How Much Is Rent In Dubai Per Month?

Housing, Rental Utilities

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)

1

Is rent in Dubai expensive?

Is rent expensive in Dubai? On average, rent in Dubai is around 26.99% cheaper, restaurants are 25.97% cheaper and groceries are 27.25% cheaper when compared to Chicago6. Public transport is also cheaper7, and the unemployment rate is lower.

Is rent cheap in Dubai?

According to real estate firm Asteco, rent costs in Dubai fell by 14 percent for apartments and seven percent for villas in Dubai in 2020. According to Asteco, the most affordable place to rent in the city is International City. Average rents in the area start from Dhs25,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

What is the cheapest rent in Dubai?

According to Asteco, the most affordable place to rent in the city is International City. Average rents in the area start from Dhs25,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. Next it’s Jumeirah Village, Dubai Sports City and Deira with rents on average starting from Dhs35,000 for a one bedroom apartment.

How can I live cheap in Dubai?

TIPS FOR LIVING IN DUBAI ON A BUDGET

  1. LOOK FOR AN AFFORDABLE NEIGHBOURHOOD.
  2. SHARE AN APARTMENT LEGALLY.
  3. LIVE CLOSE TO YOUR WORKPLACE / CHILDREN’S SCHOOL.
  4. USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN DUBAI.
  5. USE ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO AVOID ROAD TOLLS.
  6. SHOP AT AFFORDABLE SUPERMARKETS.
  7. BUY LOCAL.
  8. LOOK FOR FREE OR BUDGET-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI.

Why are Dubai apartments cheap?

In terms of accommodation prices, it is quite the opposite to most European destinations. The cheapest prices are during the summer when temperatures are highest, between May and July, as this is when residents and expatriates fly out to their home countries.

Is it cheaper to live in Dubai or England?

Cost of living in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) is 30% cheaper than in London (United Kingdom)

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.

Which is cheapest city in Dubai?

5 most affordable areas to live in Dubai

  • Dubai International City. International city tops the list of most affordable rent areas in UAE.
  • Deira. For people having a low budget, Deira will be one of the best choices.
  • Dubai Silicon Oasis.
  • Dubai Sports City.
  • Jumeirah village circle (JVC)

Can you rent an apartment in Dubai without residency?

The tenant needs valid Dubai documentation to get the necessary services connected to the unit. Without it, the landlord won’t be able to register the lease and secure their legal rights. Here is everything Dubai property owners need to know about establishing resident status.

Is there a minimum wage in Dubai?

For expatriates, there is no mandatory minimum wage. For UAE nationals, minimum wage is determined by level of education: No high school certificate- 3,000 AED. High school certificate- 4,000 AED.

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.

Do jobs in Dubai pay well?

Working in Dubai can be lucrative for many, with high wages and low taxes, it is a mecca for anyone wanting to earn big bucks. That being said however, it is still important to bear in mind that Dubai is an Arab city, situated within a Muslim country.

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: 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.

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!

Rent and Housing in the UAE: Everything You Need to Know

If you are wondering how to rent a house or apartment in the United Arab Emirates, you should know that it is simple, but the rent costs are high. The United Arab Emirates is well-known for giving competitive salaries, yet a large portion of these earnings is spent on meeting the country’s high cost of living. The average rent in the United Arab Emirates is between 30,000 and 50,000 AED (8,100 and 13,600 USD) a year for a studio apartment, depending on the location. One- and two-bedroom flats are priced between 70,000 and 100,000 AED (about $19,000 and $27,220 USD), depending on the size.

Average Annual Apartment Rent in Abu Dhabi

Apartment Type High End Properties Lower End Properties
One-Bedroom Apartment 106,630 AED (29,000 USD) 65,780 AED (17,900 USD)
Two-Bedroom Apartment 153,130 AED (41,690 USD) 95,000 AED (25,860 USD)
Three-Bedroom Apartment 200,630 AED (54,620 USD) 123,890 AED (33,730 USD)

Average Annual Apartment Rent in Dubai

Apartment Type High End Properties Lower End Properties
One-Bedroom Apartment 96,670 AED (26,320 USD) 56,200 AED (15,300 USD)
Two-Bedroom Apartment 140,000 AED (38,115 USD) 79,000 AED (21,510 USD)
Three-Bedroom Apartment 190,000 AED (51,725 USD) 105,000 AED (28,585 USD)

Keep in mind that the most costly emirates in the United Arab Emirates are Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Average Housing Rent

Some expats prefer to rent a villa or a property in the United Arab Emirates. When renting a property in Dubai, the bare minimum is 193,180 AED (52,590 USD) for a three-bedroom home and 298,640 AED (81,300 USD) for a five-bedroom home. 168,180 AED (45,785 USD) can buy you a three-bedroom property in Abu Dhabi, while 305,910 AED (83,280 USD) will get you a five-bedroom home.

