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What does your salary buy in Dubai?

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Cost of Living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Global business hub with tax-free income. Modern skyline, international lifestyle, extreme summer heat. High salaries, high cost of living.

Currency
AED (د.إ)
English Level
Excellent
Healthcare
Mandatory Private

Rental Prices in Dubai

1-Bedroom Apartment
د.إ2,100 - د.إ12,100
per month
2-Bedroom Apartment
د.إ3,100 - د.إ18,300
per month

* Prices shown are second-hand rental market rates, typical for expats.10 neighborhoods tracked. Source: Official government housing statistics.

Monthly Living Costs

Groceries
د.إ1,800
Transport
د.إ350
Utilities
د.إ1,200
Dining Out
د.إ1,500

Utility costs based on Eurostat Energy Statistics.

Popular Neighborhoods

Downtown Dubai
Home to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Premium living, vibrant nightlife, tourist hotspot.
5 min metro•د.إ7,900+/mo
Dubai Marina
Waterfront living with yacht-lined promenade. High-rise towers, beach access, popular with expats.
20 min metro•د.إ7,100+/mo
Business Bay
Dubai's business district. Modern towers, canal views, close to Downtown.
10 min metro•د.إ6,300+/mo
Jumeirah Beach Residence
Beachfront community with The Walk promenade. Restaurants, shops, direct beach access.
25 min tram•د.إ7,500+/mo
Al Barsha
Family-friendly area near Mall of the Emirates. More affordable, good schools, central location.
15 min metro•د.إ4,600+/mo
Jumeirah Village Circle
Affordable community with parks. Popular with families, quieter suburban feel.
25 min bus•د.إ4,000+/mo

Work Visa

Employment visa sponsored by employer. Golden visa for high earners and investors.

Processing: 2-4 weeks

Relocation Costs

Usually 1 month security deposit. 5% annual rent housing fee (expats). DEWA deposit ~AED 2,000.

Typical deposit: 1 months rent

Enter your salary above to see a personalized breakdown of your finances in Dubai

Our calculator shows net income after taxes, affordable neighborhoods, and savings potential

Data last updated: January 2026•View methodology

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Guides for Dubai

  • Moving Abroad Checklist: Everything You Need to DoThe complete checklist for relocating internationally - from 6 months before to your first week abroad. Documents, finances, housing, and more.
    Planning14 min read
View all guides →

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai

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Know what your salary buys before you move. Take-home pay, neighborhoods, and savings across 120+ cities in 33 countries.

Updated Jan 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Jan 2026 rent data