Dubai Living Expenses – How Much Do You Need to Live Comfortably?

Thinking about moving to Dubai or just want to know if your salary will cover the lifestyle? You’re not alone. Many ask, “What does a typical month look like here?” The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all, but we can break down the biggest cost buckets so you can plan with confidence.

Housing and Daily Bills

Rent is the biggest line item for most expats. A studio in a popular area like Marina or Downtown can run anywhere from AED 4,500 to AED 7,000 per month, while a two‑bedroom in a similar spot often hits AED 8,000‑12,000. If you’re okay with a bit of a commute, neighborhoods such as Al Barsha or Deira bring the price down to AED 3,000‑5,000 for a one‑bedroom.

Utilities – electricity, water, and cooling – are another hidden cost. Expect around AED 300‑600 a month for a modest apartment, more if you like the AC on all day. Internet packages start at AED 150 for basic speeds, but many go for AED 300‑400 for faster fiber.

Transportation adds up, too. A monthly Nol card for the metro and buses costs roughly AED 300. If you drive, fuel is cheap (about AED 2.5 per litre) but parking fees in high‑traffic zones can be AED 200‑400 per month.

Food, Leisure, and Wellness

Groceries are surprisingly reasonable if you shop at local supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu. A weekly basket for a single person can be AED 150‑250. Eating out varies widely – a street‑food shawarma costs AED 5‑8, while a three‑course dinner at a mid‑range restaurant runs AED 100‑150 per person.

Dubai’s wellness scene is world‑class, and many expats factor it into their budget. A standard 60‑minute massage at a reputable spa costs AED 250‑400, while specialty treatments like a lymphatic drainage massage or a Moroccan bath can be AED 350‑600. If you’re into daily gym sessions, a membership at a decent fitness club sits around AED 300‑500 per month.

Entertainment and nightlife also have a price tag. A movie ticket is about AED 45, while a drink at a trendy bar costs AED 30‑50. Ladies Night events, which many look forward to, often have a cover of AED 100‑150 that includes a couple of drinks.

Don’t forget school fees if you have children – international schools typically charge AED 30,000‑70,000 per year. Health insurance is another must; many employers cover it, but if you’re on a personal plan, expect AED 800‑1,500 per month for a comprehensive package.

Putting it all together, a single professional living modestly in Dubai might need around AED 12,000‑15,000 per month. A family of four with a comfortable lifestyle can see the figure rise to AED 25,000‑35,000. These numbers are guides, not rules. Adjust for your own habits – e.g., cooking more at home or using public transport will lower costs, while frequent fine‑dining and luxury spa visits will push them up.

Bottom line: Dubai can be as affordable or as extravagant as you make it. Identify your priorities, track your spending, and you’ll find a budget that lets you enjoy the city without constant money stress.