If you are moving to Dubai with family, a three-bedroom apartment can cost between $1800 – $3200 per month. A good way to save on costs of living in Dubai is to rent an unfurnished apartment and ship your furniture and personal belongings to Dubai instead.
- Thus, it would be a good idea to have a general idea of how much it would cost to move locally in Dubai. Here’s a guide to help you. On average, moving companies would charge you around 1,500-3,000 AED for a two-bedroom apartment or flat for rent in Dubai. There are a few things that could affect the price you have to pay.
How much does it cost to move to Dubai?
Typical cost of moving The cost of moving to another home within Dubai typically ranges from: Studio apartment: AED 800 – 1000. One-bedroom apartment: AED 1100 – 1500. Two-bedroom apartment: AED 1800 – 2,400.
Is it worth moving to Dubai?
Dubai can be a good place for those who love to work in a multicultural environment with numerous opportunities to work in a highly progressing environment. Besides offering good business and career opportunities, this city also possesses a rich history you can explore.
Can I move to Dubai without a job?
Since there is no way for foreigners to receive permanent residency or citizenship in the UAE, there is logically no true Golden Visa. However, through investment into the country, expats can receive 3-year, renewable temporary residency to live abroad long-term in Dubai without having to seek employment.
How much money do you need to move to UAE?
The average cost of living for family of four is about about 12,000 AED per month (3,000 USD). Without rent, this includes items such as groceries, transport, leisure activity, and eating out at restaurants. A single person can expect to pay about 3,000 AED (800 USD).
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.
Can a woman work in Dubai?
Can women work in Dubai? A common misconception that people often have is that women can’t work in Dubai. In fact, the opposite is true; women can work in Dubai and many who do would claim the opportunities are better than many places in the West.
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.
Are there poor people in Dubai?
The UAE is one of the top ten richest countries in the world, and yet a large percentage of the population lives in poverty — an estimated 19.5 percent. Poverty in the UAE can be seen in the labor conditions of the working class. Migrants come to Dubai looking for work and send remittances back to their families.
Can you kiss in Dubai hotels?
Most hotels are permitted to serve alcohol, but it is illegal just about everywhere else. All couples should avoid public displays of affection, including hand holding and kissing, as it is not permissible in the country’s culture.
Does Dubai pay you to live there?
Many people made strong fortunes in Dubai, and even to this day, it’s a centre of wealth and prosperity. Expats who relocate long-term to Dubai can legitimately earn their salary free from income tax.
How long can I stay in Dubai without a visa?
30‑day visit eligibility. If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30‑day visit visa free of charge.
Is Dubai more expensive than America?
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.
What are the disadvantages of living in Dubai?
Con: strict laws Dubai is a strict Muslim state. Non-Muslim expats should therefore be respectful of the country’s religious ways – especially during Ramadan. For example, ‘modest attire’ is recommended and public displays of affection can cause offence and lead to arrest, even between married couples.
What is the Cost of Living in Dubai for Expats in 2021?
Whether you are relocating to Dubai to start a business or merely to improve your employment chances, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of the cost of living in Dubai before you make the decision to relocate here. As a result of the impact of COVID-19, which was combined with reduced oil prices, the cost of living in Dubai is expected to decline in 2021, despite the fact that living costs have grown significantly over the last decade in the UAE. Mercer’s 26th annual Cost of Living Survey for 2020 placed Dubai at number 23, down two spots from the previous year’s rating.
To put this pricing disparity into perspective, consider how Dubai compares to the following cities:
| Location | Single person monthly cost without rent | Average rent in city centre (studio apartment) | Taxi fare (5 km) | Petrol (1 litres) |
| Dubai | AED 3,443.97(USD 937.70) | AED 5,527.83(USD 1,505.07) | AED 12.00(USD 3.27) | AED 1.99(USD 0.54) |
| Hong Kong | AED 3,894.00(USD 1,060.23) | AED 8029.33(USD 2,186.16) | AED 11.35(USD 3.09) | AED 8.42(USD 2.29) |
| London | AED 4,383.96 (USD 1,193.63) | AED 8,747.65(USD 2,381.74) | AED 15.43(USD 4.20) | AED 6.13(USD 1.67) |
| New York | AED 4,957(USD 1,349.65) | AED 11,348.94 (USD 3,090) | AED 13.96(USD 3.80) | AED 2.58(USD 0.70) |
| Singapore | AED 3,575.43(USD 973.49) | AED 7,991.05 (USD 2,175.74) | AED 9.98(USD 2.72) | AED 6.05 (USD 1.65) |
The information comes from Numbereo (Most updated statistics: May 2021) Specifically, we will look at the cost of living for expats in Dubai in four important areas: transportation, housing, and food.
