Dubai is one of the most popular cosmopolitan cities in the world, representing the Middle East. Its growth and development have been on full display for economists to observe. The city’s drive for excellence has made it a heaven for most people wanting to settle down, and that brings us to consider the cost of living in Dubai.

If you are thinking of changing your location to this city, having a budget plan is crucial. This is where we can help you out.

In this blog by MSM Unify, we shall discuss the several expenses you will face while living in Dubai and offer tips on how to manage your costs and live a more financially stable life in Dubai.

 

Understanding the cost of living in Dubai

Dubai is a city famous for its extravagant lifestyle and trendy facilities. Whether you’re coming to Dubai as a student or looking forward to coming with your family or as a solitary person, knowing the types of expenses will help. Here’s a guide for you to get a clear picture of the cost of living in Dubai.

Accommodation costs

One of the most significant costs of living in Dubai is housing. The cost of living in Dubai for a single person with rent varies based on location. Prime areas like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina are more expensive compared to suburban neighborhoods like Deira and Dubai Silicon Oasis. Here is a table to give you an idea of the monthly rent:

Type of residential unit	Estimated monthly rent
Studio apartment	AED 3,000 – AED 6,000
1-Bedroom apartment	AED 4,000 – AED 7,500
2-Bedroom apartment	AED 6,000 – AED 9,000
3-Bedroom apartment	AED 7,000 – AED 11,000
Penthouse	AED 14,000 – AED 20,000
Townhouse	AED 16,000 – AED 22,000
Villa	AED 15,000 – AED 27,500
Shared accommodation	AED 2,000 – AED 4,000

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Grocery and dining expenses

Housing, food, and grocery expenses rank high on a person’s list of monthly cost of living in Dubai. If one frequently dines out then their costs would be higher as compared to a home-cooked meal. Additionally, shopping in high-end supermarkets and purchasing imports would also put a higher bill. However, there is potential to save a few extra pounds by shopping for groceries at smaller supermarkets.

Food category	Estimated monthly cost
Groceries	AED 1,500 – AED 3,500
Casual dining	AED 1,000 – AED 2,500
Fine dining	AED 3,000 – AED 6,000

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Utility expenses

Utilities are yet another important element involved in the average cost of living in Dubai. This entails light, water, gas, Internet, and Mobile packs. Living in the land of extreme summer heat, the most extensively used utilities after electricity and, therefore, driving up light bill costs. Its supply lies solely with DEWA, that is, the Electricity and Water Authority of Dubai.

Type of utility	Monthly cost
Electricity	AED 500 – AED 1,200
Cooking gas	AED 90 – AED 300
Water	AED 200 – AED 550
Internet	AED 250 – AED 600
Mobile packs	AED 150 – AED 500

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Transportation costs

Understanding transportation costs is vital for managing your budget in Dubai. Whether you use a personal vehicle or public transportation, commuting is a daily necessity. Fuel costs in Dubai are relatively lower compared to other parts of the world. The cost of living in Dubai for Indians using public transport can be more affordable compared to maintaining a personal vehicle.

Transportation mode	Monthly cost
Personal vehicle	AED 1,500 – AED 3,000
Buses	AED 150 – AED 250
Taxis	AED 1,000 – AED 2,000
Ride-sharing	AED 700 – AED 1,500

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Healthcare services

Dubai has an excellent healthcare system, but it can be expensive. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents. Employers usually provide health insurance, but if not, you need to purchase one. This also applies to domestic help if you have any. The cost of living in Dubai for an Indian couple can be managed with a comprehensive health plan.

Healthcare service	Average cost
General Practitioner	AED 150 – AED 400
Dental care	AED 200 – AED 700
Special consultation	AED 400 – AED 1,000
Hospital stay	AED 2,000 – AED 8,000 per day
Basic health insurance	AED 600 – AED 900 annually per person
Comprehensive health plan	AED 5,000 – AED 9,000 annually per person
Premium health plans	AED 10,000 – AED 15,000 annually per person

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Educational expenses

If you have children or are a student yourself, education costs are an important factor. Dubai offers various curricula, including American, British, Indian, and Emirati educational systems. Private schools are basically considered as more expensive than public schools. The cost of living in Dubai for Indian students can be high but is balanced by the quality of education.

Education type	Annual cost
Public schools	AED 6,000 – AED 12,000
Private schools	AED 18,000 – AED 40,000
International schools	AED 35,000 – AED 80,000
Colleges and universities	AED 50,000 – AED 100,000

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Entertainment and leisure costs

Dubai does offer many entertainment options, such as theme parks, water parks, nightclubs, and shopping malls. There are many public beaches and parks that are free or low-cost entertainment, hence some of these can be part of the cost of living in Dubai for Indian families.

