Are you thinking about moving to Dubai in 2024 but feeling a bit unsure about the cost of living and everyday expenses? No need to stress – we’ve got you covered! In this blog, we’re addressing all your questions about the cost of living in Dubai.
First things first, what exactly is the “Cost of Living”? It’s the amount of money you need to cover your basic monthly expenses. These include housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and clothing. Keep in mind that the cost of living varies from city to city and country to country, influenced by factors like the economy, housing, and administration. Now that you’ve got a handle on what the cost of living entails let’s focus on the Cost of Living in Dubai for 2024. Understanding this is crucial for making informed decisions and planning your finances before your move.
By knowing the estimated costs, you can better prepare for your new life in Dubai, ensuring a smooth transition. So, let’s explore the ins and outs of the cost of living in Dubai for 2024.
Dubai Living Costs 2024
Cost of Living in Dubai
While Dubai is considered one of the pricier cities in Asia, it aligns with the living standards and costs found in top Western countries. The absence of income tax and sales tax adds to its appeal for expats, despite the overall higher living expenses.
As highlighted earlier, the term “cost of living in Dubai” encompasses various expenditures. Now, let’s take a closer look at these expenses.
Housing Costs in Dubai for 2024
When we discuss housing costs, we’re usually thinking about two main things: the sales price of a residential property and the rental fees. Both of these costs vary based on factors like location and property type.
Currently, property prices in Dubai are on the rise, increasing at an average rate of 14.5% each year. Delving into the specifics, a well-known property consultancy in Dubai reports that “the average apartment value rose by 14.5% per sq. ft., and the villa value by 15% in the year 2023 up to June.” Considering this upward trend in housing prices, the expected housing costs for 2024 are outlined in the table below:
Average Apartment Price Per Sq. Ft In 2023 And 2024
| Area | Price in 2023 | MoM Change | Expected Price in 2024 |
| Jumeirah | AED 2367 | -3.1% | AED 1927 |
| Downtown Dubai | AED 2344 | 0.6% | AED 2428 |
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 2281 | -0.7% | AED 2186 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | AED 1847 | 1.2% | AED 1980 |
| The Old Town | AED 1836 | 2.0% | AED 2056 |
| MBR City | AED 1785 | 1.6% | AED 1956 |
| DIFC | AED 1776 | 0.8% | AED 1861 |
| Business Bay | AED 1672 | -1.5 | AED 1521 |
| Dubai Marina | AED 1547 | -1.2 | AED 1435 |
Average and Expected Apartments Rent Per Sq. Ft In 2023 And 2024
| Area | Rent in 2023 | MoM Change | Rent 2024 |
| Downtown Dubai | AED 140 | -1.5% | AED 127 |
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 136 | 0.3% | AED 138 |
| Jumeirah | AED 135 | 4.6% | AED 172 |
| The Old Town | AED 132 | -1.0% | AED 124 |
| DIFC | AED 120 | 4.8% | AED 154 |
| Dubai Marina | AED 116 | 1.8% | AED 128 |
| The Views | AED 115 | 2.8% | AED 134 |
| Business Bay | AED 112 | 1.2% | AED 120 |
| Jumeirah Beach Residences | AED 110 | 4.7% | AED 141 |
Average and Expected Villa Price Per Sq. Ft. In 2023 And 2024
| Area | Price in 2023 | MoM Change | Price in 2024 |
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 4635 | 4.0% | AED 5747 |
| Jumeirah | AED 2360 | 1.6% | AED 2586 |
| Emirates Hills | AED 2342 | -1.7% | AED 2103 |
| District One | AED 2243 | 3.6% | AED 2377 |
| Jumeirah Islands | AED 1889 | 4.0% | AED 2342 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | AED 1883 | 1.9% | AED 2098 |
| MBR City | AED 1863 | 0.6% | AED 1930 |
| The Lakes | AED 1658 | 2.6 | AED 1916 |
| The Meadows | AED 1598 | -0.6 | AED 1540 |
Average and Expected Villa Rent In 2023 And 2024
| Area | Rent in 2023 | MoM Change | Rent in 2024 |
| Palm Jumeirah | AED 148 | -2.6% | AED 140 |
| Jumeirah Golf Estates | AED 106 | 4.8% | AED 112 |
| The Lakes | AED 101 | 2.9% | AED 118 |
| Emirates Hills | AED 98 | 3.8% | AED 120 |
| Arabian Ranches | AED 83 | 3.7% | AED 101 |
| Springs & Meadows | AED 82 | 2.2% | AED 92 |
| Jumeirah Islands | AED 80 | 1.5% | AED 87 |
| District One | AED 79 | 4.2% | AED 98 |
By reviewing the tables provided above, you can get a rough estimate of housing and rent prices in Dubai and compare them with those in your home country.
