Spending in Dubai: Real‑World Costs You Need to Know

Thinking about a trip or a move to Dubai? The first question on most minds is money. How much will a coffee cost? What does a night out really add up to? Below you’ll find straight‑forward numbers and tips that let you set a budget without guessing.

Everyday Expenses

Start with the basics. A local breakfast—think eggs, toast, and a cup of coffee—runs about 15‑20 AED (≈ $4‑$5). If you prefer a Western café, expect 30‑40 AED for a latte and a pastry. Public transport is cheap: a single Metro ticket costs 4 AED, and a day pass is 20 AED, covering Metro, buses, and the tram.

Groceries can be surprisingly affordable if you shop at local markets. A kilogram of rice is around 5 AED, while fresh chicken breasts cost about 12 AED per kilogram. Imported goods, like cheese or specialty snacks, can hike the price to double or triple the local rates.

Dining out varies a lot. A simple shawarma stall will charge 12‑15 AED for a meal, while a mid‑range restaurant (one main dish and a drink) sits at 80‑120 AED per person. Fine dining in a hotel or high‑end venue can easily run 300 AED or more for a three‑course meal.

Luxury and Leisure

If you’re planning a night out, the club scene is pricey. Entry fees for popular nightclubs range from 50‑150 AED, often with a minimum drink purchase of 30‑50 AED. A bottle of mid‑range vodka typically starts at 250 AED.

Tourist attractions also add up. A ticket to the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck (At the Top) costs about 159 AED for basic access, while a day pass for the Dubai Aquarium is around 135 AED. Desert safaris, a must‑try experience, range from 150‑300 AED depending on the package.

Accommodation is the biggest budget driver. Budget hotels or hostels start at 100‑150 AED per night for a basic private room. Mid‑range hotels sit around 250‑400 AED, and luxury five‑star resorts can charge 800 AED and up. If you’re staying longer, look into monthly rentals; a one‑bedroom apartment in a non‑touristy area can be found for 4,500‑6,000 AED per month.

To keep spending in check, aim for a daily budget of 150‑250 AED if you stick to local food, public transport, and free attractions. For a more comfortable stay with occasional splurges, budget 400‑600 AED per day. And if luxury is the goal, expect 1,000 AED +  per day.Remember, Dubai offers both cheap and extravagant options. Use the numbers above to decide where you want to splurge and where you can save. With a clear picture of costs, you can enjoy the city without worrying about the bill at the end of the day.