Dubai looks flashy, but the price tag can surprise anyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or an expat looking for a long‑term stay, you need a realistic picture of daily costs. Below we break down the biggest expense categories, give you a quick monthly budget template, and share a few tricks to stretch your dirhams.
Rent is the biggest line item. A one‑bedroom apartment in a popular area like Downtown or Marina typically runs between AED 8,000 and AED 12,000 ($2,200‑$3,300) per month. If you move a bit farther out – Deira, Al Qusais or International City – you can find rooms for AED 4,000‑6,000 ($1,100‑$1,600). Shared‑apartment options go even lower, often under AED 3,000 ($800) for a room.
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add roughly AED 500‑800 ($140‑$220) each month, depending on air‑conditioning use. Expect a grocery bill of around AED 1,200‑1,800 ($330‑$490) if you cook at home and shop at local markets. Eating out once a day at mid‑range restaurants will push that number to AED 2,500‑3,500 ($680‑$950).
Transportation is cheap if you rely on the metro and buses – a monthly pass costs about AED 300 ($80). Taxis and ride‑hailing apps are convenient but can add AED 800‑1,200 ($220‑$330) if you travel frequently.
Don’t overlook the entertainment budget. A night out at a club or a fancy dinner can easily cost AED 500‑1,000 ($140‑$270). Look for happy‑hour deals, off‑peak mall tickets, and free beach events to keep costs down.
Healthcare for expatriates often requires private insurance. A basic plan starts around AED 600‑900 ($160‑$250) per month, so factor that in if your employer doesn’t cover it.
Visa fees, registration, and occasional school fees or gym memberships are easy to forget. Set aside at least AED 1,000‑1,500 ($270‑$410) a year for these irregular expenses.
Finally, use cash‑back credit cards for everyday purchases to earn points that can offset travel or dining costs. Buying groceries in bulk from hypermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu saves up to 20% compared to smaller stores.
With a clear picture of rent, utilities, food, transport and leisure, you can decide whether $2,000, $5,000 or more fits your lifestyle. The key is to match your priorities – you might splurge on a beachfront apartment and cut back on dining out, or vice‑versa. Whatever you choose, Dubai’s cost of living is manageable as long as you plan ahead and keep an eye on the hidden fees.
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.