Dubai 7 Days Cost: What You’ll Actually Spend in 2025

If you’re thinking about a week in Dubai, the first question is always the price tag. People throw around numbers like "$3,000 for a week" or "just $1,500 if you’re lucky," but those guesses don’t tell you where the money goes. Below is a straight‑forward look at each major cost, plus a few tricks to keep your wallet happy.

Breakdown of Major Expenses

Flights – Round‑trip tickets from major US or European hubs typically range from $700 to $1,200 depending on the season. Early‑bird deals in the off‑peak months (May‑September) can shave $150‑$200 off that price.

Accommodation – Dubai offers everything from budget hostels ($30‑$50 per night) to 5‑star hotel suites ($300‑$600 per night). For a comfortable mid‑range stay, aim for $120‑$180 a night in a 4‑star hotel. That puts a week’s lodging at $840‑$1,260.

Food & Drink – You can survive on street‑food plates for $5‑$8 each, but most travelers enjoy a mix of local shawarma stalls and occasional restaurant meals ($20‑$40 per dinner). Budget $35‑$45 daily, which totals $245‑$315 for seven days.

Transportation – The Metro is cheap ($1‑$2 per ride) and covers most tourist spots. Taxis start at $3 and run about $0.50 per km. If you plan a few night outs, set aside $100‑$150 for cabs or rideshares.

Activities & Attractions – Entry fees vary: Burj Khalifa “At The Top” ticket $40, Desert Safari $70, museum passes $20‑$30. A realistic activity budget is $250‑$350 for the week.

Miscellaneous – Souvenirs, tips, and unexpected fees can add up. Keep $100‑$150 on hand just in case.

Adding everything together, a moderate traveler can expect to spend roughly $2,300‑$3,300 for a full week in Dubai. Luxury lovers can easily push $5,000‑$7,000, while backpackers who camp or stay in hostels might keep the total under $1,500.

Tips to Save Money Without Skipping the Fun

Book flights and hotels together on package sites – they often lock in a discount you won’t get booking separately.

Use the Metro for daytime sightseeing; it’s clean, safe, and costs a fraction of a taxi.

Eat where locals eat. Food courts in malls serve tasty meals for $8‑$12, and street‑food markets are both cheap and authentic.

Look for combo tickets. Some operators bundle a desert safari with a dhow cruise for a lower combined price.

Travel in a group. Splitting a hotel room or a car rental can cut lodging and transport costs by half.

Finally, keep an eye on free attractions – the Dubai Fountain, public beaches, and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood are all free and worth the time.

With these numbers and tips, you can plan a Dubai week that fits your budget, whether you’re after luxury or just a solid adventure. Happy travels!