While Dubai and Abu Dhabi happen to be the popular emirates, the cultural capital of the UAE is not behind either. It has its own charm. It reflects the Arab lifestyle yet provides residents with an urban lifestyle full of modern amenities and facilities.
Let’s find out how living in Sharjah is different from Dubai:
Comparatively Lower Living Cost
It’s a known fact that Dubai has a higher living cost. A low salaried person finds it tough to make ends meet. Sharjah, on the other hand, has a comparatively lower living cost. You can find apartments for rent in Sharjah at a much lower cost as compared to Dubai.
Similarly, utility and other expenses also tend to be the lower side. This is one of the major reasons why a lot of people who work in Dubai prefer living in Sharjah. They are willing to face commutation hassles just because living in Sharjah is cheaper. This way, they are able to save money, which they can send to their families in their homeland.
It’s a ‘Family City’
Dubai has a more urban or metropolitan feel to it. Sharjah, on the other hand, is a rather ‘family city’. Almost every neighbourhood in this emirate has a ‘family-only building’. This means that only families can reside here.
Also, you won’t find alcohol, clubs, or nightclubs here, which are quite common in Dubai. So, if you are someone who can’t do it without an active lifestyle, Sharjah is not the right pick for you.
A Haven for Art Lovers
Sharjah is no less than a paradise for art and history lovers. It houses more than 20 museums, which have preserved the marvels of the bygones era. Furthermore, numerous art festivals are held here that are attended by thousands of people. These museums also hold annual light shows that are quite popular and attended by globally renowned personalities.
In addition to that, there is an annual book fair. The architecture of buildings in Sharjah also depicts the rich Arabian style.
Low Crime Rate
The crime rate in Dubai is low, thanks to the strict rules implemented by the government. However, it is even lower in Sharjah. The main reason, apart from the strict laws, is that alcohol is not available here.
Furthermore, as stated above, it is a family city. This factor, too, helps it making it a rather safe city for everyone.
Traffic Situation
Travelling can be a real hassle in Dubai, even if you own a car. Although the emirate’s infrastructure is properly built, you will still come across huge traffic lines. This is why most people use Metro to reach their destinations. It has indeed proven to be a blessing for many.
However, there’s no metro in Sharjah. But there are hardly any traffic jams or long lines. Commuting within the emirate is quite easy. The trouble arises if you’ve to travel between Dubai and Sharjah. It can easily take a couple of hours in peak hours.
Those who do not own a car in Sharjah can find taxis and public buses easily. The fare is also lower as compared to Dubai.
A Laidback Environment
Life in Dubai is fast-paced. Although there are so many attractions, places to visit and things to do, many hardly find time to take part in them. In Sharjah, there’s a rather laidback environment. There are some family parks and other beautiful attractions, but quite limited in comparison to Dubai.
Residential Options
New developments are taking place in almost every part of Dubai. These developments come with modern facilities and amenities. The same is the case with Sharjah, but these developments are fewer in numbers. Still, the presence of these residential projects promises an upscale and comfortable lifestyle. Residents in these projects can enjoy state of the art facilities and luxuries. In all, the lifestyle in Sharjah is a lot different than it is in Dubai. It is more suitable for families and those seeking a laidback atmosphere. However, bear in mind that not every area in this emirate is suitable for living. If you are looking for apartments for sale in Sharjah or rental spaces, make sure to choose your neighbourhood wisely. Take into account various factors and then make a decision. It is recommended to take the help of a reputable real estate agent for this purpose. They will provide you with the best property listings in Sharjah.
