Travel Budget for Dubai Visit Dubai on a Budget or Travel in Style

Dubai, Dubayy, United Arab Emirates
Middle East / United Arab Emirates /
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Dubai is a modern city known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Dubai and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.

How much does it cost to travel to Dubai?

You should plan to spend around $289 (AED1,060) per day on your vacation in Dubai. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $96 (AED354) on meals
  • $13 (AED47) on local transportation
  • $340 (AED1,247) on hotels

A one week trip to Dubai for two people costs, on average, $4,040 (AED14,840). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $289
    AED1,060
  • One Week Per person
    $2,020
    AED7,420
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $4,040
    AED14,840
  • One Month Per person
    $8,658
    AED31,800
  • One Week For a couple
    $4,040
    AED14,840
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $8,080
    AED29,680
  • One Month For a couple
    $17,315
    AED63,600
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Dubai cost?

A one week trip to Dubai usually costs around $2,020 (AED7,420) for one person and $4,040 (AED14,840) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Dubai on average costs around $4,040 (AED14,840) for one person and $8,080 (AED29,680) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Dubai will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Dubai on average costs around $8,658 (AED31,800) for one person and $17,315 (AED63,600) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Dubai expensive to visit?

Dubai is a bustling city full of activities to keep you entertained. With travelers coming from all walks of life, you'll see everything from budget adventurers to high-end explorers enjoying the scene. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

Although Dubai can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $115 (AED423) per day, mid-range travelers spend $289 (AED1,060) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $751 (AED2,760) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Dubai.

Within the Middle East, Dubai is a very expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in the Middle East for its travel costs. There are only a few cities as expensive as Dubai in the region, such as Doha.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Dubai Expensive?

Dubai Dubai

How much money do I need for a trip to Dubai?

The average Dubai trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Dubai travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Dubai cost?

Dubai on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$65
(AED240) 		$170
(AED624) 		$456
(AED1,676)
Local Transportation 1 $4
(AED16) 		$13
(AED47) 		$43
(AED159)
Food 2 $39
(AED142) 		$96
(AED354) 		$235
(AED863)
Entertainment 1 $6
(AED21) 		$19
(AED70) 		$77
(AED281)
Alcohol 2 $5-15
(AED18-54) 		$11-34
(AED41-124) 		$22-67
(AED82-245)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Dubai on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.

The Truth on Budget Travel

You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $115 per day that backpackers typically manage.

Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.

Fortunately, there are plenty of hostels available in Dubai, such as Best Location Dubai, Grays Hostel, and Torch 77 - by Saffron House. In these hostels, you can discover cheap dorm accommodations and a great social atmosphere, though amenities may be few. Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Dubai, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Tourists visiting Dubai generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $289 per person, per day.

In Dubai, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Rove Downtown Dubai is a great choice for families, and Media One Hotel Dubai is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Dubai.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $751. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the city, be prepared for premium pricing. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Car with Driver at Disposal in Dubai or Abu Dhabi - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Dubai

The range of hotel prices in Dubai can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $71, but during peak winter season the average price can reach $132. From $36 for budget hotels to $340 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Dubai for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $340 (AED1,247). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $170 (AED624) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $170
    AED624
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $340
    AED1,247

Hotels in Dubai

Looking for a hotel in Dubai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Dubai

The average hotel room price in Dubai based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $71 in the low season and $132 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Dubai include:

  • Dusit D2 Kenz Hotel Dubai starting at $40
  • Media One Hotel Dubai starting at $71
  • Manzil Downtown by Vida starting at $111
  • Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai starting at $46
  • Golden Tulip Media Hotel starting at $44
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Dubai

Dubai features a wide selection of places to stay, as it is a large city. From budget hostels such as Best Location Dubai to vacation rentals and luxurious hotels, there are options for everyone. However, if you choose to stay in the city center, be ready for higher prices while enjoying the convenience of public transit and nearby attractions.

Dubai has a good public transit system lets you stay farther from the city, but remember that lower hotel costs could mean higher transportation expenses.

Families visiting Dubai will find that choosing accommodations with more room can make their trip much more comfortable. It's a large city, so don't be surprised if the rooms feel a bit small and cramped.

This city boasts numerous resorts to pick from. You might come across options that include meals or at least breakfast, and many resorts have their own restaurants.

With many visitors spending a week in Dubai, it could be useful to book a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can cook your meals.

Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of winter, can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Dubai

Dubai's public transit system connects to several major sights. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.

