Cost of Living in Dubai 2024

Dubai, with its stunning skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and modern amenities, is an attractive destination for expatriates and investors alike. However, living in this bustling metropolis comes at a price. According to Numbeo, a family of four has estimated monthly costs of $3,698.5 (14,015.6 AED) without rent, while a single person’s estimated monthly costs are $1,059.5 (4,014.2 AED) without rent. In this article, we break down the costs of housing, transportation, groceries, and more to give you a clear picture of living expenses in Dubai in 2024.

Housing Costs

Housing is typically the most significant expense in Dubai. You can find a wide range of options, from luxury apartments in prime locations to more affordable options in the suburbs.

Rent prices for apartments (monthly averages):

• 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: AED 7,000 – AED 12,000 ($1,900 – $3,270)

• 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: AED 4,500 – AED 7,500 ($1,225 – $2,040)

• 3-bedroom apartment in the city center: AED 12,000 – AED 22,000 ($3,270 – $6,000)

• 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center: AED 8,000 – AED 14,000 ($2,180 – $3,810)

For those looking to invest in property, prices per square meter vary based on the location:

• City center: AED 12,000 – AED 18,000 per square meter ($3,270 – $4,900)

• Outside the city center: AED 8,000 – AED 12,000 per square meter ($2,180 – $3,270)

Utilities and Internet

Utilities can fluctuate depending on your apartment size and the season (with higher costs during summer due to air conditioning).

Average Monthly Utility Bills

For a standard 85 m² apartment: AED 500 – AED 1,200 ($135 – $327)

Internet

High-speed internet: AED 300 – AED 500 per month ($82 – $136)

Transportation Costs

Dubai’s public transportation system includes buses, the metro, and taxis, making it easy to get around.

Public Transportation

• One-way ticket on public transport: AED 5 – AED 7.50 ($1.36 – $2.04)

• Monthly pass for public transport: AED 300 – AED 500 ($82 – $136)

Fuel Costs

Fuel prices in Dubai are relatively low compared to Western countries, with 1 liter of gasoline costing AED 3 – AED 4 ($0.82 – $1.09).

Car Ownership

Renting or buying a car is common in Dubai. You can rent a basic sedan for AED 1,500 – AED 3,000 per month ($408 – $816), while buying a car depends on the model.

Grocery and Food Costs

Grocery prices in Dubai can vary based on whether you purchase local or imported goods. Supermarkets like Carrefour and Spinneys offer a range of choices.

Average Grocery Prices (2024)

• 1 liter of milk: AED 6 – AED 7 ($1.63 – $1.90)

• 1 kg of rice: AED 5 – AED 8 ($1.36 – $2.18)

• 12 eggs: AED 10 – AED 13 ($2.72 – $3.54)

• 1 kg of chicken breast: AED 24 – AED 32 ($6.53 – $8.72)

• 1 kg of apples: AED 7 – AED 10 ($1.90 – $2.72)

• 1 loaf of bread: AED 5 – AED 7 ($1.36 – $1.90)

Eating Out

Dubai’s diverse food scene caters to all budgets:

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: AED 40 – AED 70 ($10.90 – $19.06)

• Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: AED 200 – AED 400 ($54.45 – $109)

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare is of high quality in Dubai, and health insurance is mandatory for all residents.

Healthcare costs without insurance:

• Doctor’s visit: AED 200 – AED 600 ($54 – $163)

• Specialist consultation: AED 400 – AED 1,000 ($109 – $272)

• Monthly health insurance premium: AED 500 – AED 1,500 ($136 – $408)

Education Costs

For families, education can be one of the most significant expenses. Dubai has a range of private schools offering international curricula.

School fees per year:

• Primary school: AED 30,000 – AED 70,000 ($8,170 – $19,060)

• Secondary school: AED 40,000 – AED 100,000 ($10,900 – $27,250)

Entertainment and Leisure

Dubai offers a wealth of activities, including beaches, luxury malls, theme parks, and fitness options such as:

• Gym membership: AED 200 – AED 600 per month ($54 – $163)

• Tennis court rental: AED 100 – AED 200 per hour ($27 – $54)

• Movie ticket: AED 45 – AED 60 ($12 – $16)

Average Monthly Expenses for an Individual in Dubai (2024)

Here’s an estimate of monthly expenses for an individual living in Dubai: