What is the Cost of Living in Dubai for Expats in 2021?
| Location | Single person monthly cost without rent |
|---|---|
| Dubai | AED 3,443.97 (USD 937.70) |
| Hong Kong | AED 3,894.00 (USD 1,060.23) |
| London | AED 4,383.96 (USD 1,193.63) |
| New York | AED 4,957 (USD 1,349.65) |
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- Cost of living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Summary of cost of living in Dubai Family of four estimated monthly costs: Dirham 16,565 Single person estimated monthly costs: Dirham 8,726
Is it expensive to live in Dubai?
According to the Mercer Cost of Living, Dubai is an expensive city. It ranked as the 23rd most expensive out of 209 destinations. However, it is about 25% less expensive than New York City – and about 4% less expensive than nearby Abu Dhabi. As such, depending on where you live now, Dubai might look like a bargain.
What salary do you need to live in Dubai?
Dubai: Although there are many people who manage to survive with very little money, residents in Dubai need to earn at least Dh4,000 a month in order to lead a decent life, a financial expert says. Compensation and benefits in the UAE vary depending on the industry, company or job role.
Is Dubai expensive than USA?
The cost of living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is high compared to the US and the rest of the world. This issue is enhanced by the excessive spending here. Since many of its goods are imports, you do pay a premium for this choice with more expensive goods.
Is 30K a good salary in Dubai?
30K AED is considered a good salary in Dubai. Some Living expenses are high and some are low in AED. In 30K Aed you can live in a good separate apartment in a good location like Jumeirah, Sheikh Zayed road etc. You can own a Parking and a good car.
What language do they speak in Dubai?
The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic. Modern Standard Arabic is taught in schools, and most native Emiratis speak a dialect of Gulf Arabic that is generally similar to that spoken in surrounding countries.
Is it cheaper to live in Dubai or England?
Cost of living in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) is 29% cheaper than in London (United Kingdom)
Why is Dubai so rich?
Its diverse economy makes Dubai one of the richest in the world. Unlike other states in the region, Dubai’s economy doesn’t rely on oil. The growth of its economy comes from business, transportation, tourism and finance. Free trade allowed Dubai to become a wealthy state.
Can I live in Dubai permanently?
One can obtain residency in Dubai or in another emirate in UAE if sponsorship by an employer is provided. The Dubai residence visa must be renewed every three years. Another way to obtain residency in Dubai is by purchasing real estate.
Is tax free in Dubai?
Expats want to flock to Dubai. Apart from the high quality of life, the foremost reason for such enthusiasm for Dubai is the fact that Dubai is a tax-free nation. There is no income tax on income generated in Dubai. Also, there is no sales tax on the majority of goods and services.
Is Gucci cheaper in Dubai?
Comparing it to the price that I’d pay in the US and ultimately pay upon conversion, it’s still cheaper. Gucci is also similar in the price saving.
Cost of Living in Dubai
This city had 4839 entries in the past 12 months by 664 different contributors.Last update: February 2022
| Restaurants | Edit | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 35.00 AED | 20.00-75.00 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 250.00 AED | 150.00-600.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 28.00 AED | 25.00-33.00 |
| Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) | 45.00 AED | 25.00-60.00 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 45.00 AED | 35.00-62.93 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | 18.94 AED | 10.00-30.00 |
| Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) | 3.92 AED | 2.50-10.00 |
| Water (12 oz small bottle) | 1.70 AED | 1.00-5.00 |
| Markets | Edit | |
| Milk (regular), (1 gallon) | 22.28 AED | 15.14-37.85 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | 4.09 AED | 2.72-9.07 |
| Rice (white), (1 lb) | 3.09 AED | 1.81-5.67 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 9.57 AED | 5.60-14.40 |
| Local Cheese (1 lb) | 15.37 AED | 6.80-36.29 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | 10.55 AED | 4.54-20.41 |
| Beef Round (1 lb) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 17.66 AED | 9.53-31.75 |
| Apples (1 lb) | 3.69 AED | 1.81-4.99 |
| Banana (1 lb) | 2.79 AED | 2.04-5.44 |
| Oranges (1 lb) | 2.68 AED | 1.36-4.54 |
| Tomato (1 lb) | 2.17 AED | 0.91-3.63 |
| Potato (1 lb) | 1.61 AED | 0.91-2.27 |
| Onion (1 lb) | 1.37 AED | 0.91-2.27 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 6.33 AED | 3.00-10.00 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 2.02 AED | 1.29-3.00 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 50.00 AED | 33.00-150.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | 13.30 AED | 5.00-25.00 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | 22.29 AED | 8.00-45.00 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 22.00 AED | 20.00-25.00 |
| Transportation | Edit | |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 5.00 AED | 3.00-8.00 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 300.00 AED | 200.00-350.00 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 12.00 AED | 6.00-15.00 |
| Taxi 1 mile (Normal Tariff) | 3.98 AED | 2.98-8.05 |
| Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | 30.00 AED | 24.90-50.00 |
| Gasoline (1 gallon) | 9.36 AED | 7.57-10.60 |
| Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) | 89,000.00 AED | 75,000.00-116,500.00 |
| Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) | 72,085.45 AED | 65,000.00-80,000.00 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | Edit | |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment | 720.98 AED | 450.00-1,172.41 |
| 1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans) | 0.45 AED | 0.30-0.77 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 356.17 AED | 250.00-450.00 |
| Sports And Leisure | Edit | |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 269.09 AED | 100.00-500.00 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 126.29 AED | 50.00-200.00 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 40.00 AED | 35.00-60.00 |
| Childcare | Edit | |
| Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child | 2,733.33 AED | 1,200.00-4,000.00 |
| International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child | 48,232.56 AED | 25,000.00-73,428.36 |
| Clothing And Shoes | Edit | |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) | 235.05 AED | 80.00-400.00 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H M,.) | 215.07 AED | 80.00-300.00 |
| 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) | 336.09 AED | 190.00-500.00 |
| 1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes | 331.74 AED | 150.00-650.00 |
| Rent Per Month | Edit | |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | 5,249.98 AED | 3,500.00-8,000.00 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | 3,395.17 AED | 2,500.00-5,500.00 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | 10,120.18 AED | 7,000.00-20,000.00 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | 6,933.94 AED | 5,000.00-15,000.00 |
| Buy Apartment Price | Edit | |
| Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment in City Centre | 1,258.06 AED | 749.99-2,322.56 |
| Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre | 802.01 AED | 600.00-1,300.63 |
| Salaries And Financing | Edit | |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | 12,402.83 AED | |
| Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate | 3.85 | 2.50-6.00 |
Cost of Living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Feb 2022 prices in Dubai.
