Geographically, the United Arab Emirates consists of seven constituent emirates which have coastlines on the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Oman which makes it a great attraction for both Emirates and foreigners. However, in a recent census, the population of major cities in the United Arab Emirates was registered at 9.8 million, with just 1.9 million native Emiratis and the remainder being expats.    

Yes, the UAE is the first destination for many, but what are the best places in UAE and top 8 UAE cities people are choosing to live in?   

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#1. Dubai   

Dubai is ranked one of the best cities in the world and not just the best places UAE. Taking into account the economic factors, the environmental factors, the social-cultural factor, and the overall quality of life have made it through the top list.   

Have you noticed the rise of many celebrities and influencers relocating to Dubai during the last few years? This is nothing new - and it’s not just about the rich and famous – many others choose to live in Dubai too.   

Dubai is the ultimate place for vacationers and tourists but also for families and individuals looking for a city to settle in. It has everything one needs.  For people looking to start a business, or for those who are seeking education or medical facilities, Dubai is one of the best destinations.   

There are undoubtedly other factors as well, in addition to money, tax-free salaries, skyscrapers, and beautiful beaches:   

• One of the best stable economies   
• A HubSpot for entrepreneurs and business owners   
• High quality of life index rate   
• The best cities in the UAE are actually located in Dubai(Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Mirdif. Emirates Hills, Business Bay)   
• Perfect for families and child friendly   
• Perfect balance between city and seaside   
• The weather is favorable   
• Standards for healthcare and education are among the highest in the world.   
• The public transport system is efficient and reliable   
• Accommodation is generally of a very high standard and not very cheap   
• You can enjoy affordable luxury.   
• It's a hugely diverse and culturally rich culinary scene.   
• It is an ideal portal to the world.   
• It has an enviably low crime rate.   
• Walking down the streets at 2 am can be very safe   
• It is not as restrictive as the media portrays it to be.   
• Unlimited Safaris and waterparks   
• Best shopping malls and entertainment activities(Dubai Mall, Global Village,  Dubai Festival City..)   
• Best romantic places   
• No language barrier    

And these to keep the list short!   

The government of Dubai has substantially invested in infrastructure, which is one of the many reasons why it is the best city to live in. Dubai's healthcare and education are world-class, ranking among the best in the world. This is a compelling argument to live in Dubai, whether alone or with family.   

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#2. Abu Dhabi   

Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven Emirates, the capital, and the second-most populous city after Dubai and one of best places UAE. Did you know that the safest city in the world is Abu Dhabi? Families have Abu Dhabi on top of their list when it comes to living.   

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Abu Dhabi has a reputation as a business city but it also has the best places:   

• Al Reem Island   
• Yas Island   
• Saadiyat Island   
• Ferrari World   
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque   
• Emirates Palace   

Abu Dhabi has a diverse range of leisure activities to keep you active and fulfill your lifestyle. It is full of immersive, educational, and historical experiences and has one of the best educational and medical facilities in the UAE.    

Aside from its beautiful sunshine and beaches, residents and workers in Abu Dhabi have the option to travel all over the world. A wealth of thrilling journeys throughout the world are less than a four-hour flight away, from the Middle East to Addis Ababa, from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka to Turkey and Greece. It actually makes the ideal city and place for living and many Arab families from all around the world choose to go and settle there.   

Yes, Abu Dhabi is the perfect city for families but you can always live a single life in Abu Dhabi.   

In Abu Dhabi, a one-bedroom apartment will cost between AED 70,000 and AED 90,000 per year. Mohammed Bin Zayed City is quickly becoming Abu Dhabi's most affordable area.Al Reem Island is a popular spot for singles as there is so much to do locally. Khalifa City is another popular location for singles with many shopping centers,  restaurants, and hotels.   

So, which is best for you – Dubai or Abu Dhabi?   

It is a difficult question to answer. Both cities offer the same services ad have similar prices for food and transportation, but Abu Dhabi has cheaper accommodation and suits families better. Living in Dubai might appeal to you if you're living alone, like large skyscrapers, and enjoy vibrant cities.   

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#3. Ras Al Khaimah   

One of the best places UAE is Ras Al Khaimeh. There is a lot to figure out when deciding to live in Ras Al-Khaimah, whether you're seeking work, education, health care, or just a beautiful spot to retire, you'll find it here. Here’s what you need to know:   

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is increasingly becoming a hotspot for individuals wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, with its gorgeous mountain range, outdoor adventures, and laid-back lifestyles being all easily accessible from Dubai.   

• A more relaxed way of life distant from traffic bottlenecks and supercar engines revving   
• Extremely clean beaches   
• Property won’t cost you the earth   
• Low cost of living   
• Business start-ups made easy   
• It is not that far from Dubai!   
• Ideal for families   
• Unmatched approach to outdoor entertainment   
• One of the safest places on the planet with an extremely low crime rate   

Whether you enjoy history and tourism, sports, or shopping, Ras Al-Khaimah has plenty to offer. Both expats and families will appreciate the city's four large malls, as well as a variety of sports such as golf, equestrian horseback riding, mountain hikes, and ocean sports such as sailing and surfing.   

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#4. Sharjah    

1.5 million people live in Sharjah although it does not have the same vibrant nightlife as Dubai, it has been significantly building its infrastructure in recent years, providing inhabitants with a variety of amenities. It has become the capital of the Arab World.   

