What is the Cost of Living in Dubai for Expats in 2021?
| Location | Single person monthly cost without rent |
|---|---|
| Dubai | AED 3,443.97 (USD 937.70) |
| Hong Kong | AED 3,894.00 (USD 1,060.23) |
| London | AED 4,383.96 (USD 1,193.63) |
| New York | AED 4,957 (USD 1,349.65) |
1
What salary do I need to live in Dubai?
American women living in Dubai If women want to sponsor their family to live in the country, they must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 10,000 (US$2,723)13. For men, the minimum salary is AED 4,000 (US$1,089).
Is it very expensive to live in Dubai?
According to the Mercer Cost of Living, Dubai is an expensive city. It ranked as the 23rd most expensive out of 209 destinations. However, it is about 25% less expensive than New York City – and about 4% less expensive than nearby Abu Dhabi. As such, depending on where you live now, Dubai might look like a bargain.
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.
Can I move to Dubai without a job?
Since there is no way for foreigners to receive permanent residency or citizenship in the UAE, there is logically no true Golden Visa. However, through investment into the country, expats can receive 3-year, renewable temporary residency to live abroad long-term in Dubai without having to seek employment.
What salary is good in Dubai?
Dubai has a good average salary range, extending from a monthly salary of 4,810 AED (1,309.56 USD) to 99,000 AED (26,953.44 USD) per month. The average salary range only considers salaries that fall between the average minimum salary and the average maximum salary in Dubai.
Is Dubai cheaper than the US?
On the flip side, the cost of items such as bottled water and soft drinks are almost 300% lower in Dubai than in the US. Due to these extremes in pricing, Dubai, somewhat surprisingly, ends up slightly cheaper all-round for grocery shopping.
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.
Can foreigners buy property in Dubai?
In Dubai, foreign ownership is permitted in areas designated as freehold. Foreigners (who don’t live in the UAE) and expatriate residents may acquire freehold ownership rights over property without restriction, usufruct rights, or leasehold rights for up to 99 years. There is no age limit to own property in Dubai.
How is life in Dubai for foreigners?
Dubai is a very tolerant emirate – tolerant of others’ beliefs and ways of life. It is also one of the most moderate in terms of applying the rules of Islam to everyone’s everyday life. Expats can buy alcohol in Dubai and also they are allowed to eat and drink during the daylight hours of Ramadan.
Is it cheaper to live in Dubai or England?
Cost of living in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) is 29% cheaper than in London (United Kingdom)
Can I live in Dubai permanently?
One can obtain residency in Dubai or in another emirate in UAE if sponsorship by an employer is provided. The Dubai residence visa must be renewed every three years. Another way to obtain residency in Dubai is by purchasing real estate.
Is tax free in Dubai?
Expats want to flock to Dubai. Apart from the high quality of life, the foremost reason for such enthusiasm for Dubai is the fact that Dubai is a tax-free nation. There is no income tax on income generated in Dubai. Also, there is no sales tax on the majority of goods and services.
Cost of Living in Dubai
This city had 4836 entries in the past 12 months by 662 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 | 35.00-62.98 |
| 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 | 24.83-50.00 |
| 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 | 25,000.00-73,428.71 |
| Clothing And Shoes | Edit | |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) | 235.04 AED | 80.00-400.00 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H M,.) | 215.05 AED | 80.00-300.00 |
| 1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) | 336.08 AED | 190.00-500.00 |
| 1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes | 331.72 AED | 150.00-650.00 |
| Rent Per Month | Edit | |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | 5,215.36 AED | 3,500.00-9,000.00 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | 3,357.16 AED | 2,500.00-5,500.00 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | 10,119.35 AED | 7,000.00-20,000.00 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | 6,933.26 AED | 5,000.00-15,000.00 |
| Buy Apartment Price | Edit | |
| Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment in City Centre | 1,257.83 AED | 749.99-2,322.56 |
| Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre | 802.05 AED | 600.00-1,300.63 |
| Salaries And Financing | Edit | |
| Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) | 12,401.80 AED | |
| Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate | 3.85 | 2.50-6.00 |
Cost of Living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Feb 2022 prices in Dubai.
