Middle East — Financial & Living Guide for Expats (2026)
The Middle East — anchored by the UAE — offers tax-free income, world-class infrastructure, and rapidly growing financial hubs.
Updated March 2026 • 1 countries
Lowest rent
United Arab Emirates
$1,900/mo
Best savings
United Arab Emirates
4.00%
Cheapest mortgage
United Arab Emirates
4.50%
Lowest cost of living
United Arab Emirates
70.0
| Country | Mortgage Rate | Savings Rate | Credit Card APR | Rent (1BR) | Price /m² |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | 4.50% | 4.00% | 36.5% | $1,900/mo | $4,100/m² |
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Frequently asked
Is the UAE tax-free?
The UAE has no personal income tax, though a 9% corporate tax applies to most businesses since 2023.