Dubai Cost Guide – Real Prices You Need to Know in 2025

Thinking about a trip to Dubai? You’ll hear it’s pricey, but the truth is a bit more nuanced. Below you’ll get straight‑forward numbers for everyday stuff, plus a look at the high‑end side of town. No fluff, just the costs that matter.

Everyday Expenses

Food is the first thing most people ask about. A decent meal at a mid‑range restaurant costs around 80‑120 AED (≈ $22‑$33). Street‑food stalls and local cafeterias let you eat for 15‑30 AED per plate, so you can still enjoy shawarma or falafel on a budget. If you prefer groceries, a litre of milk is about 5 AED and a kilogram of rice sits near 6 AED.

Getting around is easier than you think. The Dubai Metro charges 4‑8 AED for a typical city ride, while a public bus ticket starts at 3 AED. Ride‑hailing apps like Uber or Careem range from 10 AED for a short hop to 40 AED for longer trips across the city. If you rent a car, expect a daily rate of 120‑200 AED for a compact vehicle, plus fuel at roughly 3 AED per litre.

Staying in a hotel varies widely. Budget hotels start at 150 AED per night for a basic room, while three‑star properties average 250‑350 AED. If you’re after a bit more comfort, four‑star stays hover around 400‑600 AED, and luxury resorts can top 1,200 AED nightly. Booking a few weeks ahead often nets you a small discount.

Luxury and Entertainment

Dubai’s nightlife is a big part of its reputation. Entry to most nightclubs is free if you’re on a guest list, but you’ll likely spend 150‑300 AED on a table for two, especially on weekends. Bottle service starts at about 800 AED for a mid‑range spirit and can jump past 2,500 AED for premium labels.

Fine dining at high‑end restaurants typically runs 250‑500 AED per person, not including wine. A tasting menu at a Michelin‑starred venue can easily hit 700 AED. If you’re curious about the luxury companionship market, rates for discreet, high‑class companions start around 1,500 AED for a few hours and can go up to 5,000 AED or more for an entire evening, depending on the level of exclusivity.

Activities like desert safaris, dhow cruises, or ticketed shows usually range from 200‑400 AED per person. For a private experience—like a sunrise desert breakfast or a yacht charter—budget 1,000‑2,500 AED.

Shopping in Dubai also spans the spectrum. A simple souvenir such as a small gold weighing 1 gram costs about 200 AED, while high‑end designer bags can exceed 5,000 AED. If you’re hunting for watches, expect to pay a premium of at least 30 % above international retail prices.

Bottom line: you can enjoy Dubai on a modest budget if you stick to local food, public transport, and mid‑range hotels. But if you’re after the glitter—luxury hotels, premium clubs, and exclusive services—be ready to spend a few thousand AED each day. Knowing these numbers helps you plan smarter and avoid nasty surprises.