Dubai Travel Budget: How to Spend Smart in 2025

Thinking about a Dubai trip but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. Many travelers assume Dubai is only for the rich, but with the right plan you can enjoy the city without draining your wallet. Below you’ll find the real numbers for 2025 and simple tricks to keep your expenses in check.

Everyday Costs You Can Expect

Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels start around AED 150‑200 per night. Mid‑range 3‑star hotels average AED 350‑500, while luxury resorts easily top AED 1,000. Booking a few weeks ahead and using local booking sites can shave 10‑20% off the price.

Food: Street food and fast‑casual spots charge AED 15‑30 for a meal. A decent restaurant lunch runs AED 50‑80, and dinner at a nicer place costs AED 120‑200. If you mix cheap eats with occasional splurges, budget about AED 150‑200 per day for food.

Transportation: The Dubai Metro is the cheapest way to get around – a Nol card topped with AED 20 gives you unlimited daily travel. Taxis start at AED 12 and add AED 2 per km. Expect to spend AED 30‑50 a day if you combine metro and occasional rides.

Attractions: Many museums have free entry or a nominal fee (AED 10‑30). The Burj Khalifa’s “At The Top” tickets start at AED 149 for non‑peak hours. Planning ahead and booking online can save up to 15%.

Miscellaneous: Souvenirs, tips, and incidental costs add up. Set aside a small buffer of AED 100‑150 per day to cover these extras.

Tips to Stretch Your Money

1. Travel in the off‑season. From June to August, hotel rates drop 20‑30% and attractions are less crowded. The heat can be intense, but indoor activities keep you cool.

2. Use discount apps. Apps like Cobone or Entertainer offer buy‑one‑get‑one deals on dining and activities. A single purchase can cover a dinner for two or a spa session at half price.

3. Shop at local markets. The Al Ras and Deira souks sell authentic goods at lower prices than malls. Bargaining is expected – start at 50% of the asking price and work up.

4. Eat where locals eat. Look for restaurants with Arabic signage and full houses. They usually serve generous portions for a fraction of tourist‑area prices.

5. Stay in serviced apartments. If you’re staying more than five nights, a short‑term rental with a kitchen can halve your food spend because you can cook.

6. Take advantage of free events. Dubai hosts many free concerts, art shows, and beach activities, especially during Ramadan evenings. Check the Dubai Calendar for the latest listings.

7. Plan a daily budget. Write down what you intend to spend on each category and stick to it. Seeing the numbers on paper helps avoid impulse purchases.

By breaking down costs and applying a few smart moves, you can enjoy Dubai’s skyline, beaches, and culture without breaking the bank. Whether you’re on a tight budget or have a little extra, these tips give you the flexibility to customize your trip.

Ready to start planning? Grab a notebook, list your must‑see spots, and match them with the budget numbers above. Dubai is waiting, and now you have a clear picture of what it really costs.