Monthly budget: who spends what?
| Profile | Monthly total | Of which rent |
|---|---|---|
| Single | AED 9,000 – 20,500 | AED 4,500 – 8,500 |
| Couple | AED 13,600 – 30,400 | AED 6,500 – 13,000 |
| Family (2 kids) | AED 24,700 – 53,000 | AED 10,000 – 20,000 (+ school) |
Where you live changes the budget most. A couple in a one-bedroom flat spends about AED 11,150 a month in JVC, AED 15,600 in Dubai Marina and AED 17,850 in Downtown.
Rent
Rents are quoted per year. A one-bedroom flat costs AED 40,000–60,000 a year in budget areas, AED 60,000–85,000 in mid-range areas and AED 85,000–130,000 in premium areas such as the Marina and Downtown. See our renting guide for the full table and move-in costs.
Bills and phone
- Electricity and water (DEWA): AED 500–800 a month for a one-bedroom flat; AED 800–1,500 for a villa. Bills rise from June to September because of air conditioning.
- Internet: AED 300–400 a month
- Mobile phone: AED 100–200 a month
Groceries, eating out and transport
- Groceries: AED 1,200–1,500 a month for a single person; AED 3,000–5,000 for a family
- Restaurants: AED 80–150 per person at a mid-range place
- Metro: AED 300–400 a month
- Car: lease or loan AED 1,200–2,500, fuel AED 300–600, Salik tolls AED 200–400 a month, insurance AED 2,500–5,000 a year
Schools and health insurance
| Curriculum | Annual fee |
|---|---|
| Indian (CBSE/ICSE) | AED 8,000 – 25,000 |
| French / German | AED 25,000 – 55,000 |
| British | AED 30,000 – 70,000 |
| American | AED 40,000 – 80,000 |
| IB | AED 50,000 – 100,000 |
Health insurance is mandatory for Dubai residents. An enhanced individual plan costs about AED 3,000–6,000 a year, a premium family plan AED 8,000–20,000. Employers must cover their employees' insurance.
The tax advantage
The UAE doesn't tax salaries or rental income. You pay 5% VAT on purchases. When comparing gross salaries, remember that your net income in Dubai is higher for the same lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Dubai?
Around AED 15,000 a month gives a single person a comfortable life; for a family with two children, AED 35,000–45,000 including school fees is more realistic. It varies a lot by area and lifestyle.
What are the most affordable areas in Dubai?
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), International City and Dubai Sports City are among the cheapest areas for rent.
How much is the electricity bill in Dubai?
About AED 500–800 a month for a one-bedroom flat; it goes up in summer because of air conditioning.
Is there income tax in Dubai?
No. Salaries and rental income aren't taxed; there is 5% VAT on purchases.