Dubai is often perceived as an expensive city, but those who compare it to other global cities such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, Singapore, Tokyo, and Toronto will quickly notice that Dubai can actually be surprisingly affordable.
Living and life in Dubai is often cheaper than you think
Many people living in Dubai complain about the high cost of living. However, this is often a matter of perspective. Compared to cities like Amsterdam and London, the cost of housing in Dubai is relatively low.
Rental prices in Dubai Marina or Palm Jumeirah are much lower than in popular neighbourhoods in, for example, Paris or Singapore. Furthermore, cars are considerably cheaper in Dubai. Not only is the purchase price of vehicles lower, but the cost of car insurance is also reasonable. What may be even more striking are the fuel prices. In Dubai, you often pay less for petrol than for a bottle of water.
Comparison with other global cities reveals significant differences
In addition to lower housing costs and cheaper cars, there are other things that are more affordably priced in Dubai. Think of daily groceries and dining out. Although luxury restaurants are certainly present, the overall price for a meal is often lower than in cities like Toronto or Tokyo. Many people are drawn to Dubai because of its attractive lifestyle. The warm climate, modern infrastructure, and spacious homes provide a comfortable environment.
It is important to realise that what is considered expensive in one city can feel like good value in another. Someone who struggles to make ends meet in Dubai would likely have to work even harder in cities like London or Singapore to achieve the same level of comfort. It all comes down to perspective and personal circumstances.
Edward Clarke is a seasoned property expert with extensive experience in international real estate investment, with a particular focus on Dubai’s fast-growing property market. Drawing on both personal investment experience and years of client advisory work, he helps investors make informed, realistic decisions when purchasing apartments, villas or off-plan developments in Dubai. With a pragmatic mindset, a sharp focus on returns and a strong commitment to transparency, Edward is a trusted point of contact for anyone considering a property investment in Dubai.
