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 expensive in Dubai?
Although housing prices for have dipped by 30% over the past two years, accommodation in the UAE still remains expensive. Expats can expect to spend nearly half of their monthly salary on rent alone. When looking at housing costs, keep in mind that Dubai is the most expensive city.
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 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.
Is 30K a good salary in Dubai?
30K AED is considered a good salary in Dubai. Some Living expenses are high and some are low in AED. In 30K Aed you can live in a good separate apartment in a good location like Jumeirah, Sheikh Zayed road etc. You can own a Parking and a good car.
Is electricity free in Dubai?
Shaikh Mohammed also gave orders to exempt Emiratis in Dubai from connection charges of electricity to their new houses with a maximum of AED 25000 for each house as well as to give them a free quota of a maximum of 6000 kWh a month for each house.
Is Dubai worth living?
Dubai attracts expats from all over the world, with more than 200,000 new arrivals each year. While some may find the cost of accommodations expensive, the large supply of attractive housing units, high salaries and low taxes motivate many people to move to Dubai and live the expat lifestyle.
Is Dubai expensive to live?
According to the Mercer Cost of Living, Dubai is an expensive city. It ranked as the 23rd most expensive out of 209 destinations. However, it is about 25% less expensive than New York City – and about 4% less expensive than nearby Abu Dhabi. As such, depending on where you live now, Dubai might look like a bargain.
Is US dollars accepted in Dubai?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in Dubai. You will have to ask for a translation from their currency to determine price but there is no problem.
Can a US citizen live in Dubai?
If you’re a U.S. citizen moving to Dubai, you will need a residence visa and work permit beyond your initial 30-day entry permit. However, to live in the UAE, you will require a work visa. Your employer will apply for the visa for you and sponsor you to live in the city.
Is shopping in Dubai cheaper than USA?
There are plenty of options, yes. The question is, is shopping in Dubai really cheaper than in other destinations. Fact is, even though shopping is tax free in the country, bottom line, prices are not lower. Prices for international luxury brands (Armani, Marc Jacobs, Cartier etc.)
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.
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
In order to rent an apartment in the UAE, you must first go to the nation and establish residency there. Many apartments are available for rent on the internet, but it is best not to sign a lease until you have had the opportunity to inspect the property.
Landlords charge a high rent, and leases are normally for a year. When renting a property in the UAE, it is vital to consider factors such as the surrounding traffic and public transit choices. Therefore, expats are urged to examine homes as soon as they arrive.
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.
- 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.
United Arab Emirates water and energy utilities are of the highest quality, and most bills may be paid either online or using a UAE bank account or by visiting a kiosk machine.
Short-Term Rentals
It is customary in the UAE for rent to not include utilities. In your emirate, they will need to be registered with the appropriate authorities before they can begin working there. AED 500–600 (136–163 USD) a month is estimated to be spent on utility bills. Always keep in mind that your utility bill will be greater during the warmest months of the year when air conditioning is required. Utilities are provided by distinct corporations in each of the four emirates, as well as the Northern Emirates.
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?
The average price of a short-term rental in the United Arab Emirates might be much higher than the average price of a one-year lease, depending on where the accommodation is located in the country. If you plan to rent during a peak or low tourist season, or during a holiday, make careful to check the pricing to see if it will be cheaper or more expensive.
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
| 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 might 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!
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?
It is the Dirham, which is abbreviated as AED (Arab Emirate Dirham) on currency exchanges, that serves as the official currency of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. The value of one Arab Emirate Dirham by the end of 2020 will be $3.67 in the United States, 4.87 in Great Britain, and 2.81 in Canada.
Cost of Housing in Dubai
For the most part, the price of a one-bedroom flat in Dubai is equivalent to the price of a comparable property in London or Sydney. You may anticipate paying around 7,400 AED each month on average. Housing in New York is around 50% more costly, whereas the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Berlin is approximately half of what you would spend in Dubai (or even less!). If you have a family, you should know that the cost of a three-bedroom home is around twice that of a one-bedroom studio apartment.
- Naturally, if you want more room or to live in a desirable district, you’ll have to spend more.
- There, yearly housing expenditures begin at 100,000 AED per year and can reach 140,000 AED per year, depending on the house.
- That’s a significant financial burden to bear!
- As a result, they are unable to use that resource when they initially arrive at their new location.
- 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. Health Insurance for Expats in Dubai is something you should read.
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
Apples, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and rice, among other common household items, are reasonably priced. The price per kilo will be less than 10 AED, which is competitive in the UAE. Everything from bread to eggs to milk is inexpensive. Cheese, beef, and chicken, on the other hand, are all priced at 40 AED on average, 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 on offer.
Only thing to keep in mind while shopping at overseas grocers: expect to spend a lot of money!
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.
Beer, on the other hand, is significantly more costly at 45-60 AED at a hotel bar.