Change the unit of measure:
| Food | Update prices | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district | Dirham 64 | |
| Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar) | Dirham 27 | |
| 500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast | Dirham 19 | |
| 1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk | Dirham 7 | |
| 12 eggs, large | Dirham 13 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes | Dirham 6 | |
| 500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese | Dirham 34 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of apples | Dirham 10 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes | Dirham 4.70 | |
| 0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket | Dirham 13 | |
| 1 bottle of red table wine, good quality | Dirham 110 | |
| 2 liters of coca-cola | Dirham 8 | |
| Bread for 2 people for 1 day | Dirham 4.67 | |
| Housing | Update prices | |
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area | Dirham 7,209 | |
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area | Dirham 4,941 | |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas.) for 2 people in 85m2 flat | Dirham 788 | |
| Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in expensive area | Dirham 5,023 | |
| Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in normal area | Dirham 2,930 | |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas.) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sqft) studio | Dirham 382 | |
| Internet 8 mbps (1 month) | Dirham 278 | |
| 40” flat screen tv | Dirham 1,194 | |
| Microwave 800/900 watt (bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 471 | |
| Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.) | Dirham 29 | |
| Hourly rate for cleaning help | Dirham 33 | |
| Clothes | Update prices | |
| 1 pair of jeans (levis 501 or similar) | Dirham 228 | |
| 1 summer dress in a high street store (zara, h m or similar retailers) | Dirham 174 | |
| 1 pair of sport shoes (nike, adidas, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 364 | |
| 1 pair of men’s leather business shoes | Dirham 431 | |
| Transportation | Update prices | |
| Volkswagen golf 1.4 tsi 150 cv (or equivalent), with no extras, new | Dirham 90,126 | |
| 1 liter (1/4 gallon) of gas | Dirham 2.15 | |
| Monthly ticket public transport | Dirham 346 | |
| Taxi trip on a business day, basic tariff, 8 km. (5 miles) | Dirham 62 | |
| Personal Care | Update prices | |
| Cold medicine for 6 days (tylenol, frenadol, coldrex, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 22 | |
| 1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) | Dirham 45 | |
| Short visit to private doctor (15 minutes) | Dirham 261 | |
| 1 box of 32 tampons (tampax, ob,.) | Dirham 20 | |
| Deodorant, roll-on (50ml ~ 1.5 oz.) | Dirham 19 | |
| Hair shampoo 2-in-1 (400 ml ~ 12 oz.) | Dirham 22 | |
| 4 rolls of toilet paper | Dirham 12 | |
| Tube of toothpaste | Dirham 12 | |
| Standard men’s haircut in expat area of the city | Dirham 56 | |
| Entertainment | Update prices | |
| Basic dinner out for two in neighborhood pub | Dirham 170 | |
| 2 tickets to the movies | Dirham 85 | |
| 2 tickets to the theater (best available seats) | Dirham 544 | |
| Dinner for two at an italian restaurant in the expat area including appetisers, main course, wine and dessert | Dirham 324 | |
| 1 cocktail drink in downtown club | Dirham 80 | |
| Cappuccino in expat area of the city | Dirham 24 | |
| 1 beer in neighbourhood pub (500ml or 1pt.) | Dirham 50 | |
| Ipad wi-fi 128gb | Dirham 1,829 | |
| 1 min. of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans) | Dirham 0.61 | |
| 1 month of gym membership in business district | Dirham 290 | |
| 1 package of marlboro cigarettes | Dirham 18 |
These prices are established on the basis of a large and consistent amount of data. They are quite dependable. They are based on 575 prices submitted by 206 different individuals. The most recent pricing update was on February 9, 2022.
