How Expensive Is Dubai? Real‑World Cost Guide
Thinking about a trip or a night out in Dubai? You’ll hear it’s pricey, but the real numbers depend on what you choose. Below is a straight‑forward look at the most common expenses, so you can plan a budget that fits your style.
Everyday Expenses You’ll Feel
Accommodation ranges from 35 AED per night for a basic hostel bed to 500 AED for a mid‑range hotel room. If you’re chasing a view, the beachfront hotels start around 800 AED and can jump into the thousands.
Food is another big variable. A local shawarma stall will set you back 8‑12 AED, while a mid‑tier restaurant charges roughly 80‑150 AED for a main course. Expect a three‑course dinner at an upscale venue to cost between 300‑600 AED per person.
Public transport is cheap and reliable. A single metro ride costs 3‑7 AED depending on distance, and a day pass is around 20 AED**. Taxis start at 12 AED, with a typical city ride hitting 30‑50 AED**.
Luxury Splurges Worth Knowing
Nightlife can be a big ticket. Entry to the most popular clubs, like White Dubai or Billionaire, ranges from 100‑250 AED**. Bottle service starts at about 800 AED** for a single bottle of prosecco and can exceed 5,000 AED** for premium champagne.
For a truly exclusive experience, hiring a premium companion or call girl in Dubai typically costs from 1,500 AED** per hour up to 6,000 AED** for an extended private session. Prices vary by agency, location, and services offered, so always discuss rates beforehand.
Shopping is another area where costs can soar. A luxury watch from a top boutique in Dubai Mall often starts around 15,000 AED** and can reach well over 200,000 AED** for limited editions.
Activities like desert safaris, dhow cruises, or tickets to the Burj Khalifa range between 150‑500 AED** each, depending on the package and level of exclusivity.
Bottom line: Dubai can be as cheap or as lavish as you make it. Stick to local eateries, use metros, and book budget hotels for a modest trip. If you aim for high‑end nightlife, luxury stays, and premium companionship, expect to spend several thousand dirhams per day.
Use this guide to match your desired experience with a realistic budget, and you’ll enjoy Dubai without surprise bills at checkout.
Dubai Cost Breakdown: Is Dubai Really That Expensive?
- Date: 28 Jul 2025
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- Author: Caspian Fairweather
Is Dubai expensive? Get a detailed breakdown of daily costs, from hotels and food to shopping and nightlife. Learn where to splurge, where to save, and how to get the most out of your budget in 2025.