Change the unit of measure:
| Food | Update prices | |
|---|---|---|
| Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district | Dirham 64 | |
| Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar) | Dirham 27 | |
| 500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast | Dirham 19 | |
| 1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk | Dirham 7 | |
| 12 eggs, large | Dirham 13 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes | Dirham 6 | |
| 500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese | Dirham 34 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of apples | Dirham 10 | |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes | Dirham 4.70 | |
| 0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket | Dirham 13 | |
| 1 bottle of red table wine, good quality | Dirham 110 | |
| 2 liters of coca-cola | Dirham 8 | |
| Bread for 2 people for 1 day | Dirham 4.67 | |
| Housing | Update prices | |
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area | Dirham 7,209 | |
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area | Dirham 4,941 | |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas.) for 2 people in 85m2 flat | Dirham 788 | |
| Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in expensive area | Dirham 5,023 | |
| Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in normal area | Dirham 2,930 | |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas.) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 sqft) studio | Dirham 382 | |
| Internet 8 mbps (1 month) | Dirham 278 | |
| 40” flat screen tv | Dirham 1,194 | |
| Microwave 800/900 watt (bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 471 | |
| Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.) | Dirham 29 | |
| Hourly rate for cleaning help | Dirham 33 | |
| Clothes | Update prices | |
| 1 pair of jeans (levis 501 or similar) | Dirham 228 | |
| 1 summer dress in a high street store (zara, h m or similar retailers) | Dirham 174 | |
| 1 pair of sport shoes (nike, adidas, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 364 | |
| 1 pair of men’s leather business shoes | Dirham 431 | |
| Transportation | Update prices | |
| Volkswagen golf 1.4 tsi 150 cv (or equivalent), with no extras, new | Dirham 90,126 | |
| 1 liter (1/4 gallon) of gas | Dirham 2.15 | |
| Monthly ticket public transport | Dirham 346 | |
| Taxi trip on a business day, basic tariff, 8 km. (5 miles) | Dirham 62 | |
| Personal Care | Update prices | |
| Cold medicine for 6 days (tylenol, frenadol, coldrex, or equivalent brands) | Dirham 22 | |
| 1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) | Dirham 45 | |
| Short visit to private doctor (15 minutes) | Dirham 261 | |
| 1 box of 32 tampons (tampax, ob,.) | Dirham 20 | |
| Deodorant, roll-on (50ml ~ 1.5 oz.) | Dirham 19 | |
| Hair shampoo 2-in-1 (400 ml ~ 12 oz.) | Dirham 22 | |
| 4 rolls of toilet paper | Dirham 12 | |
| Tube of toothpaste | Dirham 12 | |
| Standard men’s haircut in expat area of the city | Dirham 56 | |
| Entertainment | Update prices | |
| Basic dinner out for two in neighborhood pub | Dirham 170 | |
| 2 tickets to the movies | Dirham 85 | |
| 2 tickets to the theater (best available seats) | Dirham 544 | |
| Dinner for two at an italian restaurant in the expat area including appetisers, main course, wine and dessert | Dirham 324 | |
| 1 cocktail drink in downtown club | Dirham 80 | |
| Cappuccino in expat area of the city | Dirham 24 | |
| 1 beer in neighbourhood pub (500ml or 1pt.) | Dirham 50 | |
| Ipad wi-fi 128gb | Dirham 1,829 | |
| 1 min. of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans) | Dirham 0.61 | |
| 1 month of gym membership in business district | Dirham 290 | |
| 1 package of marlboro cigarettes | Dirham 18 |
These prices are established on the basis of a large and consistent amount of data. They are quite dependable. They are based on 612 prices entered by 207 different persons over the course of many months. The most recent pricing update was on February 8, 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
Dubai is an expensive city, according to the Mercer Cost of Living Index. Among 209 locations, it was ranked as the 23rd most costly. While still more costly than New York City, it is around 25% less expensive than Abu Dhabi, which is only 4 percent more expensive. Therefore, depending on where you are currently located, Dubai may appear to be a good deal.
