When it comes to living in Dubai, thoughts of luxurious living accessible only to the very wealthy often arise. However, this metropolis ranks only 31st in the world’s most expensive cities, trailing behind many European cities like Copenhagen, London, Vienna, as well as some major cities in Asia and America.
According to statistics compiled by the Numbeo service, the average person in Dubai spends around $950 per month, excluding housing expenses. In this article, we’ll delve into the main expenditures, helping you understand the cost of living in Dubai.
Benefits of Living in Dubai in 2024
Dubai serves as the financial, commercial, and tourist hub of the UAE. Many aspire to relocate to this metropolis to surround themselves with luxurious living, pursue business ventures, or engage in investments.
Considering a move to Dubai, it’s advisable to thoroughly explore the advantages and disadvantages of living in this city.
Advantages:
- Attractive tax policies: Citizens are exempt from property tax, capital gains tax, and income tax. Taxes aren’t required on property or financial gifts. Only corporate tax was introduced in 2023.
- High income levels: Middle-level specialists earn over $48,000, while managerial positions yield around $88,000.
- Communication: Proficiency in English is sufficient for living and working in Dubai. Knowledge of Arabic is an advantage but not a mandatory requirement.
- Simplified visa regime: Tourists can stay in Dubai for 90 days without a visa; otherwise, reasonable visa requirements are in place.
- Direct flights: Accessing Dubai is possible within a day, eliminating the need for connecting flights. Regular flights depart from cities like Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, Sochi, Ufa, Makhachkala, Mineralnye Vody, and others.
- High security levels: Comfortable living in Dubai is facilitated by its extremely low crime rate.
- Liberal relationships: Couples can cohabit without marriage registration, and there are more liberal attitudes towards alcohol consumption. Tourists can purchase or order alcohol in cafes and restaurants.
Disadvantages:
- Strict religious rules: Birth of a child out of wedlock, homosexuality, and violation of other Sharia rules are punishable by law.
- High cost of education for expatriates who are not citizens of the UAE.
- High cost of real estate: both for purchase and rent.
- Lack of opportunity to obtain citizenship. It is granted in rare cases, such as when the state itself deems that an individual has made significant contributions to the cultural, political, or financial life of the UAE. Citizenship may also be considered for women married to UAE citizens.
Cost of renting housing in Dubai in 2024
To calculate the cost of living in Dubai, special attention should be paid to the rental of housing, as it is considered the largest expense item for every expatriate. It is no secret that Dubai is a city with a high standard of living, and property prices reflect that. To pay for rent and utilities, one must spend half of their monthly income. It is also important to consider one particular aspect: rental payments are made in advance for a long period of time, ranging from 6 months to 2 years. So, to understand whether living in Dubai is expensive, familiarize yourself with the average rental prices for housing for the year 2024:
- One-bedroom apartment: 50,000 dirhams;
- Studio apartment: 60,000 dirhams;
- Apartment with one bedroom: from 70,000 dirhams;
- Two-bedroom apartment: from 20,000 dirhams;
- Three-bedroom apartment: from 120,000 dirhams;
- Villa: from 260,000 dirhams. To calculate the cost of living in Dubai, you need to consider the expenses for utilities. For example, renting an 85 m2 apartment will require $180 for heating, electricity, garbage collection, and water. A television and internet package costs around $270, while internet alone costs $100. There is also a housing fee, which is 5% of the rental value. In some cases, cleaning services should be considered. On average, it costs $100 and includes cleaning once a week. To choose the optimal option for yourself, consider the district where the property is located and the area of the apartment or house. Small and cozy apartments can be rented in the areas of Al-Kuz, Al-Barsha, and Jumeirah Village.
Cost of Utilities and Communication in Dubai in 2024
When calculating the cost of living in Dubai, it’s important to consider expenses for utilities and communication. For instance, heating costs are relatively low. Many apartments are equipped with air conditioners, which can both heat and cool the apartment depending on the season. Given the hot subtropical climate, it’s worth noting that cooling expenses during the hot period will be high.
When renting an apartment, it’s crucial to check whether the cost of air conditioning is included in the rental price or if it’s paid separately. Many rental listings specify “without air conditioner.” If this service isn’t included in the rental cost, tenants may need to pay for it separately through a dedicated app.
If you plan to use the internet, be aware that expenses may amount to approximately 300-500 dirhams per month. Popular internet providers in Dubai include companies like Etisalat, DU or Virgin. Alternatively, if you only need internet occasionally, you can utilize the Wi-Fi services available at various cafes.
Cost of Groceries in Dubai in 2024
Purchasing groceries is another significant expense, so it’s important to know the prices of groceries in Dubai. Currently, prices remain stable without noticeable increases. Food prices in Dubai are lower than in New York, Berlin, or London, but they’re 15% higher than in Moscow.
To buy groceries at reasonable prices, you can visit supermarket chains like GALA and VIVA. Additionally, there are food markets where you can purchase fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables. At these markets, bargaining with local vendors is common practice.
