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Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian and International Students 2025

Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian and International Students 2025

Edited By Jasmine | Updated on Aug 04, 2025 05:33 PM IST

The cost of living in Dubai for Indian students is quite expensive as compared to a few other popular study abroad destinations. Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81. As per Numbeo, the estimated living costs in Dubai for international students amount to approximately AED 4,255 (INR 1,01,300) on average per month, excluding the rent. Dubai is way more expensive than some of the cities in India, such as Delhi. The rental cost in Dubai for international students is approximately between AED 5,625 - AED 8,950 (INR 1.3L- 2.1L) per month, depending on the location in Dubai. The exact living costs in Dubai vary, depending on individual preferences. The total cost of living in Dubai for Indian students includes accommodation, transportation, food & groceries, books, leisure, miscellaneous, and other additional costs. Dubai is a global business hub with a stable economy that is known for its strong international hub for work with many job opportunities, especially in the Oil and Gas sector. It is one of the reasons that students are attracted to this country despite the high cost of living in Dubai per year. If you are planning to study in Dubai, you must ensure you have enough money to sustain yourself before enrolling in a course at a university in Dubai. This gives you the required budget necessary during your study or work in Dubai. Generally, the tuition fees in top universities in Dubai are also a major concern for prospective international students. In Dubai, undergraduate tuition costs between AED 37,000 and AED 70,000 (INR 8L and INR 16L) annually. The postgraduate tuition costs between AED 45,000 to AED 90,000 (INR 10L - 20L) for government universities and from AED 65,000 to AED 110,000 (INR 15L - 25L) for private universities. Hence, students who want to study in Dubai must consider the tuition fees and the total living expenses in Dubai before applying to universities in Dubai.

This Story also Contains
  1. Cost of Living in Dubai Per Month 2025
  2. Annual Cost of Living in Dubai 2025
  3. Cost of Studying in Dubai for Indian Students 2025
  4. Total Cost of Living in Dubai For Indian Students 2025
  5. Accommodation Expenses in Dubai 2025
  6. Cost of Groceries in Dubai
  7. Cost of Dining & Entertainment in Dubai
  8. Cost of Transportation in Dubai 2025
  9. Cost of Utilities and Internet in Dubai
  10. Health Insurance in Dubai for Indian Students
  11. How to Reduce the Cost of Living in Dubai?
  12. Cost of Living in Dubai vs India 2025
  13. Is Dubai a Safe City for International Students?
  14. Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Living in Dubai
  15. Average Monthly Salary in Dubai for Popular Professions
Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian and International Students 2025
Cost of Living in Dubai for Indian and International Students 2025

Cost of Living in Dubai Per Month 2025

CategoryMonthly cost (AED)
Monthly Cost (INR)
Rent (1–3 bedroom)
5,600 – 17,0001.3L - 3.9L
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Cooling, Internet)225 – 8005,240 - 18,630
Groceries1000 - 150023,290 - 34,930
Transportation (monthly pass)3357,975
Healthcare & Insurance400 – 7009,310 - 16,300
Dining & Entertainment800 – 1,50018,630 - 34,930
Miscellaneous400 – 7009,310 - 16,300

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81; Source: Numbeo

Annual Cost of Living in Dubai 2025

CategoryAnnual Cost (AED)Annual Cost (INR)
Housing (Rent)67,200 – 2,04,00015L - 47L
Utilities2,700 – 9,60062,880 - 2L
Groceries12,000 – 18,0002.7L - 4.1L
Transportation (monthly pass)3,60083,840
Healthcare & Insurance4,800 – 8,4001.1L -1.9L
Leisure & Dining9,600 – 18,0002L - 4.1L
Miscellaneous4,800 – 8,4001.1L -1.9L
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Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81; Source: Numbeo

Cost of Studying in Dubai for Indian Students 2025

The exact tuition fees in Dubai universities tend to differ as per the educational university, level of study, and the chosen course. However, the approximate study in Dubai after 12th fees is between AED 37,000 and AED 70,000 (INR 8L and INR 16L) annually for undergraduate studies. The postgraduate tuition costs between AED 45,000 to AED 90,000 (INR 10L - 20L) for government universities and from AED 65,000 to AED 110,000 (INR 15L - 25L) for private universities. One must note that tuition fees are one of the major components when budgeting for the cost of living in Dubai for international students. Here are the top 5 universities in Dubai, along with their tuition fees, in the table below:

