Dubai Travel Costs: Real Numbers for 2025

Planning a trip to Dubai? You probably wonder how much cash you’ll need. The city looks pricey, but the total cost depends on where you stay, what you eat, and how you move around. Below you’ll find a straight‑forward breakdown of the main expenses and some tips to stretch your money.

Accommodation & Food

Hotels in the Marina and Downtown range from $80 to $250 per night for a standard room. If you’re okay with a bit less glam, mid‑range hotels sit around $120‑$180, while budget options like hostels or Airbnb can drop to $50‑$80. For a truly cheap night, look at shared apartments on the outskirts – you’ll still be close to the metro.

Food is another big variable. A meal at a fast‑food chain costs $6‑$10. Mid‑range restaurants charge $20‑$35 per person for a three‑course dinner. Fine‑dining spots can start at $50 and go up quickly. To save, hit the local shawarma stalls or grocery stores for ready‑made meals – you’ll stay full for a fraction of the price.

Transport, Activities & Hidden Fees

The Dubai Metro is the cheapest way to zip around. A single ride costs $1‑$2, and a day pass is about $5. Taxis start at $3 and add $0.50 per km, so short trips are still reasonable. If you plan a lot of sightseeing, consider a weekly tram pass for $20‑$30.

Attractions vary. The Burj Khalifa ‘At The Top’ ticket is $40‑$55, while a desert safari runs $60‑$100 depending on the package. Beach access is free, but water sports like jet‑skiing start at $80 per hour. Always check if a discount is offered for online booking – it can shave 10‑15% off the price.

Don’t forget hidden costs: hotel taxes (about 7‑10% of the room rate), tipping (10‑15% in restaurants), and the occasional “service charge” on bills. Carry a small amount of cash for tip‑only places, but most spots accept cards without extra fees.

Putting it all together, a solo traveler on a mid‑range budget can expect to spend roughly $1,500‑$2,200 for a week, including accommodation, meals, transport and a few activities. Couples sharing a room can bring that number down to $1,200‑$1,800. If you’re on a tight budget, aim for $900‑$1,200 by staying in hostels, cooking some meals, and using the metro exclusively.

Bottom line: Dubai isn’t automatically expensive. Pick the right mix of lodging, food, and transport, and you’ll enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Start planning with these numbers, adjust to your style, and you’ll have a clear picture of what your Dubai adventure will really cost.