Average Cost of Living in Dubai
Living expenses are those expenses that are vital for one’s survival and are therefore classified as such. It would include things like housing, food, clothes, healthcare, and transportation, just to mention a few examples. Any payments associated with leisure activities would not be included in the calculation of living expenditures. When calculating living expenditures, housing costs account for a significant portion of the total budget. Housing will account for around 30% of total living expenditures, followed by transportation and food, which will account for 15% of total living expenses each.
Here is a brief breakdown of overall prices based on the number of people in your household for your convenience and fast reference.
According to Numbeo statistics, the average cost of living for a single individual reduced by 89.2 percent in 2021 as compared to the previous year.
| 2020 | 2021 | |
| Single Person | AED 8,972 (USD 2,443) | AED 3,435.71 (USD 935.35) |
| Family of Four | AED 16,478 (USD 4,486) | AED 11,863.31 (USD 3229.69) |
Living Expenses in Dubai are as follows:
Housing, RentalUtilities
Your residential costs will be determined by where you choose to live in Dubai, and the area in which you choose to live in Dubai will be highly influenced by where you plan to conduct business. Here is a table that may be used as a fast reference when it comes to residential rent.
| Type of Apartment | Cost of rent per month |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | AED 5,528.59 (USD 1,505.28) |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | AED 3,687.32 (USD 1,003.95) |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | AED 10,799.55 (USD 2,940.41) |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | AED 7,490.97 (USD 2,039.58) |
The Jumeirah Lakes Tower (JLT) is considered to be one of the most prestigious residential buildings in Dubai. This is a popular district area for expats, and it is located near the Dubai Marina, the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Dubai’s Old Town, all of which have rental costs that are comparable. A one-bedroom apartment in JLT costs approximately AED 66,236 (USD 18032.23) per year, or AED 5,519.66 (USD 1526.88) per month, making it one of the most expensive places to live in Dubai when compared to the rest of the country.
However, expats opt to reside in these places because of the sense of belonging they have there, as well as the fact that the amenities nearby are typically more adequate for their requirements.
Dubai Rental Price Comparison: Top Places to Live in Dubai for Expats
Cleaning services for lodgings are included in the housing category of living expenditures as well as other living expenses. Generally speaking, this service is given by employing domestic assistance, which is extremely widespread in Dubai. The charges vary based on the type of cleaning required, but on average, a full-time domestic assistant would cost around AED 2,700 (USD 735) per month, while a part-time domestic helper who comes in once a week (3-hour service) would cost approximately AED 390 (USD 106) monthly.
Dubai Education Costs
Children of expats are permitted to attend both public and private schools in the United Arab Emirates; but, regardless of which kind they attend, tuition must be paid because free government schooling is only accessible to Emirati citizens. AED 6,000 (USD 1,635) per year has been set as the maximum yearly tuition cost for foreigners who wish to attend public schools in the United Arab Emirates.
International / Private Schools
Dubai offers a little more than 200 private schools that serve around 300,000 Emirati and international students. Out of all the emirates in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is the only one that has adopted yearly tuition limitations, which prohibits schools from increasing their prices by exorbitant amounts on an annual basis. Average annual international school costs range between AED 12,723 and AED 64,093 (USD 3,46.84 and USD 17,446.32) in the UAE. It should be noted that school fees are heavily dependent on the location of the school; they vary significantly from one region to the next, and a comprehensive revision may be found here.
Higher Education
Dubai has 65 colleges, each of which offers a wide range of academic programs in a variety of fields. They provide services to both Emirati and international students. Public universities in Dubai, on the other hand, utilize Arabic as the primary language of instruction, but the majority of private institutions in Dubai use English. Regardless of which university they attend, international students are expected to enroll in Arabic language lessons for the purpose of language development. It is estimated that the average cost of an undergraduate degree or a graduate degree would be AED 173,400 (USD $47,209) or AED 54,800 to 82,200 (USD $14,919-22,379), respectively, for the whole program.
