Known As The Richest City, Let's Take A Peek At The Cost Of Living In Dubai

Last updated on April 24th, 2025 at 02:18 pm

Dubai is a well-known city in the United Arab Emirates, famous for its many attractions that draw international tourists. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It would feel incomplete to visit Dubai without seeing the Burj Khalifa.

Additionally, as a wealthy city, Dubai offers a luxurious and unique lifestyle. So, how much does it cost to live or settle in Dubai? Let's take a look at the detailed information below!

Cost of Living in Dubai

Food & Dining Costs in Dubai

The cost of food in Dubai can be considered quite high compared to other countries. For a simple meal in a restaurant equivalent to a middle-class dining experience in Indonesia, the cost for one meal can reach Dh35 or about IDR 150,000.

However, if you want to dine in a luxury restaurant, the prices can be much higher. For a meal in a mid-range fine-dining restaurant, the cost can go up to Dh250, or nearly IDR 1.1 million. While these prices are comparable to luxury restaurants in Indonesia, the overall cost of living in Dubai is certainly not cheap.

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Transportation costs

As a modern city with various public transportation options, Dubai offers choices such as the Dubai Metro, buses, taxis, water buses, and Abra water taxis, among others. Although food costs are high, public transportation costs in Dubai are relatively affordable.

For instance, bus tickets are priced at only Dh3 or approximately IDR 13,000. Meanwhile, taxi or bus fares start at Dh2, or around IDR 8,500 for a single stop, and Dh6.5, or nearly IDR 28,000 for five stops.

Using public transportation can be a great option if you want to save on living expenses while living or settling there. Additionally, bike rentals and Abra rides are available for a unique experience for tourists in Dubai.

Housing Costs

According to Okezone, the cost of accommodation in Dubai ranges from Dh3,700 to Dh10,700 per month or about IDR 15.9 million to IDR 46 million for housing in both suburban and city areas. The cost of renting accommodation in Dubai is quite high, considering the excellent facilities provided in every residence.

Therefore, if you plan to settle in Dubai with your family, you should consider the significant cost of living, not only for accommodation but also for other needs such as food, transportation, education, insurance, and more.

Other Fees

In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are many other living expenses that need to be prepared while living in Dubai, such as insurance, healthcare, and entertainment. For students, there are various costs that need to be accounted for in their studies.

However, if you receive a scholarship to continue your education there, your living expenses can be more affordable. Various scholarships are available, both from the local government and the Indonesian government, which can assist you in managing living costs while studying there.

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Total Monthly Living Costs in Dubai

Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and extravagant living. According to Liputan6, there are about 38 billionaires living in Dubai, making it the 11th city with the most billionaires in the world.

The city is also filled with elite buildings and expensive vehicles, adding to the overall image of luxury. Although living costs in Dubai may seem exorbitant, it is not always necessary to be a billionaire to live there. Even ordinary people can live in Dubai, given certain conditions.

On average, the cost of living for one person in Dubai is around Dh3,426 per month, or about IDR 14.7 million, excluding rent.

Tips to Save on Living Costs in Dubai

Here are some tips you can apply to save on your living costs while staying or settling in Dubai:

1. Create a good financial plan, including grocery spending by buying in bulk for several weeks.
2. Consider cutting back on leisure activities such as hanging out at entertainment venues that can drain your budget.
3. Prioritize a simple and frugal lifestyle, avoiding the temptation to follow a luxurious lifestyle, so you can survive in Dubai without being a billionaire.
4. Be aware that the cost of living in Dubai greatly depends on each individual’s lifestyle, so it can be adjusted according to personal needs and financial capacity.

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The above provides an estimate of the cost of living in Dubai, offering a clear picture of what to expect when living or settling there. By understanding these details, you can plan your budget better when staying in Dubai.

It is essential to consider the estimated living costs mentioned earlier. By understanding these details, you can plan your budget better when living there.

Easylink is here to help you transfer money from Indonesia to Dubai in a secure, easy, and fast way, so you can address any cash shortages by asking for assistance from friends, family, or relatives through Easylink’s services.