Dubai Cost of Living 2025 – What You’ll Actually Pay

If you’re planning to move to Dubai or just curious about daily expenses, you’ve probably heard that the city is pricey. The truth is a bit more nuanced. Prices vary by area, lifestyle and what you count as a must‑have. Below we lay out the biggest cost buckets, give you real‑world numbers for 2025, and share simple tricks to keep your wallet happy.

Housing and Utilities

Rent is the biggest line item for most expats. In 2025 a one‑bedroom apartment in a central district like Downtown or Dubai Marina goes for about AED 7,500–9,500 per month. Move a little farther out – say Jumeirah Village Circle or Al Nahda – and you’ll find options around AED 4,500–5,500. Sharing a flat cuts the bill in half, and many newcomers start with a shared place to test the city.

Utilities (electricity, water, cooling) add roughly AED 400–600 a month for a small apartment. If you’re in a high‑rise building with central air‑conditioning, expect the higher end of that range. Some landlords bundle cooling into the rent, so always ask before you sign.

Internet and mobile plans are cheap compared with western countries. A good fiber broadband package costs about AED 250–300 per month, while a decent prepaid mobile plan with data sits around AED 80–120.

Everyday Expenses: Food, Transport & Entertainment

Groceries in Dubai are a mixed bag. Local markets and discount stores keep basics cheap – a kilogram of rice is about AED 5, and a dozen eggs around AED 6. Imported items, especially cheese or fresh berries, can double that price. If you cook at home most nights, a weekly grocery bill for one person runs about AED 250–350.

Eating out varies wildly. A simple meal at a canteen or fast‑food joint costs AED 15–25. Mid‑range restaurants charge AED 80–130 per person for a three‑course dinner. For a splurge at a high‑end hotel or celebrity chef spot, expect AED 250+.

Public transport is efficient and cheap. A Nol card with a 30‑day pass for the metro, tram and buses is about AED 350. Taxis start at AED 12 and then AED 2 per km – still reasonable for short rides but can add up if you travel a lot.

Entertainment costs depend on your taste. A movie ticket is AED 45–60, while a gym membership in a decent chain runs AED 200–350 monthly. If you love nightlife, club entry fees hover around AED 100–150, but many venues waive the fee if you order a drink.

Now for the budget hacks. Shop at local souks and supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu for the best deals on staples. Use the metro for work commutes – it’s fast, air‑conditioned and far cheaper than a daily taxi. Split meals with friends or join a cooking club to cut grocery costs. And keep an eye on seasonal sales; Dubai loves its “white Friday” and end‑of‑year discounts.

Overall, a modest lifestyle for a single professional can be comfortably managed on AED 8,000–10,000 per month. A family of four will need roughly AED 18,000–22,000, especially if you choose a larger apartment in a suburban area. These numbers are not set in stone, but they give you a realistic baseline to plan your move or vacation.

Bottom line: Dubai isn’t uniformly expensive – it’s what you choose to spend on. By picking the right neighbourhood, cooking at home often, and using public transport, you can enjoy the city’s luxuries without breaking the bank.