Renting in the UAE as a Foreigner

Rental agreements in the UAE are generally one year in length and are difficult to terminate. Fortunately, housing regulations protect both the landlord and the tenant, so you are not at risk if your landlord decides to terminate your lease early without notice. It is possible to discover apartments that are both furnished and unfurnished. It all boils down to a matter of time and money. A furnished apartment is substantially more expensive than an empty flat, although it is easy to buy moderately priced furniture in stores all throughout the United Arab Emirates.

The vast majority of enterprises in the United Arab Emirates will give accommodation or a housing allowance for its workers. Because of the large number of options available, searching for your own accommodation may be stressful, which is why many expats choose to use an agency.

Rental Process and Rules

However, there might be slight variances when it comes to the legalization of contracts and the payment of deposits throughout all seven emirate states, so be sure to read the fine print before signing anything. It’s important to double-check the specifics related with your chosen emirate state.

Steps to Finding Accommodation in the UAE

The first step in renting an apartment in the United Arab Emirates is to physically arrive in the country. Many apartments are offered online, but it is recommended that you do not sign a lease until you have had the opportunity to inspect the property in person. Because housing is costly in this area, most leases are for a period of one year. When renting in the UAE, it is crucial to consider factors such as the surrounding traffic and public transit choices, therefore expats are recommended to see homes as soon as they arrive in the country.

Step Two: Look Online

You may start your quest by doing some research on the internet. Even if a property’s photographs appear to be of high quality, it is still advisable to visit the house in person. Traffic in the United Arab Emirates may be intense in many regions, and it is important to examine the situation in person.

Step Three: Hire an Agent

Many expats employ the services of a real estate agent to assist them in their quest. Always check to see if the agent is licensed and registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). In some jurisdictions, like as Dubai, it is against the law to conduct business with unregistered freelancers. The agent is in charge of all of the paperwork and contracts that need to be completed. Engage the services of a real estate professional to assist you in locating rental property that is appropriate for your needs and negotiating a favorable rental rate.

Step Four: Prepare Your Documents

The following are the most common criteria and supporting documentation for renting:

  • A copy of your residence visa
  • A marriage certificate that has been confirmed by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, if you are married
  • A job contract or salary certificate
  • A bank statement
Step Five: Rental Contract and Deposit

If you are relocating to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you must register your rental agreements with the local authorities. You should be aware that this may soon become the usual practice in all seven emirates. Expats relocating to the United Arab Emirates should consult with their real estate agent about the unique contract requirements for their chosen emirate before signing anything. The Ejari is the name given to the rental contract in Dubai, whereas the Tawtheeq is the name given to the rental contract in Abu Dhabi.

This form is filled out by either the property owner or the real estate consultants who are in charge of the property management.

The ability to bargain down the price has become more common in recent years.

If you look outside of the major centers, you may be able to discover landlords that accept payments on a month-to-month basis.

Because of the stormy history of interactions between landlords and renters, rental contracts contain severe penalties if they are breached early. The penalty will be borne by the party who quits the contract early. Both landlords and tenants will benefit from this arrangement.

Useful Tips

The location of your stay in the United Arab Emirates is critical while searching for the appropriate lodging. Transportation on the highways of Abu Dhabi and Dubai is very congested, making trips to and from work difficult. Even while there are public transit options available, they aren’t as extensive as in other large cities and nations. When looking for a place to live in the United Arab Emirates, these are some things you should ask yourself:

  • Are I comfortable driving on enormous, congested motorways
  • Am I looking for a location near the seaside
  • Am I looking for a location that is convenient to public transportation
  • And so forth. Is it possible to sleep through the call to prayer if there is a mosque nearby? (There are five calls to prayer during the day.)

Utilities and Bills Payment

In the United Arab Emirates, utilities are often not included in the rent. They will have to be registered with the appropriate authorities in your emirate. Utilities are estimated to cost between 500 and 600 AED (136 and 163 USD) per month. Keep in mind that your cost will be greater during the warmest months of the year, when air conditioning is used the most. There are different utility firms for Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, as well as for the rest of the United Arab Emirates.