Understanding the Cost of Living in Dubai
When people talk about the expense of living in Dubai, one thing comes up over and over again: the city is expensive. In Dubai, there is no such thing as an income tax. That’s just one of the reasons it’s such a popular choice for expats to settle in the area. In addition, if sales taxes are levied, they are minor in comparison to other countries. However, just because Dubai is a tax haven does not imply that it is an inexpensive or costly vacation destination. Examining the actual cost of living in Dubai provides prospective migrants with an understanding of what they may expect to pay for ordinary products when they relocate.
Currency in Dubai
There is one figure that keeps coming up over and over again when people are discussing the expense of living in Dubai. Income tax is not levied in the United Arab Emirates. The fact that it is such a popular destination for expats is only one of the reasons behind this. Aside from that, where sales taxes are levied, they are minor in scope. However, just because Dubai is a tax haven does not imply that it is a cheap or costly destination for travelers. Soon-to-be expats may gain an understanding of the genuine cost of living in Dubai by examining the prices of common household products in the city.
Is Dubai Expensive or Affordable?
Dubai, according to the Mercer Cost of Living Index, is an expensive city to live in. It was listed as the 23rd most costly location out of a total of 209 options. The cost of living here is around 25% less costly than in New York City – and approximately 4% less expensive than in neighboring Abu Dhabi. Therefore, depending on where you are currently located, Dubai may appear to be a good deal.
Cost of Housing in Dubai
For the most part, the price of a one-bedroom flat in Dubai is equivalent to the price of a comparable property in London or Sydney. You may anticipate paying around 7,400 AED each month on average. Housing in New York is around 50% more costly, whereas the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin is approximately half of what you would spend in Dubai (or even less!). If you have a family, you should know that the cost of a three-bedroom home is around twice that of a one-bedroom studio apartment.
- Naturally, if you want more room or to live in a desirable district, you’ll have to spend more.
- There, yearly housing expenditures begin at 100,000 AED per year and can reach 140,000 AED per year, depending on the house.
- That’s a significant financial burden to bear!
- As a result, they are unable to use that resource when they initially arrive at their new location.
When accepting a job in Dubai, it is highly recommended that you negotiate a flexible housing allowance package that will help you in a variety of different situations as needed. Read more about the best places to live in Dubai.
Household Costs
The most of the time, as a tenant in Dubai, you’ll be liable for your own internet and utility expenses (gas, electricity, and water.) To create your account and set up your utilities, you will typically be charged a connection fee of 1,000 AED per unit. You should expect to pay around 1,000 AED per month on your utility expenses on average. It may be a little less if you’re really energy-conscious, or it could be significantly more if you have a huge home. When visiting Dubai, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that the weather there is exceedingly hot.
It is generally inexpensive to hire in-house assistance, such as a housekeeper or a gardener.
Keep in mind to budget for your personal health insurance premiums as well.
Grocery Costs in Dubai
Affordability is a feature of common home commodities such as apples, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and rice. You may anticipate them to cost less than 10 AED per pound if you buy in bulk. Bread, eggs, and milk are all available at reasonable prices. Cheese, beef, and chicken, on the other hand, cost an average of 40 AED each, with beef being the most expensive. When it comes to luxury imports, you should expect to pay a hefty price for them in Dubai, which has about every product imaginable accessible.
Only thing to remember while shopping at overseas grocers: be prepared to spend a lot of money.
Dubai’s Transportation Costs
The public transportation system in Dubai is excellent. In general, the cost of a monthly pass, which is generally less than 300 AED, is less expensive than the cost of a monthly pass in the majority of other large cities. A single-use bus ticket in Dubai may be purchased for as little as 5 AED. In order to lease a mid-sized automobile, you can anticipate to pay around 2,500 AED per month in lease payments. Insurance is included in the purchase. The price of petrol is really inexpensive, at around 2 AED per liter.
Eating Out and Entertainment
Local cafés and street sellers provide some of the finest value for money in Dubai. A cheap lunch at a local restaurant costs approximately 35 AED or less, which isn’t much more than a combination meal at a fast food restaurant run by a multinational corporation, which costs about 30 AED. In the UAE, if you’re looking for a more substantial lunch for two on date night at a mid-range restaurant, you can expect to pay, on average, roughly 250 AED per person. However, it would not be unusual to spend up to twice that much in a single day.
You might easily spend several thousand Dirham on yourself to make yourself feel special.
Non-alcoholic beverages such as cappuccino are reasonably priced at around 15-20 AED. Beer, on the other hand, is significantly more costly at 45-60 AED at a hotel bar. If you want to go to the cinema, a ticket will cost you around 43 AED.
Minimum Wage in Dubai
In the United Arab Emirates, there is no such thing as a national minimum wage. As a result, incomes in Dubai are quite variable. In some areas, notably in technology and hospitality, the pay might be absurdly high depending on demand and market conditions, but this is not always the case. On the other hand, earnings in industries such as manufacturing are extremely low, ranking among the lowest paid in the world. While there is no uniform minimum wage, the Ministry of Labour has established recommendations for minimum pay for different sorts of workers since 2013.
University graduates should get a salary of at least 12,000 AED each month.
In addition, experienced employees with a secondary school diploma shall get a monthly remuneration of 5,000 AED (about $600).
Related:
- Moving to Dubai
- Work Visas in Dubai
- Dubai Laws That Expats Should Be Aware Of
- And more.