It's unfortunate that the walkability in most of the city is lacking. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $13 (AED47) per person, per day, on local transportation in Dubai. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Dubai is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $13
    AED47

Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Dubai Private Layover, Stopover and Transit Tour with Transfer for $99 details
  • Private Abu Dhabi City Tour transfer from Dubai & Sharjah for $279 details
  • Airport Transfers from Dubai Airport to Hotels in Dubai for $75 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Dubai
How much does it cost to go to Dubai? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Dubai
The price of renting a car in Dubai will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.


What did other people spend on Transportation in Dubai?

The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Dubai, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.


  • Taxi Ride
    AED45
  • Airport Taxi
    AED46
  • Sea Taxi
    AED2.00


Food Budget in Dubai

Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Dubai by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Dubai can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Dubai is $96 (AED354) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $96
    AED354

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Dubai is around $96 (AED354) per person, with previous travelers spending from $39 to $235. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Dubai are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $29
  • Lunch: $14 to $39
  • Dinner: $29 to $67
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $14

Because the tourism industry is so diverse, you can find almost any dish you're looking for in Dubai. The most common meals you'll find all over the place are the Shawarma and the Falafel. The Shawarma is the Arabic equivalent to a burger – the meat is cooked on a skewer, then cut into thin strips and placed in pita bread with vegetables and dressing.

Food & Dining Tips

You can save money by enjoying meals at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many eateries in tourist areas or business centers provide lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are frequently just smaller and cheaper versions of their dinner options. Sometimes, if you search in the right places, you can have a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price. For dinner, just keep it light.

If you're dining out with children, try to find restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since those meals tend to be cheaper. Remember, some places may not highlight their kids' options, so don't forget to ask your waiter first.

Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.

Save money while enjoying the scenery by planning a picnic. Visit a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh treats, and find a lovely park or scenic spot to relish your meal.

Choose to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks all day. It's a good choice for the environment.

When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Dubai, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Desert Safari Dubai With High Speed Dune Buggy And Dinner in 5 Star Camp for $39 details
  • Desert Safari Tour with Camel Ride and BBQ Dinner in VIP Camp for $77 details
  • Desert safari in Dubai Red Dunes with BBQ VEG Dinner & Quad Bike for $110 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on food and dining in Dubai?

Typical food prices in Dubai, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.


  • French bread
    AED3.50
  • Sumo salad in Dubai Mall + Juice
    AED38
  • Lemon Mint Tea
    AED16
  • Coffee & Cake
    AED24
  • Smoothie
    AED20
  • Shawarma
    AED7.00


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Dubai

People come to Dubai in droves for nightlife, music, resorts, and museums and attractions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Dubai typically cost an average of $19 (AED70) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $19
    AED70

This massive and beautiful city is never lacking in sightseeing. You'll want to start your trip with a trip to the Dubai Museum. Here you'll learn about the social history of the Emirates and discover an appreciation for the deep culture and heritage of the city. As you browse the museum you'll see the al-Fahidi Fort and the quick transition the city has made from a small pearling town to a bustling metropolis.

Another stunning view is standing in front of the Jumeirah Mosque. It's the largest mosque in the city and one of the few that is open to non-Muslim visitors. In order to promote a better understanding of Islam, the Jumeirah Mosque offers special, educational tours for non-Muslims. Go back alter that evening for a spectacular view of the mosque lit up at night.

If you're not afraid of heights, take a trip to the observation deck of the Burj Khalifa. At 828 meters and 160 floors, that makes this the tallest structure in the world. If you want the opportunity to see the view on the observation deck on the 124th floor, be sure to reserve your tickets well in advance.

For a relaxing, but fascinating show, visit the Dubai Fountain. The world's largest dancing fountain gives several shows a day to the sounds of classical and Arabic music.

For a true look into how the better half lives, travel over to see the Palm Islands. These three artificial islands are the largest in the world. Located just off the coast of Dubai, these islands are designed in the shape of palm leaves.

With so much to see and do, Dubai has a little bit of everything for everyone. For more information, check out this terrific guide to things to do in Dubai.

The area experiences a sub-tropical climate. It gets very hot and humid especially during the summer months. And keep in mind, their weekend runs from Thursday to Saturday. With the warm weather, you should probably read up on the best time to visit Dubai.



Think of an activity you'd like to try, and Dubai can make it happen. One of the most popular activities is known as Dune Bashing - a form of off-roading on sand dunes. Many places will rent 4x4 safari Jeeps, sand boards, quad bikes and dune buggies so you can feel the thrill of this amazing outdoor activity.

If you're in Dubai between late November and late February, you'll want to be sure to take a trip to the Global Village. This annual gathering of countries around the world is a makeshift flea market where you can pick up souvenirs from all over the world. Each country has its own pavilion with replicas of their most famous landmarks, and because this is Dubai, there is typically a raffle with prizes like cars and gold bars.

And just because Dubai is in the desert doesn't mean you can't enjoy your favorite winter sports. Inside the Mall of the Emirates is a national skiing center, complete with real snow. They provide all the equipment you'll need to enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

With all of these activities, as well as the cultural differences, you might be wondering what to bring and what you should wear (especially if you're a woman). Here's a great packing list for Dubai and an overview of what to wear.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in DubaiDubai is well-known for its iconic museums and renowned landmarks. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

Music:
The music scene in Dubai is exciting and appeals to a wide audience. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Shopping:
Shopping in DubaiShopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

A nice way to explore destinations in Dubai is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • 1 hour Jetski Tour - Burj Al Arab and Royal Atlantis for $165 details
  • Flyboard Experience in Dubai for $80 details
  • 90 Mins Speedboat Tour Dubai Marina JBR Atlantis and Burj Al Arab for $32 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on sightseeing in Dubai?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Dubai. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.


  • Visit to the Dubai Museum
    AED3.00


Nightlife Budget in Dubai

The nightlife in Dubai is top-notch, making it a must-visit destination for partygoers from around the world. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $23 (AED83) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Dubai per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $23
    AED83
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.

Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Dubai. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Pub Crawl Private, Birthdays & Corporate Events for $110 details
  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour for $64 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol in Dubai?

Here are some typical drink and nightlife prices in Dubai, drawn from the experiences of past travelers. These costs can give you a general sense of what to expect, though your own spending will differ based on how often you enjoy alcoholic beverages and how much you consume. Remember, one of the most effective ways to reduce your travel costs is to limit alcohol consumption.


  • A Couple Drinks
    AED92


Travel cost data last updated: Oct 30, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Dubai

  • In peak season during winter, expect to see higher prices and an influx of visitors in the city. To save some cash and avoid the crowds, think about visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Since Dubai is quite large, it typically offers various price ranges for accommodations, dining, and activities. You can save money by comparing options, booking early, and enjoying free attractions.
  • Since Dubai is quite large, it typically offers various price ranges for accommodations, dining, and activities. You can save money by comparing options, booking early, and enjoying free attractions.
  • Traveling at a more relaxed pace can help you save money, giving you a chance to appreciate the stunning surroundings while you unwind. Packing your days with too many activities often leads to higher expenses. On the other hand, slowing down can lead to lower costs and a more enjoyable experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Scuba diving in Dubai is a major draw for many visitors. However, it can get quite expensive, leaving little flexibility in your budget. Dive trips, gear rentals, and boat excursions are likely to be significant expenses. Also, review your travel insurance to confirm it covers all situations, including accidents and weather-related cancellations.
  • Traveling with young ones usually means you'll want a private vehicle or taxi. Skipping the public transport hassle can make life simpler, but be ready to spend a bit more cash.
  • There aren't many hostel options in Dubai, so if you're counting on a cheap dorm to save cash, it's time to adjust your expectations. Look for inexpensive hotels or apartment rentals instead.
Related Articles
Dubai Hotels Near the MarinaBest Hostels for Backpackers, Students, and Female Travellers in Dubai, UAEAbu Dhabi
Traveling in Dubai
Dubai Dubai

Ever wonder what it would be like to see the lifestyles of the rich and famous up close. There's no more upscale destination than Dubai. It's by far and away the spot for shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining and the most luxurious of luxury. As the most modern and progressive of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, this area has experienced an unbelievable economic boom and tourism spike. It's a desert city with an amazing infrastructure.

Remember to do your research. While Dubai is more modern and progressive than most of the Middle East, it is still an Islamic nation with strict laws unlike the West. They follow strict sharia laws so be sure to be very respectful. For example, do not eat in public during Ramadan, avoid criticizing the ruling family, and refrain from public displays of affection. Even losing your temper can land you in jail for a month.



Neighborhoods & Around

Dubai is divided into 11 districts, and some areas are more attractive to tourists than others. The Jumeirah district is the main destination for beach lovers. The beach is close by and easily accessible in this district.

Downtown Dubai is located in the center of "New Dubai," and includes the world's largest mall, the Dubai Fountain and the tallest building in the world - the Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Marina is the home to numerous restaurants, homes and is where most of the Westerners will stay.

Related
Read more about where to stay in Dubai and the best hotels here.

Looking for a hostel in Delhi or Goa? Heading to Kathmandu or want a party in Tel Aviv?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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