A comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Dubai in 2025 | From housing to food

Dubai, a city renowned for its modern architecture, rich culture, and luxurious lifestyle, has become a popular destination for both immigrants and tourists, positioning itself as one of the most fascinating yet challenging places to live globally. If you find yourself drawn to the allure of this city and are considering immigrating to or residing in Dubai, this article will delve into the cost of living in Dubai in 2025. For more comprehensive insights, you might also find our guide, “A Traveler’s Guide to Dubai in 2025,” a valuable resource.

Our aim is to provide a detailed and practical overview of rental costs, food expenses, transportation, and other essential living costs in Dubai for the year 2025.

1. Housing Rental Costs in Dubai

One of the main issues for Dubai residents, in addition to buying property in Dubai, is the cost of renting a house. Prices in the city depend heavily on the type of area you choose. Areas such as Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina are more expensive to live in than others, while other areas such as Deira and Al Barsha may offer more affordable costs.

Apartment Rental Costs by Area :

• Palm Jumeirah : One-bedroom apartments range from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000.
• Dubai Marina : One-bedroom apartments range from AED 7,000 to AED 15,000.
• Deira : One-bedroom apartments range from AED 3,500 to AED 6,000.
• Al Barsha : One-bedroom apartments range from AED 4,000 to AED 9,000.

Rental costs can vary depending on the amenities and condition of the apartment. It’s also important to note that housing leases in Dubai are typically annual and require upfront payment, necessitating careful financial planning.

2. Costs Associated with Buying Property in Dubai

In addition to the house prices in Dubai in 2025, buyers should also consider the costs of buying a house in Dubai. These costs include taxes, transfer fees and consultancy. Given the high costs, it is vital to have a consultant to advise you on buying a house in Dubai. This consultant can help you find the best property at the lowest cost.

3. Food and Grocery Expenses

The cost of groceries in Dubai varies depending on your dietary habits and preferences. Dubai boasts a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets, offering diverse choices for its residents.

Price Breakdown :

• A meal at a mid-range restaurant : AED 50 to AED 80.
• A meal at an upscale restaurant : AED 200 to AED 500.
• Grocery Shopping :
• One liter of milk : AED 7.
• One kilogram of chicken : AED 20.
• One kilogram of rice : AED 10.

If, like many expatriates, you prefer to cook at home, the monthly grocery expenses for a family of four might range from approximately AED 1,000 to AED 2,000.

4. Transportation Costs

Living in Dubai comes with access to an advanced public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and taxis. Transportation costs in Dubai in 2025 are generally reasonable compared to other major global cities.

Prices :

Metro ticket: AED 3 to AED 8, depending on the distance.
Taxi: AED 12 base fare plus AED 2 per kilometer.
Car rental: AED 1,500 to AED 3,000 per month, depending on the vehicle type.
Utilizing the metro or bus for intra-city travel is a cost-effective and efficient option that can help save on expenses.

5. Healthcare Costs

Ensuring health and well-being is paramount in any country. Dubai features a sophisticated healthcare system with reputable hospitals that provide high-quality services. However, healthcare costs can vary based on your health insurance coverage.

Prices :

• General practitioner consultation : AED 250 to AED 400.
• Specialist consultation : AED 400 to AED 600.
• Health insurance : AED 500 and upwards.

It is highly recommended to secure adequate health insurance that covers your medical expenses, as healthcare costs in Dubai are generally high.

6. Leisure and Entertainment Costs

As a major tourist hub, Dubai offers a plethora of recreational options. The cost of leisure and entertainment in Dubai in 2025 can vary significantly depending on your choices.

Prices :

• Movie ticket : AED 40 to AED 70.
• Water park entry : Approximately AED 250.
• Desert safari : AED 300 to AED 500.

Sports and Fitness :

Membership at fitness clubs in Dubai ranges from AED 200 to AED 700 per month, depending on the club type and facilities. Additionally, various fitness classes like yoga and Pilates can cost between AED 40 to AED 100 per session. Nightlife enthusiasts can also visit luxurious restaurants and bars, typically incurring costs between AED 100 to AED 300 per person.

7. Educational Costs

If you are relocating to Dubai with your family and children, educational expenses are a crucial aspect to consider. Dubai boasts international schools with diverse curricula.

Prices :

• International school tuition : AED 30,000 to AED 70,000 per year, depending on the school type and educational level.
• University tuition : AED 50,000 to AED 100,000 per year.

Quality education is a hallmark of Dubai, and the financial outlay for your children’s schooling may represent one of the highest annual expenses.

8. Utility and Services Costs

Living in a new country invariably involves infrastructure-related expenses. Utility and services costs in Dubai are generally as follows:

Prices :

• Electricity and water : AED 500 to AED 1,000 per month.
• Internet : AED 300 to AED 500 per month, depending on the service type and speed.

These costs will fluctuate based on your consumption patterns and the size of your living space.

9. Insurance Costs

Insurance policies hold significant importance in Dubai. Another living expense in Dubai in 2025 is insurance, encompassing car and health insurance, which should be prioritized in your financial planning.

Prices :

• Car insurance: Starting from AED 1,000 per year.
• Health insurance: Starting from AED 500 per month, depending on the type and coverage.

This investment can provide substantial assistance during unforeseen circumstances.

10. Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses

Personal and miscellaneous expenses include the purchase of clothing, cosmetics, toiletries, and other daily necessities.

Prices :

• A pair of sports shoes : AED 200 to AED 400.
• A pair of jeans : AED 150 to AED 300.
• Cosmetics : Starting from AED 100.

Shopping in Dubai is akin to exploring diverse worlds, where each brand possesses its unique story, culture, and aesthetic.

Conclusion : Life in Dubai, a City with Diverse Costs

The cost of living in Dubai in 2025 can vary significantly based on an individual’s lifestyle. For a single person, monthly expenses might range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000, while for a family, these costs could escalate to AED 15,000 to AED 30,000. Ultimately, given Dubai’s high quality of life and unique amenities, investing in living here can translate into realizing your aspirations. With prudent financial management and informed choices, you can enjoy life in this beautiful city. Despite the costs, Dubai remains an attractive destination for expatriates and professionals due to its excellent facilities, abundant job opportunities, and high quality of life.

Should you be planning a trip to Dubai, you might also find our article, “Top Attractions in Dubai in 2025,” a helpful read.