Household Costs
It is customary for tenants in Dubai to pay for their own internet and utilities (such as gas, electricity, and water). There is often a 1,000 AED connection charge per apartment to create your account and set up your utilities, which is non-refundable. You should expect to pay around 1,000 AED per month on your utility expenses on average. It might cost a little less if you’re very energy-conscious, or it could be significantly more if you have a large property. It’s a good idea to keep in mind that Dubai has an exceptionally hot temperature.
The cost of in-house assistance, such as a maid or a gardener, is reasonably inexpensive.
On that topic, don’t forget about your own health insurance expenditures! 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
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.
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, 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). 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
- Work Visas in Dubai
- Dubai Laws That Expats Should Be Aware Of
- And more.
Cost of living in Dubai: Your guide
The cost of living in Dubai as an expat is important to understand whether you’re planning on retiring, temporarily transferring, or making a permanent move to the country. Compared to other cities, Dubai has an extremely high level of life. In reality, the possibility to live comfortably in a fascinating location is precisely why many foreigners want to relocate there. However, this does not come at a low cost. For visitors, Dubai has been branded the most expensive city in the world to visit, but what are the expenses of actually living there as an expat?
How expensive is Dubai in comparison to the UK, the EU, the USA and Australia?
The dirham is the currency used in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as its official currency (written as AED – Arab Emirate Dirham – on currency exchanges). It is possible to figure out the precise worth of your money in AED by utilizing an online currency converter, however the following is a general guide:
- 1000 USD is worth 3,673 AED
- 1000 GBP is worth 4,692 AED
- 1000 EUR is worth 4,105 AED
- And 1000 AUD is worth 2,794 AED.
| Comparing basic cost of living | One bedroom flat in city centre (monthly rent) | Lunch for two (Three courses, mid range restaurant) | Transportation (monthly pass) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 7,324 AED | 150 AED | 250 AED |
| London, UK | 7,847 AED | 255 AED | 607 AED |
| New York City, USA | 10,938 AED | 275 AED | 430 AED |
| Berlin, Germany | 3,023 AED | 164 AED | 331 AED |
| Sydney, Australia | 7,187 AED | 222 AED | 444 AED |
One significant expenditure for expats in Dubai is the cost of transferring funds from your native currency to the UAE dirham (AED). Even though your bank advertises that it provides fee-free money exchange, you can be certain that the bank’s cut is reflected in the exchange rate it employs. For the greatest value, you should use an exchange service such asWise, which uses the same mid-market rate that you can see on Google and Reuters to calculate your exchange rate. In terms of speed and inexpensive flat costs, Wise is a far better option than using your own bank to transfer your funds.
What are the general living expenses for Dubai? How much can you get by on?
The neighborhood in which you select to reside is one of the most important variables deciding how costly living in Dubai will be for you in the long run. Rental costs in Dubai are rather expensive, but if you live outside of the city, you may rent for far less money.
| Living expenses in Dubai (excluding rent) | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Single person, per month | AED 3,190 |
| Single person, per year | AED 38,280 |
| University student, per month | AED 2,055 |
| Four person family, per month | AED 11,137 |
| Four person family, per year | AED 133,644 |
What are the average salaries for Dubai?
Salaries in Dubai are generally considered to be rather high. Additionally, they do very well in highly specialized and in-demand occupations. As a user experience designer or mobile developer, Dubai is one of the greatest cities in the world to earn a good living and earn a good pay. In addition, it is the city with the highest-paid research scientists and office managers in the country. However, the compensation for more administrative or entry level employment is not as great as it is in other parts of the world.
| 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?
Because the United Arab Emirates is a country made famous by oil, it should come as no surprise that driving in this country 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.
| 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 destination, whether you’re looking to settle down for the long haul or just want to spend a year or two exploring 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!