Here’s a list of some commonly purchased items and their average prices:
- Bread: 5 dirhams
- Milk: 5 dirhams
- Chicken meat: 25 dirhams per 1 kg
- Rice: 10 dirhams per 1 kg
- Eggs: 10 dirhams for 10 pieces
- Apples: 7 dirhams per 1 kg
- Beef: 40 dirhams per 1 kg
- Potatoes: 3 dirhams per kg
- Tomatoes: 5 dirhams per kg
Prices at local markets may be lower, especially for fruits, vegetables, and spices. Additionally, it’s important to consider that prices for imported products are always higher. Determine where it’s most convenient to purchase groceries and calculate the monthly cost of living in Dubai accordingly.
Cost of Transportation in Dubai in 2024
Dubai boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, offering residents access to water transport, buses, metro, and trams. To navigate the city, one can purchase a special card. A single trip costs between 3 to 15 dirhams, with variations depending on UAE citizenship status, possession of a “golden” VIP card, and the duration of public transportation travel. If opting for car travel, it’s essential to consider the cost of gasoline in Dubai. In 2025, one liter of fuel costs 3.80 dirhams.
Cost of Education for Children in Dubai in 2024
When relocating with children, it’s crucial to consider not only the cost of living in Dubai but also the expense of education. Expatriates have access to childcare services and schools. The cost of an English-language nursery school averages around 25-40 thousand dirhams per year. Children can attend both public and private schools, with private school tuition ranging from 7 to 25 thousand dollars per year. Various educational options are available, including American, French, Russian, or British schools, all following international education standards. Children have numerous options for study, leisure, and entertainment, including zoos, water parks, sports, and playgrounds.
Cost of Entertainment in Dubai in 2024
After calculating the cost of relocating to Dubai and accounting for primary expenses, it’s essential to consider additional ones, such as visits to cultural establishments. Notably, most entertainment venues in Dubai are located within malls, offering everything from children’s play areas to restaurants, bars, amusement parks, and cinemas. Popular destinations include the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Hills park , Miracle garden. Nightlife enthusiasts can explore venues in Barsha Heights, Dubai Marina, JLT, and Downtown, where they can enjoy alcohol, dancing, or live music.
Cost of Visiting Cultural Establishments and Attractions in Dubai in 2024
Dubai boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with numerous museums and galleries accessible for free or a small fee. The average income in Dubai enables regular visits to attractions and significant cultural sites. A visit to the Dubai Museum is a must for those interested in the city’s history, while the Dubai Opera House offers cultural performances such as concerts, operas, and ballets. Ticket prices range from 200 to 1000 dirhams, depending on the chosen seating category.
Cost of Fitness and Sports in Dubai in 2024
An active lifestyle is a hallmark of Dubai residents. Sports enthusiasts have access to various fitness clubs, ranging from budget to luxurious options. Prices vary depending on location and prestige, averaging from 250 to 1000 dirhams per month. For those interested in water sports like surfing, snorkeling, or diving, individual lessons are available at a cost ranging from 200 to 500 dirhams. Free options for staying healthy and active include participating in events held at Kite Beach, which also features an 8.2-kilometer running track.
Monthly Living Expenses List in Dubai in 2024
By calculating all the costs of living in Dubai, you can determine the income needed for a comfortable lifestyle. Here’s an approximate list of expenses for 1 month of living:
- Villa rental with 3 bedrooms: 4000 euros
- Child education: 3000 euros
- Medical insurance: 1000 euros
- Additional expenses – DEWA: 500 euros
- Car insurance and fuel: 150 euros
- Food and leisure: 2000 euros
- Internet, television, mobile communication: 250 euros
- Nanny: 1000 euros
With these expenses, the cost of living in Dubai will be 12,000 euros per month for a family of 4 people with nanny services.
Top Dubai Neighborhoods to Live In
Many are curious about the cost of moving to Dubai. It’s important to consider that much depends on the chosen neighborhood, lifestyle, and family composition.
The most expensive neighborhoods for living are:
- Palm Jumeirah
- Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Hills
- Dubai Marina
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
These areas also have many offices and business centers.
For families with average income, excellent options for moving are:
These are calm areas with good transportation and social infrastructure. If you have a high standard of living in Dubai, you can consider villas in Jumeirah, Al-Barari, Emirates Hills, or on Palm Jumeirah Island.
Dubai is not only a city of luxurious living and unforgettable experiences but also endless opportunities for work and education. At Alira Real Estate Agency, specialists are ready to provide detailed consultation on relocation and property acquisition according to financial capabilities. Many consider real estate in the UAE an excellent investment opportunity. We are ready to assist in this matter, ensuring the right choice and transaction security.
Schedule a consultation with us by leaving a request on the website or contacting us by phone at +971 (588) 337 903 and ++7 (986) 927-73-77.. You can also send us an email at info@alirarealestate.com.
