Is Dubai Expensive to Visit? How Much Does it Cost?

Dubai, recognized for its luxury and glitz, is dubbed a “playground for the rich” by some. Many people often ask, “Is Dubai expensive to visit?” This may be a general perception, but it is far from accurate. It is incredibly diversified, combining a modern urban city with traditional Arabian culture.

The rates in Dubai may appear to be high at first glance. But as with any other country, it all depends on what you want to do. Flights and hotel stays are the most expensive items, followed by other activities or excursions. Transportation and food expenses, for example, are comparable with other countries such as Western Europe.

Is Dubai Expensive to Visit?

Dubai isn’t all that pricey compared to other big cities worldwide. Consider New York or London. Hotel rates, transportation to a tourist site, meals, or a night out would all cost the same, if not more, than in Dubai. You should budget roughly AED 729 ($198) per day for your Dubai holiday, the daily average price based on other travelers’ spending.

So, a 7-day vacation to Dubai costs an average of $1,498 for a single tourist. For couples, it’s $2,690 and $5,044 for a family of four.

The Cheapest Times To Visit Dubai

The cheapest times to fly and stay in a Dubai hotel are from January 8th to March 25th and August 27th to December 9th. Early November is usually the most cost-effective time to visit Dubai.

Here’s a month by month guide on the best time to visit Dubai.

Essential Reminders Before Traveling to Dubai

Always remember to conduct your research. Even though Dubai is more modernized and progressive than the rest of the Middle East, it is nevertheless an Islamic country with strict regulations compared to the West. They adhere to rigorous sharia laws, so treat them with respect.

It is critical to be culturally attentive to Emirati etiquette and wear appropriate clothing when visiting the UAE. Because the city is highly stylish, you can dress up as much as possible but avoid offending the locals. It is preferable to have your shoulders and knees covered. In general, exposing too much skin in public is frowned upon. 

For women like you, don’t extend your hand for a shake to a man you’ve just met, or any male, for that matter. This is because it’s frowned upon unless he does. It’s preferable to nod or smile, expressing respect or recognition.

Most people find public display of affection unsettling, but it can end in a penalty or even imprisonment in Dubai! Holding hands or gentle hugs are the only forms of PDA that are accepted there. Anything that implies reportable behavior with the opposite sex in public, including kissing, is a big NO.

How much do flights cost?

There are a lot of important flight considerations to know. It starts with the airline, its number of stops, and the class of seats you want to take. You must also decide which time of year you’re planning to go. Less reputable airlines go almost anywhere, and in-direct flights are always less expensive.

Economy flights to Dubai International Airport should cost you around $722 – $1,105 per head. On the other hand, first-class flights might cost around $2,266 – $3,467 per head.

How much do hotels cost?

With so many hotels, it cannot be easy to decide where to stay in Dubai. Several of Dubai’s luxury hotels provide staycation packages to locals and visitors, given the current economic climate. Now is the greatest time to indulge and enjoy these stunning accommodations!

Hotels in Dubai cost between $35 and $107 per night on average, while most vacation rentals cost between $210 and $530 per night for the entire house. 

Is it expensive to eat in Dubai?

Many people assume Dubai to be similar to most major cities regarding food prices. Expensive is not always the case. Due to Dubai’s several tourist districts, each has its affordable eateries and supermarkets.

Typical dining out in Dubai costs roughly AED65 ($17.70) per person. Breakfast is frequently less expensive compared to lunch or dinner. Additionally, food in Emirati restaurants is often more expensive than fast or street food prices.

Examples of average prices in restaurants

Here’s a quick list of cafes, fast food joints, and high and low-end restaurants to give you an idea of the cost of dining out in Dubai.

• Children’s menu often served with a drink: AED 25-40 ($7-11)
• McDonald’s Big Mac (Dubai Media City): AED 23 ($7)
• Soft drinks: AED 15-18 ($4-5)
• Starbucks’ Large Cappuccino to go (Mall of the Emirates): AED 18 ($5)
• Smoothies and shakes: AED 24-30 ($7-8)
• La Dolce Vita’s Margherita Pizza (Jumeirah Beach): AED 55 ($15)
• Appetizers and desserts: AED 20-40 ($5-11)
• Eat Greek Kouzina’s Moussaka (The Dubai Mall): AED 120 ($33)
• The Cheesecake Factory’s Grilled Salmon Potatoes & Broccoli: AED 110 ($30)

Helpful Tips

The costs at hotel restaurants are substantially higher than those at local restaurants. Hotel restaurants charge at least twice as much compared to dining outside of hotels. Because the tourism business in Dubai is so broad, you may find practically any meal you want. Falafel and Shawarma are just two of the most prevalent dishes seen across the city.

Water Budget

In Dubai, most people would spend an average of AED 3.65 ($1) per day on bottled water. The water in the city’s public areas is safe to drink.

How expensive is a taxi in Dubai?

The taxi, distinguished by its cream color and colored roof, is the most prevalent mode of transportation in Dubai. Also, the taxi drivers are well-trained English speakers with a meter, GPS, and air conditioning unit. You might as well prefer walking whenever possible, as it allows you to take in Dubai’s beautiful architecture.

Generally, the cost of a taxi will vary depending on your travel choice. Average taxi costs are:

• Airport Taxi: AED 46 ($13)
• Taxi Ride: AED 45 ($12)
• Sea Taxi: AED 2 ($0.54)

How much does alcohol cost?

In Dubai, alcohol usage is tightly regulated. However, as a tourist, you are still permitted to consume alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can only be purchased and consumed at licensed establishments like restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs.

Generally, the cost of alcohol in Dubai is much higher. A Heineken glass (0.33 cl) costs $6-8, while a glass of wine costs $10-12. Meanwhile, cocktails range in price from $12 to $35.

Helpful Tips

Alcohol is readily available, as beer, wine, and spirits are sold on numerous cruises and dune safaris. However, for religious reasons, alcohol is frequently withheld on Fridays.

In general, it’s prohibited to consume alcohol in public. Public intoxication and driving while intoxicated are serious offenses with lengthy prison sentences. Alcohol is not provided in many venues during Ramadan, including hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs with a permit, and regularly serves alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

Dubai is the most extravagant destination on the planet. It’s the place to go for shopping, clubbing, tanning, excellent dining, and the epitome of luxury. Is Dubai expensive to visit? A trip to Dubai does not have to be ridiculously expensive! With smart planning and wise decision-making, you may have a fantastic stay in the city at a moderate cost.

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