Cost of studying in Dubai Universities 2025

Top Universities in DubaiAnnual Cost of Studying an Undergraduate Course in Dubai (in AED)Annual Cost of Studying an Undergraduate Course in Dubai (in INR)Annual Cost of Studying a Postgraduate Course in Dubai (in AED)Annual Cost of Studying a Postgraduate Course in Dubai (in INR)
University of DubaiAED 37,500 – 70,000INR 8.7L - 16.3LAED 55,000 – 75,000INR 12.8L - 17.4L
American University in DubaiAED 105,030INR 24.4LAED 85,000INR 19.7L
British University in DubaiAED 56,250 - 62,500INR 13.1 - 14.5LAED 85,000INR 19.7L
Heriot-Watt University DubaiAED 75,000 - 1,15,000INR 17.4L - 26.7LAED 50,000 - 1,50,000INR 11.6L - 34.9L
University of Wollongong in DubaiAED 60,430 - 65,630INR 14L - 15.2LAED 57,500 - 70,000INR 13.3L - 16.3L

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81.

Top 10 Universities in Dubai and Their Average Tuition Fees

The table below shows the top universities and how much a student has to pay in tuition fees for that university in a year:

RankUniversity NameAverage Tuition Fee (AED/year)Average Tuition Fee (INR/year)
1American University in Dubai (AUD)1,05,600₹24,59,330
2American University of Sharjah (AUS)1,05,020₹24,45,825
3University of Birmingham Dubai1,01,100₹23,54,530
4Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai (RIT)85,400₹19,88,890
5Heriot-Watt University Dubai63,000₹14,67,215
6Canadian University Dubai70,700₹16,46,540
7Middlesex University Dubai58,000₹13,50,770
8University of Wollongong Dubai (UOWD)58,000₹13,50,770
9De Montfort University Dubai (DMU)60,585₹14,10,970
10BITS Pilani Dubai41,600₹9,68,830

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81.

Total Cost of Living in Dubai For Indian Students 2025

The cost of living in Dubai for a single person (international student) per month, excluding rent is around AED 44,255 (INR 1,01,300). The rent in Dubai for Indians is an average of 600% higher than in some Indian cities like Bangalore (As per Numbeo). The tuition fee in top Dubai universities ranges from INR 9 lakhs to 25 lakhs per annum. The living cost in Dubai for international students varies depending on their personal preferences. However, these are the parameters that add to the total cost of living for international students in Dubai.

Accommodation Expenses in Dubai 2025

International students can choose either on-campus or off-campus accommodations in Dubai. There are multiple options in housing like single bedrooms, shared rooms, studio apartments, rental flats, villas, etc. The living expenses in Dubai for students depend on which accommodation option you choose.

On-campus Accommodation: The on-campus accommodation must be booked in advance to decrease the cost of living in Dubai for a single person. Choosing this option can be very useful for new students who are studying for their first year in Dubai. As the on-campus accommodation comes with furnished rooms, there will be less initial settling costs for students. The average on-campus accommodation cost in Dubai can range from 2,700 to 7,000 AED (INR 62,945 to 1.6L per month.

Off-Campus Accommodation: You can choose the off-campus accommodation based on your choice of facilities. If you wish to stay in your preferred locality or some locations that are nearer to malls supermarkets and entertainment zones, then the rent can be increased based on your location. The off-campus accommodations cost in Dubai can range from 2,700 to 10,000 AED (INR 62,945 to 2.3L) per month.

According to Numbeo, the housing expenses in Dubai are as follows:

Apartment TypeRent per Month (AED)Rent per Month (INR)
1 Bedroom in City Centre8,950₹2,13,070
1 Bedroom Outside of City Centre5,625₹1,33,910
3 Bedrooms in City Centre17,470₹4,15,905
3 Bedrooms Outside of City Centre11,595₹2,76,040

Tips to reduce housing expenses in Dubai

  • Plan on sharing a flat with friends or classmates to help reduce rent and bills.

  • You might also want to consider living in areas like Dubai Silicon Oasis or Jumeirah Village Circle, where the rent is much more affordable compared to the city center.

  • Apply early and try to negotiate your rent, especially during the off-season.

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Cost of Groceries in Dubai

As per Numbeo, the cost of groceries is listed below. This is the approximate figure.