Now, let’s shift our focus to utilities, which are an additional expense associated with housing. Here, we’ll delve into the average utility costs in Dubai.
Like Cost of Living in Dubai for 2024, You may also like to read about UAE Tax System.
Utilities Cost in Dubai for 2024
Similar to housing, the cost of utilities in Dubai varies based on factors like your lifestyle and usage. Your internet plan, TV package, mobile plan, and the number of home appliances you use all contribute to your monthly utility expenses. In Dubai, certain things fall under basic necessities, and everyone pays for them.
One of the essential utility bills is from DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority). For a general idea, the DEWA bill for a 1-bedroom apartment typically ranges between 550 to 600 AED per month. The exact amount depends on how much electricity and water you consume.
Next up is your TV package and internet. In Dubai, two main companies, Etisalat and Du, provide these services, and their plans and offers change regularly. An economical plan in Dubai can cost around AED 350 per month, while a premium plan might be around AED 500 per month.
Now, let’s talk about the crucial utility not only in Dubai but worldwide – your mobile bill. Generally, mobile phone bills in Dubai range between AED 125 to AED 500. The specific amount depends on your usage and the plan you choose. Keep these estimates in mind to plan your budget for utilities in Dubai.
Take a look at the table below for a detailed overview of Utility Costs in Dubai. This table provides the best insight into the various expenses associated with utilities in the city.
| Utilities in Dubai | Average Costs For 1 Bed Apartment |
| DEWA Bill for 900 Sq. Ft. Flat | 600 AED |
| Internet & TV Packages | 350 – 500 AED |
| Cell Phone Bill | 125 – 500 AED |
Getting Around in Dubai and Transportation Costs for 2024
In Dubai, transportation options for 2024 come down to two main choices: using public transport and taxis or owning a car. Let’s take a closer look at these options.
Dubai has a well-organized and affordable public transport system, including buses. Considering the city’s extensive 35 km square area, taking the bus might be the most convenient and cost-effective choice for everyone. It’s noteworthy that in Dubai, you’ll find that water is more expensive, but fuel is relatively less costly. This balance makes public transport an economical and well-maintained option for getting around the city.
| CARD Types | Silver Card | Gold Card | Personal Card | Red Ticket |
| Fares in AED | ||||
| Within 1 Zone | 3 | 6 | 3 | 4 |
| 2 Adjacent Zones | 5 | 10 | 5 | 6 |
| More Than 2 Zones | 7.5 | 15 | 7.5 | 8.5 |
| Student,Social Affairs & Senior Citizens & Residents | NA | NA | 50% | NA |
| People Of Determination | NA | NA | Free | NA |
| Children (5-Year-Old Below) | Free | Free | Free | Free |
Metro Fare(AED) In Dubai Per Zones
| Ticket Type | 1 or <3 KM | 2 + | 3+ |
| Standard Adult Ticket (RED) | 4 | 6 | 8.50 |
| Pre-Paid Standard Adult Ticket (Silver Nol) | 3 | 5 | 7.50 |
| Concessionary (Blue Nol Card) | 1.50 | 2.50 | 3.75 |
| Gold Class (RED Ticket) | 8 | 12 | 17 |
| Gold Class Pre-Paid | 8 | 10 | 15 |
Fuel and gas prices in Dubai have remained steady over the past few years. Based on this trend, we can anticipate that transportation costs in 2024 will likely remain consistent. This stability in prices provides a sense of assurance for residents and expats planning their budgets for the upcoming year.
