Dubai, often referred to as the “City of Gold,” is a prominent business and financial hub in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), drawing millions of visitors and prospective residents globally. Known for its luxurious lifestyle, modern architecture, and diverse culture, Dubai’s cost of living is considerably higher than other cities in the UAE, making planning and budgeting crucial if you’re considering a move from Canada.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the average cost of living in Dubai, with key expenses and lifestyle considerations to help Canadians prepare for life abroad.
Is Dubai Expensive?
For Canadians, Dubai can feel affordable compared to major cities like Toronto or Vancouver in some areas but significantly more expensive in others. According to Numbeo, a single person in Dubai requires approximately 3,700 AED (~$1,300 CAD) per month, excluding rent.
- Abu Dhabi: 3,100 AED (~$1,100 CAD)
- Ajman: 2,300 AED (~$800 CAD)
While Dubai is generally less expensive than cities like New York or London, how pricey you find Dubai will depend on your lifestyle and current expenses in Canada.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Dubai
Housing in Dubai
Housing is typically the largest expense for residents in Dubai, and rental prices can vary depending on the neighbourhood and property size.
- Buying Property: Purchasing property in Dubai’s city center averages around $450 CAD per square foot, and $295 CAD per square foot outside the city center.
- Renting Property: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,700 CAD per month, while renting outside the city center drops to about $1,485 CAD per month. Larger family-friendly homes can cost upwards of $4,600 CAD per month in the city center.
If you’re planning to relocate with your family or want more space, it’s worth considering suburban areas for more affordable options.
Food in Dubai
Grocery prices in Dubai are reasonable, but dining out can add up quickly, especially if you frequent international or fine dining restaurants.
Eating Out (Prices in CAD):
- Casual meal at an inexpensive restaurant: ~$13
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: ~$105
- Fast food combo (e.g., McDonald’s): ~$11
- Cappuccino: ~$6.50
Groceries (Prices in CAD):
- White rice (1 kg): ~$1.50
- Eggs (12): ~$4
- Tomatoes (1 kg): ~$1
- Milk (4 litres): ~$9.50
Dubai’s diverse food scene includes both local Emirati cuisine and international favourites. If you’re looking to explore Emirati culture, try Machboos, the UAE’s national dish, which blends rice, meat, and fragrant spices.
Healthcare in Dubai
Healthcare in Dubai is a major consideration for expats. While UAE citizens benefit from universal healthcare, expats are required to have private health insurance.
- Employer-Provided Insurance: If you move to Dubai for work, your employer must provide basic health insurance under the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP). However, this typically does not cover family members.
- Golden Visa Holders: Investors and entrepreneurs with a Golden Visa can access premium health insurance plans, ranging from $870 CAD to $14,500 CAD per year.
Ensure you budget for family coverage if your employer doesn’t extend their plan to dependents.
Transportation in Dubai
Public transit is efficient and affordable in Dubai, though many residents prefer owning a car.
- Public Transport: A one-way Metro ticket costs approximately $2.20 CAD, while a monthly pass costs $110 CAD.
- Taxis: Starting fare is $4 CAD, with rates increasing per kilometre.
- Fuel: Gasoline is significantly cheaper than in Canada, at approximately $1.15 CAD per litre.
Owning a car is often practical in Dubai due to its hot climate and modern roadways, but public transportation is a reliable alternative for daily commutes.
Education in Dubai
If you’re moving with children, education is another major expense to consider.
- Private Kindergartens: Tuition averages $1,000 CAD per month per child.
- International Primary Schools: Tuition costs approximately $15,500 CAD per year per child.
Many schools follow international curricula, such as British, American, or IB programs, which may feel familiar for Canadian families.
Entertainment and Shopping
Dubai offers endless entertainment options, from luxury shopping malls to world-class attractions.
- Utility Bills: ~$270 CAD per month (electricity, water, etc.)
- Internet: ~$135 CAD per month for high-speed connections
- Gym Membership: ~$100 CAD per month
- Movie Tickets: ~$18 CAD per seat
- Clothing: Jeans average $80 CAD, while a casual dress costs around $70 CAD.
Dubai is known for its luxury malls like the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, which also feature family-friendly attractions such as indoor ski slopes and aquariums.
Monthly Salary in Dubai
The high cost of living in Dubai is balanced by competitive salaries. The average monthly income after taxes is around $5,400 CAD, though this varies by industry and role. Expats working in finance, technology, or healthcare can expect even higher compensation.
Sending Money to and from Dubai
For Canadians living in Dubai, finding a reliable way to send money home to family and friends is essential. Remitly offers fast, transparent, and affordable international money transfers through an easy-to-use mobile app.