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?
When compared to Chicago 6, rent in Dubai is around 26.99 percent less expensive, restaurants are approximately 25.97 percent less expensive, and groceries are approximately 27.25 percent less expensive. In addition, public transportation is less expensive 7, and the unemployment rate is lower. However, because the average pay in Chicago is higher than the average salary in Dubai, you may have more money to spend on the more expensive food and rent in Chicago.
Cheapest rent in Dubai
We looked at a variety of apartment leasing websites in order to find the most affordable rents possible: Data was obtained on November 1st, 2019.
The average cost of an apartment in Dubai per neighbourhood
It’s possible that you’d like to know the average cost of rent per year for an apartment in various neighborhoods around the emirate.
Dubai house prices
According to a survey published in late 2019, “Dubai’s housing market remains ‘oversupplied’ despite the reduction in prices over the previous few years – actual prices have plummeted by about 35% since mid-2014.” 12 In mid-2019, the average price of a Dubai home was 13AED 2.46 million ($670,000, £517,752) per square meter. When it comes to a two-bed apartment, the lowest end of the market starts at roughly $168,000/£130,000, with mid-range possibilities starting at around $388,000/£300,000 – and alternatives reaching more than $647,000/£500,000.
What is the average income in Dubai?
According to the Middle East Salary Survey 2019, the average monthly salary for various job categories in Dubai are listed in the table below. 15
What are Dubai food prices like?
When determining how much food costs in a certain nation, a reasonable rule of thumb is that local food, that is, food that is produced or cultivated in that country, will be less expensive. In the event that food must be imported, the cost will be higher. Accessibility is also important; for example, food on smaller islands tends to be more expensive than food on larger ones. Here are a few important facts:
- Restaurants might be inexpensive, but alcoholic beverages and coffee are not. If you compare Dubai to the rest of the Middle East 16, eating out may be prohibitively costly, with Dubai ranking as the second most expensive city in the region behind Tel Aviv.
Gasoline price in Dubai
Cost per litre: Figures are current as of November 1, 2019. How does this compare to the United States and the United Kingdom?
- Petrol prices in the United Kingdom can be more than twice as high as those in the United Arab Emirates (£1.27/$1.64 per litre of petrol and £1.31/$1.70 per litre of diesel as of November 2018)
- Petrol prices in the United States are higher than in the United Kingdom, although they are still lower than in the United Kingdom ($0.78/£0.60 per litre as of November 2019 19).
The cost of health care in Dubai
Health insurance is a significant portion of one’s monthly living expenses. This is typically already top of mind for American expats and others who have arrived from countries where there is no national health system in place. It may not be the case for people who come from nations with socialized care or national health/insurance systems. In Dubai, all migrants are legally required to obtain health insurance, which is supplied by their job in most cases. The majority of employers provide health insurance coverage as part of their compensation package; however, this may only be for the most basic of coverage, and an extra international health insurance policy may be necessary to adequately cover the needs of you and/or your family.
What to consider when you move
Dubai is the 21st most expensive city in the world, according to the World Bank. However, given that it is the 14th best paid city in the world, these rates seem reasonable in comparison. If you’re thinking of relocating, you’ll have to take into account costs that you would not otherwise consider. If you’re from the United States, the idea of having to pay for health insurance may come as no surprise; but, if you’re from the United Kingdom, you may be surprised. When preparing for your relocation, keep in mind any one-time expenses you may incur, such as the purchase of a vehicle.
SOURCE: Data on currencies is given by Morningstar for currencies and Coinbase for cryptocurrencies, respectively.
Aetna® is a registered trademark of Aetna Inc., and it is protected around the globe by trademark registrations and international treaties to which it is subject. When the article is published, a link will be provided.
Cost of Living in Dubai 2022
Compared to other cities in the globe, Dubai is the 21st most expensive. Although these rates are high, they are in line with the city’s ranking as the 14th best paid in the world (20). The cost of living in your new location will be something you must consider if you are contemplating a move. Payment for health insurance will not be a surprise if you are from the United States; but, if you are from the United Kingdom, it will be. Keep in mind that you may have one-time expenses such as purchasing a car while preparing for your move.