Costs for Owning a car in Dubai in 2024
A lot of people in Dubai like to have their own car. However, having a personal vehicle comes with certain fixed expenses like fuel, insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs. Let’s break down these costs for owning a car in Dubai in 2024.
| Car Insurance | 3000 – 4000 (Per Year) |
| Cleaning, Maintenance,Servicing | 950 (Per Year) |
| Annual Inspection | 1000 |
| Salik Registration | 100 |
When purchasing a car, there are certain fixed charges that everyone must pay, including:
| Ownership Transfer Fee | AED 350 |
| Inspection | AED 170 |
| Traffic File | AED 220 |
| Selling Fee | AED 50 |
| Knowledge & Innovation | AED 20 |
Food and Grocery Costs in Dubai for 2024
When it comes to daily necessities, food and groceries take the lead for both individuals and families. In Dubai, you can find food items and groceries at reasonable prices, but if you go for imported products, you may need to budget a bit more. The cost of food and groceries in Dubai varies depending on the food habits of individuals and families. Here’s an idea of the prices for different food items:
General Food & Groceries Price in Dubai 2024:
- Bread (1 Packet): AED 5 – 7
- Milk (1 liter): AED 5 – 8
- Eggs (1 Dozen): AED 8 – 12
- Chicken (1 kg): AED 15 – 25
- Beef (1 kg): AED 40 – 70
- Fresh fish (1 kg): AED 30 – 60
- Local cheese (1 kg): AED 50 – 70
- Bottle of water (1.5 liters): AED 1.5 – 3
- Soft drink (can): AED 2 – 4
Vegetarian Daily Food Costs in Dubai (For Single):
- Breakfast: AED 11 – 25
- Lunch: AED 25 – 44
- Dinner: AED 36 – 55
Non-Vegetarian Daily Food Costs in Dubai (For Single):
- Breakfast: AED 11 – 25
- Lunch: AED 18 – 33
- Dinner: AED 22 – 40
These estimates can give you an overview of what to expect when budgeting for your food and grocery expenses in Dubai for 2024.
Fast Food Costs in Dubai for 2024
Dubai boasts several popular American fast-food chains such as KFC, McDonald’s, and Wendy’s, offering affordable meals. On the flip side, the city is also home to upscale restaurants and bars known for their pricier multi-cuisine options. When it comes to dining out in Dubai, opinions among locals vary. Some find it expensive, while others consider it reasonable. The key factor influencing the cost is where you choose to dine.
For instance, street foods and smaller restaurants offer affordable options, with meals ranging from AED 50 to 150. On the other hand, high-end restaurants may push the cost up to AED 500.
Keep in mind that these are 2023 estimates, and prices might fluctuate in 2024. It’s always good to check for the latest updates to plan your dining budget accordingly.
Healthcare Costs in Dubai for 2024
Dubai boasts excellent healthcare facilities, making it a global hub for health tourism. The city’s high-end medical infrastructure and facilities contribute to its reputation. Both public and private health and medical facilities in Dubai fall under the Dubai Health Authority.
Every resident in Dubai and the UAE is required to purchase medical or health insurance, directly impacting the overall cost of living. Many companies in Dubai cover medical insurance for their employees and their families, but if not, employees need to cover the costs. Investors and expats on freelance visas are also required to obtain medical insurance in Dubai.
Now, the big question: How much does medical insurance cost?
The cost varies based on plans and coverage. Generally, an essential benefits plan in Dubai starts from AED 600 per year. For a comprehensive insurance plan, you might be looking at around AED 15,000 to 20,000. Below are the average costs for essential healthcare facilities in Dubai:
| Healthcare Facilities | Average Cost |
| Short visit to a private doctor | AED 301 |
| 6 days medicine | AED 26 |
| Antibiotics | AED 43 |
Education Costs in Dubai for 2024
In Dubai, students have the option of attending public or private schools, offering American, British, or French curricula. Education is compulsory for all children aged 5 to 15, ensuring quality learning opportunities for residents.
When considering the cost of living in Dubai, families with children need to include school fees in their budget. Depending on their home country, they can opt for an Indian, British, or American curriculum for their kids. Private school fees in Dubai, especially at the top schools, can be relatively high. Schools offering British or American curricula generally have higher tuition fees compared to others. However, Indian curriculum schools often provide a more affordable option for students.
