Cost Comparison in Dubai – What You Need to Know

Thinking about moving to or visiting Dubai? You probably want to know how far your money will go. From a 50,000 AED salary to a week in an Airbnb, the numbers can look wild at first. Below you’ll find the most useful cost breakdowns, practical tips, and a reality check so you can plan without guessing.

Everyday Living Costs

Salary vs. expenses. A 50,000 AED monthly income sounds solid, but it covers a lot of ground. Rent for a one‑bedroom in a decent area averages 7,000–10,000 AED. Add utilities (around 600 AED) and internet (300 AED). That leaves about 32,000 AED for food, transport, and fun.

Food. Grocery shopping for one adult costs roughly 1,200–1,500 AED a month if you stick to local markets. Dining out is where the budget splits: a meal at a mid‑range restaurant costs 80–120 AED, while fast‑food outlets are 30–45 AED. If you eat out three times a week, budget about 1,200 AED.

Transport. Public buses and the metro cost about 300 AED per month with a standard pass. Taxis are cheap for short rides (around 12 AED per km) but add up quickly if you travel a lot. Many expats opt for a car; fuel is 2.5 AED per litre, and parking can be free or cost up to 1,000 AED in premium locations.

Healthcare. Basic health insurance for an individual starts at 1,200 AED a year. If your employer doesn’t cover it, set aside at least 200 AED per month for out‑of‑pocket visits.

Bottom line: With a 50,000 AED salary you can live comfortably if you manage rent, keep dining out to a few times a week, and use public transport most of the time.

Travel & Vacation Expenses

Short trips. A 7‑day stay in a budget hotel costs around 2,500 AED, while a mid‑range hotel is 5,000‑7,000 AED. If you prefer an Airbnb, expect to pay 1,800‑3,200 AED for a week, depending on location and amenities.

Luxury getaways. Want a five‑star experience? A beachfront resort can charge 10,000 AED per night, meaning a 7‑day splurge tops 70,000 AED. Add dining at high‑end restaurants (200‑300 AED per person) and you’re looking at a serious budget.

Daily expenses. Even on a budget, food and transport in Dubai add up. Expect 150‑200 AED per day for meals if you mix street food with occasional restaurant visits, plus 50 AED for metro or bus rides.

Comparing to other cities. Dubai’s cost is higher than many Asian capitals but lower than London or New York for similar luxury levels. If you’re used to a US salary of 70,000 USD, the 50,000 AED package (about 13,600 USD) feels tighter unless you adjust your lifestyle.

Planning a trip? Use a simple spreadsheet: list accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Subtract that total from your budget and you’ll instantly see where you can splurge or save.

Whether you’re settling down or just visiting, understanding the real numbers helps you avoid surprise bills and enjoy Dubai the way you want. Keep these benchmarks handy, adjust for your personal habits, and you’ll feel confident about every dirham you spend.