Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian Students 2025

Dubai, the gleaming desert jewel of the United Arab Emirates, offers a luxurious lifestyle and vibrant culture. But before you bask in its sun-kissed paradise, understanding the cost of living in Dubai is crucial. This guide unveils the cost of living in Dubai UAE including various parameters such as the cost of groceries, travelling, entertainment and more.

If you are someone who wishes to stay and study in Dubai, UAE, then knowing the "Dubai life cost" is important for you. As much as a healthy and luxurious life attracts you, it takes a lot just to survive in Dubai. Yes, you heard it right. Dubai is way more costly and ranked #7 in the costliest cities in the world ranking for 2023. Dubai’s currency, the Dirham (AED) is equal to INR 23.31 as per the AED to INR exchange rate today, i.e. 01 July 2025, which means that the city will naturally be costlier for most Indian students. This article will give you a reflection on the cost of living in Dubai in detail, along with several tips and tricks to lower your monthly expenses while living in this foreign wonderland. We have also mapped the estimated total living cost in Dubai for international students and the list of the top 5 universities in Dubai, along with their average fees.

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Dubai Life Cost: Cost of Housing for Indians

Accommodation costs vary greatly, depending on your desired lifestyle. The rent for the studio apartments differs from a flat and a villa for single and multiple residents. Below is the table listing these costs separately in Dubai Dirhams and Indian Rupees. 

*The exchange rate information between AED and INR shown in this article is as of July 01, 2025. 

Please note that the above figures may change from properties to people and different conditions. This rent is approx. 5-10 times more than the usual rent in Noida, with the latest cost of living index in Dubai being 58.0, and for Noida, it is 22.0 (approximately). 

Below are some tips for getting affordable housing in Dubai.

• Share a flat with friends or colleagues to reduce costs.
• Consider outlying areas like Dubai Silicon Oasis or Jumeirah Village Circle for cheaper options, as the city’s central areas are usually multi-fold costlier than the outlying areas.
• Apply early, especially during off-peak seasons and negotiate with landlords.

Also Check: Study in UAE for Indian Students

Cost of Groceries in Dubai

Dubai offers diverse grocery options to suit various budgets. The average weekly costs in AED and INR for basic groceries in different supermarkets of Dubai are given below.

Below are some tips for saving on groceries in Dubai.

• Cook at home instead of dining out frequently.
• Buy in bulk for non-perishable items.
• Explore local markets for fresh produce and bargain more.
• Utilise the supermarket loyalty programs for discounts and rewards.

Also Read: Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?

Cost of Transportation

Dubai provides various transportation options like local transport, taxi or buying a private car. The average transportation costs using different transportation modes in Dubai are given below.

Below are some tips for budget-friendly transportation in Dubai.

• Utilise the Dubai Metro whenever possible. Get the monthly pass as that would lower your charges for accessing Dubai Metro even more.
• Walk or cycle for short distances to save on taxi or metro fares.
• Carpool with friends or colleagues to share fuel costs.

Read: Why are Indian students choosing to study in Dubai in 2025?

Cost of Dining & Entertainment in Dubai

From Michelin starred restaurants to budget-friendly street food catering to every palate and budget - Dubai is home to diverse cuisine in one place. Dubai's dining and entertainment costs cater to various different budgets. Below are average costs for fooding and entertatinment in Dubai.

Below are tips for getting affordable food options and saving on entertainment.

• Seek some free activities like beach walks, parks and cultural attractions rather than alwys going for the paid options
• Take advantage of happy hour deals at bars and restaurants
• Utilise discount vouchers and birthday discounts in restaurants
• Use city passes like Dubai Pass for discounted rates

Hidden Living Expenses in Dubai

Beyond the core expenses, prepare for additional costs like utilities, internet, and phone bills, which average around AED 500 (INR 11,518) per month. Additionally, healthcare in Dubai is very expensive, so having health insurance is crucial. Including occasional social outings and impulse purchases, your monthly budget should account for at least AED 8,000 (INR 1.81 L) for a basic lifestyle.

Here are a few points to save more on your monthly living expenses in Dubai.

• Lifestyle choices significantly impact your cost of living. Prioritise needs over wants and embrace cost-effective options like using public transportation and cooking at home.
• As there is no income tax in Dubai currently (which means that you get exactly the same amount as is reflected on your offer letter), salary expectations vary greatly from the actually provided salary. Research average salaries in your chosen field before making the move.
• Dubai is not just for the rich and welcomes diverse budgets. Adapt your lifestyle to suit your financial realities, and explore the city's hidden gems that go beyond the glitz and glamour.

Total Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian Students

The total living cost in Dubai for Indian students including the stationary costs and college tuition fees is given below. 

Note:- Several colleges and universities in Dubai offer free education or education at a minimal price. For this reason, international students must look for universities that are lighter on their pockets and arrange only for their living expenses in Dubai alongside following our tips and tricks on saving more each month.

Top 5 Universities in Dubai and Their Average Tuition Fees

The top 5 universities in Dubai and their fees are given below.

Study in Dubai for Indian Students in 2025

Tips on Surviving in Dubai

Surviving in a city like Dubai is not just about meeting the “expenses”. It is also about immersing in the diverse culture and workplace and sharing a good tuning with people. For this reason, below we have provided you with some bonus tips on survival in Dubai.

• Learn Arabic phrases or language to interact with locals.
• Maintain polite behaviour, use handshake while meeting new people, place your shoes outside of mosques and homes and refrain from littering and spitting public places. 
• Take advantage of Dubai's numerous sales and promotions throughout year especially during shopping festivals like Dubai Summer Surprises
• Consider applying for Dubai resident's card which offers discounts on various services.
• Remember that budgeting comes from continuous efforts. So, make only necessary expenses and adjust your lifestyle according to your earnings and make sure to do some savings along your way.

If you wish to study abroad, then you can get assistance from Shiksha Counselling Services for free.