If you think Dubai is only for big‑spending tourists, think again. You can enjoy the skyline, beaches, and souks in a week without blowing your account. Below you’ll find a simple cost breakdown, where to cut corners, and a few hacks that keep the experience luxe‑feeling but wallet‑friendly.
Accommodation: Budget hotels or well‑rated hostels in Deira, Al Barsha, or Bur Dubai run about AED 120‑180 ($33‑$49) per night. Book a 7‑night stay in advance and you’ll be looking at roughly AED 1,050‑1,260 ($285‑$340) total.
Food: Street‑food stalls, local cafeterias, and mid‑range shawarma joints cost AED 15‑30 ($4‑$8) per meal. If you mix three meals a day with one nicer dinner (AED 50‑70), budget about AED 150‑210 ($41‑$57) daily, or AED 1,050‑1,470 ($285‑$400) for the week.
Transport: The Metro is the cheapest way to hop between neighborhoods—single rides are AED 4‑7 ($1‑$2). A weekly Metro pass costs AED 70 ($19). Add occasional taxis (AED 20‑35 per short ride) and you’re looking at AED 150‑200 ($41‑$55) for the whole trip.
Activities: Free attractions include Jumeirah Beach, the Dubai Fountain, and walking the historic Al Fahidi Street. Paid experiences like the Burj Khalifa “At The Top” ticket start at AED 149 ($41). Set aside AED 400‑600 ($109‑$164) for a mix of paid and free fun.
Adding those categories gives a realistic weekly budget of AED 3,000‑3,500 ($820‑$955). That’s enough to sleep comfortably, eat well, see the highlights, and still have cash left for souvenirs.
Book Early, Pay Less: Most budget hotels drop prices 30‑45 days before arrival. Use price‑comparison sites and lock in a refundable rate.
Eat Like a Local: Head to the Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino eateries in Al Karama. A plate of biryani or a falafel wrap can cost under AED 10 ($3). Skip the mall food courts for street stalls to shave off 20‑30% on meals.
Buy a Nol Card for All Transit: The reusable Nol card not only gives you Metro discounts but also works on buses and trams. Top it up in small amounts to avoid overspending.
Free Attractions Are Gold: Schedule a sunrise at Kite Beach, explore the Al Seef heritage district, or wander the souks after sunset when they’re cooler and less crowded.
Shop Smart: If you need gifts, visit the Dragon Mart or the Global Village (open seasonally). You’ll find bulk deals and negotiate prices without the pressure of high‑end malls.
By mixing these tips with the daily cost outline, you can stretch a modest budget into a full‑blown Dubai experience. Remember, the key isn’t to skimp on the fun but to choose where to splurge and where to save.
Ready to book? Use the numbers above as a checklist, adjust for your travel style, and enjoy a week in Dubai that feels pricey without the pricey price tag.
Exact 7-day Dubai budget with daily costs, cash vs cards, example itineraries, and savings tips for solo, couples, and families in 2025. No fluff, just numbers.