Cost of living in Dubai: Your guide
The cost of living in Dubai as an expat is important to understand whether you’re planning on retiring, temporarily transferring, or making a permanent move to the country. Compared to other cities, Dubai has an extremely high level of life. In reality, the possibility to live comfortably in a fascinating location is precisely why many foreigners want to relocate there. However, this does not come at a low cost. For visitors, Dubai has been branded the most expensive city in the world to visit, but what are the expenses of actually living there as an expat?
How expensive is Dubai in comparison to the UK, the EU, the USA and Australia?
The dirham is the currency used in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as its official currency (written as AED – Arab Emirate Dirham – on currency exchanges). It is possible to figure out the precise worth of your money in AED by utilizing an online currency converter, however the following is a general guide:
- 1000 USD is worth 3,673 AED
- 1000 GBP is worth 4,692 AED
- 1000 EUR is worth 4,105 AED
- And 1000 AUD is worth 2,794 AED.
| Comparing basic cost of living | One bedroom flat in city centre (monthly rent) | Lunch for two (Three courses, mid range restaurant) | Transportation (monthly pass) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 7,324 AED | 150 AED | 250 AED |
| London, UK | 7,847 AED | 255 AED | 607 AED |
| New York City, USA | 10,938 AED | 275 AED | 430 AED |
| Berlin, Germany | 3,023 AED | 164 AED | 331 AED |
| Sydney, Australia | 7,187 AED | 222 AED | 444 AED |
One significant expenditure for expats in Dubai is the cost of transferring funds from your native currency to the UAE dirham (AED). Even though your bank advertises that it provides fee-free money exchange, you can be certain that the bank’s cut is reflected in the exchange rate it employs. For the greatest value, you should use an exchange service such asWise, which uses the same mid-market rate that you can see on Google and Reuters to calculate your exchange rate. In terms of speed and inexpensive flat costs, Wise is a far better option than using your own bank to transfer your funds.
What are the general living expenses for Dubai? How much can you get by on?
The neighborhood in which you select to reside is one of the most important variables deciding how costly living in Dubai will be for you in the long run. Rental costs in Dubai are rather expensive, but if you live outside of the city, you may rent for far less money.
| Living expenses in Dubai (excluding rent) | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Single person, per month | AED 3,190 |
| Single person, per year | AED 38,280 |
| University student, per month | AED 2,055 |
| Four person family, per month | AED 11,137 |
| Four person family, per year | AED 133,644 |
What are the average salaries for Dubai?
Salaries in Dubai are generally considered to be rather high. Additionally, they do very well in highly specialized and in-demand occupations. As a user experience designer or mobile developer, Dubai is one of the greatest cities in the world to earn a good living and earn a good pay.
In addition, it is the city with the highest-paid research scientists and office managers in the country. However, the remuneration for more administrative or entry-level roles is not as great as it is for higher-level ones. Check out this page to see how much money you may make in Dubai:
| Salary averages for Dubai | Average salary |
|---|---|
| Cashier | AED 43,869 |
| Copywriter | AED 182,994 |
| Financial analyst | AED 175,421 |
| Graphic designer | AED 140,007 |
| Mobile developer | AED 381,643 |
| Product manager | AED 277,744 |
| Receptionist | AED 55,097 |
| Software engineer | AED 178,521 |
| Teacher | AED 129,866 |
| Web developer | AED 111,509 |
How expensive is housing and accommodation in Dubai?
Dubai has a highly well-developed rental market, which means you can find almost any type of accommodation you could possibly desire. Even while prices in the city center and in elite expat neighborhoods outside of the center are quite high, if you don’t mind making an extra commute, you may still find more cheaply priced accommodations. Check out our handy guide to renting in Dubai for more information on how much it can cost you.
| Renting in Dubai | Average monthly cost |
|---|---|
| One bedroom apartment (city centre) | AED 7,345 |
| One bedroom apartment (outside of city centre) | AED 5,043 |
| Three bedroom family home (city centre) | AED 14,442 |
| Three bedroom family home (outside of city centre) | AED 10,100 |
| Internet | AED 324 |
| Utilities (gas, electric and water for a 85m2 apartment) | AED 619 |
What about healthcare and dental costs in Dubai?
The healthcare system in Dubai, as well as the rest of the United Arab Emirates, is excellent. The UAE may allow expats to apply for a health card that enables them to some free medical treatment, but it is always preferable to get private health insurance to ensure that you are protected in the case of an accident or illness.
| Healthcare service | Average cost to you |
|---|---|
| Family doctor check-up (no insurance) | AED 274 |
| Cold medicine for six days | AED 20 |
| Antibiotic prescription (no insurance) | AED 96 |
How much is travel and transportation in Dubai?
Because the United Arab Emirates is a country made famous by oil, it should come as no surprise that driving here is quite inexpensive. Due to the high volume of traffic in Dubai, taking public transit may be your best option if you have a regular commute.
| Transportation and vehicle prices for Dubai | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Gasoline (One litre / 0.25 gallon) | AED 1.81 |
| Monthly bus/transport pass | AED 250 |
| Bus ticket, single use | AED 5 |
| Taxi tariff, 8km/5mile journey | AED 31 |
| Toyota Corolla, new | AED 65,062 |
| VW Golf, new | AED 70,000 |
How much does education cost?
