Although enjoying your assignment in the United Arab Emirates, you might be thinking about your next relocation destination and moving from Dubai to a less expensive place. An international relocation does not necessarily have to be a privilege for wealthy people, if you choose a destination with low cost of living.
Popular social expat network InterNations has identified in its latest report called “Expat Insider” the most affordable moving destinations around the world. Over 14000 expatriates from close to 200 countries have rated the cost of living in their new destination. According to that, the United Arab Emirates are ranked on position 37 when it comes to low cost of living for expats.
One big surprise: Ecuador is ranked on first place not only for being the cheapest international moving destination, but also for being the most popular country for expatriates. Interestingly, not only costs of living have been rated the lowest worldwide, but also 26% of the expats in Ecuador are completely satisfied with their financial situation – having a gross household income of just 25000 USD. On worldwide average, there are just 15% of the expatriates happy with their financial situation.
As second cheapest expat country was rated Poland, which scored high for affordable housing options. Poland is followed by the Czech Republic, which is also appreciated for its good housing market. These two central European countries are particularly popular among expats from America and from the United Kingdom, as these destinations also score high in the quality of life index.
The survey has also identified those countries with high cost of living: According to that most expensive expat country is Mozambique, followed by Nigeria and Brazil. Housing and security measures play an important role, as those neighbourhoods where expats live, do usually require more security and more premium equipment. In addition, food that is typical of Western or Asian cuisines and are highly requested have to be imported and naturally cost more. Nevertheless, expats in these countries seem to feel that they have enough disposable income: 12 % of the expats in Nigeria stated that they have a yearly income of more than 250000 USD. In addition, 38% of the expats who moved to Nigeria were fully reimbursed the international relocation costs.