Sharjah or Ajman? Which Emirate is Better for Expats in the UAE

Choosing between Sharjah and Ajman as an expat can feel overwhelming, but understanding the key differences will help you make the right decision for your lifestyle and budget. Both northern emirates offer significantly lower costs than Dubai, but each has distinct advantages depending on your priorities.

The Cost of Living: Ajman's Clear Edge

When budget matters most, Ajman emerges as the more affordable option. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ajman ranges between AED 2,000–3,000 monthly, compared to Sharjah's AED 2,500–4,000. For families, the difference becomes even more significant—villa rentals in Ajman are substantially cheaper than Sharjah alternatives. Utilities follow the same pattern, with Ajman's costs around AED 500–800 monthly versus Sharjah's AED 600–900. If you're prioritizing maximum savings, Ajman allows your salary to stretch considerably further.​

Transportation: Connectivity and Commuting

Both emirates offer excellent public transport, but their appeal depends on your work location. Ajman provides affordable bus connections starting at just AED 3 for internal trips, with inter-emirate travel to Dubai costing approximately AED 15 by bus. The drive from Ajman to Dubai takes about 35–50 minutes during non-peak hours. Sharjah benefits from similar infrastructure with metro access, making it slightly more convenient for professionals commuting regularly to Dubai, though traffic during peak hours can be time-consuming. For remote workers, Ajman's lower transportation costs make it an exceptional choice.​

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Sharjah offers a vibrant cultural scene with events like the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sharjah Light Festival, and various art exhibitions throughout the year. The emirate has established itself as a cultural hub, attracting residents seeking enrichment beyond shopping malls. However, Sharjah maintains stricter social norms as the UAE's only "dry" emirate—no bars or nightclubs—and enforces conservative dress codes.​

Ajman presents a more laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. While it lacks Sharjah's prominent cultural events, it offers genuine community feel with growing recreational facilities and a slower pace of life. For those seeking peace over constant entertainment, Ajman delivers authentically.​

Safety, Healthcare, and Education

Both emirates excel in safety, with minimal crime rates and strong community policing. Sharjah hosts world-class healthcare facilities attracting medical tourists globally, while both provide access to quality education with multiple international schools. For families prioritizing healthcare excellence, Sharjah holds a slight advantage.​

Job Opportunities

Sharjah boasts a more diversified job market spanning healthcare, education, business, and emerging sectors. Ajman's employment landscape is developing, with growing opportunities in the Ajman Free Zone, manufacturing, hospitality, and education sectors.​

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Ajman if you prioritize affordability, want minimal commute stress for remote work, or prefer a quieter lifestyle away from urban hustle.

Choose Sharjah if you need diverse job opportunities, value cultural engagement, commute regularly to Dubai, or want access to premium healthcare facilities.

Both emirate choices are excellent, offering tax-free income, safety, and community support. The decision ultimately hinges on balancing cost savings against lifestyle preferences and career requirements. Visit both before deciding—what works on paper might feel different when you experience the neighborhood atmosphere firste firsthand.