With such a large number of expats living in Dubai, there are several outstanding schools that cater to students from a variety of various educational backgrounds. For example, you may enroll your child in an international school that follows the International Baccalaureate program or a school that follows the curriculum offered in your native country. Anything that might be beneficial to your family is likely to be available in Dubai.
| School | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Preschool / kindergarten (monthly fee) | AED 2,882 |
| Private school for lower grades | AED 40,818 |
| Dubai university tuition (undergraduate, one year) | AED 243,600 |
| British University of Dubai tuition (MBA, one year) | AED 70,000 |
The UAE is a fantastic expat location, whether you’re wanting to settle down for the long haul or just want to spend a year or two discovering a new place. It has world-class facilities and a world-class lifestyle to offer, and although the cost of living is quite costly, the experiences you may have here will be really unforgettable. Wishing you the best of luck in your new life in Dubai!
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Dubai?
In popular culture, Dubai is represented as a millionaire’s playground, and the prospect of living a luxury lifestyle is too tempting for some to pass up. Evidently, a large number of individuals shared this viewpoint, as expats account for 80 percent of the country’s total population of 2.5 million people. Many people believe that the expense of living in Dubai is substantially greater than in other parts of the world, although this is mostly due to the media’s portrayal of super automobiles and penthouse flats.
- The life of a worldwide celebrity that some people expect after relocating to Dubai will be sadly disappointed.
- It is impossible to go from being a poverty to becoming a royal just by moving to Dubai.
- The most wealthy nations in the world are ranked according to the results of the poll.
- While this is true, the Legatum Institute takes into account a variety of other characteristics when rating countries.
- The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven nations, with Abu Dhabi being the most populous.
- This places the UAE in the top 20 percent of the world’s economies, and the country’s ranks in governance, economics, and entrepreneurship and possibilities help to keep it on its feet.
- The United Arab Emirates, which includes Dubai, is primarily composed of Muslim residents.
- As a result of the restrictions on dress, drinking, and public affection, it is reasonable that expats may feel restricted in their activities.
As a result of Dubai’s little rainfall and average temperatures in excess of 30°C, it is not unexpected that many people dream of relocating to the nation. The question is, though, how much does it truly cost to live in Dubai?
Economy
Visitors to Dubai are frequently taken aback by the man-made islands dotting the coastline, which are filled with luxurious houses. In the mid-2000s, these outlandish constructions came to symbolize the emirate’s economic growth – and the subsequent financial disaster that followed in 2009. Dubai began diversifying its economy in the 1950s in order to stay up with Abu Dhabi’s oil-rich economy. It diversified its economy by focusing on ports, commerce, services, and financial services. These were a resounding success.
- The economy, on the other hand, has recovered, with loans being paid off and reorganized.
- Many people were taken aback by the catastrophic financial catastrophe that occurred in Dubai.
- Although many people believe that oil is Dubai’s most important export, it really only accounts approximately 6 percent of its total earnings.
- Dubai is mostly known for importing automobiles, jewelry, and apparel.
Currency and Tax Overview
The dirham is the currency that is used in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (AED). Although it is frequently referred to as Dhs or DH, it is also known as DHS. The value of a dirham is one hundred fils. The dirham is the money that was first used in the Arab world and is still in use today. Notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 dirhams, with the highest denomination being 1,000 dirhams. Despite the fact that Arabic is written on one side of the note and English is written on the other, both sides are written in English.
Many expats are ecstatic at the prospect of being able to live tax-free in Dubai.
In 2010, the UAE as a whole was experimenting with the notion of instituting an income tax, but nothing came of it.
- 10 percent municipal tax levied on hotels and other entertainment facilities
- 10 percent municipal tax levied on the renting of commercial premises
- 5 percent municipal tax levied on the rental of residential property
- And road tolls. Utility bills are subject to taxes. Alcohol is subject to a 30 percent sales tax.
Housing in Dubai for Expats
Rent in Dubai is 3.12 percent less expensive than rent in the United Kingdom. However, the Palm Jumeriah, DIFC, and Jumeriah Beach Residence are not far behind when it comes to the most costly rentals in the country. Many expats do reside in these locations, but they are more likely to be employed in jobs that pay a higher wage. Garhoud is comprised of a mix of ancient villas, as well as modern and older flats. Despite the fact that it is regarded to be the less fashionable side of Dubai, expats truly love living here.
It begins behind the Mall of the Emirates and travels out towards the Emirates Hills until it reaches the Emirates Hills.
Dubai Marina is in the core of what has come to be known as ‘New Dubai,’ a destination for young and reasonably well-off foreigners.
A large number of freehold beachfront residential buildings are included inside the development.
Property costs vary based on where you live, which is important for expats who want to buy a home. The average price of a city center residence is AED 17,596 (about £3,596) per square meter. AED 9,949 (£2,033) per square meter (roughly) is the average price for properties outside of the city center.
Expat Healthcare in Dubai
To become a permanent resident of Dubai is an impossibility. A residence application will not be considered if you were not born into a family where both parents are UAE nationals. As a result, expats will not be covered by the government-sponsored health insurance program. Expats who wish to use public hospitals and facilities must first get a health card from the Department of Health and Medical Services (DHMS) (DOHMS). Expats will not have difficulty finding a pharmacy in Dubai, since there are several locations around the emirate, many of which are open 24 hours a day.
