Abu Dhabi Living Costs - Updated Feb 2009

Hi All,

I've looked at several threads on here that are really useful on living costs in AD but I'm worried that they might be out of date as I'm aware how quickly rents have increased over the past few months. I'd be really grateful if I could get some guidance on the following costs as of February 2009:

1. 3 bed villa
2. 2 cars - figure i'll need one for me and one for my wife. Not too proud so 2 second hand cars would be fine for us. got a 7 month old baby so a "family" car rather than a boy-racer!!
3. utility bills based on 2 adults and 1 baby.
4. grocery costs - again based on 2 adults and 1 baby
5. nursery/creche costs - my wife would like to find work too and so we'd like to put our daughter into a nursery or creche for a few mornings per week
6. recreation - how much is:
a. meal for 2,
b. a pint of lager,
c. a bottle of wine,
d. 2 adult tickets to the cinema,
e. monthly fee for gym membership,
f. access to hotel beach if you need to pay for it?
7. home furnishing costs: beds, sofas, white goods, tv, pay tv subscription, internet access

Thanks in advance for taking the time to reply. I realise i've asked for a lot of info but this will be our first adventure away from British soil (to live!) and I'm keen to make sure we're as well informed as we can be. I'm sure i'll be peppering any replies back with further questions so apologies for that!

I'd also appreciate any general advice you might have for a young family moving over. How easy you found it to adapt, make friends, good social scenes etc.

Cheers

Nick