Thinking about how much cash you need for a day in Dubai? The city can feel pricey, but knowing the average expenses helps you plan without surprise. Below you’ll see the typical spend for meals, transport, activities and a few tricks to keep the bill low while still having fun.
Most solo visitors spend about AED 250‑350 (≈ $68‑$95) on a regular day. Breakfast at a café costs AED 20‑30, especially if you grab a coffee and a pastry. Lunch at an affordable restaurant runs AED 30‑50, while a decent dinner in a mid‑range spot is around AED 60‑90. If you prefer street food or fast‑food chains, you can cut the dinner price to under AED 40.
Transport adds another AED 30‑50. The metro is the cheapest way to move around; a day pass is AED 20, and a single ride costs AED 5‑7 depending on distance. Taxis are convenient but cost about AED 15‑20 for a short ride in the city centre. If you’re willing to walk a bit, you’ll save even more.
Attractions vary widely. A ticket to the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck is AED 150‑200, while visiting public beaches or strolling through the historic Al Fahidi district is free. Museums usually charge AED 30‑50. If you mix a couple of paid sights with free spots, expect to spend AED 80‑120 on entertainment.
Start your day with a grocery‑store breakfast – grab fruit, yogurt and bread for under AED 15. Use the metro for most trips; it’s clean, fast and cheap. Look for combo meals or lunch specials, which often give a full plate for AED 35‑45.
Take advantage of free attractions. The Dubai Fountain show, Jumeirah Beach and the public art installations at City Walk cost nothing and still offer great experiences. If you want a pricey view, book the Burj Khalifa early morning slot; tickets are usually cheaper than the evening ones.
When it comes to dining, head to areas like Al Satwa or Deira where locals eat. You’ll find authentic dishes for AED 25‑35, far less than the tourist‑heavy spots. Also, check out apps that offer “buy one, get one” deals for restaurants and cafés – they can shave off up to 50% of the price.
Lastly, keep an eye on your cash flow by using a budgeting app. Set a daily limit of AED 300, and track every coffee, ride and ticket. Most travelers find they stay within the budget once they know where the money goes.
With these numbers and tips, you can walk around Dubai confidently, knowing exactly how much you’ll spend each day. Adjust the figures to your own style, but the baseline gives you a solid starting point for any trip.
Find out if $100 a day can cover your expenses in Dubai. Get concrete tips on food, transport, sightseeing, and clever ways to stretch your dollars.