Cost of Living 2025
What does life cost
in Dubai 2025?
Real numbers, current prices, 3 lifestyle categories – transparent and comparable.
📊 Data: Dec 2024
💰 All Currencies
Monthly Total (Comfortable)
AED 18,000
per month
2BR (City)
Marina, JLT, Business Bay
AED 10,000
Utilities
Larger apt
AED 700
Internet & Phone
Premium
AED 500
Groceries
Mixed
AED 2,500
Car (complete)
Mid-range
AED 2,500
Dining out
2-3x/week
AED 1,500
Other
Gym, Shopping
AED 1,300
Family Costs
Additional expenses for families with children
International School (per child/year)
AED 60,000 - AED 120,000
GEMS, Nord Anglia
Childcare/Nursery (month)
AED 3,000 - AED 6,000
Full-time
Family Health Insurance (year)
AED 15,000 - AED 40,000
Comprehensive
Activities & Classes (month)
AED 1,000 - AED 3,000
Sports, Music
🇨🇭 Comparison with Switzerland
Dubai vs. Zurich – where is life financially more worthwhile?
| Category | Dubai | Zurich | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (City) | AED 8,000 - AED 12,000 | CHF 2,500 - 3,500 | ≈ 40% cheaper |
| Restaurant (2 people) | AED 250 - AED 400 | CHF 120 - 180 | Similar |
| Public Transport (month) | AED 350 | CHF 87 | More expensive, but often car |
| Gym (month) | AED 300 - AED 600 | CHF 80 - 120 | More expensive |
| Income Tax | 0% | 22-35% | Biggest difference! |
Biggest Advantage
0% Income Tax
With a salary of CHF 200,000 you save approx. CHF 50,000 - 70,000 per year in taxes in Dubai.
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