We provide three private medical insurance policies to meet the demands of a variety of expatriate groups.
For further information, please see our article on Medical Insurance in Dubai.
Cost of Education in Dubai
Expat children are unable to attend public schools in Dubai since they are not residents of the country. However, there are a number of private institutions in Dubai that are expressly designed to serve big foreign groups, such as international schools, which may be found in the city. There are schools that follow the national curriculum of the United Kingdom, the United States, France, India, Japan, and other countries, as well as the International Baccalaureate. Many foreign schools may demand a child’s academic record, and they may also ask them to take an entrance exam before they would consider them for admission.
- Expat parents must keep in mind that after the school year has begun, a kid will not be able to move to a different institution.
- They will have to wait until the beginning of the new school year.
- to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- The fees for education range from around AED 3,000 to AED 50,000 each academic year, indicating a significant disparity between the rich and the poor.
Employment Rates
Some employees will not have a problem finding work in Dubai because they have been transferred by their business. More than three-quarters of the workforce in the United Arab Emirates is made up of expatriates, making the country a key employment hotspot for individuals with the appropriate skills and qualifications. The majority of people that move over the nation end up working in the big industries, such as petroleum and petrochemicals; fishing; aluminum; and construction. Careers in education, healthcare, tourism, and hospitality, on the other hand, have lately experienced a resurgence.
The fact that Dubai boasts the lowest unemployment rate in the world is something that many people are drawn to. Since 2015, the unemployment rate has been below 0.3 percent on a monthly basis.
Salary in Dubai
Several expats report that their incomes are greater in Dubai, particularly when an employer offers them a relocation incentive. On average, expats report that their discretionary income is 21.27 percent more in Dubai than in their home country. So they profit from improved cash flow as well as enhanced spending power. However, be mindful that living expenses might be prohibitively expensive, particularly if you are drawn in by the country’s initial allure. It is important to remember that you are in your new home, not on vacation.
However, it all depends on the size of the family, the location, and the lifestyle choices made.
Comparison to UK
When it comes to information on Dubai, the world’s largest database, Numbeo, provides an extensive collection of user-contributed information. Clothing, as well as recreational activities, are substantially more expensive in the United States than in the United Kingdom. Transportation and eating out are, on the other hand, less expensive than in the United Kingdom. A general overview of the cost differences between Dubai and the United Kingdom is provided in the tables below. Please keep in mind that all Emirati pricing have been translated into British pounds for your convenience.
| Groceries | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Milk (1l) | £0.89 | £2.06 | UK |
| White bread (500g) | £0.95 | £0.94 | Dubai |
| Eggs (12) | £1.98 | £2.66 | UK |
| Cheese (0.10 kg) | £0.17 | £0.68 | UK |
| Banana (1kg) | £0.22 | £0.37 | UK |
| Water (1.5l) | £0.92 | £0.46 | Dubai |
| Transport | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Petrol (1l) | £1.08 | £0.39 | Dubai |
| One-way ticket | £2.30 | £0.51 | Dubai |
| Monthly pass | £60.00 | £55.52 | Dubai |
| Taxi (1km) | £1.50 | £0.66 | Dubai |
| Utilities (Monthly) | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Electricity/Heating/Water for 85m 2apartment | £143.46 | £126.10 | Dubai |
| 1 minute of PAYG talk time | £0.13 | £0.10 | Dubai |
| Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) | £21.05 | £65.41 | UK |
| Clothing | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Jeans (Levi or similar) | £57.15 | £68.68 | UK |
| Dress (chain store) | £29.91 | £45.45 | UK |
| Nike running shoe | £59.40 | £72.35 | UK |
| Leather business shoes | £61.18 | £84.17 | UK |
| Leisure | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Fitness club | £33.28 | £84.57 | UK |
| Tennis court (1 hour) | £9.99 | £22.40 | UK |
| Cinema (1 ticket) | £9.00 | £7.13 | Dubai |
| Eating Out | UK Price (£) | Dubai Price (in £) | Cheaper Country |
| Fast food meal | £5.00 | £5.09 | UK |
| Inexpensive restaurant | £12.00 | £6.11 | Dubai |
| 3 course, mid-range | £50.00 | £30.55 | Dubai |
| Cappuccino | £2.53 | £3.35 | UK |
| Coke/Pepsi | £1.14 | £0.35 | Dubai |
| Imported beer | £3.50 | £8.15 | UK |
The cost of living in Dubai: A guide
A substantial collection of user-contributed data on Dubai may be found in Numbeo, the world’s largest database. Clothing and leisure activities are substantially more expensive in the United States than in the United Kingdom. Transportation and eating out are, on the other hand, less expensive than in the United Kingdom (UK). The cost disparities between Dubai and the United Kingdom are summarized in the tables below. All Emirati pricing have been translated into British pounds, so please keep that in mind when shopping.
What is the basic salary in Dubai?
Numbeo, the world’s largest database, has a considerable amount of user-contributed information about Dubai. Clothing, as well as recreational activities, are substantially more expensive in the United States than in the United Kingdom. Transportation and dining out are, on the other hand, less expensive than in the United Kingdom. The cost disparities between Dubai and the United Kingdom are depicted in the tables below. Please keep in mind that all Emirati pricing have been converted to British pounds for your convenience.
