Job Discussion Forums

Sheika Taylfetha · Joined: 12 Apr 2009 Posts: 13

Can anyone please let me know whether the UAE is cheaper or more expensive than Qatar? Thanks

Pikgitina · Joined: 09 Jan 2006 Posts: 420 Location: KSA

Try posting this on the UAE and Qatar forums, too. You may get more answers over there. Smile

cmp45 · Joined: 17 Aug 2004 Posts: 1475 Location: KSA

Granted it is always interesting to get first hand info from people on the ground, but here are a just few examples of what an internet search revealed:
sometimes you just need to search on your own....
overall cost of living has been rising through out the Gulf...in KSA, at my place of work we have been recieving cost of living adjustments to our salary

see:

http://www.dubaifaqs.com/cost-of-living-in-dubai.php

http://www.qatarliving.com/answers/living-in-qatar/relocation-to-doha-from-uae

Sheika Taylfetha · Joined: 12 Apr 2009 Posts: 13

I did do an internet search but the truth is that I've been so impressed with much on the info on these boards (which I've been reading for months before I joined) that I've got to the stage where I don't believe much unless I hear it here!
In any case, I think the question I should have asked was "If you had two offers, one at 12,000 DH from UAE and one at 10,000 QR from Qatar and all else was equal (i.e. both offered n housing, utilities etc on top of the salary) which offer would leave you able to save more? That's what I should have asked.................

helenl · Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202

Does your UAE offer specifically state it includes covering utilities? Not many do (or at least those I'm familiar with - mainly HCT don't). Because that can be a significant amount depending on your accomodation. Some villa dwellers can have bills in the 1000s during the hot summer months.

Sheika Taylfetha · Joined: 12 Apr 2009 Posts: 13

No, Helenl, it actually says it covers utilities up tp 500 DH per month (is that reasonable for a 1/2 bedroomed flat?). The Qatar offer just says it covers all utilities. Thanks for your help with this. Smile

helenl · Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202

I would think that the 500 would be more than adequate. Do you get the cash in hand or is it paid to you as an allowance? Most people I know in flats have average utility bills of perhaps 60 - 80% of that depending on which side (sunny or not) they're on, how big the windows are and what type of AC (window vs split vs central).

Sheika Taylfetha · Joined: 12 Apr 2009 Posts: 13

I think they just pay it up to the 500 DH although I don't know for sure. The contract just says they "....will pay the expenses of water and electricity for (me) providing that the value of the monthly consumption does not exceed 500.00 (Five Hundred) Dirham. " I assume that means that they just pay the bill and if it's over 500 DH then I have to pay the balance. So, which offer do you think will leave me more money for savings - given that I'll lead a similar lifestyle (fairly quiet) wherever I am? Thanks Smile

helenl · Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202

You don't say if they provide accomodation or if you get an allowance. If it's the latter - I would strongly recommend you pass the offer up. REnts are decreasing very slowly but finding a decent flat can be a nightmare (some have taken literally months according to some threads here).

I couldn't say which would be better, I don't know what you consider quiet or what your personal tastes are (caviar and champagne or a vegetarian curry from the little Indian takeaway catering to bachelors around the corner?)

Transportation is going to be a big issue wherever you end up - and that's going to factor heavily into your expenses. Taxis are no longer "cheap" (although they are relative to North America) gas is very inexpensive (costs me about USD12.00 to fill the tank of a Honda Accord) but the price of renting is more expensive in Doha as is purchasing a car.