Dubai Transportation Costs
Driven transportation in Dubai is undoubtedly the most convenient mode of transportation, and owing to low fuel costs, the cost of operating a car is rather modest. Another point to mention is that traffic congestion in Dubai is quite severe, making it difficult to commute during the busiest periods of the day. In the event that you have to go to and from work on a regular basis, taking public transit is definitely your best option.
Car Ownership
The cost of purchasing an automobile is heavily influenced by the state of the vehicle. According to the 2018 Toyota Corolla, which is the most popular car in the UAE and sells for AED 70,900, as a point of reference, Implementing a regular 20% down payment, a 5-year payback plan, and taking other expenditures into consideration, the annual cost would be AED 20,800, excluding the down payment. When purchasing a secondhand automobile, however, depreciation often subtracts 20-40 percent from the overall purchase price of the vehicle.
The price of gasoline in Dubai has remained consistent and is substantially less expensive than the global average, with Dubai’s gasoline costing 1.79 AED per liter, compared to the global average of 4.33 AED per liter, according to the International Energy Agency.
Public Transportation
| Transportation Fares/Prices in Dubai | Average Cost |
| Taxis(per 1 km) | AED 2.44 (USD 0.66) |
| Buses(single ticket) | AED 5 (USD 1.4) |
| Buses(monthly pass) | AED 300 (USD 81.67) |
| Average price of 1 L petrol | AED 2.00 (USD 0.54) |
There are two Dubai Metrostations in the JLT region, which makes it highly accessible for employees, residents, and tourists to access destinations in the premium district, DMCC, from their homes. In addition, there is a bus service that operates around the town, making stops at various locations. More information about public transportation in Dubai may be found on the official website of the Dubai government.
Dubai HealthcareInsurance
The Dubai Health Authority has enacted new law requiring all inhabitants, including expats, to obtain medical insurance. This includes both nationals and foreigners. Foreigners will need to obtain private health insurance plans, which are often purchased via their jobs, whilst locals can get coverage under the government-funded system. Dubai is particularly well-known for its high-quality healthcare system, which is among the best in the world among the seven Emirates. Taking advantage of both public and private healthcare services is something you will be able to do as an expat.
Health Card
In Dubai, private health insurance is preferred by the vast majority of expats, largely because English is widely spoken and most of the medical personnel are international physicians. However, although Dubai’s public medical services are free for residents, foreigners may take advantage of a 50 percent discount if they have a health card. The following are the fees for a health card:
- Expatriate fees are AED 120 (USD 32.67) for those under the age of 18 and AED 320 (USD 87.12) for those over the age of 18. National fees are AED 25 (USD 6.81) for those under the age of 18 and AED 120 (USD 32.67) for those over the age of 18 and for those under the age of 18.
The prices listed above are one-time payments for the purpose of obtaining a health card. In the event that a health card has expired, a new one must be issued (dependent on age). The Ministry of Health e-Services website may be used by expats to submit an application for a health care card.
The Essential Benefit plan
Also included are provisions for lower-income employees and residents who are not currently employed. The Essential Benefits Plan (EBP), which was introduced in 2014, is the bare minimum level of health insurance coverage that all residents of Dubai are required to have. It provides essential benefits at a reasonable cost to the consumer. The following is a breakdown of the EBP premium package charge for the year:
- In the UAE, employees receive AED 650-725
- Dependents (aged 0-65) receive AED 650
- Single married females (aged 18-45) receive AED 1,600
- Elderly parents receive AED 2,500
- And other household employees receive AED 650-725.
For additional details, please see Pacific Prime’s guide to required health insurance in Dubai, published in the year 2021.
Is Dubai really that expensive for expats?
Dubai has risen to the top of the list of best cities for expats to live in, while also remaining one of the most affordable places to live in the world. Are you considering relocating to Dubai for business purposes? More information is available in our free ‘2021 Dubai Free Zone Guide,’ which contains everything you need to know about relocating and setting up shop in the appropriate free zone. Living in Dubai, expat life in Dubai are some of the topics covered.
