Cost of living in Dubai for international students in 2025

Do you dream of studying and working in one of the most modern and dynamic destinations in the world? Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, offers extraordinary opportunities for international students. But before embarking on this transformative journey, it's essential to understand the local cost of living. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your budget and make your Dubai exchange dream an affordable reality.

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Overview of the cost of living in Dubai

Dubai is often viewed as a city of luxury and opulence, but the reality is that there are options for every budget. The cost of living for international students in 2025 ranges from AED 4,500 to AED 9,000 per month (approximately R$ 6,300 to R$ 12,600), depending on the lifestyle chosen and the type of accommodation. These values are higher than in many Brazilian cities, but they offer access to first-class infrastructure and unique cultural experiences.

For students seeking an enriching international experience, the program Study and Work in the United Arab Emirates offers a unique opportunity for cultural immersion while developing your professional skills. With the right combination of financial planning and smart choices, your Dubai experience can become not only feasible but truly transformative.

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Accommodation: the biggest expense in your budget

Accommodation represents the largest component of the cost of living in Dubai, generally consuming between 30% and 50% of the total monthly budget. The options are varied and meet different needs and pockets:

Housing options and price ranges:

• Shared accommodation: AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 monthly (R$ 2,800 to R$ 5,600)
• Rooms in student residences: AED 2,500 to AED 5,000 monthly (R$ 3,500 to R$ 7,000)
• Studios and individual apartments: AED 5,000 to AED 7,000+ monthly (R$ 7,000 to R$ 9,800+)
• Accommodation in premium areas: AED 7,000 to AED 10,000+ monthly (R$ 9,800 to R$ 14,000+)

The location significantly influences the cost. Neighborhoods like Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) and Deira offer more affordable options, while Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah have the highest values. Many universities also offer competitively priced student accommodation, which includes basic utilities and access to shared facilities.

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Food and daily expenses

Your food choices will have a considerable impact on your monthly budget in Dubai. The cost can vary widely depending on your consumption habits and preferences:

Estimated food expenses:

• Basic grocery shopping: AED 1,000 to AED 1,500 monthly (R$ 1,400 to R$ 2,100)
• Coffee in a cafeteria: approximately AED 20 (R$ 28)
• Meal at a budget restaurant: AED 35 to AED 50 (R$ 49 to R$ 70)
• Meal at a medium standard restaurant: AED 100 to AED 150 (R$ 140 to R$ 210)
• Fast food (combo): AED 30 to AED 40 (R$ 42 to R$ 56)

Cooking at home is definitely the most economical option, allowing for significant savings. Dubai has a wide range of supermarkets, from premium international brands to more affordable local markets. For students on a budget, marketplaces like Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Union Coop offer good options with reasonable prices.

Food courts in shopping malls are also affordable alternatives for meals away from home, with options starting at AED 25 (R$ 35).

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Transportation and urban mobility

Dubai has a modern and efficient public transportation system, making it an economic option for students. The subway, bus and monorail form an integrated network that connects the main areas of the city:

1. Dubai Metro: The fastest system for long distances, with tickets between AED 4 and AED 8.50 per trip (R$ 5.60 to R$ 12), depending on the distance.
2. Bus: More economical option, with tickets between AED 3 and AED 7 (R$ 4.20 to R$ 9.80), connecting areas not served by the subway.
3. Monthly passes: The “Nol Card” with monthly passes costs between AED 300 and AED 500 (R$ 420 to R$ 700), depending on the zones, representing significant savings for regular use.
4. Taxis and ride-sharing: More convenient but more expensive. A typical 10km ride costs approximately AED 40 (R$ 56), while services like Uber and Careem can cost 20-30% more.

For students who live close to educational institutions, hiking is feasible during the cooler months (November to March). However, during summer, when temperatures easily exceed 40°C, air-conditioned public transport becomes essential.

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Utilities and additional costs

Spending on essential services must be considered when planning your monthly budget. These costs may vary depending on the type of accommodation and your consumption habits:

Monthly utility and service costs:

• Water, electricity and air conditioning: AED 400 to AED 800 (R$ 560 to R$ 1,120)
• High-speed Internet: AED 350 to AED 400 (R$ 490 to R$ 560)
• Mobile plan with data: AED 150 to AED 250 (R$ 210 to R$ 350)
• Streaming and entertainment: AED 50 to AED 150 (R$ 70 to R$ 210)
• Personal items and hygiene: AED 200 to AED 300 (R$ 280 to R$ 420)

It is worth noting that air conditioning is practically indispensable in Dubai, especially during the summer months, which can significantly increase electricity bills. In shared accommodation or student housing, these costs are often divided or included in the rental amount, providing considerable savings.