SOURCE: Data on currencies is given by Morningstar for fiat currencies and Coinbase for cryptocurrencies, if appropriate.
Aetna® is a trademark of Aetna, Inc., and is used under license by other companies.
Living Cost in Dubai
If you want to figure out how much it costs to live in Dubai, divide the average expenditures by the required expenses on a monthly basis. To assist you in calculating your living expenses in Dubai, the following is a list of the costs of each life necessity: *Please keep in mind that all expenses are estimates based on data from numbeo.com, the world’s largest cost of living database.
Housing Cost in Dubai
When calculating the average cost of living in Dubai, one of the most essential factors to consider is housing. Depending on the neighborhood, size, utilities provided by the building or complex, and other services provided by the developer, Dubai provides a diverse selection of housing alternatives at a variety of pricing points. The monthly rental range in Dubai is as follows:
- In the City Centre, a one-bedroom apartment costs between 3,500 AED and 7,500 AED
- In the suburbs, a one-bedroom apartment costs between 2,300 AED and 5,000 AED
- In the city center, three-bedroom apartments cost between 7,000 AED and 15,000 AED
- In the suburbs, three-bedroom apartments cost between 5,000 AED and 11,000 AED
- In the suburbs, three-bedroom apartments cost between 5,000 and 11,000 AED
Groceries Prices in Dubai
When estimating the cost of living in Dubai, or in any other nation where you want to relocate, it’s critical to include in the cost of food. When it comes to supermarkets, Dubai has a plethora of alternatives, whether it’s snagging the greatest bargains and offers from local supermarkets and grocery shops, or importing items from the United States and Europe for high-end grocery stores. The following is a list of grocery staples in Dubai with estimated prices:
- (1) liter of regular milk (5.89 AED)
- (1) liter of regular white rice (6.89 AED)
- (2) liters of regular white bread (500g): 4.52 AED
- (3) liters of regular white rice (1kg): 6.89 AED
- (1) liter of regular white rice (12): 9.52 AED
- (1) liter of regular white
Transportation and fuel Cost in Dubai
Transportation in Dubai is not a problem due to the fact that it boasts one of the world’s top public transportation networks, which provides the public with a wide variety of alternatives. Individuals residing in Dubai may travel using public transportation applications to access the Metro, Tram, public buses, and taxis, which can be ordered using public transportation apps in Dubai. How Much Does TransportationFuel Affect the Bottom Line? See below for an estimate of the estimated cost of transportation in Dubai:
- 5.00 AED for a one-way ticket (Local Transport)
- 300.00 AED for a monthly pass (Regular Price)
- 12.00 AED for a taxi start
- 2.48 AED for a taxi 1km
- 30.00 AED for a taxi 1hour waiting
- 2.46 AED for a gasoline (1 liter)
- 2.46 AED for a monthly pass (Regular Price)
- 2.46 AED for gasoline (1 liter).
If you live near one of Dubai’s metro stations, you may save money on commuting costs.
Also, be sure to obtain a Nol Card, which allows you to pay for and utilize all local transit alternatives in Dubai. Take a look at how to reload Nol Card for more information.
Utilities Cost in Dubai
Electricity and water, as well as mobile credit and the internet, are all available in Dubai. The cost of utilities in Dubai is greater when compared to other nations, however it is reasonable when compared to the incomes in Dubai. The following are the costs of utilities in Dubai:
- Electricity and water, as well as mobile credit and the internet, are available in Dubai. Utility costs in Dubai are greater when compared to other nations, but they are reasonable when compared to the incomes in the city. In Dubai, the following are the costs of utilities:.
Healthcare Cost in Dubai
In Dubai, health insurance is required, and employers are responsible for providing coverage to their employees after a work visa has been approved. It is mandatory for sponsors to obtain insurance coverage for their resident dependents. The majority of organizations in Dubai give health insurance to their employees, as well as their spouses and children, and if they do not, health insurance in Dubai may be purchased for as little as 1000 AED per year.
