Dubai Pricing Guide – Know the Costs Before You Go

Planning a trip or a move to Dubai? The first thing most people ask is how much everything really costs. Dubai can feel expensive, but the price tags vary a lot depending on where you stay, what you eat and how you get around. This guide breaks down the typical costs so you can set a realistic budget and avoid surprises.

Everyday Expenses You’ll Face

Accommodation: A mid‑range hotel in a popular area runs about 300‑500 AED per night. If you book a serviced apartment or a Airbnb, you’ll pay roughly 5,000‑8,000 AED a month for a one‑bedroom unit. Hostels and budget hotels can be as low as 100‑150 AED per night, but they’re harder to find in the city centre.

Food: Street food and small cafés offer meals for 15‑30 AED. A dinner at a mid‑level restaurant costs around 80‑150 AED per person, while a high‑end dining experience can jump above 300 AED. If you cook at home, grocery bills for a single person average 800‑1,200 AED each month.

Transport: The Metro is the cheapest way to move around – a single ride costs 3‑8 AED, and a monthly pass is about 300 AED. Taxis start at 12 AED and add 2‑3 AED per kilometre. Ride‑hailing apps like Uber or Careem are similar in price to taxis but often give you a price estimate before you book.

Entertainment & Activities: A ticket to the Burj Khalifa observation deck is around 150‑200 AED. A desert safari with dinner runs 250‑350 AED. Nightclubs usually charge a cover of 50‑100 AED plus drinks, which start at 30‑40 AED each.

Utilities & Internet: If you rent an apartment, expect to pay about 300‑500 AED for electricity, water and cooling each month. High‑speed internet packages start at 200 AED.

How to Save Money in Dubai

Look for accommodation outside the main tourist districts. Areas like Al Barsha, Deira or Discovery Gardens often have lower rents and good Metro connections.

Eat where locals eat. Food courts in malls and small shawarma stalls give you a full meal for a fraction of the restaurant price.

Buy a Nol card for the Metro and keep it topped up. It’s cheaper than paying cash each ride and you avoid surge pricing on ride‑hailing apps during rush hour.

Take advantage of free attractions. Public beaches, the Dubai Fountain show and the Al Fahidi Historical District cost nothing and give you a real taste of the city.

Shop during sales. The Dubai Shopping Festival in January‑February offers deep discounts on everything from electronics to clothing.

Plan your activities in advance. Many tour operators give lower rates if you book online ahead of time.

Keep an eye on your spending with a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app. Tracking each expense helps you stay within your limit and spot areas where you can cut back.

Dubai can be pricey, but with a clear budget and a few smart choices you can enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Use the numbers above as a starting point, adjust them to match your lifestyle, and you’ll have a realistic plan for a great stay in Dubai.