How expensive is it to live in Dubai?
Dubai was listed as the 21st most expensive city to live in in 2019, according to 5 statistics, with places such as Victoria, New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong ranking higher on the list. However, the city is more expensive than other major cities such as London, Moscow, and Chicago. Expensive is a relative phrase — in this context, it refers to the cost of living in comparison to pay. Its cost will vary according on your location and level of income you get.
Is rent expensive in Dubai?
When compared to Chicago 6, rent in Dubai is around 26.99 percent less expensive, restaurants are approximately 25.97 percent less expensive, and groceries are approximately 27.25 percent less expensive.
In addition, public transportation is less expensive 7, and the unemployment rate is lower. However, because the average pay in Chicago is higher than the average salary in Dubai, you may have more money to spend on the more expensive food and rent in Chicago.
Cheapest rent in Dubai
Rent in Dubai is around 26.99 percent less expensive than Chicago 6, restaurants are approximately 25.97 percent less expensive, and groceries are approximately 27.25 percent less expensive. In addition, public transportation is less expensive 7, and the unemployment rate is less. As a result, the average wage in Chicago is higher than the average salary in Dubai, which means you will have more money to spend on the more expensive food and housing in Chicago.
The average cost of an apartment in Dubai per neighbourhood
It’s possible that you’d like to know the average cost of rent per year for an apartment in various neighborhoods around the emirate.
Dubai house prices
According to a survey published in late 2019, “Dubai’s housing market remains ‘oversupplied’ despite the reduction in prices over the previous few years – actual prices have plummeted by about 35% since mid-2014.” 12 In mid-2019, the average price of a Dubai home was 13AED 2.46 million ($670,000, £517,752) per square meter. When it comes to a two-bed apartment, the lowest end of the market starts at roughly $168,000/£130,000, with mid-range possibilities starting at around $388,000/£300,000 – and alternatives reaching more than $647,000/£500,000.
What is the average income in Dubai?
According to the Middle East Salary Survey 2019, the average monthly salary for various job categories in Dubai are listed in the table below. 15
What are Dubai food prices like?
When determining how much food costs in a certain nation, a reasonable rule of thumb is that local food, that is, food that is produced or cultivated in that country, will be less expensive. In the event that food must be imported, the cost will be higher. Accessibility is also important; for example, food on smaller islands tends to be more expensive than food on larger ones. Here are a few important facts:
- Restaurants might be inexpensive, but alcoholic beverages and coffee are not. If you compare Dubai to the rest of the Middle East 16, eating out may be prohibitively costly, with Dubai ranking as the second most expensive city in the region behind Tel Aviv.
Gasoline price in Dubai
Cost per litre: Figures are current as of November 1, 2019. How does this compare to the United States and the United Kingdom?
- Petrol prices in the United Kingdom can be more than twice as high as those in the United Arab Emirates (£1.27/$1.64 per litre of petrol and £1.31/$1.70 per litre of diesel as of November 2018)
- Petrol prices in the United States are higher than in the United Kingdom, although they are still lower than in the United Kingdom ($0.78/£0.60 per litre as of November 2019 19).
The cost of health care in Dubai
Health insurance is a significant portion of one’s monthly living expenses. This is typically already top of mind for American expats and others who have arrived from countries where there is no national health system in place. It may not be the case for people who come from nations with socialized care or national health/insurance systems. In Dubai, all migrants are legally required to obtain health insurance, which is supplied by their job in most cases. The majority of employers provide health insurance coverage as part of their compensation package; however, this may only be for the most basic of coverage, and an extra international health insurance policy may be necessary to adequately cover the needs of you and/or your family.
What to consider when you move
Dubai is the 21st most expensive city in the world, according to the World Bank. However, given that it is the 14th best paid city in the world, these rates seem reasonable in comparison. If you’re thinking of relocating, you’ll have to take into account costs that you would not otherwise consider. If you’re from the United States, the idea of having to pay for health insurance may come as no surprise; but, if you’re from the United Kingdom, you may be surprised. When preparing for your relocation, keep in mind any one-time expenses you may incur, such as the purchase of a vehicle.
SOURCE: Data on currencies is given by Morningstar for currencies and Coinbase for cryptocurrencies, respectively.
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Cost of Living in Dubai 2022
People may believe that Dubai, the city of luxury living, is all about spending money and having no opportunity to save, but this is not the case whatsoever! If you have received a job offer in Dubai and are wondering what the cost of living in Dubai is, look no further! In this essay, you will learn all you need to know about living expenses in Dubai.
Living Cost in Dubai
If you want to figure out how much it costs to live in Dubai, divide the average expenditures by the required expenses on a monthly basis. To assist you in calculating your living expenses in Dubai, the following is a list of the costs of each life necessity: *Please keep in mind that all expenses are estimates based on data from numbeo.com, the world’s largest cost of living database.