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, since 2013 the Ministry of Labour issued rules for minimum pay for different sorts of employment.
Skill technicians should be compensated with a salary of at least 7,000 AED.
In addition, experienced employees with a secondary school diploma shall get a monthly remuneration of 5,000 AED (about $600). As of November 2020, the average monthly pay in Dubai was just under 11,000 AED, which is somewhat less than the national average. Related:
- Moving to Dubai
- s Work Visas in Dubai
- s Dubai Laws Expats Need to Know
The cost of living in Dubai: A guide
Many overseas employees continue to find Dubai to be an attractive place. According to a LinkedIn research 2, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) — and specifically the city of Dubai — is the most preferred foreign destination for those seeking for work in the globe. However, before relocating to any nation, it is critical to create a mental image of what your life would be like there. Calculating the cost of living should be the first step in this process. What you will earn is crucial, but what you will be able to purchase with your pay is maybe even more important: a £50,000-per-year salary in Hanoi buys far more than it does in London.
This article will assist you in determining the relative costs of many significant items and services that you use on a regular basis.
What is the basic salary in Dubai?
Dubai attracts people from all over the world for a diverse variety of positions, ranging from bankers to construction laborers. As a result, incomes might vary dramatically. Careers in Dubai, for example, may be found in expanding areas such as technology and hospitality, where salaries can be exceptionally high. On the other hand, there are jobs that are exceedingly low in salary. According to a 2012 survey, manufacturing salaries in the United Arab Emirates were among the lowest in the entire globe 3.
Accordingly, the following guideline was published by the government in 2013: Salary recommendations for a minimum monthly salary 4: Figures are current as of November 1, 2019.
How expensive is it to live in Dubai?
Dubai was listed as the 21st most expensive city to live in in 2019, according to 5 statistics, with places such as Victoria, New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong ranking higher on the list. However, the city is more expensive than other major cities such as London, Moscow, and Chicago. Expensive is a relative phrase — in this context, it refers to the cost of living in comparison to pay. Its cost will vary according on your location and level of income you get.
Is rent expensive in Dubai?
With places such as Victoria, New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong being more costly than Dubai, it was named as the 21st most expensive place to live in 2019. In contrast to London, Moscow, and Chicago, the city is more expensive. As with any relative phrase, in this context, expensive refers to the cost of living in comparison to one’s income level. The cost of living will vary depending on where you live and how much you earn.
Cheapest rent in Dubai
With places such as Victoria, New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong being more costly than Dubai, it was listed as the 21st most expensive city to live in in 2019.
The city, on the other hand, is more expensive than cities such as London, Moscow, and Chicago. ‘Expensive’ is a relative phrase; in this example, it refers to the amount paid in salary. Where you live and how much you earn will determine how pricey it is.
The average cost of an apartment in Dubai per neighbourhood
It’s possible that you’d like to know the average cost of rent per year for an apartment in various neighborhoods around the emirate.
Dubai house prices
Some of you may be interested in knowing the average cost of rent for an apartment in various neighborhoods around the emirate on an annual basis.
What is the average income in Dubai?
According to the Middle East Salary Survey 2019, the average monthly salary for various job categories in Dubai are listed in the table below. 15
What are Dubai food prices like?
When determining how much food costs in a certain nation, a reasonable rule of thumb is that local food, that is, food that is produced or cultivated in that country, will be less expensive. In the event that food must be imported, the cost will be higher. Accessibility is also important; for example, food on smaller islands tends to be more expensive than food on larger ones. Here are a few important facts:
- Restaurants might be inexpensive, but alcoholic beverages and coffee are not. If you compare Dubai to the rest of the Middle East 16, eating out may be prohibitively costly, with Dubai ranking as the second most expensive city in the region behind Tel Aviv.
Gasoline price in Dubai
Cost per litre: Figures valid as of November 1, 2019 17How does this compare to the United States and the United Kingdom?
- Petrol prices in the United Kingdom can be more than twice as high as those in the United Arab Emirates (£1.27/$1.64 per litre of petrol and £1.31/$1.70 per litre of diesel as of November 2018)
- Petrol prices in the United States are higher than in the United Kingdom, although they are still lower than in the United Kingdom ($0.78/£0.60 per litre as of November 2019 19).
The cost of health care in Dubai
Petrol prices in the United Kingdom can be more than twice as high as those in the United Arab Emirates (£1.27/$1.64 per litre of petrol and £1.31/$1.70 per litre of diesel at the time of writing, November 2019). Additionally, while petrol prices in the United States are higher than in the United Kingdom ($0.78/£0.60 per litre in November 2019), they are less expensive than in the United Kingdom.
