Dubai Trip Budget 2025 – What You’ll Actually Spend

If you’re eyeing a Dubai getaway, the first question is always money. How much do you need for a week of sunshine, skyscrapers and desert fun? The good news is that Dubai can fit tight wallets, middle‑range plans, and luxury splurges alike. Below you’ll find a clear, no‑fluff breakdown of the biggest costs and some smart ways to stretch every dirham.

Breakdown of Major Expenses

Flights: A round‑trip ticket from the UK or US to Dubai averages £350‑£750 in economy, depending on the season. Book early, use price alerts, and consider airlines that offer free baggage to avoid extra fees.

Accommodation: Hotels drive the biggest variance. Budget hostels or 1‑star hotels start around £20‑£40 per night. Mid‑range 3‑star options sit at £60‑£120, while 5‑star beach resorts can hit £250‑£400. If you’re okay with shared spaces, Airbnb rooms often sit between £30‑£70 and give you a kitchen to save on meals.

Food & Drink: Street food, shawarma stalls and grocery stores let you eat for £5‑£10 per meal. Mid‑range restaurants charge £15‑£30 for a main course, while fine‑dining experiences soar past £60. Alcohol is pricey; a beer in a bar costs about £6, so limit nights out or buy drinks from supermarkets where a bottle of wine is around £8.

Transport: The Metro is the cheapest way to zip around – a day pass is £3. Taxis start at £2 and add £0.40 per km. For short trips, rideshare apps are convenient and often cheaper than regular cabs. Renting a car costs £30‑£50 a day, but you’ll need to factor in fuel (£0.70 per litre) and parking fees.

Attractions: Many sights are free, like the Dubai Fountain or public beaches. Ticketed experiences—Burj Khalifa’s observation deck (£30‑£50), desert safari (£45‑£80), and theme parks (£50‑£70)—add up quickly. Plan which ones matter most and book online for discounts.

Total Estimate: For a 7‑day trip, a tight budget runs about £800‑£1,200, a comfortable mid‑range trip sits at £1,500‑£2,200, and a luxury escape can exceed £3,500. Adjust these numbers based on your travel dates and personal preferences.

Money‑Saving Tips for Your Dubai Adventure

1. Travel off‑peak. Visiting between May and September avoids school holidays and sees hotel rates drop 20‑30%.

2. Use a local SIM. Data packs start at £10 for a month and let you browse free Wi‑Fi spots, compare prices on the fly and avoid roaming charges.

3. Eat where locals eat. Food courts in malls, local souks and grocery stores offer fresh meals for half the price of tourist‑focused restaurants.

4. Buy attraction passes. The Dubai Pass bundles tickets to major sites at a lower combined rate—great if you plan to hit several landmarks.

5. Cash in on happy hour. Many bars and lounges run 2‑hour happy hour deals with drinks half price. Pair it with a sunset at the beach for a memorable night without blowing your budget.

6. Public transport over taxis. The Metro, buses and tram cover most hotspots. A Nol card saves you time and money, and you can top it up as needed.

7. Shop sales. Souks and malls often have end‑of‑season sales. Grab souvenirs, clothing or electronics at up to 70% off if you time it right.

By mapping out your daily spend and swapping a few pricey habits for local alternatives, you can enjoy Dubai’s glitz without emptying your wallet. The city offers enough variety that even a modest budget can feel luxurious if you plan smart.

Ready to book? Grab a flight, pick a hotel that fits your style, and use the breakdown above to set a realistic daily budget. With a bit of forethought, your Dubai trip will be unforgettable—and financially savvy.