Dubai continues to capture the world’s attention with its dazzling skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and thriving economy. As we move further into 2025, many professionals, families, and digital nomads are asking the all-important question: how much does it cost to live in Dubai today?
Whether you're considering a permanent move or a medium-term relocation, understanding the current living expenses is crucial. From housing and groceries to transportation and schooling, the cost of living in Dubai can vary dramatically depending on your lifestyle and location choices. In this in-depth guide, we break down the key components of the Dubai life cost so you can make an informed decision.
What Is the Cost of Living in Dubai?
The cost of living in Dubai in 2025 remains relatively high compared to other cities in the region, but it also offers a high quality of life, no income tax, and a wide array of services. The average cost of living in Dubai for a single person ranges from AED 6,000 to AED 10,000 per month, depending on lifestyle, while a family of four might expect monthly expenses between AED 15,000 and AED 25,000.
While some areas and services are expensive, others can be surprisingly affordable if you're willing to make strategic choices. Your Dubai living cost will ultimately depend on factors like location, housing type, consumption habits, and family size.
Housing: The Largest Expense
Renting an Apartment
Accommodation is the most significant factor in the living cost in UAE Dubai. Rental prices vary widely based on the type of housing and its location. Here’s what to expect:
- Studio apartment in an outer district: AED 30,000–45,000/year
- 1-bedroom in central Dubai (Downtown, Marina, Business Bay): AED 75,000–110,000/year
- 3-bedroom apartment for families: AED 120,000–180,000/year
The Dubai cost of living drops significantly if you choose suburban neighborhoods such as Jumeirah Village Circle, International City, or Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Buying Property
While most expats rent, purchasing property is an option for those with long-term plans. Prices for freehold apartments in central locations average AED 1,000–1,600 per square foot in 2025. Keep in mind that buyers must also budget for service charges, which typically range from AED 10–30 per square foot annually.
Utilities and Internet
For a moderate-sized apartment, monthly utility bills (electricity, water, cooling) range between AED 400–800. Air conditioning use significantly impacts bills during the summer months. DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) provides most utility services.
Internet and mobile phone packages are offered by providers such as Etisalat and du. A typical high-speed internet connection costs AED 300–450 per month. Phone plans with sufficient data and international calling minutes can be found for around AED 150–300.
Food and Groceries
The price of living in Dubai also depends heavily on where and how you shop for food. International supermarkets such as Carrefour and Spinneys offer a wide range of imported goods, but local stores like Lulu and Union Coop provide more affordable options.
Here’s an idea of basic grocery prices in 2025:
- 1 liter of milk: AED 6
- Loaf of bread: AED 4–5
- 1 kg of chicken breast: AED 28–35
- Dozen eggs: AED 12–16
- 1 kg of apples: AED 7–10
A single person cooking at home can spend around AED 1,000–1,200 per month on groceries, while a family of four might budget AED 2,500–3,500.
Dining Out
Dubai has a vibrant dining scene ranging from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here’s what a meal costs on average:
- Inexpensive restaurant: AED 30–50
- Mid-range restaurant (3-course meal for two): AED 250–400
- Coffee at a café: AED 18–25
Regular dining out can increase your Dubai living cost per month by AED 1,000 or more, depending on frequency and restaurant choice.
Transportation
Dubai has a well-connected public transportation network, including metro, buses, and taxis.
Public Transport
- Monthly pass for metro and buses: AED 270
- Single metro ride: AED 3–7.5 depending on zones
Owning a Car
Owning a car is common but comes with additional costs:
- Fuel (per liter): AED 3.15
- Car insurance: AED 1,200–3,000/year
- Annual registration: AED 500–1,000
- Parking (public and private): AED 2–10/hour
Overall, monthly transport costs can range from AED 300 (public transit) to AED 1,500–2,000 (owning a car).
Education Costs
If you're relocating with children, schooling becomes a key part of the cost living in Dubai.
International Schools
- Nursery fees: AED 18,000–50,000/year
- Primary school: AED 30,000–70,000/year
- Secondary school: AED 40,000–90,000/year
British, American, IB, and Indian curriculum schools are widely available, with fees varying based on prestige and location.
Healthcare and Insurance
Dubai has a high standard of healthcare, and insurance is mandatory for all residents. Most employers provide health coverage, but additional family members may need private plans.
Average Costs:
- GP visit (without insurance): AED 250–400
- Dental cleaning: AED 300–500
- Health insurance (private, per person): AED 2,000–6,000/year
Factoring in insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs, your living cost in UAE Dubai will include roughly AED 500–1,000 per person per month for healthcare.
Childcare and Domestic Help
- Full-time nanny or maid (live-in): AED 1,500–3,000/month
- Babysitter (per hour): AED 35–60
- Daycare (per month): AED 2,000–3,500
Domestic help is common in Dubai households and can improve work-life balance for expat families.
Entertainment and Lifestyle
How much would it cost to live in Dubai if you want to enjoy the city to the fullest? Here's a look at leisure spending:
- Gym membership: AED 200–500/month
- Cinema ticket: AED 40–60
- Beach club entry: AED 100–300
- Monthly streaming subscriptions: AED 50–100
Many events, concerts, and exhibitions also take place throughout the year, making entertainment another variable in your Dubai living cost per month.
Taxes and Savings
One major advantage of living in Dubai is the absence of income tax, which allows residents to retain a larger portion of their earnings. However, VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.
Despite the overall high Dubai cost of living, many expats manage to save due to tax-free salaries and employer-paid benefits like accommodation, transport, and school fees.
Living Cost in UAE Dubai: Comparison With Other Cities
In 2025, Dubai ranks as a mid-to-high cost city globally. Here's how it compares:
- Cheaper than: New York, London, Paris, Singapore
- More expensive than: Kuala Lumpur, Istanbul, Bangkok
While the average cost of living in Dubai may seem high, the lifestyle, safety, modern infrastructure, and job opportunities justify the investment for many residents.
Budgeting Tips to Reduce the Dubai Life Cost
- Choose residential areas wisely – Suburban neighborhoods are much cheaper.
- Buy groceries from local markets – Avoid premium international supermarkets.
- Use Nol cards for transport – Public transit is efficient and affordable.
- Look for shared accommodation – House sharing is common among singles.
- Monitor utility usage – Especially during hot summer months.
Conclusion: Is Living in Dubai Worth It?
So, what is the cost of living in Dubai in 2025? While not cheap, Dubai offers a world-class lifestyle, excellent infrastructure, and tax-free income, making it a compelling destination for many. Whether you're a solo professional, a couple, or a family, understanding the real costs helps set realistic expectations and plan your move wisely.
The Dubai average living cost will vary depending on your lifestyle, but with thoughtful planning, it's possible to live comfortably and even save while enjoying all that the city has to offer.