Living in Abu Dhabi
How to work and live in Abu Dhabi
The UAE's capital blends tradition and modern life. It's calmer, greener and very family-friendly, with a strong, growing economy.
Why Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi is the capital and the largest of the seven emirates. It combines heritage with modern life, making it an appealing place for anyone who wants a high quality of life. It's known for its clean beaches, green parks and corniche, and a strong focus on sustainable development.
The government is investing heavily in a knowledge-based economy, attracting professionals in many sectors. Its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools and world-class healthcare make it an ideal place to settle down for the long term.
Start your UAE residence visaWorking in Abu Dhabi
Key industries
Energy
Oil, gas and petrochemicals remain major employers, along with a fast-growing renewable energy sector.
Finance
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is home to banks, asset managers and fintech firms.
Healthcare
Large hospital groups and specialist centres employ doctors, nurses, technicians and administrators.
Education & research
Universities, research institutes and many international schools recruit worldwide.
Tourism & culture
Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and major museums drive jobs in hospitality, events and the arts.
Government & services
The capital houses federal and emirate-level bodies, and the many contractors that support them.
Where to live
Popular Abu Dhabi neighbourhoods
Island & waterfront living
Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island and Al Raha Beach. Modern apartments and villas with sea views, beaches and leisure on the doorstep.
City centre
Al Khalidiyah, the Corniche area, Tourist Club Area (Al Zahiyah) and Al Nahyan. These are central and walkable, with a wide range of apartment prices.
Family suburbs
Khalifa City, Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Al Shamkha. Spacious villas and townhouses with schools and community facilities nearby.
Budget-friendly
Mussafah, Baniyas and parts of the city centre. Affordable options that are popular with people working in industrial and service sectors.
Getting around Abu Dhabi
- Buses — an extensive network paid with the rechargeable Hafilat card.
- Taxis & apps — affordable taxis and ride-hailing across the city.
- Driving — wide, well-maintained roads. Abu Dhabi uses the Darb toll system at peak hours.
- To Dubai — about 1.5 hours by car, with regular intercity buses.
Life outside work
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's most beautiful mosques.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Saadiyat Cultural District.
- Yas Island theme parks and the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit.
- The Corniche, mangrove kayaking and white-sand beaches.
- Al Ain, the green "garden city" with mountains, oases and heritage sites.
How ICS UAE helps you move to Abu Dhabi
Our all-inclusive package gets you a 2-year UAE residence visa and Emirates ID, which you need to live and work anywhere in the UAE, including Abu Dhabi. We handle your entry permit, medical test, biometrics and visa stamping, then help you open a free savings bank account so you can settle in quickly.
See the full package details or compare with living in Dubai.
Start your Abu Dhabi journey today
Create a free account, fill in your application online and track every step until your Emirates ID is issued.