The UAE is one of the finest places for expats around the world. The quality of life is next to none and if you are planning to move to Sharjah, welcome to paradise!
The city is exotic, with ethereal landscapes and nurturing mountains. With options like 5 Bed Villa for Sale and 3 bedroom Condos at your fingertips, you can have the time of your life in Sharjah.
Sharjah is a fifteen-minute drive from Dubai, so if you ever seek to freshen your sight, you can just hop on and drive away! So, what are you waiting on right now? Read on to find out what it is like to live in Sharjah and what are the best areas for expats to live in Sharjah.
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Accommodation options
Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi are all some of the finest cities to live in the UAE. The country takes pride in being one of the safest locations all around the world. Moreover, the accommodation options are affordable as well. If one can afford it, they can choose to opt for a 5 bed villa for sale in Sharjah or 3-bedroom Condo in Dubai.
If you are an expat, then chances are your company is already accommodating you. Formal housing allowances are less common now, but if you are amongst the lucky ones, then count your stars.
As an expat in Sharjah, you will need to have a residence visa to rent accommodation. To sign the lease, you will need a visa, passport, proof of address, and income from your employer.
Local Culture of UAE
Before diving in to see the residences available for expats in Sharjah, it is pivotal to look at the culture of the UAE. The culture of any place in the world is one of the most basic things one needs to look at to live in a country. As an expat living in Sharjah, one of the biggest accommodations you will have to make is in terms of culture.
Despite being a cosmopolitan country, the UAE has a conservative culture. The dress style in the UAE is conservative in nature, and many women prefer wearing Hijab or Abaya.
On the other hand, expats aren’t used to this culture and often do not abide by it. There exists no strict dress code in Sharjah, but expats would be much better off if they opt for a conservative look. When out in public, expat women must dress modestly and cover their shoulders and legs.
Previously unmarried couples in the UAE weren’t allowed to live together, and one needed a license to buy alcohol. But recently, the UAE government has announced a broadening of personal freedom for both expats and locals of the country. Now, the cohabitation of unmarried couples is legal, and one can buy alcohol without a license.
However, being in the UAE means you must remember that Ramadan is the holiest time in the Islamic calendar. During Ramadan, even as an expat, you will be expected to avoid drinking, eating and smoking during daylight hours in public or in front of Muslim friends and colleagues.
When the fast is broken for the day, expats are encouraged to join in the feasting. Many companies in the UAE tend to operate on reduced hours and have special rooms where non-muslim employees can eat during the holy month.
Sharjah, in essence, is the 3rd biggest city in the UAE. It is also known as the cultural capital, with many ancient buildings and museums. The emirate exists adjacent to Dubai, but it is free from Dubai-like hassles and is quite affordable in nature.
Therefore Sharjah is one of the most desirable locations for expats. If you are confused about the best areas to live in Sharjah, then read on as we talk about the best!
AL RAHMANIYA
Al Rahmaniya Sharjah is a peaceful and family-friendly area which is divided into 10 residential sub-communities. The community is primarily villa-like in structure at a prime location in the emirate.
The development is present close to some of the most notable landmarks in the city, like Sharjah National Park and Sharjah Equestrian and Racing club. As per reports of the real estate market, it ranks at the top position for expats to live in Sharjah.
Al Qasim
Another popular area with many affordable apartments in Sharjah for expats is Al Qasim. The area offers a hassle-free and comfortable lifestyle, unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Nearby locations of this neighborhood include Al Maja, the center of Sharjah, along with the iconic King Faisal Mosque.
The area comprises schools, malls, resorts and parks. Overall the place is ideal for expat families planning to live in Sharjah. The average rent pricing for this area starts from AED 13000/year, and the average sale price is around AED 525,000/year.
Al Majaz
Another one of the most amazing places in Sharjah to live in is Al Majaz. Al Majaz is the city’s center and offers a waterfront living experience for families. Since the area is located near the waterfront, many recreational activities are available that can be considered tourist attraction points.
The area has been divided into 3 parts, Majaz 1, Majaz 2 and Majaz 3. Al Majaz includes the Sharjah musical fountain, various parks, and popular venues for concerts. Overall the area is peaceful and well developed, suitable for expat families. The Average rent price is AED 16,000 annually, and the average sale price starts from AED 350,000.
Al Nahda
One of the best areas for expats in Sharjah is Al Nahda. It is located at the Dubai-Sharjah border and provides residents with the best of both worlds. The area comprises medium and high-rise apartments for families and singles.
Although rents are relatively low, the area includes all pivotal facilities like hospitals, schools, malls, and recreational venues. Since its location is ideal in nature, people find it more economical in nature to work in Dubai and live in Al Nahda.
To Conclude
The best areas for expats to live in Sharjah are among the many, but you need to pick one that best suits your needs. So before moving in, do your complete search. The culture and lifestyle of the UAE are one of a kind, and expats usually have a good time living there.