20 Reasons Not to Move to Dubai (In No Particular Order)
Being a resident in Dubai is not as fantastic and glamorous as many people would have you believe it to be. Forget everything you’ve read, seen, and heard; those gleaming structures and man-made islands are nothing more than a smokescreen to deceive the public.
There are so many things wrong with this town that I’ve decided to build a list of them, which you should read if you’re thinking on moving to Dubai in the near future.
1. Try Getting Something Delivered To Your Place
Because there is no standard address system in place, mail-to-door delivery is not an option. In fact, it makes practically everything nearly hard to accomplish. The cab driver, who has just been here for two days and has only learned English through listening to old Beatles recordings, has no idea where your home is. He won’t tell you that, of course; he’ll simply keep phoning and repeating, “All right, all right. “Yeah, that’s right.” When you purchase something that requires delivery, you will not see an address line, but rather a box in which you will be requested to create a map of the location.
As an example, consider the following: After the airport road, but before the roundabout, I live on a side street that is quiet and peaceful.
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The government of the United Arab Emirates has blocked all websites that it considers to be “offensive” to the “religious, moral, and cultural values” of the country. That’s difficult for a freedom-loving American to accept, but I understand why. Why all VOIP access and related web pages are restricted, on the other hand, is something I don’t understand. I suppose the government is also offended by folks who use low-cost methods to communicate with their family back home. Calls made using the analog service offered by the government-owned telephone monopoly will be charged at a higher rate, although they will be significantly more expensive.
Even though the government claims that voice over internet protocol (VOIP) is forbidden for security reasons, people of communist China and North Korea have access to these low-cost calls.
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Excellent podcast with Paul Rosenberg about virtual private networks (VPNs).
3. It Is Hot Here, Like REALLY Hot
Not hot like Florida in July; hot like if you were stranded in a car in Florida in July with enough humidity to make you feel like you are drowning. Heat indexes of 120 degrees with approximately 100 percent humidity are considered extreme. Avoid looking on the wind for assistance. Using this method is the equivalent of directing a hairdryer directly at your face at full intensity. You should imagine that you are pouring fine moon dust-like sand over your head while doing this.
4. Does Anything Even Grow Here?
There are far too few trees, plants, and grass – indeed, there are far too few living things other than us insane humans – in the world. Have you ever seen a bird pant? Yes, I have. Human beings were not created to exist in such a hostile environment, in my opinion. If we were, there would be enough of water and shade for everyone. The only vegetation in the area is provided by the roadside gardens established by the government, which is responsible for watering them constantly throughout the day.
Thank you very much! Were you not the one who stated that we should reduce our water use since you were unable to keep up with the demand? It occurred to me that we should all relocate somewhere where it is not 120 degrees outside.
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This country takes such pleasure in its glitter and glamour that it has emblazoned an image of its 7-star hotel on the back of its registration plates. Despite this, the public bathrooms in the glitzy Gold Souk neighborhood are nothing more than holes in the ground with no toilet paper or soap available. Hoses, on the other hand, are provided for cleaning your underwear. Due to the accumulation of water on the floor, you must stand up to go to the bathroom. You may try squatting without putting your hands on anything and not letting your trousers come into contact with anything.
In addition, the temperature is 120 degrees in there.
6. Modern-Day Slavery
A image of a 7-star hotel was used on the license plate in this country, which takes great pleasure in its glitter and splendor. Despite this, the public bathrooms in the opulent Gold Souk neighborhood are nothing more than holes in the ground with no toilet paper or soap available. But hoses are supplied for rinsing off your nether regions. Due to the accumulation of water on the floor, you must stand up to go to the bathroom. You might try squatting without making any contact with anything and not allowing your pants to make any contact with anything.
I see what you’re talking about.
7. Things Are Not Cheaper Here
I’m tired of hearing people say things like that. People remark to individuals who worry about the growing expense of living in this nation, “Well, it’s cheaper than your home country or you wouldn’t be here,” according to the letters to the editor page of the newspaper I am reading. The only thing that is less expensive here is labor. Yes, you can hire a cleaner – but a bag of washed lettuce can set you back about $6 in labor costs.