People come to live here for many reasons. The lodgings are varied and reasonable, with big apartments, houses and villas, wonderful views of the cornice, the beach at Al Taawun, Sharjah Art Museum, Majaz Waterfront, Al Noor Island, Sharjah Amphitheatre, and the re-vamped Sharjah port.    

Rent in popular areas of Sharjah can be as low as 1500 AED per month, but homes in adjacent cities are almost certainly more expensive.   

Sharjah is in fact a little bit of heaven with:   

• So many leisure options and activities   
• Everything being conveniently accessible   
• Everything being really affordable which guarantees tons of savings   
• The amazing Dibba Al Hisn town   
• School standards at the highest level   
• Only 25 minutes away from Dubai    

Just like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah is home to many families who find it the ideal city to live in UAE.   

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#5. Fujairah    

Fujairah is a popular city in the UAE and one of the best places UAE, recognized for its culture and job prospects that attract students for further education, as well as its business and commercial center. It provides a nice quality of life with a cultural mix distinguished by traditions to expats desiring to work and live there.   

Fujairah's weather is seasonal and warm most of the year. In fact, Fujairah is the only one of the seven emirates that are mostly mountainous. The rest is primarily covered by deserts. It provides a peaceful and serene environment. This does not imply that inhabitants are denied access to municipal amenities and facilities No! It packs everything!   

It has various reputable hospitals that provide top-notch medical facilities and services, such as Al Sharq Hospital and Thumbay Hospital Fujairah. It also has some of the best private and public schools and nurseries like Our Own English High School,  St. Mary's Catholic High School, Fujairah Private Academy, and Fujairah Montessori Nursery.   

Not to forget the great leisure opportunities and shopping malls:   

• Fujairah Museum   
• Bithnah Fort   
• Fujairah Fort   
• Fujairah Heritage Village   
• Khor Kalba   
• Al Bidya Mosque   
• Fujairah Terry Fox Run   
• Fujairah City Centre   
• Century Mall.   

The average cost of living in Fujairah is $1531 for a family or couple, $816 for students, and $546 for a bachelor's. Rental expenses for a family of 3 members, or couples are $1262 and $409.for students and single persons. Most housing options, ranging from studio to three-bedroom apartments, can be reasonably priced.  

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#6. Ajman    

Although Ajman is the smallest emirate in the UAE, it has recently been gaining a lot of popularity among both locals and foreigners. This can be credited to the fact that there are a lot of residential and commercial developments coming up in the city, tempting both renters and business seekers to concentrate their efforts here.   

Ajman provides its citizens with the complete package; it has all they require and more. Ajman's houses are all relatively reasonable, making them excellent for those wishing to save money on housing. Ajman villas are no exception. Living in Ajman has several advantages, one of which is the availability of huge villas at reasonable costs.   

Ajman is like Sharjah, the best place UAE for students but also for families. The neighborhoods are tranquil and peaceful. So, if you wish to live in a calm neighborhood, Ajman is the place for you. Ajman is in fact, removed from the hustle and bustle of urban areas, so you won't be bothered by loud automobile horns or crowds of people.   

But don’t worry. Calm is not boring! Ajman, contrary to popular assumption, offers numerous enjoyable leisure activities. Ajman Corniche is one of them. It also has malls allowing for a seamless shopping experience. Ajman's shopping centers include Ajman City Center, Hamdan Center, and Safeer Mall.   

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#7. Al-Ain   

Al-Ain is another city with a high quality of life. Living in Al Ain is to experience the true UAE, where traditional culture and customs coexist with modern business.   

First and foremost, Al-Ain is cheap, safe, and has organized public transportation means. You can imagine how fun it is living in Al-Ain for families with kids. It has the best places UAE for leisure activities and entertainment:   

• Garden City Oasis   
• Al-Ain Palace Museum   
• Al-Ain Zoo   

One or two things to keep in mind, especially for people coming from a Western Culture, is that the weather in Al-Ain is relatively hot and while Dubai and Abu Dhabi have recently gotten more westernized, Al Ain remains fairly traditional and conservative. Laws are tightly enforced in Al Ain, and it is not a smart idea to break them as an expat, as you might face substantial fines or even prison sentences.   

#8. Umm Al Quwain   

Last but not least comes Umm Al Quwain. Umm al Quwain has just recently begun to gain traction with foreigners, who are drawn to its tranquil atmosphere, affordable housing costs, and 30 minutes ride to Dubai.    

Many people are moving here because of the quiet lifestyle and affordable housing. The Marina in Umm al Quwain is a popular places to live in UAE.   

Umm Al Quwain has also some of the best schools and hospitals:   

• Butterflies Nursery    
• The International Schools of Chouefait   
• The Elite American School   
• Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital   

Although it is at the bottom of the list of best places UAE, Umm Al Quwain has some hidden gems where you can do activities such as water sports, walking in garden parks and camel racing.   

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Final Thoughts   

These were the best places to live in UAE. Keep in mind that there are many factors to consider before choosing a city to live in. Take your time to search for the lowest accommodation and transportation costs that suit you, and do some research about the schools and hospitals in the city you choose. All cities are safe and home to both single persons and families.    

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