Item Average Price (in AED)Average Price (in INR)
Milk (1 liter)7₹165
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)5₹120
Rice (white), (1kg)8₹200
Eggs (regular) (12)12₹290
Local Cheese (1kg)38₹905
Chicken Fillets (1kg)34₹795
Apples (1kg)8₹200
Banana (1kg)7₹160
Oranges (1kg)7₹160
Tomato (1kg)6₹130
Potato (1kg)4₹100
Onion (1kg)5₹110
Lettuce (1 head)5₹120
Water (1.5 liter bottle)3₹70

Tips to reduce the cost of groceries in Dubai

  • Try cooking at home instead of eating out all the time to save money.

  • Consider buying in bulk for non-perishable items.

  • Check out local markets for fresh and budget-friendly produce.

  • Use supermarket loyalty programs that can help you get some discounts and cashback offers.

Cost of Dining & Entertainment in Dubai

As the accommodations are offered with separate or shared kitchens, students can choose to cook their own meals for their daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The on-campus housing is available with dining facilities and meal plans for the students which come at a decent price. The campus lunch meals in the Dubai universities can range from AED 300 (INR 7,140) per month.

If you consider eating outside the campus, an average cost of a meal in a top restaurant will cost about 200 AED to 600 AED (INR 4,760 to 14,285) for one or two persons. You can even find a meal at 20 to 50 AED (INR 475 to 1,190) in the street food stalls and courts, etc. The food cost in Dubai for international students solely depends on the food choices of individuals.

Entertainment options in Dubai vary from affordable to luxury. Below are the average costs for food and entertainment in Dubai.

Fooding/Entertainment Activity

Average Cost (AED)

Average Cost (INR)

Meal at a mid-range restaurant

40

₹950

Meal at an upscale restaurant

300+

₹7,140+

Movie Tickets

35

₹815

Theme Park Entry Tickets

200+

₹4,760+

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81

Tips to reduce the cost of dining and entertainment in Dubai

  • Discover a bunch of free activities such as taking a walk on the beach, exploring parks, and enjoying cultural events.

  • Keep an eye out for happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars.

  • Make the most of discount vouchers and restaurant promotions.

  • Consider purchasing city passes like the Dubai Pass to get discounted tickets for famous attractions.

Cost of Transportation in Dubai 2025

The different modes of transportation available in Dubai are the metro, tram, bus, taxis, marine transport, etc. Public transportation is a convenient way to travel around Dubai. If you are a frequent user, then you can choose a personal NOL card as the payment can not be done via cash for public transport. Check the table below to learn about the various transportation costs.

Transportation Cost in Dubai for International Students

TransportationCost (in AED)Cost (in INR)
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)6₹140
Monthly Pass (Regular Price)335₹7,975
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)12₹280
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)2.5₹60
Gasoline (1 liter)3₹70

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81.

Tips to reduce the transportation cost in Dubai

  • Whenever you can, opt for the Dubai Metro instead of taking taxis.

  • Make use of monthly transportation passes in Dubai.

  • For shorter trips, consider walking or cycling.

  • You can opt for carpooling when going out with friends or classmates.

Cost of Utilities and Internet in Dubai

Utility costs are a significant part of the budget for living expenses in Dubai for international students. In addition to rent, utility costs such as electricity, heating, cooling, and internet services can add up to the cost of living in Dubai. The utility bill may vary depending on the size of your accommodation, usage habits, and the efficiency of your appliances. Here is the compilation of necessities.

Utilities and Internet Costs in Dubai for International Students

Utilities and InternetCost (In AED)Cost (in INR)
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 1 person805₹19,165
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data230₹5,475
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)355₹8,450
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult325₹7,575

Note: Currently, the AED to INR exchange rate is 1 AED equals INR 23.81.

Health Insurance in Dubai for Indian Students

Medical insurance is one of the essential expenses to consider in the cost of living in Dubai for international students. Through this insurance, students will be allowed to receive medical care and consult a doctor in doctors. Based on the insurance plan you choose and the facilities included, the cost will be different. For international students, the cost-effective medical insurance plan can be around 100 to 200 AED per month.

Miscellaneous Expenses in Dubai for International Students

Additionally, the cost of living in Dubai also includes a few other miscellaneous expenses like books, entertainment expenditures, personal health, body care, and initial house settling costs which are variable as per the requirements of students. All these expenses contribute to the average cost of living for Indian students. Including occasional social outings and impulse purchases, your monthly budget should include at least AED 8,000 (INR 1.9L) for a basic lifestyle.

