Key Takeaways:- The cost of moving to Abu Dhabi from the USA ranges from $3,000 to $16,000+, depending on your home size, shipping volume, and transport method.
- Top movers include East Coast Shipping and US International Movers.
- Abu Dhabi offers tax-free salaries, a high quality of life, and 40%+ lower cost of living compared to major U.S. cities.
How Much Does Moving to Abu Dhabi Cost?
The cost of moving to Abu Dhabi from the USA ranges from $3,000 to $16,000+, depending on your actual volume, route, and chosen freight method.’
Here are estimates based on housing size:
| House Size | Cost Estimate (USD) |
| Studio | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 1-2 Bedroom | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| 3-4 Bedroom | $10,000 – $14,000 |
| 5+ Bedroom | $16,000+ |
*These are estimates. Updated in November 2025.
Related article
Read more about moving to the United Arab Emirates and life in the Emirates.
Best movers from the USA to Abu Dhabi
East Coast Shipping
8.1
27
Sunrise
1 ratings as Careful with furniture
1 ratings as "Careful with furniture"
US International Movers
8.9
61
Surfside
7 ratings as Good Communication
7 ratings as "Good Communication"
Shipping My Goods
4.2
105
Coral Springs
5 ratings as Poor Communication
5 ratings as "Poor Communication"
XS Baggage
9.3
69
Fort Lauderdale
3 ratings as Good Price
3 ratings as "Good Price"
Why Move to Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi offers many benefits for both professionals and families, including:
- High quality of life
- Modern infrastructure
- Tax-free salaries
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Safety and stability
How to Find a Job in Abu Dhabi?
There are many job for US citizens in Abu Dhabi if you know where to look. The top hiring industries are oil & gas, healthcare, education and finance.
You can look for jobs in Abu Dhabi on platform like LinkedIn, Indeed UAE, Monster Gulf and recruitment agencies.
Tips for Finding a Job:
- Localize your resume to UAE standards
- Ensure certifications are valid in the UAE
- Understand local hiring norms
Cost of Living in Abu Dhabi vs. the USA
The cost of living in the UAE is generally lower than in the USA, and the cost of living in Abu Dhabi is around 42% lower than the cost of living in the USA.
| Expense | Cost in Abu Dhabi (USD) | Cost in New York (USD) |
| Meal inexpensive restaurant | 10.89 $ | 25.00 $ |
| Water | 0.43 $ | 2.55 $ |
| 12 Eggs | 3.24 $ | 7.14 $ |
| Chicken 1kg | 9.06 $ | 15.68 $ |
| Monthly Bus Pass | 25.87 $ | 133.00 $ |
| Gasoline 1L | 0.76 $ | 0.89 $ |
| 1 BD in City Center Rent | 1,531.10 $ | 4,142.86 $ |
*These costs are from Numbeo.
Living in Abu Dhabi as an Expat
There are many American expats in Abu Dhabi, which makes integration a bit easier and finding expat communities easier.
Pros and Cons of Expat Life in Abu Dhabi:
Pros
Tax-free income
High standard of living
Low crime rates
Large expat community
Good job opportunities
Excellent healthcare system
English is widely spoken
Cons
Extreme heat in summertime
Cultural differences (e.g.
dress code
alcohol)
High cost of private schools
Citizenship is hard to obtain
Premium housing is costly
Things to Know Before Moving to Abu Dhabi
- Respect cultural norms and dress modestly
- Arabic is official, but English is widely spoken
- Diverse leisure, dining, and entertainment options
- Expat communities offer social support and activities
Moving to Abu Dhabi: Requirements
US citizens are required to obtain a residency visa when moving to Abu Dhabi. These are usually sponsored by employers or local family members.
There are various visa options available:
Required documents include:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Employment contract (if applicable)
- Medical fitness test
- Emirates ID application
- UAE health insurance or international health insurance
Visa processes can vary slightly in the United Arab Emirates by Emirate, and it’s recommended to consult with your employer or a relocation specialist.
Moving to Abu Dhabi with Family
Moving with your family requires planning for:
- School enrolment: Enroll your children in private schools, as public schools are taught in Arabic.
- Housing: Find a family-friendly neighborhood that is close to good private schools.
- Healthcare: Ensure that everyone has international health insurance coverage
- Family Visa: Apply for a visa and have your partner or employer sponsor the application.
- Legal documentation: Translate your marriage and birth certificates ahead of time.
Moving Pets to Abu Dhabi
Bringing pets to Abu Dhabi is possible but involves strict regulations:
Best Places to Live in Abu Dhabi for Expats
- Professionals: Al Reem Island, Al Khalidiyah
- Families: Khalifa City, Saadiyat Island
- Expats: Al Raha Beach, Corniche
Do You Pay Taxes in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi does not levy income taxes on individuals. However, US citizens are required to file an annual tax return with the IRS and may need to report foreign income and bank accounts under FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act).
Banking and Opening a Local Account
To open a local bank account in Abu Dhabi, you’ll need:
- Emirates ID (mandatory)
- Valid residency visa
- Passport copy
- Salary certificate or employment contract
Accounts can be opened in AED or foreign currencies. UAE banks are modern and offer full digital banking services.
Ready for your move to Abu Dhabi?
We hope you feel well informed and prepared for your relocation. If you are left with questions have a look at our linked articles and FAQs below.
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