Thinking about moving or staying in Dubai? The first question is always "how much do I need each month?" Let’s break it down so you can plan without surprise bills.
Rent is the biggest bite. A one‑bedroom in a decent area like Deira or Al Barsha costs around AED 5,000‑7,000. Luxury spots such as Marina or Downtown start at AED 9,000 and go up fast. If you share a flat, you can cut that to about AED 3,000‑4,000 each.
Utilities – electricity, water, and internet – add roughly AED 600‑900 a month, depending on air‑conditioning usage. The hotter the season, the higher the bill.
Food varies a lot. Cooking at home with groceries from Carrefour or Lulu keeps meals around AED 1,200‑1,500 per person. Eating out three times a week at mid‑range restaurants pushes that to AED 2,000‑2,500.
Transport is cheap if you use the metro or bus: a monthly pass costs about AED 300. Taxis are convenient but add up quickly; a typical ride costs AED 20‑30.
Entertainment & Social Life – movies, gyms, occasional night out – can be managed with AED 800‑1,200, depending on how often you go out.
Adding everything together, a single person living modestly needs roughly AED 9,000‑11,000 (≈ $2,450‑$3,000) a month. A couple sharing a place can comfortably live on AED 12,000‑15,000.
1. Choose the right neighborhood. Areas a bit farther from the coastline are cheaper but still well‑connected by metro.
2. Shop smart. Look for weekly discounts at local markets; buying in bulk saves on staples like rice and oil.
3. Use the metro. It’s clean, safe, and far cheaper than rideshare apps, especially during rush hour.
4. Cook more. Even simple dishes like grilled chicken with salad keep your food bill low while still tasting great.
5. Track everything. A quick spreadsheet or budgeting app shows where money leaks, so you can adjust before the month ends.
Dubai is a city of choices. By knowing the real numbers and planning ahead, you can enjoy the lifestyle without constantly checking your bank balance. Start with these figures, tweak them for your personal habits, and you’ll have a solid monthly budget that lets you live comfortably and still have fun in the city of endless opportunities.
What it really costs to live in Dubai in 2025: real rents, monthly budgets for singles, couples, families, plus hidden fees and money-saving tips.