How much does it really cost to live and travel in Dubai?24.04.2025
Dubai, known for its luxury and extravagance, often raises many questions about the costs of daily living and traveling. In this section, we will take you through the basic expenses, such as the cost of living in Dubai , food in Dubai , and transportation in Dubai . You will learn about the average rental prices, where to look for cheap […]

Dubai, known for its luxury and extravagance, often raises many questions about the costs of daily living and traveling. In this section, we will take you through the basic expenses, such as the cost of living in Dubai , food in Dubai , and transportation in Dubai . You will learn about the average rental prices, where to look for cheap eats, and which transportation options are most beneficial for tourists and residents.
Cost of living and travel in Dubai
Dubai is a city that attracts tourists from all over the world with its wealth and diverse attractions. However, the cost of living and traveling in Dubai can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and budget.
Housing is one of the most important factors influencing the cost of living. Renting an apartment in the city centre can be quite expensive, but there are also cheaper options outside the main business districts. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in Bur Dubai costs around AED 4,500 per month.
When it comes to food, Dubai offers a wide range of restaurants, from luxury establishments to mid-range restaurants and more affordable options. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around AED 100-150 per person. For those who prefer to cook at home, shopping at supermarkets like Carrefour or Spinneys can be a bit cheaper.
Transportation in Dubai is well-developed, but taxis and car rentals are often the preferred means of transportation. The Dubai Metro is also a great option, especially for those traveling between the city’s main attractions. A single metro ticket costs between AED 3 and 8, depending on the zone.
Exploring Dubai is another important part of your trip. Visiting the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Mall is a must-see, but it can also be a bit pricey. For example, a ticket to the Burj Khalifa observation deck costs around AED 150. For a more budget-friendly option, strolling through the historic Al Fahidi district or visiting the Gold Souk can be just as interesting.
In conclusion, the cost of living and travel in Dubai depends largely on individual preferences and how you manage your expenses. Regardless of your budget, the city offers options for everyone, from luxury options to more economical options.
Current Living Expenses in Dubai
Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, which translates into higher prices in Dubai . Housing costs are a significant expense, especially if you move to popular areas like the Marina or Downtown. Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can start at AED 5,000 (approximately PLN 5,000), with larger apartments reaching even higher amounts.
Monthly utility bills such as electricity, water and gas typically run around AED 800-1,200. It’s important to keep these expenses in mind when planning your budget in Dubai. Food costs vary depending on your shopping preferences. Premium items in large supermarkets such as Carrefour and Spinneys command higher prices, while local markets can be more affordable.
Maintaining a comfortable life in Dubai also includes healthcare, transportation, and education if you have children. Health insurance can range from AED 600 per month, depending on the plan. Restaurant dining costs vary from affordable prices in cafes to high-end dining in luxury restaurants.
When considering how to optimize your spending, it’s worth considering different aspects of your lifestyle. This could include choosing less popular neighborhoods to live in, shopping at local markets, and using public transportation instead of taxis. Understanding how Dubai prices affect your finances is key when planning your stay in this surprising city.
Budget for a trip to Dubai
Planning a budget for a trip to Dubai may seem complicated, but with the right preparation you can significantly reduce the cost of your trip to Dubai without sacrificing comfort and attractions. Let’s start with the most important elements:
Flights: Depending on the season and airline, airfare prices can vary significantly. It is worth following promotions and planning your ticket purchases in advance.
Accommodation: Dubai offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury to more affordable options. Booking in advance or using discount platforms can help you find great deals.
Food: The cost of food in Dubai varies depending on the restaurants you choose. Local eateries can offer tasty meals at affordable prices. For more economical options, consider using food courts or cheap bistros.
Attractions: Dubai is known for its impressive attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Palm Jumeirah. Tickets to these places can be expensive, but many attractions offer discounts when purchased online.
Savings can also come from well-planned transportation. Using the Dubai Metro is convenient and inexpensive compared to taxis. To optimize your budget for your trip to Dubai , you can get tourist cards that combine transportation with entry to some attractions.
Below is a sample budget structure for a comfortable vacation in Dubai:
- Flights: from PLN 1,500 round trip (depending on promotion and season)
- Accommodation: from PLN 300 per night in a mid-range hotel
- Meals: from PLN 100 per day per person
- Attractions: from PLN 500 for a package for the most important places
By analyzing the cost of traveling to Dubai in detail , you can better plan your expenses. Remember that the budget for traveling to Dubai will depend on the selected periods and individual preferences of travelers.
Dubai price comparison with other cities
Comparing Dubai prices to other global cities can provide valuable insight into the differences in cost of living and travel. Dubai is often seen as a luxury city, but how does it compare directly to places like London, New York, or Tokyo?
Renting an apartment in central Dubai is on average more expensive than Tokyo, but cheaper compared to London and New York. When it comes to food costs, Dubai offers a wide range of options, from cheap meals at local restaurants to exclusive dinners at renowned establishments. In this respect, it is comparable to New York, but slightly more expensive than Tokyo and London.
Tourist services and attractions also vary in cost. Ticket prices for attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall can be similar to those in New York, but higher than in Tokyo and London. Dubai also offers unique attractions on a global scale, which can increase its appeal despite its higher prices.
From a cost perspective, Dubai is at the top of the list for both luxury experiences and everyday expenses. However, when considering other aspects of life and travel, Dubai offers unique opportunities compared to other cities and is worth considering as a potential destination or place to live.
