Dubai Expense Guide – What You’ll Actually Spend

Thinking about Dubai but not sure how much cash to bring? You’re not alone. Many visitors over‑estimate or under‑estimate costs, which can ruin the vibe. Below you’ll get a clear picture of what everyday expenses look like in 2025, plus quick ways to stretch your dirhams.

Daily Expenses Breakdown

Accommodation: A mid‑range hotel in downtown costs about 400–600 AED per night. If you’re okay with a 3‑star spot a little farther out, you’ll pay 250–350 AED. For budget travelers, hostels and shared apartments start around 100 AED.

Food & drinks: Street food (shawarma, falafel) runs 15–30 AED per plate. A sit‑down restaurant charges 80–150 AED for a full meal with drinks. If you’re hitting a hotel bar or a club, expect 200+ AED for cocktails.

Transport: The metro is the cheapest way to get around – a single ride costs 4–7.5 AED, and a daily pass is about 20 AED. Taxis start at 12 AED and add 2 AED per km; ride‑hailing apps are similar. Renting a car costs roughly 100–150 AED per day, not including fuel.

Activities: A desert safari costs 250–350 AED, a Burj Khalifa "At the Top" ticket is 150–200 AED, and museum entry fees range 25–50 AED. Many free attractions (public beaches, Dubai Mall’s fountain show) keep the budget in check.

Miscellaneous: Tipping isn’t mandatory but 10% in restaurants is common. Expect a small tip of 5–10 AED for hotel staff. Wi‑Fi in hotels is often free; if you need a data plan, a prepaid 10 GB SIM runs about 50 AED.

Smart Money‑Saving Tips

Buy dirhams at a bank before you travel; exchange rates at airports are pricey. Use a no‑fee credit card for big purchases to avoid conversion fees. When shopping, ask for the tax‑free receipt (VAT 5%) if you’re a tourist – you can claim it back at the airport.

Eat where locals eat. Al Diyafah and Al Mariam serve huge portions for less than 30 AED. For coffee, skip the hotel lounge and head to a street‑side café – a latte is around 12 AED.

Plan your metro trips in advance. The Nol Card offers discounts for multiple rides, and the daily cap beats buying single tickets. If you’re staying a week or more, consider a weekly pass for about 80 AED.

Book attractions online ahead of time. Many sites give 10‑15% off for early bookings, and you skip the line. For desert tours, group deals often cut 20 AED per person.

Finally, keep an eye on the UAE’s public holidays. Prices for hotels and flights spike during Ramadan and Eid, so booking before or after these periods can save you a lot.

Bottom line: a comfortable 7‑day stay for one person will run roughly 2,500–3,500 AED if you mix a few splurges with budget choices. Long‑term expats can manage on 8,000–10,000 AED a month by sharing housing and cooking at home. Use this guide to plan your wallet, enjoy the city’s luxury, and still have enough left for a night out.