Entertainment mode	Average cost
Movie tickets	AED 30 – AED 50
Nightclubs and pubs	AED 100 – AED 250
Amusement parks	AED 150 – AED 400
Water parks	AED 100 – AED 350

Please note: The prices mentioned in the above table are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official sources to determine your expenses precisely.

Average monthly cost of living in Dubai

Knowing the average monthly cost of living in Dubai is very important for anyone who is planning to move to this vibrant city. The cost of living varies according to lifestyle and personal preferences, but this overview gives you a comprehensive look at what you can expect to spend each month.

Considering the average cost of living in Dubai for a bachelor

Living like a bachelor in Dubai can also be relatively economical. The general cost of expenses, excluding renting, is about AED 4,065. Rentals for one single apartment cost in the range of AED 4,858 to AED 12,500.

Explaining the average cost of living in Dubai for a couple

For couples, the cost of living increases slightly. The average monthly cost without rent is approximately AED 8,130. Rent for a two-bedroom apartment typically ranges from AED 7,852 to AED 11,164.

Navigating the average cost of living in Dubai for a family

Families in Dubai face higher living costs. A family of four can expect to spend around AED 14,092.7 per month without rent. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment ranges from AED 11,164 to AED 19,601.

Exploring the average cost of living in Dubai for a single person

The average value for one person, where living expenses, other than rent, can reach AED 4,065 in a month. This includes food, transportation, and so on.

Discovering the average cost of living in Dubai per month

The average monthly cost of living in Dubai varies according to lifestyle and accommodation choices. For a single person, it is around AED 4,065 without rent, while a family of four can expect to spend AED 14,092.7 per month without rent.

Understanding the cost of living in Dubai in INR

The cost of living in Dubai in Indian Rupees would be a necessity for any Indian expatriate, as this helps them convert house rent, grocery shop, transportation, and utilities into INR so that they could plan their budgeting.

Cost of living in Dubai for an Indian couple

Indian couples who live in Dubai have to worry about housing, groceries, transport, and electricity. The amount depends on one’s lifestyle choices and preferences.

Cost of living in Dubai for students

Students in Dubai need to budget for accommodations, food, transportation, and study materials. These costs may depend on the lifestyle of students either living on campus or off campus.

 

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Scholarship opportunities to lower the cost of living in Dubai

International students can apply for various study abroad scholarships to help reduce the cost of living in Dubai. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other essential living expenses. By securing a scholarship, students can significantly lower the cost of living in Dubai for students and focus on their education and personal growth.

Scholarship name	Benefits	Type
University of Wollongong Academic Excellence Scholarships	$10,000, split in two instalments	Merit-based
BITS Pilani Merit in BITSAT	25%-75% tuition fee reduction	Merit-based
Khalifa University Master Research Teaching Scholarship	Full tuition, insurance, stipend, flight assistance	Merit-based
Zayed University Undergraduate Scholarship	50% tuition for students with >90% final exams	Merit-based
SPJ Global Postgraduate Scholarship	100% tuition for CGPA ≥ 3.5, meeting 4 of 6 criteria	Merit-based

Please note: The scholarship benefits listed in the table above are subject to change over time. Please visit the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

 

Conclusion

Securing scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of living in Dubai for students, thereby making their educational journey more affordable and focused. MSM Unify overseas education consultant is a leading education consultancy offering comprehensive support to international students, such as scholarship advisory, visa guidance, and career development services.

With the right resources, like MSM Unify, students can navigate the complexities of studying abroad with ease and confidence, ensuring a smooth and successful academic experience.

 

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FAQs

1. How much is the cost of living in Dubai?

Dubai living can be relatively cheap or very expensive, depending on lifestyle and personal preferences. The average monthly expenditure of a single person may run approximately AED 4,065 without rent. A family of four may require a monthly sum of about AED 14,092.7 without rent.

2. Is the cost of living in Dubai high?

Yes, living in Dubai is pricey compared to many other cities. Some of the factors that contribute to high expenses include dwelling, groceries, transport, and utilities. However, the place boasts a life of affluence and contemporary comforts, making it worth paying the pennies.

3. What is the cost of living in Dubai for a single person?

On average, the cost of living in Dubai for an individual would be about AED 4,065 per month, apart from rent, which would include food, transport, utilities, and other expenses of daily necessity.

4. What is the cost of living in Dubai for a family?

A family of four’s living expenses in Dubai will run about AED 14,092.7 monthly excluding rent, including grocery items, transportation, utilities, education, and health expenses.

5. What is the cost of living in Dubai per month?

The average monthly cost of living in Dubai depends on household size and lifestyle choices. For a single person, it is around AED 4,065 without rent, while a family of four might spend approximately AED 14,092.7 per month without rent.