No wonder many people are puzzled when it comes to Ajman vs Sharjah – as both are equally vibrant and beautiful. Both of these Emirates offer their residents a wide range of amenities and services. All to ensure they earn a great lifestyle with the best of the best. So, if you are wondering where to settle: Ajman or Sharjah? Then this comparative guide will help you make up your mind.
Locations

Choosing one of these emirates depends on various factors. One of the main ones is their locations and which one will serve you better. For instance, on average, Ajman is 1 hour and 10 minutes away from Dubai. On the other hand, Sharjah is approximately 51 minutes away from Dubai. So, if you require to travel frequently to Dubai, living in Sharjah may be more convenient. On the other hand, here is the distance between each of these Emirates and others:
| Emirate | Distance from Ajman | Distance from Sharjah |
| Dubai | 1 hour and 10 minutes | 51 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi | 2 hours and 30 minutes | 2 hours and 10 minutes |
| Fujairah | 1 hour and 31 minutes | 1 hour and 11 minutes |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 58 minutes | 1 hour and 4 minutes |
| Umm Al Quwain | 32 minutes | 35 minutes |
The difference in distance between Ajman and Sharjah to other emirates is only by minutes. So, if that is not enough for you to decide where to settle. Maybe the other factors below will help you out.
Population

The population of an Emirate helps many people decide whether they want to settle down there or not. The Sharjah population census for the year 2024 is approximately 1.9 million. In contrast, the Ajman population is 418,000, much less than Sharjah. This indicates that Sharjah is bigger in size, thus situating more people. In addition, the population growth means more traffic and crowds. However, it still indicates the Emirate’s efforts to accommodate this increase with more amenities and facilities. Also, even though Ajman is lower population-wise, it also puts in a lot of work to provide all kinds of amenities and services.
Living Costs

Thirdly, the overall cost of living plays a big role when choosing where to live. Therefore, you must be aware of the Ajman living cost in comparison with Sharjah. Moreover, the table below will showcase the cost of living in Sharjah for a family as well as individuals. Also, note that these costs are on a monthly basis.
| Costs for | Cost of Living in Ajman | Cost of Living in Sharjah |
| Family of 4 – without rent | AED 9,366.7 | AED 9,967.2 |
| Single Person – without rent | AED 2,759.2 | AED 2,935.3 |
| Basic Utilities | AED 557.61 | AED 635.51 |
| Schools per 1 child | AED 19,733.33 | AED 19,000 |
| Nurseries per 1 child | AED 2,150 | AED 966.67 |
These prices help conclude that living in Sharjah is more expensive than in Ajman. The same goes for consumer prices, grocery prices, and local purchasing power.
Related topics
Properties

