Last Updated on October 10, 2024
Understanding the cost of living in Dubai is crucial for anyone planning to study in the UAE’s most populous city. While Dubai offers a luxurious lifestyle, it comes with a significant price tag. In fact, Dubai ranked 7th among the world’s most expensive cities in 2023. The local currency, the Dirham (AED), currently exchanges at about 22.64 Indian Rupees, making Dubai particularly costly for Indian students. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the cost of living in Dubai, offering detailed insights and practical tips to help international students manage their monthly expenses in this opulent metropolis. We’ll also present an estimated total living cost in Dubai for international students and highlight the top 5 universities in Dubai along with their average tuition fees. By examining these factors, prospective students can better prepare for the financial aspects of studying in this dynamic and cosmopolitan city.
Cost of Living in Dubai: Housing
| Cost of Accommodations in Dubai | ||
| Housing Type | Average Monthly Rent (AED) | Average Monthly Rent (INR, converted at an exchange rate of 1 AED = 22.63 INR) |
| Studio Apartment (Dubai Central Area) | 4,000+ | 90.5 k |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outlying Area) | 3,000+ | 67.9 k |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (Central Area) | 11,500+ | 2.60 L |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment (Outlying Area) | 8,500+ | 1.92 L |
- Share a flat with friends or colleagues to reduce costs.
- Think about places far from city center like Dubai Silicon Oasis or Jumeirah Village Circle for saving money because central parts of the city usually cost much more than areas farther out.
- Apply early, especially during off-peak seasons and negotiate with landlords.
Cost of Food an Groceries in Dubai
| Market | Average Weekly Cost for Basic Groceries (AED) | Average Weekly Cost for Basic Groceries (INR) |
| Carrefour | 200 | 4527 |
| Spinneys | 250 | 5659 |
| Waitrose | 400 | 9054 |
Cost of Transportation in Dubai
Dubai offers a range of transportation options, including public transit, taxis, and the option to purchase a private car. Below are the average transportation costs associated with different modes of transport in Dubai.
| Transportation Mode | Average Cost (AED) | Average Cost (INR, converted at an exchange rate of 1 AED = 22.63 INR) |
| Dubai Metro | 17 (Per Trip) | 385 |
| Dubai Metro Monthly Pass | 300 | 6791 |
| Taxi | 25 (Per Km) | 566 |
| Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) | 15 (Per Km) | 340 |
Here are some tips for affordable transportation in Dubai:
- Make the most of the Dubai Metro whenever you can. Consider getting a monthly pass to further reduce your travel expenses.
- For short distances, opt to walk or cycle to save on taxi or metro fares.
- Carpooling with friends or colleagues is another great way to share fuel costs.
Cost of Dining & Entertainment in Dubai
Dubai has many different places to eat. You can find fancy restaurants with star ratings, and also cheap food on the streets. There’s food for everyone, no matter how much money you want to spend. Dubai’s food is really tasty and you should try it. The city has lots of choices for eating out and having fun. These fit different budgets, so you can pick what works for you. Here’s a list of average prices for food and fun things to do in Dubai:
| Fooding/Entertatinment Activity | Average Cost (AED) | Average Cost (INR) |
| Meal at a mid-range restaurant | 50 | 1131 |
| Meal at an upscale restaurant | 200+ | 4527+ |
| Movie Tickets | 35 | 792 |
| Theme Park Entry Tickets | 200+ | 4527+ |
Here are some suggestions to help you find budget-friendly food options and cut costs on entertainment in Dubai:
- Enjoy free activities such as strolling on the beach, visiting parks, and exploring cultural sites.
- Make the most of happy hour specials offered by various bars and eateries.
- Look for and use discount coupons, including special birthday offers, at restaurants and amusement parks.
- Consider purchasing city passes like the Dubai Pass, which provides cheaper entry to multiple attractions.
Cost of Living in Dubai: Miscellaneous Costs
Remember to budget for extra expenses like utilities, internet, and phone services, which typically cost around AED 500 (INR 11,317) monthly. Healthcare in Dubai is expensive, so health insurance is essential. For a basic lifestyle, including some social activities and unplanned purchases, plan to spend at least AED 8,000 (INR 1.81 L) per month.
To reduce your monthly living costs in Dubai, consider these tips:
- Your lifestyle choices greatly affect your expenses. Focus on necessities rather than luxuries, and opt for cost-effective alternatives like public transport and home-cooked meals.
- Dubai currently doesn’t have income tax, meaning your salary matches the amount in your offer letter. However, actual salaries can differ significantly from expectations. Research typical pay rates in your field before relocating.
- While Dubai is known for luxury, it welcomes people with various budgets. Adjust your lifestyle to fit your financial situation and explore the city’s lesser-known, affordable attractions beyond the flashy facade.
Cost of Living in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide
| Complete List of Living Expenditures in Dubai | ||
| Expenditures | Average Amount (AED) | Average Amount (INR) |
| Books and Stationary (one time pay) | (500-750) | 11.3k to 17k |
| Yearly Tuition Fees (Public and Private Universities) | 20,000 – 70,000 | 3.4 L to 16 L |
| Travelling | 200-300 | 4.5k to 6.8k |
| Food | 1000-1200 | 22.6k to 27.1k |
| Entertainment | 400-500 | 9k – 11k |
| Accommodation | 4000 | 90k |
| Phone Subscriptions | 300 | 6791 |
| Other Miscellaneous Expenses | 700 | 15.8k |
Top 5 Universities in Dubai and Their Average Tuition Fees
The top 5 universities in Dubai and their fees are given below.
| Universities | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| American University of Sharjah | ₹ 22.84 L |
| Abu Dhabi University | ₹ 9.65 L – 53.42 L |
| BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus | ₹ 7.26 L – 10.66 L |
| Westford University College | ₹ 3.86 L – 8.17 L |
| Amity University, Dubai Campus | ₹ 3.15 L – 14.61 L |
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of living in Dubai in AED?
The average monthly cost of living in Dubai for a single person is approximately AED 5,000 to AED 5,500, including rent and basic expenses.
2. What is the living cost in Dubai for expats?
Expats can expect to spend around AED 10,000 monthly if living alone. For a family of four, the average monthly cost can range from AED 14,800 to AED 23,300, depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
3. How does the cost of living in Dubai compare to India?
The average monthly living cost in Dubai for a single person is around AED 10,000 (approximately INR 2 L), while in India, it ranges from INR 30,000 to 50,000. This indicates that living in Dubai is generally more expensive than in India.
4. Is Dubai expensive to live in?
Yes, Dubai is considered one of the most expensive cities in the UAE. However, it offers a high standard of living and various amenities that justify the costs.
5. How much money do you need to live comfortably in Dubai?
To live comfortably in Dubai, a single person should aim for a salary of at least AED 8,000 to AED 10,000 per month. For a family of four, a monthly income of AED 25,000 to AED 30,000 is advisable to cover all expenses comfortably.
6. What additional costs should I consider when budgeting for living in Dubai?
In addition to rent and groceries, consider costs for utilities (AED 800–1,200), transportation (AED 350 for public transport), healthcare insurance, and leisure activities. These expenses can significantly impact your overall budget.
Simran is a seasoned content writer with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Her extensive expertise in research enables her to effectively guide students in their study abroad endeavors, particularly in navigating the complexities of choosing the right programs and universities. With a passion for education and mental health, Simran combines her writing skills and psychological insights to create informative content that empowers students to make informed decisions about their academic futures. Her commitment to helping others is evident in her work, as she strives to provide valuable resources for aspiring international students.
