Cost of Living in Dubai 2025: A Detailed Breakdown

Is Dubai Expensive? The Real Numbers for 2025

One of the first questions potential expats ask is: "How much does it cost to live in Dubai?" The answer depends heavily on your lifestyle, but knowing the baseline costs is essential for negotiating tailored salary packages and planning your budget. Here is a realistic look at the cost of living in Dubai for 2025.

1. Housing: The Biggest Expense

Rent will likely consume 30-40% of your income. Rents have risen recently, so budgeting carefully is key.

• Studio Apartment: AED 40,000 - 70,000 / year
• 1-Bedroom Apartment: AED 60,000 - 110,000 / year
• 2-Bedroom Apartment: AED 90,000 - 160,000 / year
• 3-Bedroom Villa: AED 180,000 - 300,000+ / year

Note: Prime areas like Downtown and Marina command the higher end of these ranges.

2. Utilities and Connectivity

• DEWA (Electricity & Water): AED 500 - 1,000/month for apartments; AED 1,500+ for villas (spikes in summer with AC usage).
• Internet & TV: A basic home package (250 Mbps + TV) costs around AED 389 - 500/month.
• Mobile Plan: AED 150 - 300/month for a decent data package.

3. Education and Schooling

If you have children, this is a major line item. Fees vary by curriculum and school rating.

• Primary School: AED 30,000 - 60,000 / year
• Secondary School: AED 50,000 - 95,000+ / year

Don't forget additional costs like uniforms, transport, and extra-curriculars.

4. Transportation

• Car Rental/Lease: AED 1,500 - 3,000/month for a standard sedan.
• Fuel: Approx. AED 3.00 per liter (fluctuates). Filling a sedan costs ~AED 150.
• Public Transport: A monthly Nol pass for all zones is AED 350.
• Taxis: Minimum fare is AED 12. A 20-minute ride is approx AED 40-60.

5. Groceries and Dining

• Groceries: A couple can expect to spend AED 1,500 - 2,500/month. Local produce is cheap; imported brands are pricey.
• Dining Out:
  • Budget meal: AED 30-50
  • Mid-range dinner for two: AED 250-400
  • Fine dining: AED 800+

6. Domestic Help

Many families hire domestic help. Sponsorship costs (visa, insurance) plus salary (AED 2,000 - 4,000/month) should be factored in.

7. Entertainment and Leisure

• Gym Membership: AED 300 - 600/month
• Cinema Ticket: AED 45 - 60
• Friday Brunch: AED 200 - 600 per person (depending on package)

Summary Table (Monthly Estimate for a Couple)

Category	Estimated Cost (AED)
Housing (1-bed)	5,000 - 9,000
Utilities & Net	1,000 - 1,500
Groceries	2,000 - 3,000
Transport (1 car)	2,000 - 3,000
Entertainment	1,500 - 3,000
TOTAL	11,500 - 19,500

Verdict

While costs have risen, Dubai remains tax-free, meaning your take-home pay goes further. With smart budgeting, you can enjoy a high standard of living and still save for the future.