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This is what I perceive to be cheating. Where have all the police officers gone? I traveled around this city for several weeks before I ever came across a police officer. I can assure you that traffic officers are desperately needed here. People behave in a clumsy manner. Turning left from the far right lane is totally legal, however exceeding the speed limit by even a few miles can result in a fine. These cameras are deliberately positioned when you travel down slopes or just before the speed limit changes to prevent accidents.
Fined.
9. What The Hell Are You Wearing?
The clothing that some of these women are wearing is completely incomprehensible to me. I realize that you are obligated to dress in a certain manner as part of your faith, but wearing a black robe over your jeans and turtleneck and covering your head while it is 120 degrees outside seems a little excessive. Some ladies go to the gym dressed in five layers of clothing.sweatpants and t-shirts over sweaters with headscarves, for example. The men’s apparel, on the other hand, is completely logical: white, breezy, and with nothing below except their skivvies.
10. People Stare At You
I’m tired of being gazed at all the time. Men who have never seen a fair-skinned blue-eyed woman before, or who have seen one but believe we are all prostitutes and so it is OK to gaze, look at me. Whether I am fully clothed or with my spouse, they look at me and sometimes even follow me around the room.
It’s just frightening, and it’s reduced me to tears on more than one occasion in the past. Men are not the only ones who are gazing at you. My husband and I are having a few drinks at the bar when we are approached by a group of female prostitutes who are enraged that I am intruding on their domain.
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There are prostitutes, there is no doubt about that. There were a ton of them. To clarify, I am not allowed to look at a naked picture of someone on the Internet in my own home, but I am allowed to go out in public and purchase a few for the night? Is that correct?
12. Alcohol Can Only Be Sold In Hotels And a Handful of Private Clubs
There are prostitutes, without a doubt. There were a lot of them. To clarify, I am not allowed to look at a naked photo of someone on the Internet in my own house, but I am allowed to go out in public and purchase a few for the night? Is this correct?
13. I Have to Ask Permission For Everything!
To get a liquor license, you must first seek permission from your employer. You must also receive permission from your employer if you wish to rent property, use a telephone, or subscribe to satellite television.
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While traveling down the highway at 160 kph, I’ll stop if I see one more youngster standing up and waving to me from the back window. How did seat belts end there in the first place?
15. When is the Weekend Again?
I want to make sure I understand what you’re saying: the weekend used to be Thursday and Friday, but no one took off all of Thursday, only a half-day at the most. However, although though the government declares Friday and Saturday to be weekends, many employees choose to merely take off Friday, while others choose to work a half-day on Thursday, while others choose to work a half-day on Saturday instead. Monday through Friday are considered workdays, with only a sliver of activity completed on Sundays and Monday through Wednesday.
16. There are a Few Satellite Television Operators
The movie networks broadcast films that are antiquated and out of date. Many of them moved directly to video when they returned to the United States. Every comedy that was a failure in the United States has been acquired and is being broadcast here. Old episodes of Knight Rider are marketed as though they are the most amazing thing that has ever happened to mankind. Because the television commercials are repeated so frequently, I am determined not to purchase anything advertised on television in this country simply for the sake of principle.
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It is not uncommon to have to drive 10 minutes out of the way in order to perform a U-turn. People are unable to provide instructions the majority of the time (remember reason1), and maps are of little assistance because they do not have road names or have only a few of them. What is the location of interchange number four? The only thing you can do is hope you got on the freeway in the correct spot and start counting because they are not numbered on the freeway. If you miss it, you’ll most likely find up on the other side of town before you have the opportunity to turn around and return.
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Cab drivers work really hard to make a livelihood in this country because, despite the fact that the cost of living is rising, travel by taxi is still quite affordable (see reason7). As a result, you may find yourself with a driver who has had little sleep or had no time to shower for many days.
In addition to having just as much difficulty finding their way about as you do, many of these drivers have a driving style reminiscent of a third-world nation and are extremely exhausted. Please remember to strap up for your own protection.
