Cost of Living in Dubai 2025: What You Need to Know

Thinking about moving to Dubai or just curious how far your paycheck goes? In 2025 the city still feels pricey, but knowing the exact numbers lets you plan smarter. Below we break down the biggest bills – rent, food, transport, utilities, and more – and give you simple tricks to keep extra cash in your pocket.

Housing and Daily Essentials

Rent is the biggest expense for most expats. A one‑bedroom apartment in the city centre averages around 7,500 AED per month, while the same size in a suburban area drops to about 4,800 AED. If you’re sharing with a roommate, expect to split the cost and land at roughly 3,200 AED for a decent flat outside the main business districts.

Utilities (electricity, water, cooling) add another 600‑900 AED a month, depending on the season. Air‑conditioning is a must in summer, so factor that in. Internet is fairly cheap – about 300 AED for a high‑speed package.

Groceries can be surprisingly affordable if you stick to local markets. A basket of basics – rice, chicken, vegetables, and some fruit – runs roughly 300 AED per week for a single person. Imported items push the bill up to 500 AED, so mix local and imported to balance taste and cost.

Eating out varies widely. A simple lunch at a food court costs around 30 AED, while a dinner at a mid‑range restaurant is 120‑180 AED per person. For a weekend treat, budget 250‑300 AED for a nice meal with drinks.

Smart Ways to Stretch Your Money

Transport in Dubai is efficient but can add up. A monthly Nol card for the metro, bus, and tram comes to about 350 AED. If you drive, fuel is cheap at roughly 2.8 AED per litre, but parking fees in popular areas can reach 750 AED per month.

Healthcare is high‑quality but pricey without insurance. A basic visit to a private clinic costs 350‑500 AED. Many employers cover health insurance, so check your package before budgeting out‑of‑pocket costs.

Schooling is a major factor for families. International schools charge anywhere from 30,000 AED to 90,000 AED per year per child. Public schools are free for UAE nationals and low‑cost for residents with a valid visa, but spots are limited.

Leisure doesn’t have to break the bank. A cinema ticket is about 40 AED, and many beaches are free. Look for happy‑hour deals at bars and restaurants – discounts of 30‑50% are common between 5 pm and 8 pm.

Finally, save where you can. Use price‑comparison apps for groceries, buy in bulk, and consider a shared accommodation platform to cut rent. Setting a monthly budget of 12,000‑15,000 AED for a single expat comfortably covers all basics and leaves room for savings.

Bottom line: Dubai in 2025 isn’t cheap, but with a realistic salary – say 15,000 AED after tax – and the right habits, you can enjoy the city’s luxuries without constantly worrying about money. Keep track of each expense, adjust where needed, and you’ll find a lifestyle that fits both your wallet and your wishes.