the glitz and glamour of Dubai and its ritzy nightlife, Sharjah is host to its own distinct qualities. Let’s find out how you can balance living in Sharjah while working in Dubai.
Balancing Life in Sharjah While Working in Dubai: Key Insights
Living in Sharjah while working in Dubai presents a unique lifestyle balance that many find appealing. The daily commute, diverse cultural experiences, and cost-effective living are just a few aspects to consider.
After all, Sharjah is the third largest emirate in the UAE and a major state educational hub. It’s a massive city that features a rich culture and champions traditional values and cultural heritage. However, like anything, there are also disadvantages to keep in mind.
Here’s what you should know about living in Sharjah while working in Dubai.
Difficult Commutes
If the roads are free, you can go to Sharjah from Dubai in typically 20 minutes by car. That’s a big ‘if’ though. If you factor in rush hours then expect to add in a full hour or more of travel time.
That’s without mentioning that driving within Sharjah itself can be relatively unsafe thanks to its dangerous road infrastructure. Expect a lot of narrow lanes and steep bridges!
Fortunately, Sharjah has a great public transportation system that makes it convenient to travel to and from Dubai. Individuals can travel to and from Dubai via metro, bus, or even car rental.
Traditional and Conservative Values
If you prefer the more touristy, liberal side of the UAE, you’ll be better off staying in Dubai.
Sharjah very strictly follows Islamic laws and actively enforces them as well. Here are some rules that you will have to strictly adhere to:
- Men cannot wear any jewellery.
- Men are also not allowed to wear shorts or sleeveless tops.
- Women must wear clothes that keep them covered from their shoulders to their knees.
- Tattoos are strictly discouraged.
- Public displays of affection or any acts that may be considered public indecency are illegal.
Paying attention to your dress code is strongly encouraged and applies to both men and women in Sharjah. However, there is no official dress code in Dubai, and people are encouraged to dress modestly.
Affordable Living
This is perhaps the most appealing aspect of living in Sharjah. The cost of living in UAE usually varies between the cities, with Dubai being the most expensive city in the state. The cost of living here can be over AED 25,000 per annum for a family.
That’s why people who don’t want to break the bank search for places to rent affordable apartments in Sharjah. The estimated rent here is approximately 40% lower than in Dubai, offering a more budget-friendly option. However, this also comes with some differences in the quality of living and luxurious amenities.
Cultural and Entertainment Hub
While it’s not the ritzy glamour of Dubai, Sharjah celebrates its culture with spots such as the Sharjah Art Museum and the Sharjah Amphitheatre. It’s also popular for its spellbinding water vistas that make for a lovely spectacle.
For entertainment, there are plenty of local and tourist attractions, such as Al-Noor Island, Sharjah Mega Mall, and the Sharjah Paintball Park.
FAQs
One person can easily survive on AED 3,015 per month in Sharjah. This doesn’t include rent though. Similarly, the cost of living for a family of four would be AED 10,287 per month.
That depends on your personal preferences. Residence in Sharjah is cheaper and way more affordable than in Dubai, but Dubai also has a much higher quality of life. If you’re someone with a family, it’s very beneficial to move to Sharjah, thanks to its affordable rent prices.
Living in Sharjah while working in Dubai is a very viable option for both families and people, all on their own. While there are some disadvantages, Sharjah offers a wonderful experience nonetheless.
For more information about Sharjah, check out these best places to live in Sharjah to help you find the right Sharjah apartment for rent.