What to consider when you move
Dubai is the 21st most expensive city in the world, according to the World Bank. However, given that it is the 14th best paid city in the world, these rates seem reasonable in comparison. If you’re thinking of relocating, you’ll have to take into account costs that you would not otherwise consider. If you’re from the United States, the idea of having to pay for health insurance may come as no surprise; but, if you’re from the United Kingdom, you may be surprised. When preparing for your relocation, keep in mind any one-time expenses you may incur, such as the purchase of a vehicle.
SOURCE: Data on currencies is given by Morningstar for currencies and Coinbase for cryptocurrencies, respectively.
When the article is published, a link will be provided.
Dubai Cost of Living compared to USA
It’s time to think about where you want to live and which location will provide you with the highest potential quality of life. This essay goes into great detail on the four factors of life that often consume the most portion of your earnings. You will benefit from knowing the associated costs and pricing comparisons to assist you in your calculations.
There are, of course, different levels of spending depending on whether you are a frugal spender or a spender who likes to show off. We’re going to take the middle path here. After all, life is about finding a healthy balance.
Accommodation
Dubai is well-known for being a very costly location to live. Regardless of whether you choose to buy or rent, the amount you must spend might make your eyes well up with tears. You could expect to pay at least 150,000 dirhams per year to rent a three-bedroom property. Rent must also be paid in advance, which can be a hassle; some landlords expect to be paid in one or two cheques, so you’ll need to plan ahead of time to account for this. The identical three-bedroom property will most likely cost you roughly 2 million dirhams if you want to purchase it.
- Most firms will provide corporate housing or will give a live-out allowance to their employees, which can occasionally cover the whole cost of your housing expenses.
- Yes, there is no charge for housing.
- Of all, attempting to determine the average price of lodging in the United States is not the most straightforward process.
- According to the most recent data, the average house price in the United States was $186,000 in March 2016.
- On the opposite end of the spectrum, West Virginia, Mississippi, and Oklahoma are the most affordable states to buy a home in.
- Depending on where you live, renting the identical property will cost you anything from $1500-$2500 per month.
Monthly Bills
Once again, in Dubai, monthly costs might vary substantially depending on whether or not your work provides you with housing accommodations. Generally speaking, if you are living in business housing, your power and water expenses will most likely be taken care of by the firm. This may be a significant amount of money depending on the weather, especially if you have a garden. Returning to our three-bedroom home, your monthly costs (assuming you are responsible for them) would be around 2,000 dirhams (about $2,100).
The typical monthly payment for our home in the United States was around $290, which included utilities, fuel, and public services.
Even though it would be simple to spend upwards of two thousand dollars (dhs) a month on these expenses, I know people who manage to spend less than five hundred dollars (dhs) per month on all of the items listed above.
Use ofSkypeinstead of making international phone calls from your mobile phone, or subscribing toNetflixinstead of paying for cable TV, for example, can help you save money. In the United States, the same notion holds true, and costs might be as high as $350 or as little as $80 each month.
Grocery Shopping
The apparently never-ending labor of going food shopping in Dubai is made all the more agonizing by the high costs you must pay for everything. Of course, there are bargain buys to be obtained, but if you’re looking to pick up your favourite foods and brands from back home, you should expect to spend through the nose for the imported items. Fruit, vegetables, and meat are all pricey, as are fresh items such as fruits and vegetables. The United States, on the other hand, has a plethora of possibilities for cost-effective shopping, including regular bulk buy discounts and special specials.
As a result of these extremes in cost, Dubai, to some people’s surprise, ends up being slightly less expensive overall when it comes to food shopping.
As in the United States, organic shops and food alternatives are becoming more widely available in Dubai, albeit costs are of course higher than in the United States.
Transport
The cost of transportation in Dubai is very low. Once you’ve done the job and acquired your own automobile, you’ll find that your operating expenditures are negligible due to the cheap cost of gasoline. The Salik e-toll, which is a type of electronic toll, is one such extra fee that has a habit of sneaking up on road users. Crossing the major highway costs 5dhs, and there are three crossings from one side of town to the other on one side of town on the main highway While this is the case, there are alternative routes that do not have toll gates and do not considerably increase your journey time, making it possible to avoid paying tolls entirely.
- Un network of buses that is exceptionally clean and comfortable weaves its way through the city, while the metro, which is the world’s longest driverless train and which runs the length of the city with a few opportune detours, is the world’s longest driverless train.
- Taxis, despite the fact that they are more expensive than they used to be, are still quite affordable when compared to the rest of the globe.
- According to Numbeo, the average price of gasoline in the United States is 22 percent more per gallon than the price of gasoline in Dubai.
- The cost of using a taxi (per kilometer traveled) is 190 percent higher in the United States, while the fee for taxi waiting time is a staggering 267 percent higher in the United States.
- Those considering moving to Dubai should be aware that there are no pension plans in place, so they should plan on putting some money in the bank for investments or retirement.
