What salary would you need to live in Dubai?

A Concise Guide for Expats living in Dubai.


Living in UAE's most crowded and craziest city can be quite expensive, and the salary you need depends on your lifestyle and family situation. Here’s a guide to help you estimate what salary might be required to live comfortably in Dubai:


1. Housing

  •  Rental costs vary widely depending on location and size. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, expect to pay between AED 6,000 and AED 12,000 monthly. It could range from AED 4,000 to AED 8,000 in more suburban areas.
  •  Some expats choose an alternative solution to save money by sharing an apartment. It is indeed at the expense of their comfort because the space would be narrower and claustrophobic.


2. Utilities

  • Electricity, Water, and Cooling: Typically AED 300 to AED 800 per month, depending on your consumption and the size of your apartment.
  • Internet: Around AED 300 to AED 600 per month for a good broadband connection.


3. Food and Dining

  • Groceries: Expect to spend AED 1,000 to AED 2,500 per month for groceries for one person, depending on eating habits.
  • Restaurants: Meals at mid-range restaurants might cost AED 50 to AED 150 per person. Dining out frequently will increase your budget.




4. Transportation

  • Public Transport: The monthly pass for public transportation is about AED 300.
  • Car Ownership: If you own a car, consider expenses for fuel, insurance (around AED 2,000 to AED 3,000 per year), and maintenance. Fuel costs are relatively low, but parking and tolls can add up.


5. Healthcare

  • Insurance: Health insurance is crucial. Some employers provide it, but if you need to purchase your own, it can range from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 annually, depending on coverage.

6. Entertainment and Miscellaneous

  • Gym Membership: Around AED 200 to AED 500 per month.
  • Miscellaneous: Budget around AED 500 to AED 1,000 per month for other expenses like shopping, activities, and unforeseen costs.


Given these expenses, a comfortable salary in Dubai would generally range from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 per month for a single individual. This range should cover basic living costs, allow for a decent lifestyle, and provide some savings.

You should consider:

  • Family: If you have a family, your expenses will increase significantly, especially for housing, education (if applicable), and healthcare.
  • Lifestyle: Adjust your salary expectations based on whether you prefer a more luxurious lifestyle or a more modest one.


All in all, Dubai might be an expensive and extravagant city in the heart of the desert, but it sure offers many benefits despite its high cost of living. It boasts a tax-free income environment, a vibrant economy with diverse job opportunities, world-class infrastructure, and a high standard of living. 

 The city also features a rich cultural scene, excellent safety, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. If these advantages align with your personal and professional goals, the expense might be justified. 

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