There are 4 of us plus my helper and her husband in a 4 bedroom villa, plus maid's room/kitchen. The average cost is about Dhs 1500 during winter and Dhs 2500 during summer averaging about Dhs 25000 per year. Therefore the allowance is a little on the low side but still not too much out of pocket for me (Dhs 283 a month). We have a pretty large garden (70 sq m) and water is included in the bill too. Hope this helps. As for sanddune 1, you are a little extreme about your views as I have also lived in a 3 bedroom apartment on Sheikh Zayed Rd paying rent and DEWA on my own and the monthly bills (A/C on 24/7) were averaging about Dhs 800 so plenty in reserve. Perhaps you have outlived your expectations here and should look elsewhere where bills are a little cheaper, in another country, in another job. Good luck!