5 Simple Ways to Save Money as an Expat in the Middle East
Living abroad is exciting, but let’s be honest — rising expenses and no salary hikes can make life stressful. The good news? With a few simple habits, you can save money without sacrificing comfort.
- Track Your Spending
Most expats don’t realize where their money goes. Small daily coffees, eating out, or extra shopping can add up quickly.
👉 Use free apps like Wallet or YNAB, or just note expenses in your phone. Awareness is the first step to control. - Cook at Home More Often
Eating out is tempting, but it’s also costly. Preparing meals at home not only saves money but also improves health.
👉 Even cutting restaurant meals from 5 times a week to 2 can save you hundreds of dollars monthly. - Avoid Debt Traps
Credit cards and easy loans look attractive but carry heavy interest.
👉 Try to pay your cards in full every month. If you can’t, use them only for emergencies. - Share Accommodation or Transport
Rent and transport take the biggest chunk of expat salaries.
👉 If possible, share a flat or carpool with friends/colleagues. This can cut costs by 20–40%. - Build an Extra Source of Income
Cutting costs helps, but earning extra is a game changer.
👉 Many expats start small side hustles online, from freelancing to digital businesses. Even an extra $500–$1000 a month can make a huge difference.
Saving money as an expat is about being smart, not stingy. Simple changes in daily habits + an extra source of income can give you more financial freedom.
💡 If you’re interested in learning how I built an online business that gives me extra income alongside my job, I invite you to my free webinar. In it, I’ll show you the exact system I use and how you can start too.
👉 Join My Free Webinar Here