Dreaming of your own space in the UAE? Whether you're tired of sharing or just want more privacy, living alone might sound like the upgrade you deserve. But can your wallet handle it?

Let’s break down:

• How much more solo living costs in the UAE
• The financial signs you're ready to live on your own
• Where in the UAE solo living is feasible
• How to budget smart using the 30–40% rule
• And how iROOMit can help you find the right roommate if sharing still makes sense

What’s the Real Cost of Living Alone in the UAE?

In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, living alone has become more of a luxury than a standard, especially for young professionals and expats. Whether you're earning in dirhams or on a limited expat package, you’ll quickly find that rent is usually your biggest monthly expense.

According to Bayut’s 2024 report, here’s what you’re looking at:

• Dubai: A 1-bedroom apartment in areas like Dubai Marina or Downtown costs AED 6,000–9,000/month. In contrast, a shared room or flat can cost around AED 2,000–3,500/month.
• Abu Dhabi: One-bedroom apartments in central areas go for AED 5,000–7,500/month, while shared options cost around AED 2,500–3,000/month.
• Sharjah: More affordable overall, solo living can cost AED 3,000–4,000/month, while shared options drop as low as AED 1,200–2,000/month.

💸 On average, living solo in the UAE increases your housing expenses by 40–60% compared to shared accommodation.

Plus, when you live alone, you’re responsible for 100% of the DEWA bills (utilities), internet, maintenance, and furnishing costs. Many apartments come unfurnished, so setup costs can easily hit AED 10,000+ upfront.

Signs You’re Financially Ready to Live Alone

Before you ditch your Roommates, make sure you tick these boxes:

✅ Your Rent Stays Below 35% of Your Income

Financial advisors in the UAE suggest keeping rent below 30–35% of your monthly salary. For example, if you earn AED 15,000/month, your rent should ideally be AED 4,500–5,000 max—which might mean living in a shared flat or choosing a more affordable suburb.

✅ You Can Cover Bills Alone

DEWA, internet (e.g., Etisalat or du), cooling, and maintenance add an extra AED 800–1,200/month when you're living solo. These costs drop significantly when shared.

✅ You’ve Budgeted for Furnishing

Most flats in the UAE come unfurnished, especially in mid-range price brackets. Expect to spend AED 10,000–15,000 to furnish a 1BHK with basics like a bed, sofa, kitchen appliances, curtains, etc.

✅ You’ve Got Emergency Savings

Whether it’s an unexpected car repair, health issue, or job change, having 3–6 months' rent and expenses saved is essential before committing to a solo lease.

✅ You Have a Stable Work Visa & Residency

Solo leases often require proof of long-term employment or residence. If you’re on a fixed-term contract or in between visas, sharing a flat can offer flexibility and lower risk.

Cities Where You’ll Likely Need a Roommates

Dubai

• 1-bed average: AED 7,000/month
• Shared flat: AED 2,500–3,500/month

Dubai’s rent varies wildly by neighbourhood—but if you want to live in Downtown, JLT, or the Marina, solo living requires a minimum salary of AED 20K/month to stay financially safe. Flatsharing is still the norm for most residents under 35.

Abu Dhabi

• 1-bed average: AED 6,000/month
• Shared flat: AED 2,500–3,000/month

Central areas like Al Reem or Al Khalidiya are costly for solo living. Most expats share with colleagues or fellow professionals to keep rent under control.

Cities Where You Might Afford to Live Alone

✅ Sharjah

• 1-bed: AED 3,000/month
• Shared flat: AED 1,500/month

Sharjah offers more affordable rents for those working in Dubai but willing to commute. Solo living is feasible for people earning around AED 10K/month.

✅ Ajman

• 1-bed: AED 2,800/month
• Shared: AED 1,200/month

Ajman is ideal for freelancers or remote workers who want independence without breaking the bank. Lower living costs and quieter neighbourhoods are a plus.

The 30–40% Rule: Can You Afford to Go Solo?

Here's a simple guide:

👉 If you currently pay AED 2,500/month in a shared setup, can your income comfortably support AED 3,500–4,000/month plus bills?

If yes—and you're still saving and living comfortably—you’re probably ready for solo living.

But if jumping to a 1-bedroom lease will leave you paycheck-to-paycheck or dipping into savings, it might be worth holding off or finding a compromise like a studio or smaller shared flat.

Bottom Line

In the UAE, living alone is definitely possible—but it comes at a cost. For most expats and young professionals, shared accommodation is still the most realistic and budget-friendly option, especially in high-demand areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

That said, if your salary supports it, solo living offers unmatched freedom and peace of mind.

Not quite there yet? iROOMit makes it easy to find housemates in the UAE who match your lifestyle, culture, and budget.

🌍 Ready to find your perfect Roommates? Start now and Download iROOMit app