Education Cost in Dubai
With the many education curriculums available in the UAE, it is feasible to choose schools with reasonable tuition prices, and the range of children education options in Dubai includes the following subjects:
- The cost of full-day preschool (or kindergarten) for one child, on a monthly basis, ranges from 1000 AED to 4000 AED
- The cost of an international primary school “on an annual basis for one child” ranges from 25,000 AED to 75,000 AED
- And the cost of an international secondary school ranges from 25,000 AED to 75,000 AED.
Restaurants Cost in Dubai
Restaurants in Dubai range from quick food to low-cost restaurants to some of the most costly establishments in the world. Eating in restaurants in Dubai will have the following repercussions:
- Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course: 150 AED – 550 AED
- Meal for 2 People, Inexpensive Restaurant: 20 AED – 75 AED
- The cost of a McMeal at McDonald’s (or an equivalent Combo Meal) ranges from 25 AED to 32 AED
- The cost of a cappuccino (regular) ranges from 10 AED to 30 AED.
Entertainment Cost in Dubai
Even if your primary objective is to conserve money, you must set aside a portion of your income for amusement, especially if you live in Dubai. Many free attractions in Dubai, such as parks, beaches, shopping malls, and historical sites, are available for you to enjoy. A cinema ticket in Dubai will cost you 45 AED each ticket, while GYM fees for one adult would cost you between 125 AED and 500 AED per month in the city.
Can I Save Money in Dubai?
People may wonder whether it is feasible to save money while residing in Dubai. Regardless of how high your income is, according to UAE Salaries, the answer is affirmative. You may do so by employing the most effective strategies for lowering expenses while increasing your investable income. Securing your financial future is all about what you do with your money and how you choose how much money to spend depending on your individual financial objectives. For example, you may enroll your child in one of the most costly schools in Dubai or select a more inexpensive school to save money, and all of these alternatives are accessible in the city of Dubai.
The cost of living in Dubai for senior international professionals [3 points to factor in to your financial plan in 2022]
If you live in Dubai, you might wonder if it’s possible to save money. According to UAE Salaries, the answer is yes, regardless of how much money you make. Use the greatest tools available to assist you minimize expenses while increasing your investable income to accomplish this. Securing your financial future is all about what you do with your money and how you use your available funds in accordance with your unique financial objectives.
Examples include enrolling your child in one of the most costly schools in Dubai or choosing a cheap school to save money; all of these choices are accessible in Dubai. For more Business-related stories, such asCost of Doing Business in Dubaiand much more, visitUAE Moments on Facebook.
1. Property
According to data from the cost-of-living website Numbeo, Dubai is the fourth most expensive city in the world for residents to spend the most proportion of their monthly income on rent. People in the United Arab Emirates spend 39.85 percent of their monthly income on rent, with a three-bedroom apartment in the UAE costing on average 7,054 AED per month to rent. The United Arab Emirates had been experiencing a poor long-term economic trend since the 2014-2015 oil price fall, even before the outbreak of the epidemic.
- According to the latest estimate by real estate consulting firm CBRE, Dubai’s residential property market is anticipated to suffer some headwinds in 2022 when compared to previous years, although villa and apartment sales will remain robust in a post-pandemic environment.
- While prices rose by a record amount last year, they also reached their highest level since January 2015, while rental rates continued to rise to record levels (especially for villas), all owing to robust demand from both purchasers and tenants.
- Although these rates are lower than the 2014 peak, they are still 28 percent and 15 percent lower than the 2014 peak for apartments and villas, respectively.
- As of December, rentals had risen an incremental 8.3 percent, with median apartment and villa rates climbing 6.3 percent and 21.7%, respectively, over the previous month.
- Several market patterns continued to favor villas over flats, and prices remained well below their historical highs, according to the research.