19. Speeding is an Emirati sport and Emirates Road is Just an Extension of the Dubai Autodrome
I know I keep bringing up the subject of the roads, but the fact is that many of the city’s problems can be traced back to the chaotic and illogical behavior that is demonstrated on its streets. As I merge onto the highway, visions of flashing lights on even flashier, limo-tinted SUVs plague me. Somehow, locals are able to obtain the sun-blocking black window tint that we lowly foreigners are refused, and they use it to conceal their faces while they tailgate you ceaselessly at ridiculously high speeds, their lights flashing constantly on and off and their horn blasting constantly.
Don’t even consider giving someone the middle finger; doing so might result in you being arrested and sentenced to prison.
20. Dubai is Far From Environmentally Friendly
You’ve probably wondered how much harm those man-made islands are causing to the fragile ocean environment. A deluge of dredged up sea sand has engulfed coral reefs, seagrass beds, and oyster beds that were formerly part of protected marine areas, causing them to become strangled. When you combine the garbage generated by the construction of structures on top of these sand monsters and the waste generated by the people who live in them with the lack of an effective recycling program, you have the makings of an environmental disaster on your hands.
20 Reasons Not to Move to Dubai (In No Particular Order)
Apart from tax incentives, multi-cultural surroundings, and gorgeous skyscrapers, I’m sure there are many advantages to living in Dubai. But if any of the reasons listed above resonate with you, I strongly advise you to reconsider your decision to relocate to this city. Dubai is a metropolis that is suffering from an identity problem. With its head stuck somewhere between its ambition to be a playground for the wealthy and its allegiance to traditional Islamic traditions, the city of Karachi struggles to maintain its delusions of grandeur while lacking the necessary infrastructure to sustain them.
If you are looking for the ideal location to call home, please contact our officeHERE, and we would be delighted to discuss your future plans with you.
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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 |
What’s it like living and working in Dubai as an American?
What are your plans for residing in Dubai as an American citizen? Around 40,000 individuals from the United States live in the city, with Americans being one of the most significant expat populations in the emirate. 1. The vast majority of American citizens in the United Arab Emirates live in Dubai, with only 10,000 others scattered around the country. If you’re relocating or taking on a long-term work assignment, read our guide on visas, career prospects, and cultural differences before making your decision.
Preparation
If you’re planning a move to Dubai, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure are in order before you leave.
Visa
If you are a citizen of the United States going to Dubai, you will require a resident visa as well as a work permit in addition to your initial 30-day entrance permission. If you are planning to remain in the nation for less than one month, you will not be required to submit an application for a visa in advance; visas will be available upon arrival at the airport in the emirate. A work visa, on the other hand, would be required if you want to live in the UAE. Your company will take care of obtaining a visa for you and arranging for you to live in the city.
A tourist visa is required for entry into Dubai, which may be converted into both a work permit and a residency visa later on.
Obtaining a spouse visa, which allows you to remain in the nation with your spouse who is already employed, is another option for those looking to relocate to the city of Dubai.
Accommodation
It’s probable that you’ll want to make arrangements for your housing before you relocate to the nation. When you are not married or living with a close family member, it is unlawful to live with someone of the opposing sex in the United Arab Emirates. Consequently, if you intend to relocate with your spouse but are not married, this is something to take into consideration. Despite the fact that many expats would do so without consequence, if anybody lodges a complaint or the police enter your residence for any reason 2, you might find yourself in serious legal difficulties.
Medication
Before you relocate to the country, it is probable that you will want to make arrangements for your housing. When you are not a close family member or your spouse, it is unlawful in the United Arab Emirates to live with someone who is of the opposite sex. It’s something to think about if you’re planning a move with your significant other but aren’t married just yet. Despite the fact that many expats would do so without consequence, if anybody lodges a complaint or the police enter your residence for any reason 2, you might find yourself in serious legal difficulty.
Is it safe for Americans to live in Dubai?
In most cases, the answer is yes. The crime rate in Dubai is extremely low 4, particularly when it comes to acts of serious crime — but it can be difficult to assess because the United Arab Emirates does not publish its crime statistics. Petty crime, on the other hand, is frequent in large cities, just as it is in any other large metropolis.
Pickpocketing, scams, and sexual harassment should all be avoided at all costs. Shopping malls, airports, hotels, and resorts, among other popular sites, are thoroughly watched, resulting in a reduction in the number of crimes committed.
