If you’re thinking about a Dubai getaway, the first question is always the price tag. In 2025 the city is still a premium destination, but you can plan a trip that fits a wide range of budgets. Below you’ll see a realistic cost breakdown, practical tips, and where you can cut expenses without missing the fun.
Flights. A round‑trip ticket from Europe or the US usually lands between $600 and $1,200 depending on the season. Booking three months ahead and using price alerts can shave off $100‑$200.
Accommodation. Dubai offers everything from $50‑$80 hostels in Deira to $200‑$350 luxury hotels in Marina. For a comfortable mid‑range stay, expect $120‑$180 per night. A 7‑night stay therefore costs about $840‑$1,260.
Food. Street‑food stalls and food courts let you eat for $5‑$10 per meal. Mid‑range restaurants average $20‑$35 per person. If you mix cheap eats with a few nicer meals, budget $30‑$45 daily, or $210‑$315 for a week.
Transport. The metro is $1‑$2 per ride, while taxis start at $3 and run $0.50 per km. A daily transport budget of $15‑$20 covers most trips, adding up to $105‑$140 for seven days.
Attractions. Ticketed sites like Burj Khalifa’s observation deck cost $40‑$60, while desert safaris are $70‑$90. If you plan three paid experiences, set aside $200‑$250.
Adding everything up, a budget‑friendly 7‑day holiday can be done for $2,200‑$2,800, while a more comfortable experience sits around $3,500‑$4,500.
1. Travel off‑peak. Visiting from May to September avoids the high‑season surge and brings hotel rates down 20‑30%.
2. Use the metro. It’s clean, cheap, and covers most tourist zones. Grab a Nol card for easy tap‑and‑go travel.
3. Eat where locals eat. Al Barsha and Al Fahidi have affordable cafés serving good meals for $7‑$12.
4. Look for combo tickets. Many attractions bundle a desert safari with a dinner or a city tour, saving $20‑$40.
5. Book accommodation with kitchen facilities. Cooking one meal a day can cut food costs by half.
6. Shop at supermarkets. Carrefour and Lulu offer ready‑made salads, fruits, and snacks at local prices.
7. Use free experiences. Dubai’s public beaches, the Dubai Fountain show, and the historic Al Bastakiya district cost nothing.
By planning ahead and mixing cheap and splurge moments, you can enjoy a Dubai holiday that feels luxurious without breaking the bank. Remember, the real magic of Dubai is the skyline, the culture, and the vibe – all of which you can experience at any price point.
Curious what a week in Dubai really costs? Find the exact breakdown for flights, hotels, meals, and attractions, plus budget and luxury tips for every traveler.