- In fact, in November 2021, a rental agreement in Emirates Hills costing 7.5 million AED will become the most expensive rental agreement in the history of Dubai.
The safety, privacy, low-tax lifestyle, and pleasant weather of Dubai are all attractive features for rich clientele looking to invest in high-end real estate. Check out our article on deciding whether to invest in real estate versus the stock market.
2. Education
Accordion to statistics from the Numbeo cost-of-living database, Dubai ranks fourth in the world for paying the largest proportion of monthly income on rent. Most residents of the United Arab Emirates spend 39.85 percent of their monthly income on rent, with an average monthly rent of 7,054 AED for a three-bedroom apartment in the UAE. Long-term economic growth had slowed in the United Arab Emirates ever since the 2014-2015 oil price fall, even prior to the outbreak of Ebola virus disease. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the supply of new houses and flats has consistently surpassed demand in a market where the majority of residents are foreigners, many of whom returned after the outbreak of the virus.
- Housing prices and rentals increased by 9.3 percent and 8.3 percent, respectively, on average, in 2021, indicating that the market was in good health.
- Approximately 1,072 Dirhams ($292) per square foot for flats in Dubai as of December 2021, with average villa pricing of 1,228 Dirhams per square foot.
- In October 2021, average rental prices had their first yearly increase since June 2015, marking the first time this had happened since the previous year.
- Although there has been a slowing of new home production, it is expected to peak in 2021 with a total of 37,403 units completed.
- It was reported by Betterhomes that the number of rentals for villas with more than five bedrooms had increased by 63 percent during the third quarter of 2021.
- The current surge of high-net-worth individuals into the UAE may be attributed to the economy of Dubai’s post-COVID resilience or to the UAE’s response to the epidemic.
Those seeking high-end real estate in Dubai are attracted by the city’s safety, privacy, low-tax living environment, and pleasant weather, among other factors Check out our article on deciding whether to invest in real estate versus the stock market for more information.
- There are 194 private schools in Dubai, with 17 classified as ‘excellent,’ 28 as’very good,’ 74 as ‘good,’ 52 as ‘acceptable,’ and 5 as ‘weak.’
Consider the details of your financial strategy. The cost of attending school in Dubai has increased dramatically over the previous ten years. Kindergartens (pre-schools), primary, secondary, and high schools all charge different amounts of money depending on the degree of education they provide. An academic year’s worth of tuition costs between 3,567 AED (975 USD) to 107,928 AED (29,490 USD). Edarabia, a Middle East education website, presents all private schools in Dubai, allowing you to filter by tuition prices, curriculum, rankings, and ratings.
Various curriculums and extra-curricular activities are available in most K-12 schools, according to the website, “in order to promote the intellectual and physical well-being of children.” Admissions to the best international schools in Dubai are competitive, and waiting lists are common; thus, it is advised that parents submit applications well in advance.
3. Lifestyle
Sixty years ago, people went on vacation. Dubai was hardly more than a small hamlet at the time. On a salt flat, there was just one runway for the city’s airport. Fast forward to the present day, and Dubai International Airport is the busiest international airport in the world in terms of international traffic. Although Dubai is an excellent place to live if you enjoy traveling across the world, airline rates are continuing to climb. Some of the reasons stated include the relaxation of COVID-19 limitations, a rise in the price of gasoline, and the arrival of highly anticipated events such as Expo 2020.
- Due to a lack of a local Michelin Guide, Dubai instead imports chefs or restaurant chains that have already been recognized by this distinguished magazine in other parts of the world.
- If you enjoy live entertainment, you might also want to check out the Dubai Opera, where tickets vary from 95 AED (26 USD) to 390 AED (106 USD), depending on your budget.
- Not to mention that the Emirate is home to some of the most prestigious athletic events in the world.
- You won’t be in Dubai for long (at least not in the airport car park), and you’ll see your first supercar before you know it.
- However, for those of us seeking for something a little more down to earth.
- According to the statistics, the Toyota Camry was the most popular car in the UAE in 2021, with a starting price of about 95,500 AED.