Moreover, being familiar with properties – including options and prices, is crucial. According to Numbeo.com, Ajman has higher rent prices than Sharjah. The table below will illustrate the precise difference in prices.
| Housing Type | Prices in Ajman | Prices in Sharjah |
| 1-bedroom for rent | AED 4,433.33 – AED 6,033.33 | AED 3,600 – AED 3,611.11 |
| 3-bedroom for rent | AED 12,624.67 – AED 14,142.86 | AED 4,161.75 – AED 5,442 |
| Buying an apartment – per square metre | AED 17,850 | AED 13,250 |
Having displayed rent prices for both emirates. It is worth noting that both of them have equally amazing residential communities. These communities are perfect for individuals, couples, and families alike. See below some of the most vibrant communities in both Ajman and Sharjah:
- Residential communities in Ajman
- Emirates City
- Ajman Downtown
- Ajman One Towers
- Oasis Tower
- Al Rashidiya Towers
- Residential communities in Sharjah
- Al Rahmaniya
- Al Khan
- Tilal City
- Al Jada
- Al Majaz
Explore Apartments for Rent in Ajman
-
Apartment
Listed 3 weeks ago
34,000 AED/year
1 BR Apartment in Ajman Downtown with Parking
Ajman One Tower 8, Ajman One, Ajman Downtown, Ajman
1
2
1,009 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 4 weeks ago
48,000 AED/year
2 BR Apartment in Ajman Downtown with Private Garden
Ajman One Tower 12, Ajman One, Ajman Downtown, Ajman
2
3
1,610 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 7 days ago
28,000 AED/year
One bedroom - City Tower - Annual - Al Nuaimiya 3
City Tower, Al Nuaimiya, Ajman
1
2
757 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 weeks ago
37,000 AED/year
2-Bedroom Apartment for Annual Rent in Golf Tower
Gulf Tower, Emirates City, Ajman
2
2
1,250 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 6 days ago
38,000 AED/year
Luxury apartment for rent in "Golf Tower"
Al Aamra Gardens, Al Amerah, Ajman
2
3
1,400 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 1 week ago
18,000 AED/year
Studio Apartment in Al Nuaimiya with Balcony
Al Naemiya Tower 1, Al Naemiya Towers, Al Nuaimiya, Ajman
studio
1
500 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 1 week ago
19,000 AED/year
Upgraded Studio Apartment in Al Mowaihat
Al Mowaihat 3, Al Mowaihat, Ajman
studio
1
600 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 1 week ago
23,000 AED/year
Upgraded Studio Apartment in Ajman Downtown
Al Jurf 3, Al Jurf, Ajman Downtown, Ajman
studio
1
600 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 1 week ago
45,000 AED/year
2 BR Apartment in Ajman Downtown with Balcony
Al Jurf 3, Al Jurf, Ajman Downtown, Ajman
2
3
1,200 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 4 days ago
34,999 AED/year
For Annual Rent: Brand New Apartment in Al Nuaimiy
Sheikh Jaber Al Sabah Street, Al Naimiya, Al Nuaimiya, Ajman
1
2
1,000 sqft
Explore Apartments for Rent in Sharjah
-
Apartment
Listed 4 days ago
25,999 AED/year
1 MONTH FREE DIRECT ACCESS TO UNION METRO STATION
New Al Taawun Road, Al Taawun, Sharjah
1
1
870 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 4 days ago
28,999 AED/year
1 MONTH FREE DIRECT, ACCESS STADIUM METRO STATION
Bukhara Street, Al Nahda, Sharjah
1
1
870 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 4 days ago
28,999 AED/year
WITH BALCONY WITH 1 MONTH FREE WITH SEPRATA EHALL
New Al Taawun Road, Al Taawun, Sharjah
1
1
870 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 14 hours ago
16,000 AED/year
Studio Apartment in Muwaileh for affordable rent
Fire Station Road, Muwaileh, Sharjah
studio
1
300 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 18 hours ago
10,000 AED/year
Residential ejari and utility bills
Al Mujarrah, Al Sharq, Sharjah
studio
none
150 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 19 hours ago
32,000 AED/year
Neat 1 BR Apartment for bachelors
Fire Station Road, Muwaileh, Sharjah
1
1
800 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 19 hours ago
19,000 AED/year
Studio Apartment for executive bachelors
Muwailih Building, Muwaileh, Sharjah
studio
1
300 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 1 day ago
19,000 AED/year
Studio Apartment in Muwaileh Commercial
AlFalah, Muwaileh Commercial, Sharjah
studio
1
300 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
38,000 AED/year
1 BR Apartment with Balcony for rent
Al Thani Muwaileh, Muwaileh Commercial, Sharjah
1
2
900 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
35,000 AED/year
1 BR Apartment for affordable rent
Al Thani Muwaileh, Muwaileh Commercial, Sharjah
1
1
800 sqft
Tourism

Moreover, the ongoing Ajman tourism situation is very vibrant. As there are many attractions and historical landmarks. Also, there are plenty of malls in Ajman where you can shop, dine, and have fun. Some of the best tourist attractions in Ajman are:
- Ajman Marina
- Ajman Beach
- UAE Pygmy Zoo
- Ajman Museum
- City Centre Ajman
In comparison, the Sharjah tourism vibes are equally vibrant. It is a little hard to compare the two together as they both offer a wide variety of attractions, shopping centres and things to do. Having said that, some people prioritise visiting Sharjah as it has more attractions. For example, Sharjah museum options and more. Overall, these are some of its attractions:
- Sharjah Aquarium
- Sharjah National Park
- Al Noor Island
- Al Majaz Waterfront
- Blue Souk
Economy

On the other hand, when comparing the Sharjah economy to Ajman’s, you will find that the average monthly salary in Ajman is higher. The Ajman economy includes a wide variety of indispensable industries. Such as farming technologies and food industries. On the other hand, Sharjah leans towards light manufacturing and next-generation technologies. Nevertheless, here are the average salary for both emirates on a monthly basis:
- Ajman’s Average salary monthly: AED 8,500
- Sharjah’s Average salary is AED 6,288.89
FAQ
Ajman Stadium has a capacity of 10,000 people. While Sharjah Cricket Stadium fits 16,000 people.
Both the emirates are considered family-friendly. Providing families with all the amenities necessary. Including outdoor parks, malls, and other attractions suitable for families.
In conclusion, Ajman vs Sharjah can be a tough comparison. Both emirates offer a luxurious lifestyle with a wide variety of leisure facilities. This guide will help you make a thoughtful decision when choosing between the two. In addition, make sure to explore more living guides on Property Finder’s blog.
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