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

Thinking about moving to Dubai or just curious about the price tag? You’ll find the numbers broken down here, so you can decide if the lifestyle fits your wallet.

Housing and Rent

Rent is the biggest chunk of any budget. In 2025 most apartments are paid monthly, but you’ll still need a security deposit (usually 5% of the annual rent) and an Ejari registration fee of about AED 190. Cheques are still common – landlords often ask for a post‑dated series covering the whole year, even if you pay monthly.

To keep costs down, look for units that allow a payment plan. Some developers split the total into 12 or 24 installments with a small interest charge. It’s cheaper than the traditional one‑off bank transfer and gives you more cash flow flexibility.

Everyday Expenses

Utilities – electricity, water, cooling – average AED 400‑600 per month for a one‑bedroom. If you’re in a shared villa, split the bill and you’ll save 30% or more. Expect a small monthly service charge for building maintenance, usually AED 150‑250.

Groceries can be cheap if you shop at hypermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu. A basic basket (rice, chicken, vegetables, milk) costs about AED 400 for a single person. Buying imported items drives the price up quickly, so stick to local brands when possible.

Public transport is efficient and affordable. A Nol card for the metro and buses costs AED 6, and a single ride is AED 3‑7 depending on distance. If you commute daily, a monthly pass for zones 1‑3 is around AED 300, which beats petrol and parking fees.

Dining out varies wildly. A meal at a mid‑range restaurant runs AED 80‑150 per person, while a street‑food shawarma is under AED 15. For a balanced budget, aim for two restaurant meals a week and the rest at home.

Entertainment costs are often overestimated. A cinema ticket is AED 35‑45, a gym membership starts at AED 150 per month, and many malls offer free events. Plan a weekly activity budget of AED 200 and you’ll stay in control.

The popular “$1000 budget” guide shows you can survive on roughly AED 3,600 a month if you choose shared housing, cook at home, and use public transport. It’s tight but doable for short stays or students.

Watch out for hidden fees: some hotels charge for minibar usage, and tour operators may add a 5% service charge that isn’t highlighted up front. Always ask for a full price breakdown before you sign up.

Bottom line – Dubai isn’t cheap, but with smart housing choices, local grocery shopping, and public transport, you can keep the monthly bill around AED 5,000‑7,000. Use this guide to set realistic expectations and enjoy the city without constant money stress.