7 Day Trip to Dubai Cost: What You’ll Really Spend

If you’ve ever wondered how much a week in Dubai burns through your wallet, you’re not alone. People picture luxury, but the numbers can be simple once you break them down. Below you’ll see the main costs, where you can save, and a quick calculator to help you plan.

Breakdown of Major Expenses

Flights. A round‑trip ticket from Europe or the US averages between $600 and $1,200 in 2025, depending on the season. Book three months ahead and you’ll often catch a 10‑15% discount.

Accommodation. Dubai offers everything from $50‑night hostels to $400‑night five‑star resorts. For a balanced stay, aim for a mid‑range hotel at $120‑$180 per night. Multiply that by seven nights and you’re looking at $840‑$1,260.

Food. Street‑food stalls and food courts can keep you under $15 a meal. If you prefer restaurant dining, $30‑$50 per person is typical. Assuming a mix of both, budget $30‑$35 per day, totalling $210‑$245 for the week.

Transport. The Metro is cheap – a day pass costs about $5. Taxis start at $3 and run $0.70 per km. If you take a mix of Metro and occasional taxis, $70‑$100 covers a week.

Activities. Watching the fountain show is free, but a desert safari, museum tickets, and a day cruise can add $200‑$300. Pick one or two big experiences and you’ll stay within budget.

Adding everything up, a mid‑range traveler spends roughly $2,000‑$2,800 for a 7‑day trip. Luxury lovers can easily top $5,000, while backpackers can pull it down to $1,200 by staying in hostels and eating street food.

Saving Hacks for a Week in Dubai

Book your flight and hotel together on bundle sites – you’ll often shave $100‑$200 off the total. Use a local SIM or free Wi‑Fi spots to avoid roaming charges.

Grab a Nol card for the Metro and buses; it’s cheaper than paying cash each ride. When you need a taxi, ask for the meter on before you hop in.

Look for “buy one, get one free” deals on restaurant apps. Many places run lunch specials that cost half of dinner prices.

For activities, check out free city tours or discounted tickets at the Dubai Mall information desk. Visiting attractions early in the morning also avoids peak‑price surcharges.

Finally, travel off‑season (May‑September) when hotels drop rates by up to 30%. The weather is hotter, but indoor attractions and malls keep you comfortable.

Use this guide to map out your own budget, tweak the numbers to match your style, and enjoy Dubai without the surprise bill at the end. Happy planning!