If you’re planning a Dubai getaway, the first question on everyone’s mind is: how much money do I need? The good news is you can enjoy the city without blowing your bank account, as long as you know where your money goes. Below you’ll find a plain‑English breakdown of the biggest expenses, a realistic daily budget, and tricks to stretch every dirham.
Accommodation: Hotels in the Marina or Downtown start around AED 350‑500 per night for a decent 3‑star room. If you’re okay with a bit of a commute, budget hotels in Deira or Al Barsha can be found for AED 150‑250. Airbnb listings in residential areas average AED 200‑300 per night.
Food & Drink: A cheap meal from a local shawarma stall costs AED 10‑15. Mid‑range restaurants charge AED 60‑120 per person for a three‑course meal. If you enjoy a drink, remember that a beer in a hotel bar can be AED 40‑60.
Transport: The metro is the cheapest way to get around – a one‑way ticket is AED 4‑7, daily passes are AED 20‑30. Taxis start at AED 12 and add about AED 2 per km. If you rent a car, expect AED 120‑180 per day plus fuel.
Activities: A ticket to the Burj Khalifa’s ‘At The Top’ observation deck is AED 150‑200. Desert safaris run AED 150‑250. Museums and beaches are mostly free, so mix paid attractions with free ones to keep costs low.
Putting it all together, a solo traveler can manage on AED 400‑600 per day, a couple on AED 800‑1,200, and a family of four on AED 1,500‑2,500. Adjust the numbers up or down based on your taste in hotels and dining.
Buy a Nol card for the metro and keep it topped up – you’ll avoid taxi surcharges and get occasional discounts on metro rides. Look for hotel promotions that include free breakfast or a complimentary spa session; that cuts food costs instantly.
Eat where locals eat. Food courts in malls like Mall of the Emirates offer big portions for less than AED 30. Ramadan evenings are great for grabbing a modest Iftar, which is usually cheaper than a regular dinner.
Book tickets to major attractions online in advance. Many sites offer 10‑20% off if you pay ahead of time. Also, consider combo passes that bundle the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium, and Dubai Frame into one lower price.
Finally, keep an eye on the exchange rate. Paying with a credit card that has no foreign‑transaction fees often gives you a better rate than cash exchange kiosks.
With these numbers and tips, you can plan a Dubai trip that fits your wallet without missing out on the city’s highlights. Remember, the key is to know what you’re spending on each category and to look for discounts before you book.
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