Travel Budget Dubai – What You Really Need to Spend in 2025
Thinking about a Dubai getaway but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. Most travelers wonder how much cash to bring, which expenses matter most, and where they can save without cutting fun. This guide gives you the numbers you need, from daily meals to night‑life, so you can pack a realistic budget and enjoy the city stress‑free.
Break Down the Daily Costs
Dubai’s costs vary by lifestyle, but here’s a solid baseline for a mid‑range traveler. Expect to spend around AED 500–700 (USD 135–190) per day.
- Accommodation: A decent 3‑star hotel in Deira or Al Barsha runs about AED 250‑350 nightly. If you opt for a boutique Airbnb, budget AED 300‑450.
- Food: Street‑food stalls and food courts cost AED 30‑60 per meal. A sit‑down dinner at a mid‑priced restaurant is roughly AED 80‑120.
- Transport: The Metro costs AED 5‑10 per ride. Taxis start at AED 12 and climb quickly during rush hour. A daily transport budget of AED 30‑50 keeps you covered.
- Attractions: A ticket to the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck is AED 150, while a desert safari runs AED 200‑250. Mix free sights—like Jumeirah Beach and the Dubai Mall—with one or two paid experiences.
- Miscellaneous: Snacks, tips, and occasional drinks add another AED 50‑80.
Adding these up, a solo traveler can manage on AED 500‑600 daily, while couples might spend AED 700‑900 depending on dining and activity choices.
Cash vs. Card – How to Pay Smart
Credit cards are accepted everywhere, from luxury malls to small cafes. However, keeping some cash handy helps in markets, taxis, or places that only take cash.
Withdraw AED 200‑300 each day from an ATM to avoid high conversion fees. Most banks charge a 2‑3% foreign‑transaction fee, so a mix of cash and a no‑fee credit card saves you money. Remember to notify your bank about travel plans to prevent card blocks.
If you bring US dollars, you’ll need to exchange them at a bank or exchange office, losing about 3‑5% in the process. It’s cheaper to use AED directly.
Now that you know the numbers, here are three quick tips to stretch your budget further:
- Travel off‑peak: Prices drop 15‑20% in May and September.
- Use Metro: It’s fast, clean, and far cheaper than taxis.
- Eat where locals eat: Food courts and local shawarma stalls give amazing flavor for a fraction of restaurant prices.
Plan your days, set a daily spend limit, and track it on a simple note‑app. By the end of your trip you’ll know exactly where your money went and how to adjust for the next visit.
Ready to book? Grab a rough budget, pick your preferred neighbourhood—whether it’s the bustling Downtown or the relaxed Marina—and start exploring Dubai without worrying about the bill.
