Cost of Living in Dubai 2025: What You Need to Know

Thinking about moving to Dubai or just planning a long stay? The city looks glamorous, but the price tag can surprise you. Below you’ll get straight‑forward numbers for housing, food, transport and everyday extras. No jargon, just the facts you need to decide if $5,000 a month will cover you or if you should aim higher.

Housing and Utilities

Rent takes the biggest bite out of any budget. A one‑bedroom apartment in the Dubai Marina or Downtown costs between AED 6,500 and AED 9,500 per month (about $1,770‑$2,590). If you’re okay with a bit farther from the hotspots, you’ll find one‑beds around AED 4,800‑AED 6,500. Expect to pay an additional AED 300‑AED 500 for water and electricity, although many newer buildings include these in the rent.

Security deposits are usually one month’s rent, and agency fees can add another 5% of the yearly rent. If you share a flat, you can cut costs dramatically – a double‑room in a shared apartment often falls between AED 3,200‑AED 4,500.

Everyday Expenses and Savings Tips

Groceries in Dubai are affordable if you shop at local supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu. A weekly basket for one person (rice, chicken, veggies, fruits) runs about AED 150‑AED 200. Dining out varies widely; a cheap meal at a food court costs AED 25‑AED 40, while a three‑course dinner at a mid‑range restaurant sits around AED 150‑AED 250.

Public transport is cheap and reliable. A monthly Nol card for unlimited metro, tram and bus rides costs AED 300. Taxis are more expensive – a short ride in the city center can be AED 30‑AED 50, so consider ridesharing apps for better rates.

Health insurance isn’t covered by the government for expats, so budget at least AED 600‑AED 1,200 per month for a decent plan. Entertainment, gym memberships and occasional weekend trips can add another AED 800‑AED 1,500.

Putting it all together, a modest lifestyle for a single person averages AED 12,000‑AED 15,000 per month (≈ $3,260‑$4,080). If you want a more comfortable, high‑end experience – upscale housing, fine dining, private gym – you’ll be looking at AED 18,000‑AED 25,000.

Here are three quick ways to stretch your money: shop at local markets, use the metro instead of taxis, and cook simple meals at home. With those tricks, you can shave off up to 20% of your total spend.

Now you have the numbers, you can decide how much you need to enjoy Dubai without surprise bills. Feel free to adjust the figures to match your own habits, but the range above gives a solid starting point for any 2025 budget plan.