For those wishing to spend less on such a depreciating asset, the data shows that the most popular automobile in the UAE in 2021 was the Toyota Camry (26,000 USD). In addition, if you want a chrome-plated Rolls Royce Phantom, you can order one.)
How to make the most of your time in Dubai
It’s a dream come true to live in Dubai. I have no intention of returning to my hometown in the foreseeable future. My customers, like myself, have well-defined goals in place that put their lives into numerical perspective. Taking into consideration major life events, such as relocating to a different country. To make the most of your time in the Emirate, both financially and personally, you must be disciplined and committed to investing on a consistent basis. My team may assist you if you require a little assistance in remaining focused on your long-term objectives.
Cost of Living in Dubai in 2022
Dubai is perhaps the most popular expat destination in the world, with expats accounting for more than 80 percent of the population. Think endless sunshine, glitzy skyscrapers and man-made islands, incredible job opportunities, fantastic local travel and a surprisingly rich local culture, and you have Dubai. While Dubai’s high incomes and numerous savings possibilities are attractive, the sheer volume of high-end items and activities available may make a serious hole in people’s savings. Dubai was ranked 42nd in the Mercer Cost of Living Study for 2021, down from its previous ranking of 23rd.
The absence of property, income, and capital gains taxes has a significant impact on people’s 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 middle of the city, a well-appointed contemporary apartment in a tower will be more expensive than a similarly equipped flat on the outskirts of the city. For the vast expat population, there are a number of major places that have grown quite popular. 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.
With such a vibrant expat community, there are several ways to share expenses if you like to split the expenditures between two or more persons.
If your company pays the cost of your accommodation, this will not be a significant concern; nevertheless, for private tenants, the big upfront payment must be taken into consideration.
Transport Costs in Dubai
Rental prices in Dubai vary based on where you wish to reside, just as they do anyplace else in the world. In the middle of the city, a well-appointed contemporary flat in a tower will be more expensive than a similarly equipped unit on the periphery. For the big expat population, there are a few major places that have proven quite popular. 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 costs.
If you want to split the costs between two or more persons, there are plenty of options to do so in such a thriving expat community, as well.
For those whose employers cover the cost of their accommodation, this will not be a significant problem; but, for private renters, the big upfront payment must be taken into consideration.
Dubai Lifestyle and Expenses
Dubai is a moderately priced destination in terms of prices such as food, entertainment, and activities (but proportionally lower than rental costs). If you want to go out for supper or lunch, there are alternatives to suit any budget, although the glitzier options in international hotels and on the waterfront will, of course, be at the higher end of the price spectrum. Alcohol, on the other hand, is significantly more expensive because it is not something that the majority of the population consumes.
You should bear in mind that clothing and accessories in Dubai might be a little more costly than they are in your own country, and sometimes even more expensive than in the neighboring country of Abu Dhabi.
For those who wish to take advantage of the pleasures of expat life, such as golf and tennis club memberships and gym memberships, pricing may vary, but on average they will be slightly lower than in the UK, so get your swing in!
Medical and Insurance Costs in Dubai
Taking out private insurance is common among expatriates in order to guarantee that they have speedy access to the high-quality healthcare system that exists in Dubai. When you are offered a job, it is common for it to come with some form of health insurance incorporated, and you will not have much of a choice in terms of providers. As reported by guide2dubai.com, you could expect to pay roughly 10,000 AED, or a little more than £2,200 per year for moderately comprehensive medical insurance in the UAE.
However, most expats additionally purchase private health insurance to safeguard themselves against the unexpected.
In the long run, you should probably consider purchasing a car, as the expense of going out and consuming alcoholic beverages is far more than it is back home.
Once you’ve calculated the cost of living in Dubai, the next step in relocating abroad and becoming an expat is to consider how you’ll move your possessions and household goods to the city.
To find out precisely how much it will cost you to relocate to Dubai, simply get a quotation. You can also take advantage of our safer packing and speedier shipping services.