Monthly Breakdown for Architecture Lovers, Desert Dreamers, and Culture-Soaked Travellers

I originally came here just to experience the culture — but I left absolutely in love. Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, this one takes the win for me. The mosques, the quiet elegance of its architecture, the desert experience… even just walking around felt grounding in a way I didn’t expect.

Yes, the dress code is more conservative than Dubai, but I felt incredibly safe. And for Singaporeans, the visa-on-arrival is free, automatic, and truly hassle-free — no forms, no fuss.

💰 Expenses Breakdown

🛏️ Accommodation: SGD3,700
→ I stayed in Al Reem Island, a quiet, residential area with canals, parks, and beach access. The nearby Reem Mall was a bonus — open late on weekends and stocked with major brands.
🍽️ Food: ~SGD70/day
→ I love Emirati cuisine, but it’s not the cheapest. The dates, teas, and sweets (especially at Café Bateel) were worth the splurge.
→ Also: Khobz Al Khameer — a traditional Emirati bread — was a standout.
🚇 Transport: SGD200
→ I took private car transfers to/from the airport and for a few activities. But otherwise, their bus system was surprisingly great. Foreigners can get a monthly concession pass too — super convenient.
🎡 Activities: SGD500
→ From desert safaris to museum hopping, I did a lot. And honestly? Most of it was worth every dirham.
💄 Grooming: SGD300
→ Light shopping and the usual life bits.

Total: ~SGD6,870

📌 Higher than my average spend — but this month felt like a blend of leisure, exploration, and a little luxe. No regrets.

🏡 Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi

✔️ Al Reem Island — Quiet, clean, and peaceful. Parks, beach access, and late-night shopping on weekends. Felt super safe.
✔️ Yas Island — For the resort vibes. Think theme parks, major attractions, and a little more flash.

🏠 Airbnb, Hotel, or Something Else?

✅ Airbnb pros: Perfect for 1–2 month stays. Well-equipped units are easy to find.
✅ Long-term rentals save 20–30%: But may require longer commitment and more paperwork.

📌 If you want space and peace with easy access to malls and the water — Al Reem Airbnb options are solid.

🍽️ Food and Dining in Abu Dhabi (SGD70/day)

✔️ Dates and tea (especially from Café Bateel)
✔️ Khobz Al Khameer – pillowy, aromatic, and so satisfying

📌 Meals here can be pricey, especially sweets and traditional cafes. But the quality makes it feel justified.

🚕 Transport Costs (SGD200 for the Month)

✔️ Airport transfers are easiest via private car.
✔️ For daily travel, the bus system is excellent — and yes, foreigners can apply for a monthly pass.

📌 Uber exists but can be expensive. Plan routes ahead for peak hours.

📶 Internet and Workspaces (SGD25)

✔️ One of the fastest internet speeds I’ve experienced.
✔️ Seamless for calls, uploads, and remote work.

📌 You’ll be well-covered for work and content creation.

🎟️ Where I Spent My Time in Abu Dhabi

✔️ Desert Safari and Cultural Show – Drift cars, BBQ, and dancing under the stars.

✔️ Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Breathtaking. If I were rich, this would be the blueprint for my future house.
✔️ SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – Best one I’ve been to in terms of visual design and scale.

✔️ Louvre Abu Dhabi – Floating architecture, stunning curation. Visually iconic.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Was SGD6,870 Worth It?

✔️ Absolutely. It’s not just the place — it’s the feeling it gave me.
✔️ Between the stillness of the mosque and the thrill of the desert, it was a well-balanced experience.
✔️ Abu Dhabi will always be the one that quietly wins my heart.

🙋‍♀️ Who This City is For

• Travellers craving culture and calm
• Luxe nomads who don’t like showing off
• Those who want fewer tourists and more soul