Single Person Expenses in Dubai: What You’ll Actually Pay

If you’re thinking about living alone in Dubai, you probably wonder how much it will cost. The good news is that you can break it down into clear categories and see where your money goes. Below we cover rent, food, transport, utilities, entertainment and a few hidden costs. By the end you’ll have a realistic picture of a single‑person budget for 2025.

Housing: Rent and Utilities

Rent is the biggest line item. A studio or one‑bedroom in a mid‑range area (Al Barsha, Jumeirah Village) costs about AED 5,000‑7,000 per month. If you move a bit farther from the coast, prices drop to AED 3,500‑4,500. Most landlords ask for a security deposit equal to one month’s rent and a one‑year contract. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add roughly AED 400‑600 a month, but air‑conditioning can push that higher in summer.

Food, Transport and Everyday Extras

Groceries for one person run about AED 800‑1,200 per month if you shop at supermarkets like Carrefour or Lulu. Eating out is cheap if you stick to local spots – a meal at a shawarma stand costs AED 10‑15, while a table at a mid‑range restaurant is AED 80‑120. Public transport is efficient; a monthly Nol card for metro and bus costs AED 150. If you prefer taxis, expect AED 15‑20 per short ride, which adds up quickly.

Other regular expenses include mobile phone plans (around AED 80‑120 monthly) and a gym membership (AED 150‑300). Health insurance is mandatory for residents; basic coverage starts at AED 250 per month, but many employers cover it.

Leisure and entertainment vary. A cinema ticket costs AED 35‑45, while a night out at a bar in a hotel can be AED 100‑200 for drinks. If you love beach clubs, expect entry fees of AED 50‑100 plus drinks.

Putting it all together, a modest single‑person budget looks like this:

• Rent and utilities: AED 5,500‑7,500
• Food and groceries: AED 1,000‑1,200
• Transport: AED 150‑300
• Phone, internet, gym: AED 250‑500
• Leisure and misc.: AED 300‑600

Total monthly spend: roughly AED 7,200‑10,100 (about USD 2,000‑2,800). Adjust up or down based on lifestyle – sharing a flat, cooking at home, or using the metro can cut costs dramatically.

One tip many newcomers miss: use the Dubai “Ejari” system to register your rental. It protects you from sudden rent hikes and helps with visa paperwork. Also, pay your rent by post‑dated cheques; it’s the norm and avoids extra fees.

Finally, keep an eye on seasonal sales. The Dubai Shopping Festival in January offers deep discounts on everything from groceries to electronics, letting you stretch your budget further.

With these numbers you can plan ahead, avoid surprises, and enjoy Dubai without constantly worrying about money.