Housing Cost in Dubai
When calculating the average cost of living in Dubai, one of the most essential factors to consider is housing. Depending on the neighborhood, size, utilities provided by the building or complex, and other services provided by the developer, Dubai provides a diverse selection of housing alternatives at a variety of pricing points. The monthly rental range in Dubai is as follows:
- In the City Centre, a one-bedroom apartment costs between 3,500 AED and 7,500 AED
- In the suburbs, a one-bedroom apartment costs between 2,300 AED and 5,000 AED
- In the city center, three-bedroom apartments cost between 7,000 AED and 15,000 AED
- In the suburbs, three-bedroom apartments cost between 5,000 AED and 11,000 AED
- In the suburbs, three-bedroom apartments cost between 5,000 and 11,000 AED
Groceries Prices in Dubai
When estimating the cost of living in Dubai, or in any other nation where you want to relocate, it’s critical to include in the cost of food. When it comes to supermarkets, Dubai has a plethora of alternatives, whether it’s snagging the greatest bargains and offers from local supermarkets and grocery shops, or importing items from the United States and Europe for high-end grocery stores. The following is a list of grocery staples in Dubai with estimated prices:
- (1) liter of regular milk (5.89 AED)
- (1) liter of regular white rice (6.89 AED)
- (2) liters of regular white bread (500g): 4.52 AED
- (3) liters of regular white rice (1kg): 6.89 AED
- (1) liter of regular white rice (12): 9.52 AED
- (1) liter of regular white
Transportation and fuel Cost in Dubai
Transportation in Dubai is not a problem due to the fact that it boasts one of the world’s top public transportation networks, which provides the public with a wide variety of alternatives. Individuals residing in Dubai may travel using public transportation applications to access the Metro, Tram, public buses, and taxis, which can be ordered using public transportation apps in Dubai. How Much Does TransportationFuel Affect the Bottom Line? See below for an estimate of the estimated cost of transportation in Dubai:
- 5.00 AED for a one-way ticket (Local Transport)
- 300.00 AED for a monthly pass (Regular Price)
- 12.00 AED for a taxi start
- 2.48 AED for a taxi 1km
- 30.00 AED for a taxi 1hour waiting
- 2.46 AED for a gasoline (1 liter)
- 2.46 AED for a monthly pass (Regular Price)
- 2.46 AED for gasoline (1 liter).
If you live near one of Dubai’s metro stations, you may save money on commuting costs. Also, be sure to obtain a Nol Card, which allows you to pay for and utilize all local transit alternatives in Dubai. Take a look at how to reload Nol Card for more information.
Utilities Cost in Dubai
Electricity and water, as well as mobile credit and the internet, are all available in Dubai. The cost of utilities in Dubai is greater when compared to other nations, however it is reasonable when compared to the incomes in Dubai. The following are the costs of utilities in Dubai:
- For an 85m2 apartment, the basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) range from 500 to 1,200 AED
- 1 minute of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (with no discounts or plans) ranges from 0.30 AED to 0.77 AED
- Internet (60 Mbps or more with unlimited data, cable/ADSL) ranges from 250 to 450 AED
- And 1 minute of Prepaid Mobile Tariff International (with discounts or plans) ranges from 0.30 AED to 0.77
Healthcare Cost in Dubai
In Dubai, health insurance is required, and employers are responsible for providing coverage to their employees after a work visa has been approved. It is mandatory for sponsors to obtain insurance coverage for their resident dependents.
The majority of organizations in Dubai give health insurance to their employees, as well as their spouses and children, and if they do not, health insurance in Dubai may be purchased for as little as 1000 AED per year.
Education Cost in Dubai
With the many education curriculums available in the UAE, it is feasible to choose schools with reasonable tuition prices, and the range of children education options in Dubai includes the following subjects:
- The cost of full-day preschool (or kindergarten) for one child, on a monthly basis, ranges from 1000 AED to 4000 AED
- The cost of an international primary school “on an annual basis for one child” ranges from 25,000 AED to 75,000 AED
- And the cost of an international secondary school ranges from 25,000 AED to 75,000 AED.
Restaurants Cost in Dubai
Restaurants in Dubai range from quick food to low-cost restaurants to some of the most costly establishments in the world. Eating in restaurants in Dubai will have the following repercussions:
- Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course: 150 AED – 550 AED
- Meal for 2 People, Inexpensive Restaurant: 20 AED – 75 AED
- The cost of a McMeal at McDonald’s (or an equivalent Combo Meal) ranges from 25 AED to 32 AED
- The cost of a cappuccino (regular) ranges from 10 AED to 30 AED.
Entertainment Cost in Dubai
Even if your primary objective is to conserve money, you must set aside a portion of your income for amusement, especially if you live in Dubai. Many free attractions in Dubai, such as parks, beaches, shopping malls, and historical sites, are available for you to enjoy. A cinema ticket in Dubai will cost you 45 AED each ticket, while GYM fees for one adult would cost you between 125 AED and 500 AED per month in the city.
Can I Save Money in Dubai?
People may wonder whether it is feasible to save money while residing in Dubai. Regardless of how high your income is, according to UAE Salaries, the answer is affirmative. You may do so by employing the most effective strategies for lowering expenses while increasing your investable income. Securing your financial future is all about what you do with your money and how you choose how much money to spend depending on your individual financial objectives. For example, you may enroll your child in one of the most costly schools in Dubai or select a more inexpensive school to save money, and all of these alternatives are accessible in the city of Dubai.