Laws
As a Westerner, you may discover that relocating to Dubai necessitates a shift in perspective when it comes to cultural differences. Not only are many norms in the United States disapproved of here, but they are also illegal. If you are relocating to Dubai, it is critical for your personal protection to understand what is prohibited by the law. It is against the law to:
- You may discover that relocating to Dubai necessitates a change in perspective when it comes to cultural differences. Not only are some standards in the United States frowned upon here, but they are also criminalized in some instances. In order to ensure your own safety while living in Dubai, it is important to understand the laws that apply. It is against the law to do any of the following.
Working in Dubai as an American
Expats from the United States can work in Dubai as long as they have the proper visa in place — and they must remain working in order to maintain their visa, unless they are in the nation on a spouse visa. The construction and real estate sectors, tourism and hospitality, technology, and finance are among the most important in Dubai. 5 There is little chance that the process of getting a job in Dubai will be very different from what you are accustomed to. It is, on the other hand, a very competitive environment in which to seek job.
What is the average salary in Dubai?
The average monthly wage in Dubai is AED 16,775 (6,570 dirhams), which is approximately $4,570. The average monthly salary in the United States is $3,900 7. The cost of living in Dubai, on the other hand, is quite high — though not as high as in cities such as New York. 8
Taxes
Six hundred seventy-five dollars (approximately $4,570) is the average monthly pay in Dubai. The average monthly income in the United States is $3,900. But it is pretty expensive to live in Dubai — but not nearly as expensive as in other places like New York. 8
Education
If you’re relocating to Dubai with children, you’ll want to learn about the educational opportunities available in the emirate. Dubai has both public and private education, with private schools accounting for 90 percent of all enrollments. All public schools are exclusively available to UAE natives and are mandatory for Emirati boys and girls aged 5 to 15 who live in the country. Expat children have been eligible to attend public schools in Dubai since 2001, when the country opened its doors to them.
11.
The majority of school weeks run from Sunday through Thursday, in accordance with the working week, with hours varying depending on the institution.
Please see our guide here for additional information on Dubai’s educational system and curriculum.
Driving
Drivers in Dubai are required to travel on the right-hand side of the road. With maximum speeds of 160km/h (99mph) on the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain and Sheikh Khalifa roads 12 and 160km/h (99mph) on the Sheikh Khalifa highway 12, the speed limitations in the emirate can be challenging to adjust to. In contrast to the 160km/h restriction, several motorways in Abu Dhabi have had their maximum speeds cut to 110km/h, notably Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road.
Never drive in Dubai if you have drank alcohol, no matter how small an amount you have consumed. The UAE takes drink driving very seriously, and you might end yourself in prison even if you do not appear to be intoxicated. For more information about driving in Dubai, please see our driving guide.
American women living in Dubai
A Western lady relocating to Dubai may discover that the city’s customs are much different from those she is accustomed to in her own country. It is recommended that women wear modestly in Dubai, with their shoulders, thighs, and midriffs covered. A minimum monthly wage of AED 10,000 (US$2,723) is required for women who wish to sponsor their family’s immigration to the nation. The minimum pay for males is AED 4,000 (US$1,089) per month. The city’s metro system includes a carriage reserved exclusively for women and children, and women-only lines frequently form outside government buildings.
For a more in-depth look at living as a woman in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, check out our guide here.
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
AED (Arab Emirate Dirham) is the currency used in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as the official unit of currency. The Dirham is abbreviated as AED (Arab Emirate Dirham) in currency exchanges. The value of one Arab Emirate Dirham at the end of 2020 will be $3.67 in the United States, 4.87 in the United Kingdom, and 2.81 in the Canadian dollar.
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 space or to live in a desirable neighborhood, you’ll have to pay 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 access that resource when they first arrive in their new location.
When accepting a job in Dubai, it is highly recommended that you negotiate a flexible housing allowance package that will support 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 could 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 movies, a ticket will cost you approximately 43 AED.
Minimum Wage in Dubai
Cafés and street sellers in Dubai’s local neighborhoods provide some of the finest value for money in the country. It’s not much more costly than fast food at an international chain, where a combination meal costs roughly 30 AED, but it’s still not much more expensive than a cheap dinner at a modest restaurant. 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 around 250 AED on average. In reality, it isn’t uncommon to simply spend twice as much as you had planned on spending.