It’s important for parents to consider additional expenses beyond school fees, such as uniforms, school buses, books, and exam fees, which contribute to monthly educational costs.
Now, here are the estimated fees for Dubai schools:
| School | Average Cost |
| Public School | AED 6300 |
| Private School | AED 2600 – 121613 |
| Reputed University for international student | AED 2600 per credit hour |
| British University of Dubai for international student | AED 60000 – 66600 |
Entertainment Costs in Dubai for 2024
Dubai is a city known for its vibrant entertainment scene, and as a resident, it’s hard to resist exploring the various avenues it offers. That’s why we include entertainment in the overall cost of living in Dubai.
As a resident, you’ll discover a plethora of options and activities, ranging from fine-dining restaurants and cinemas to extreme sports venues, green parks, and aquariums. There’s something new to explore every day. If you’re planning to move to Dubai and want to get an idea of entertainment costs in 2024, the table below provides a helpful overview:
| Entertainment | Cost |
| Movie Ticket | AED 40 |
| Gym Membership | AED 280 |
| Meal | AED 40 |
| Meal For Two (Mid Range Restaurants) | AED 300 |
| Meal For Two (Best Restaurants) | AED 500 – 1000 |
Domestic Help Costs in Dubai for 2024
One of the perks of living in Dubai is the availability of affordable domestic help, a much-needed service for working couples and elite-class families. For foreign property buyers in Dubai, sponsoring a housemaid from their home country to renew their visa is also an option, but it adds to the overall cost of living.
Expats and foreign residents can also opt to hire a full-time maid through a reputable service agency. These agencies typically charge a one-time agency fee along with the maid’s salary. Another alternative is part-time domestic help, available through various agencies in Dubai that offer services on an hourly or fixed-time basis. This allows you to choose a service that fits your budget and specific needs.
For a general idea of domestic help costs in Dubai for 2024, refer to the details below:
| Service Type | Cost |
| Full-Time Live-In Maid (Recruitment Cost & Deposit) | AED 15000 |
| Live-Out Maid (Recruitment Cost & Deposit) | AED 3000 – 4500 |
| Full-Time Live-In Maid (Monthly Salaries & Fees) | AED 2000 – 3500 |
| Live-Out Maid (Monthly Salaries & Fees) | AED 3500 – 6000 |
| Full-Time Live-In Maid (Additional Cost) | AED 84000 Per Annum Approx |
| Live-Out Maid (Additional Cost) | None |
Cost Of Living In Dubai In 2024 For Singles
Economy Class:
| Type | Monthly Cost in AED |
| House Rent | 2100 |
| Bills & Utilities | 300 |
| Internet & Phone Packages | 500 |
| Groceries | 400 |
| Transportation | 350 |
| Total | 3650 |
High Class:
| Type | Cost |
| House Rent | 6600 |
| Bills & Utilities | 800 |
| Internet & Phone Packages | 1500 |
| Groceries | 2000 |
| Entertainment | 1000 |
| Car & Fuel | 2500 |
| Total | 14400 |
Cost Of Living In Dubai In 2024 For a Couple
Economy Class:
| Type | Cost |
| House Rent | 2500 |
| Bills & Utilities | 500 |
| Internet & Phone Packages | 500 |
| Groceries | 800 |
| Transportation | 350 |
| Total | 4650 |
High Class:
| Type | Cost |
| House Rent | 6600 |
| Bills & Utilities | 1200 |
| Internet & Phone Packages | 1500 |
| Groceries | 4000 |
| Entertainment | 2000 |
| Car & Fuel | 3000 |
| Total | 18300 |
Conclusion for Navigating the Cost of Living in Dubai for 2024
For those considering a move to Dubai, understanding the cost of living in Dubai and day-to-day expenses is crucial for financial preparation. This blog aims to provide individuals with valuable insights to make informed decisions about budgeting and lifestyle choices in this dynamic city.
It’s evident that some things in Dubai can be quite pricey, while others remain affordable. The city’s tax-friendly environment, however, contributes to making overall living costs reasonable. Choosing to live in Dubai can be a fantastic decision.
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