Quality internet access is widely available, with the region having one of the best telecommunications infrastructures in the world. Providers such as Etisalat and du offer special packages for students at reduced prices.

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Leisure and social life in Dubai

Dubai offers endless entertainment options to suit every taste and budget. As an international student, you will find several alternatives to enjoy your free time:

Leisure options and their costs:

• Cinema ticket: AED 35 to AED 50 (R$ 49 to R$ 70)
• Monthly gym: AED 250 to AED 400 (R$ 350 to R$ 560)
• Visiting tourist attractions: AED 100 to AED 400 (R$ 140 to R$ 560)
• Dinner at a casual restaurant: AED 100 to AED 200 (R$ 140 to R$ 280)
• Club/bar night: AED 200 to AED 500+ (R$ 280 to R$ 700+)

The city also offers numerous free or low-cost activities, such as tours on public beaches, visits to traditional markets (souks), and free cultural events organized in parks and public spaces. The Dubai Shopping Festival and other seasonal events provide free entertainment, including shows and presentations.

Many universities and educational institutions organize accessible social activities for their students, facilitating socialization and cultural immersion without compromising their budget. O exchange program it can also include organized cultural activities, maximizing your experience without significant additional costs.

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Strategies to reduce costs

Living in Dubai as an international student may seem financially challenging, but there are several strategies to make this experience more accessible:

Saving on accommodation:

• Opt for student housing or shared accommodation
• Consider areas further away from the center, such as Al Qusais or Deira
• Look for accommodations that include basic utilities

Economical food:

• Cook at home whenever possible
• Buy at local supermarkets like Lulu or Carrefour
• Take advantage of offers and promotions for students at restaurants
• Use discount apps like Entertainer or Zomato Pro

Smart Transportation:

• Get the monthly Nol Card for public transport
• Organize your routine to avoid multiple daily trips
• Choose accommodation close to your educational institution

International students can also benefit from the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which offers discounts at various establishments, including restaurants, tourist attractions, and stores. In addition, many universities in Dubai offer scholarship programs and paid internships, which can help cover part of the living costs.

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Job opportunities for students

Dubai offers part-time work opportunities for international students, helping to supplement the budget during the study period:

1. I work on campus: Many universities offer places in libraries, laboratories, or administrative departments, with salaries between AED 25 and AED 50 per hour (R$ 35 to R$ 70).
2. Paid internships: Companies in Dubai frequently hire international interns, especially in sectors such as hospitality, technology, and finance, with compensation between AED 2,000 and AED 5,000 monthly (R$ 2,800 to R$ 7,000).
3. Remote/Freelance Work: Students with skills in design, programming, or digital marketing can find remote work opportunities that don't interfere with student visa restrictions.
4. Event assistance: Dubai hosts numerous international fairs and events that hire temporary staff, offering attractive payments for short periods.
5. Language tutoring and teaching: Students fluent in English, Portuguese or other languages can offer private lessons, with prices between AED 100 and AED 200 per hour (R$ 140 to R$ 280).

It should be noted that the rules for student work vary according to the type of visa and institution. Some universities and courses with a government partnership allow official part-time work, while others may have restrictions. Checking these conditions in advance is critical to planning your budget properly.

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Cost comparison: Dubai vs. other global cities

When we compare Dubai with other popular exchange destinations, we can observe an interesting cost-benefit ratio:

Monthly cost of living for students in different cities:

• Dubai: AED 4,500 - 9,000 (R$ 6,300 - 12,600)
• London: equivalent to AED 7,000 - 12,000 (R$ 9,800 - 16,800)
• New York: equivalent to AED 8,000 - 14,000 (R$ 11,200 - 19,600)
• Sydney: equivalent to AED 5,500 - 10,000 (R$ 7,700 - 14,000)
• Toronto: equivalent to AED 5,000 - 9,500 (R$ 7,000 - 13,300)

Dubai offers unique advantages when compared to other international destinations. The absence of income taxes, the relatively low cost of public transport, and the possibility of finding shared accommodation at reasonable prices make the city competitive in terms of cost-benefit.

The quality of the infrastructure, exceptional public safety, and multicultural environment are additional factors that offset the costs. In addition, the geographical proximity to Asia and Africa makes international travel more accessible, expanding the possibilities of exploration during your period of study.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy is committed to making your dream of studying in Dubai an accessible reality. Our expert advisors offer personalized guidance on educational programs in the United Arab Emirates, helping you find the best option within your budget. Additionally, we provide assistance with documentation, visas, and financial planning to ensure a smooth transition. Get in touch today and discover how we can transform your international experience with the security and support you deserve.

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