A few thousand Dirhams might simply be spent on yourself to make yourself feel good.
At a hotel bar, on the other hand, beer costs 45-60 AED, which is significantly more expensive.
- Moving to Dubai
- Work Visas in Dubai
- Dubai Laws That Expats Should Be Aware Of
- And more.
Cost of Living in Dubai in 2022
Dubai is perhaps the most popular expat destination in the world, with expats accounting for more than 80 percent of the population. Think endless sunshine, glitzy skyscrapers and man-made islands, incredible job opportunities, fantastic local travel and a surprisingly rich local culture, and you have Dubai. While Dubai’s high incomes and numerous savings possibilities are attractive, the sheer volume of high-end items and activities available may make a serious hole in people’s savings. Dubai was ranked 42nd in the Mercer Cost of Living Study for 2021, down from its previous ranking of 23rd.
The absence of property, income, and capital gains taxes has a significant impact on people’s earnings in Dubai, which is also the only country in the world that does not charge value added tax.
If you are given a contract to relocate to Dubai, the pay are often very substantial.
The Largest Cost: Rent in Dubai
Rental prices in Dubai vary based on where you wish to reside, just like they do anyplace else in the world. In the centre of the city, a well-appointed modern apartment in a skyscraper will be more expensive than a similarly equipped apartment on the outskirts of the city. For the vast expat population, there are a number of major places that have grown quite popular. A thriving expat community, according to livingindubai.org, can be found in places like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, where you can expect to pay between 100,000 and 140,000 AED (£20,000 to £29,000) per year in rental fees.
With such a vibrant expat community, there are several ways to share expenses if you like to split the expenditures between two or more persons.
If your company pays the cost of your accommodation, this will not be a significant concern; nevertheless, for private tenants, the big upfront payment must be taken into consideration.
Transport Costs in Dubai
The automobile reigns supreme in the land of crude oil. Exactly what one would anticipate. The distances between points in the city are great, and many people choose to go by automobile because public transportation does not reach every part of the city, which can result in traffic jams at certain times of the day. Of course, purchasing a car requires a significant initial investment; however, there are other alternatives, such as renting a car on a monthly basis or just using taxi-hailing applications.
However, if you can’t afford the initial outlay, it’s important to know that there are other options available to you if you live in Dubai.
Furthermore, Dubai Metro, which now consists of two lines (the red and green), with a third line under development, is another option.
In addition, there is a tram system that links with the metro system.
Dubai Lifestyle and Expenses
Dubai is a moderately priced destination in terms of prices such as food, entertainment, and activities (but proportionally lower than rental costs). If you want to go out for supper or lunch, there are alternatives to suit any budget, although the glitzier options in international hotels and on the waterfront will, of course, be at the higher end of the price spectrum. Alcohol, on the other hand, is significantly more expensive because it is not something that the majority of the population consumes.
You should bear in mind that clothing and accessories in Dubai might be a little more costly than they are in your own country, and sometimes even more expensive than in the neighboring country of Abu Dhabi.
For those who wish to take advantage of the pleasures of expat life, such as golf and tennis club memberships and gym memberships, pricing may vary, but on average they will be slightly lower than in the UK, so get your swing in!
Medical and Insurance Costs in Dubai
Taking out private insurance is common among expatriates in order to guarantee that they have speedy access to the high-quality healthcare system that exists in Dubai. When you are offered a job, it is common for it to come with some form of health insurance incorporated, and you will not have much of a choice in terms of providers. As reported by guide2dubai.com, you could expect to pay roughly 10,000 AED, or a little more than £2,200 per year for moderately comprehensive medical insurance in the UAE.
However, most expats additionally purchase private health insurance to safeguard themselves against the unexpected.
In the long run, you should probably consider purchasing a car, as the expense of going out and consuming alcoholic beverages is far more than it is back home.
Once you’ve calculated the cost of living in Dubai, the next step in relocating abroad and becoming an expat is to consider how you’ll move your possessions and household goods to the city.
To find out precisely how much it will cost you to relocate to Dubai, simply get a quotation. You can also take advantage of our safer packing and speedier shipping services.