Short-Term Rentals

Accommodation in the United Arab Emirates requires a significant cost and time investment. A month or two to look for the appropriate apartment could be plenty due to the difficulty of breaking leases these days. If this is the case, you should check into short-term renting options first. Dubai was the first to implement short-term leasing restrictions, doing so in 2015. Tenants and property owners are protected from fraudulent subletting and unlawful renting under the terms of these legislation.

Short-Term Rentals: Average Price

The average price of a short-term rental in the United Arab Emirates might be much more than the average price of a one-year lease, depending on where the accommodation is located. Check if you will be renting during a busy or slow tourist season, or whether you will be renting during a vacation, since this might have an impact on the price.

Short-Term Rentals: What Documents do I Need?

A copy of your passport is all that should be required when renting a short-term rental in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). You may be required to pay a tourist charge, which varies depending on the length of your visit.

Short-Term Rentals: Things to Know

Expats who are going to the desert country on their own might check into shared housing. Please be informed that under Sharia law, unmarried men and women are not permitted to live together, even if they have separate beds in their home. While the practice is typically ignored by authorities when it comes to foreigners and non-Muslims, you should be aware that you are taking a risk by participating. When engaging in this behavior, you run the risk of drawing unwelcome attention to yourself, which might result in significant penalties if you are arrested for another crime.

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

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.

  1. Naturally, if you want more room or to live in a desirable district, you’ll have to spend more.
  2. There, yearly housing expenditures begin at 100,000 AED per year and can reach 140,000 AED per year, depending on the house.
  3. That’s a significant financial burden to bear!
  4. 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.

Rental Costs

Rental prices for villas of varying sizes, some with swimming pools and others without, as well as between ancient and new apartment buildings, in excellent, terrible, and indifferent locations, can be extremely variable and unpredictable. Although home prices in some areas of Dubai have virtually tripled since 2005 (although prices in other areas have begun to decline), the overall increase has been rather modest. Dubai’s rental expenses are comparable to those in Geneva, which is considered to be one of the most expensive places in the world to reside.

Servicingd apartments, though not extensively accessible in all states, cost between 30 and 50 percent more than unserviced apartments and often include cleaning, washing, and linen changes.

Monthly rent

Despite the fact that rental fees vary greatly depending on the area and the size of the property, expect to pay at least 3,500 AED (870€) per month for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center, or between 5,000 AED (1,245€) and 10,000 AED (2,500 €) per month in the center. The average price of a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 14,400 AED (3,580€), while the average price of a three-bedroom apartment in the suburbs is approximately 10,070 AED (2,520€).

Extra expenses

Depending on where you live, air conditioning could either be included in the rent or charged separately as part of your power bill. The cost of gas is frequently included in the rent if the apartment complex has a community gas tank. Alternatively, you may purchase gas bottles. Other utilities will be provided on a separate basis. (Water is typically included in the power bill as a service charge.) You should double-check these issues both throughout the negotiation process and after signing the contract.

It should also be noted that certain governments levy a municipal tax (baladiya) on real estate to pay expenditures like as trash collection and road upkeep.

In most cases, the property owner is responsible for the repairs. This article is an excerpt from the book Living and Working in Gulf States: Saudi Arabia (published in English). To order a copy right away, go to this link. ByI’ve Just Arrived

Further reading

  • Introduction: The rental market
  • Arab Homes: What to Expect
  • And Conclusion: Accommodation for Rent: Where can I get a property in Dubai? What you need to know about rental agreements

Does this article help?

Do you have any thoughts, updates, or questions on this subject? Please share them with us. Inquire with them here:

Other comments

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 wages in Dubai, which is also the only country in the world that does not levy 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 city center, a well-appointed contemporary apartment in a tower will be more expensive than an apartment on the outskirts. However, there are several major neighborhoods that have grown quite popular with the big expat community. A strong expat population, 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.

As a result of the thriving expat community, there are several chances to share costs 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. A monthly pass costs around 300 AED, which is approximately £65 – far less than the cost of a monthly pass in London, for example.

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.

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.

  1. The life of a worldwide celebrity that some people expect after relocating to Dubai will be sadly disappointed.
  2. It is impossible to go from being a poverty to becoming a royal just by moving to Dubai.
  3. The most wealthy nations in the world are ranked according to the results of the poll.
  4. While this is true, the Legatum Institute takes into account a variety of other characteristics when rating countries.
  5. The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven nations, with Abu Dhabi being the most populous.
  6. 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.
  7. The United Arab Emirates, which includes Dubai, is primarily composed of Muslim residents.
  8. 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.

  1. 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.
  2. They will have to wait until the beginning of the new school year.
  3. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday.
  4. 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

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *