Cost of living in Dubai

We’ll break down all the aspects you need to consider to make your stay in Dubai comfortable and affordable. From accommodation options to salaries and savings tips, here you’ll find all the necessary information to prepare yourself.

The cost of living in Dubai can vary significantly depending on various factors. These include the area you choose to live in, the type of accommodation, the time of year, the availability of services near your residence, your activities, and whether you decide to work while studying.

We will now analyze each of these aspects so that you can make informed decisions.

Before settling in Dubai, there are certain initial expenses to consider. These include the cost of the flight, health insurance, visa fees, temporary accommodation, English courses, and money for your first few weeks.

Let’s break down each of these costs so you can plan your budget accordingly.

• Flight to Dubai: The cost of the flight to Dubai can vary depending on your country of origin. From Spain, a round-trip ticket can cost between $400 and $700 USD, while from Latin America, the price can rise to around $1,200 USD. We recommend booking in advance and looking for deals to get the best prices.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance is essential for any extended stay in Dubai. Students can obtain insurance for approximately $82 USD per month, which is a crucial investment to ensure your well-being during your stay.
• Visa fees: Visa fees vary depending on the duration and type of visa you choose. With a tourist visa, you can stay for up to 3 months from $90 USD, but you won’t be able to work. A student visa with a work permit costs approximately $340 USD for 3 months, $680 USD for 6 months, and $1200 USD for a year. It’s important to consider these fees in your initial budget.
• First weeks of accommodation: For your first weeks, you can stay in a hostel with prices starting at $21 USD per night. This option allows you to calmly search for a permanent accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
• English course: If your goal is to improve your English, consider that courses in Dubai can cost from $300 USD per week. This is an important expense, especially if you plan to stay for a long period.
• Money to sustain yourself for the first weeks: During your first weeks in Dubai, you will need money for food, transportation, and leisure. A budget of about $400 USD per month should be sufficient to cover these basic expenses while you adjust to life in the city.

In Dubai, there is no fixed minimum wage regulated by the government. However, salaries can be quite attractive, especially if you find a well-paying job.

Here we explain the salary ranges for unskilled and skilled jobs so you can get an idea of how much you could earn while studying and working.

Salaries in Unskilled Jobs

Unskilled jobs in Dubai typically pay between $15 and $30 USD per hour. These jobs include positions in the hospitality sector, retail, and other services.

While these salaries may seem low compared to skilled jobs, they can help you cover your basic expenses while studying.

Salaries in Skilled Jobs

If you have specific skills or experience in a particular field, you might opt for skilled jobs that pay from $30 USD per hour.

These positions are usually found in sectors such as technology, finance, and marketing. Earning a higher salary will allow you to enjoy a better quality of life and save more money.

Once settled in Dubai, you’ll need to know the monthly expenses to plan your budget.

Below, we break down the main monthly costs, including food, transportation, accommodation, leisure, and other expenses such as your phone.

Saving money while living in a vibrant city like Dubai can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.

Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy your stay without overspending:

• Share accommodation: Sharing an apartment or room significantly reduces rental costs.
• Cook at home: Preparing your own meals is more economical than eating out every day.
• Use public transport: The metro and buses are affordable and efficient.
• Look for student deals: Many attractions and restaurants offer student discounts.
• Take advantage of free events: Dubai offers many cultural events and free activities.
• Shop at local markets: Markets often have lower prices than supermarkets.
• Plan your budget: Keep track of your expenses to avoid surprises at the end of the month.

Living in Dubai as an international student can be an enriching and exciting experience. With proper planning and these tips, you’ll be able to manage your budget effectively and enjoy everything this city has to offer.

Want to live in Dubai while studying and working? Write to us, and a Dingoos Guide will contact you to offer personalized and free advice. We look forward to hearing from you!