Cost of Living in Dubai: An Overview

Dubai is the land of unlimited opportunities and a popular emigration destination for many Germans. Impressive skyscrapers with views of the entire city, luxurious shopping streets and restaurants, and access to the sea are just a few of the many factors that make life in Dubai more than impressive. In this context, the question is therefore how much life in Dubai actually costs. It should be revealed in advance that in some cases you don't have to take as much money into your hands as you might want to think.

What are the rental prices in Dubai?

When moving to the UAE, you will sooner or later find yourself with the real estate market Have to work hard to find the right apartment for your needs. There are serious price differences, especially for rental apartments, depending on how much living space the apartment should have, whether there is a balcony or pool and in which district the rental apartment is located. However, you can get a rough idea of how much budget you can budget for your rental apartment in Dubai by looking at the following prices:

• 2 - room apartments starting at around 50,000 AED
• 3 bedroom apartments starting at around 65,000 AED
• 4 - room apartments from 70 - 80,000 AED

This list is an approximate guideline and represents the annual rental price. In addition, there are any additional costs (electricity, gas, water), which range in a price range of 200 to 300 euros (800 - 1000 AED), similar to those in Germany. In addition, when concluding a rental agreement, a commission is due for the broker as well as a deposit (housing fee), which corresponds to around 5% of the rental price.
Of course, the location of the property and its equipment also play a decisive role in setting the rental price. For example, apartments in the heart of Dubai city or directly at the Dubai Marina are much more expensive than apartments located just outside the city.
In general, it can therefore be said that you covered the costs of a 2-room apartment in a good location with the equivalent of 1,500 - 1,700 euros per month, which roughly corresponds to the price level in Munich.

Food prices in Dubai

In addition to actual apartment rent, buying groceries plays a larger role in budget planning. Because compared to Germany, many foods in Dubai are more expensive because they first have to be imported. Regional products are therefore cheaper. It is similar with drugstore products. In any case, add 1,500 to 1,700 AED (300 to 500 euros) for groceries.

Restaurant and delivery service

Restaurants are a bit expensive due to high food prices and staff costs. The situation is similar with delivery services, which, however, give you the choice between good-quality dishes from all over the world. On a flat rate, you will incur just under 1,000 to 1,200 AED in costs.

Recreational activities

Dubai has many sights and attractions — the options are endless. From Burj Khalifa to desert expeditions and wellness treatments. Above all, Dubai is known for its unusual and extravagant beach clubs, where you can spend a good few hundred to a thousand euros in one evening. However, it should be mentioned here that visiting such locations is not a must and the planning of your free time and the associated costs depend on your lifestyle and financial situation.

public transportation

Surprisingly, public transportation costs in both Dubai and the other UAE emirates are cheaper than you might have thought. This is because trips by taxi usually cost 0.45 euros (1.76 AED) per kilometer traveled, which is a good and cost-effective alternative to having your own car. Tram or metro trips are also very affordable and cost an average of 1.30 euros (5.10 AED)

How much does a private car cost?

Of course, it is also possible to buy your own car. The cost of buying a car in Dubai depends on the specific car brand. In principle, however, the prices for used cars are between 20 and 40% below conventional prices in Germany, and for new cars it is just under 20%.

In addition, many banks offer variable financing plans, which make buying a car even easier. Gasoline prices are adjusted monthly by the government, but are in the range of around 0.40 to 0.60 euros per liter.

Taking out car insurance is also cheaper than in Germany. The premium is approximately 4-6% of the current car value. In addition, there is no vehicle tax.

You can charge around 120 AED for cleaning your car, which is equivalent to around 30 euros. In addition, there is a mobile car wash service in many malls, which costs only around 25 AED or 6.50 euros.

‍

‍