Dubai Costs: Practical Guide for 2025

Thinking about moving to Dubai or just planning a short trip? The first thing people ask is, "How much does everything cost?" Below you’ll find straight‑forward numbers and tips that help you budget without guessing.

Everyday Expenses

Rent is the biggest line item. A one‑bedroom apartment in a central area costs around 8,000‑12,000 AED per month, while the same size in a suburban district drops to 5,000‑7,000 AED. If you share a flat, split the bill and you can easily stay under 4,000 AED.

Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add another 500‑800 AED. Most apartments include basic water, so you mainly pay for electricity and a 200 AED internet plan.

Groceries are comparable to many Western cities. A weekly basket for one person—rice, chicken, veggies, milk—runs about 150‑200 AED if you shop at local supermarkets. Buying imported goods pushes the price up by 30‑40%.

Dining out varies widely. Street food and small cafés serve meals for 15‑30 AED. Mid‑range restaurants charge 80‑150 AED per person, while luxury spots start at 250 AED and can quickly exceed 500 AED for a full dinner.

Transport is cheap if you use the Metro or public buses: a daily pass costs 14 AED, a monthly pass 300 AED. Taxis start at 12 AED and add 2.5 AED per km, which is still reasonable for short trips.

Saving Hacks for Dubai

Look for housing deals on weekdays. Many landlords drop the price by up to 10 % if you sign a lease before the weekend rush. Also, consider living a few metro stations away from main attractions; you’ll save on rent and still enjoy quick commutes.

Take advantage of happy hour discounts at bars and restaurants. Most places cut 20‑30 % off drinks and appetizers between 4 pm and 7 pm. It’s a cheap way to enjoy the nightlife without blowing your budget.

Shop at local markets like Al Aweer or Deira for fresh produce. Prices are up to 25 % lower than in large malls, and you get a taste of authentic Dubai life.

If you drive, use fuel‑saver apps that locate the cheapest petrol stations. Fuel prices hover around 3.00 AED per liter, but a small price difference adds up over months.

Finally, keep an eye on seasonal sales. The Dubai Shopping Festival in January‑February offers up to 70 % off on clothing, electronics, and home goods. Planning a big purchase during the festival can slash your expenses dramatically.

Bottom line: a comfortable lifestyle in Dubai is achievable with a salary of 15,000‑20,000 AED per month for a single person. If you earn around 50,000 AED, you can comfortably afford a nicer apartment, dine out regularly, and still save for travel. Use the numbers above to match your income with realistic spending, and you’ll enjoy Dubai without worrying about money.