What is the Cost of Living in Dubai? A Guide for Independent Professionals
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Living and working in Dubai is a driving ambition for many independent professionals. And it’s easy to see why. A dynamic economy, tax-free income, and an enviable standard of living are some of Dubai’s greatest selling points.
But while the perks are compelling, it’s important to consider the full picture. Understanding the cost of living is essential for independent consultants planning a relocation to the UAE.
This article gives you an in-depth breakdown of living expenses in Dubai. From housing to healthcare and everything in-between; we’re here to help freelancers plan a move to Dubai efficiently, setting you on the path to success.
Living costs in Dubai
Dubai ranks as the 15th most expensive city in the world for expats, according to Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living City Ranking. (For context, New York ranks as the 7th and London as the 8th most expensive city).
Keep in mind that when considering your personal living costs in Dubai, several ‘on-the-ground’ factors will influence your outgoings:
Location
Your choice of neighbourhood can have a big impact on your living expenses. The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Downtown Dubai are all sought-after spots, but come with high rental prices. The good news is there are plenty of affordable neighbourhoods if you’re willing to broaden your search outside of the city centre.
Lifestyle
When it comes to a desired lifestyle. Dubai has something for everyone. Though if you want to take full advantage of the many dining, entertainment, and recreational activities on offer, your living costs will climb.
On the flip side, Dubai’s plethora of choices makes it more than achievable to carve out a nice lifestyle on a modest budget.
Family size
If your move to Dubai includes a partner and/or family there are some extra factors to work into your cost of living sums. These include finding a home with adequate space, education, and healthcare.
In the next section, we’ll explore these areas in detail and breakdown average costs to expect as an independent professional living in Dubai.
Breakdown of living expenses in Dubai
As reported by Driven Properties, the following tables show the average living costs in Dubai for 2025:
Housing and accommodation
Average rent prices in Dubai:
Dubai has a well-earned reputation for luxury but as you can see, it caters to all budgets when it comes to housing. What’s more, the options are vast so you can be sure to find your ideal accommodation in no time.
Utilities
Of course, there are utilities and other bills to factor into your monthly outgoings too. Average costs for electricity, water, and internet:
Transportation
Getting around is an important consideration for the cost of living in Dubai. Thankfully, the city is well connected with an efficient public transport system that includes the metro rail network, buses, and taxis.
If you prefer owning a car, you’ll need to factor in registration and insurance on top of fuel costs.
According to Shory, the registration of a light vehicle (less than 3 tons) is around AED 350 (£75). While Policybazaar.ae states yearly comprehensive car insurance in Dubai can range from approximately AED 1,200 to AED 5,000 (Circa £256 to £1050).
Food and dining
In terms of grocery shopping, fresh produce, meat, and household staples are relatively affordable in Dubai (although as in most places, you pay more for imported goods).
Supermarkets and hypermarkets are readily available throughout the city and, according to Property Finder, these are the average prices for everyday grocery items:
For those who love to dine out, Dubai is renowned for its vibrant food scene. The city boasts an array of enticing options from casual eateries to fine dining.
According to OnlineDubaiVisa.com, lunch at a casual restaurant or bar in Dubai costs between AED 40 and AED 80 (£9 to £17) per person. Whereas lunch at a fancier restaurant can cost between AED 100 and AED 200 (£21 to £42) per person.
When you have dinner plans, a meal for one person at a mid-range restaurant in Dubai can cost between AED 50 and AED 150 (£10-£32). Meanwhile, dinner for two at a high-end restaurant can cost between AED 500 and AED 800 (£100-£170).
Healthcare
Health insurance is mandatory for all Dubai residents and expats. When relocating as an independent consultant, it’s crucial you have adequate cover that enables you access to healthcare services and provides you a level of financial protection.
According to Golden Bee, the annual average UAE medical insurance price varies from AED 525 to 750 (£115 – £160).
Education
For independent professionals relocating to Dubai with families, your children’s education is a huge consideration. Public schools in Dubai teach solely in Arabic, so private school fees are unavoidable for expats. On the bright side, Dubai’s network of international and private schools have an excellent reputation and offer a high standard of education.
Aetna reports that Dubai school fees range from AED 12,723 (£2,674) per year to AED 64,093 (£13,475). For families with younger children, the annual average fees for nurseries range from AED 27,640 (£5,800) to AED 33,658 (£7,150).
Entertainment and lifestyle
In addition to essential outgoings, Dubai is home to an impressive array of lifestyle and entertainment options that you’ll want to take advantage of.
Average prices for some of the go-to’s:
The city also has its fair share of must-see attractions. From The Burj Khalifa observation deck (From AED 200/£45), to the impressive Museum of the Future (AED 150/£33). As a freelancer, you won’t be short of activities to factor into your weekend spending!
Tax-free income and savings opportunities
When you’re weighing up expected living costs, keep in mind one of Dubai’s greatest perks. The tax-free income policy ensures you have more disposable income as an independent professional to put towards the cost of living.
There are some key saving opportunities for savvy spenders too. Choosing an affordable neighbourhood to live in, harnessing the public transport network, and pre-planning your grocery shops can make a difference to have much of your hard-earned freelance wage you have left each month.
Additional expenses to consider
Finally, there are a few extra expenses to add into the equation. .
To work independently in Dubai as a foreign national you need a Freelance Work Permit UAE (also known as the Freelance Work Visa Dubai). The freelance visa costs around AED 7,500 (circa £1,600), with an annual renewal rule.
Having an emergency fund is also a good idea. This is good practice for independent professionals with a fluctuating income, and also a solid safety net for anyone relocating. Emergency funds can be set aside to cover unexpected medical emergencies or the cost of relocating back home if ever necessary.
Balancing quality of life with costs
As an independent consultant relocating to Dubai, your total living costs will of course be dictated by your choice of lifestyle. Remember Dubai has something for everyone, and although it has a big reputation for luxury, it is also very achievable to carve out an affordable lifestyle in the city.
To track your outgoings and stick to a budget, we recommend setting yourself some financial goals and leaning on budgeting tools and apps to keep an eye on your expenses.
Setting yourself up for success in Dubai
Dubai is brimming with opportunities for independent professionals. But before embarking on a relocation be sure to do your homework and get a feel for your personal living costs.
By breaking down expenses, such as housing, utilities, transportation, food, healthcare, education, and entertainment, you’ll gain valuable insights into the cost of living. Plus, by striking a balance between lifestyle choices and financial considerations you will get the most out of your relocation.
For personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hightekers. Our expert team is always on hand to assist you in making your relocation to Dubai a seamless success.
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Kick-start your Dubai relocation with Hightekers today
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