Also, don’t forget to factor in how much money you’d want to have left over for the pleasures of life. Leave some money in the bank to use for amusement and eating out on the town. Work hard and have a good time.
How much does it cost to live in Dubai?
As a result of its lovely hot temperature, kilometers of beaches, and growing economy, Dubai has become a favourite expat destination for people from all over the world. Because the United Arab Emirates is a tax-free nation, most expats relocate to Dubai with the expectation of making significant savings in a very short period of time. However, if you are considering relocating to Dubai, it would be good to analyze your likely monthly costs, since the luxury on offer in the city can result in greater spending, fewer savings, and, in some cases, even a financial crisis.
- These values indicate mid-range rates for persons seeking to live a modest, but comfortable lifestyle on a medium budget, and they serve as a useful reference for job seekers when discussing their pay with potential employers.
- However, the cost of living in Dubai has been progressively decreasing as a result of the government’s efforts to keep the price of common goods low and the strengthening of the US dollar, which has made life in Dubai more inexpensive.
- The AED is tied to the US dollar at a rate of US$ 1.00 – AED 3.67.
- A recent report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) found that Dubai had the lowest cost of living in the world out of 131 cities studied in 2013.
- When compared to some of the most expensive cities in the world, such as Singapore, London, and New York, the amount spent on rent, groceries, and restaurants in Dubai is far less than it would be elsewhere on the planet.
- It is available in both English and Arabic.
- Today, however, in an exceedingly competitive employment market, such generous compensation packages are becoming increasingly unusual.
- However, international food brands and household items are likely to be more expensive here than they are back home.
Check out some of the most typical expenditures that people in Dubai have to deal with: transportation, food, and entertainment
Rent
Just like anyplace else in the globe, the cost of renting a home in the emirate varies substantially depending on where you reside in the emirate. Rental agreements are typically one-year contracts that are renewed on an annual basis. Most landlords need the whole rent to be paid up ahead and will take two to four post-dated checks; you will also be expected to pay a security deposit in addition to your monthly rent payment. Registered brokers and rental agencies, who are regulated by the Department of Economic Development, impose a fee equal to 5 percent of the annual rent collected from tenants.
In contrast, the annual rent for a modest two-bedroom apartment further out in areas such as Al Qusais and Mirdif will be around AED 75,000.
Rents in Dubai account for more than a third of total yearly wages in the city.
Utilities
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) imposes a refundable connection fee of AED 1000 for ordinary apartments and AED 2000 for bigger villa properties when a resident moves into a new apartment or switches residences. Utility expenses can range from AED 1,200 per month (for a modest two-bedroom apartment) to AED 5,000 per month (for a large property with a lawn and garden), depending on the size of the apartment and personal use. Using air conditioning throughout the summer months, particularly from May to August, might result in considerably higher utility expenses.
Schooling
A wide range of educational opportunities are available in Dubai. These include childcare centers, nurseries, elementary schools, and private schools, all of which provide a diverse range of curriculum options to accommodate the huge multinational community that resides in the city. Primary education costs between AED 20,000 to AED 28,000 at schools that follow the curriculum of the United States, the United Kingdom, or Europe. Schooling at international institutions can be prohibitively costly, with high school tuition ranging between AED 40,000 and AED 90,000.
Transport
When traveling through Dubai, a car is essential; while there are several modes of public transportation available, including taxis, the Dubai Metro, buses, and water taxis, not all modes of public transport are accessible to some of the city’s more remote areas, and if you need to travel to any of the nearby emirates, such as Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, a car is a must.
Several car rental agencies can assist you with car rentals all over Dubai; an average small size car, such as a Toyota Yaris, will cost you around AED 1,500 per month, plus an additional AED 400 for fuel, on a monthly basis.
Groceries
With various foreign food brands accessible in most supermarkets around the city, there is a wide choice of cuisines to choose from in Dubai. These, however, might be prohibitively costly, and you can obtain high-quality local food and veggies for a fraction of the price. A family of four will spend between AED 1200 and AED 1500 per month on groceries, on average, according to the World Bank.
Insurance
Home insurance packages start at roughly AED 200 for coverage of up to AED 50,000, while automobile insurance normally costs between 4 and 7 percent of the value of the vehicle in question. Although most employers offer basic healthcare coverage at hospitals and clinics, international healthcare is strongly advised if you wish to take use of the superb amenities offered by many of Dubai’s outstanding private institutions.
Eating out and Socializing
You can dine out on a regular basis in Dubai without breaking the bank since the city offers an array of eating alternatives that cater to people of different socioeconomic backgrounds and income levels. While alcohol is likely to be more costly in the UAE than in your native country, a glass of wine will cost around AED 35 and a bottle of beer will cost approximately AED 30. For more information on the cost of living, please see this link. You can use this information to determine whether the salary you have been offered is sufficient to support your current lifestyle.