How to Reduce the Cost of Living in Dubai?

As Dubai is an expensive city to live in, you can check out a few tips mentioned below that reduce your average living expenses in Dubai.

  • Work for part-time jobs: As an international student, you can work part-time during your study period and earn a decent amount of money in Dubai.

  • Budget monthly expenses: Creating a monthly budget is a great start. This means sticking to buying what is needed and not overspending on unnecessary things, which helps in understanding the total cost of living in Dubai for Indian students.

  • Use apps to buy food on offer: You can get amazing discounts by buying food online. A few apps you can use are Uber Eats, Talabat, and Noon Food.

  • Find thrift stores to buy reasonable clothes: The best way to save cash is to buy clothes from thrift stores and secondhand clothing stores to stay stylish and save money.

  • Stay in an affordable apartment: Look for an apartment or student housing that fits your budget. You can also share your room or flat to save on our living costs in Dubai.

  • Reduce unwanted utility bills: Refrain from buying electronics with high voltage power to reduce electricity bills.

  • Use public transportation: Public transportation is an affordable way of commuting anywhere in Dubai. Students can purchase the NoL card to avail of discounts on ticket fares. Get your pre-filled card to avoid fines. You can use the free bus shuttle services offered by malls in popular tourist destinations.

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Cost of Living in Dubai vs India 2025

Dubai is approximately 170% more expensive than major Indian cities without accommodation expenses. The rent in Dubai is 796% higher than in major Indian cities. This shows that the cost of living in Dubai for international students is quite expensive. Here is the table analysis of the average living expenses in Dubai and India.

Expense List

Costs per month (India)

Costs per month (Dubai)

Accommodation (1-bedroom)

₹19,000

AED 5,000 (₹1.1L)

Food

₹8,000

AED 2,000 (₹47,615)

Transportation

₹1,200

AED 300 (₹7,140)

Utility Bills

₹3,500

AED 1,000 (₹23,805)

Miscellaneous

₹2,000

AED 800-1,000 (₹19,045-23,805)

This is just the approximate cost of living in Dubai vs India; the exact cost will differ according to personal preferences.

Is Dubai a Safe City for International Students?

Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with impressively low crime rates and a strong law enforcement presence. Particularly when it comes to violent crime, the city offers security for international students. According to the Numbeo Safety Index 2025, Dubai ranks among the top 10 safest cities globally. The vibrant mix of international tourists and students creates a lively, secure, and multicultural environment. Dubai Police reported a 15% drop in crime rates in 2024. With strict regulations on public behavior and modern surveillance systems in place, Dubai truly provides a safe space for international students.

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Living in Dubai

If you are an international student looking to study in Dubai, you can opt for scholarships to help reduce the cost of living in Dubai. These scholarships come in both merit-based and need-based options, and they often cover not just tuition fees but also accommodation and living expenses. This makes pursuing your education in Dubai much more affordable and accessible. The list of scholarships to reduce the cost of living in Dubai are as follows:

  • Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarship

  • Khalifa University Scholarships

  • Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarships

  • Abu Dhabi University Scholarships

  • H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship

  • American University in Dubai (AUD) Scholarships

  • University of Dubai Scholarships

  • Canadian University Dubai Scholarships

  • Emirates Aviation University (EAU) Scholarships

  • Zayed University Scholarships

  • GBS Dubai Scholarships

  • UAE University Scholarships

  • Abu Dhabi School of Management Scholarships

Average Monthly Salary in Dubai for Popular Professions

Profession

Average Salary (AED per month)

Average Salary (INR per month)


Bank Branch Manager

29,100

₹6.8L

General Manager

28,900

₹6.7L

Business Development Manager

26,600

₹6.2L

Investment Banking Analyst

25,800

₹6L

Human Resources Manager

24,100

₹5.6L

Accounting Manager

24,100

₹5.6L

Project Manager

20,500

₹4.8L

Pharmacist

20,100

₹4.7L

Business Analyst

19,300

₹4.5L

Engineer

15,400

₹3.6L

Mechanical Engineer

15,400

₹3.6L

Civil Engineer

14,600

₹3.4L

Office Manager

14,000

₹3.2L

Teacher

12,400

₹2.9L

Nurse

12,600

₹2.9L

Chef

9,250

₹2.1L

Graphic Designer

9,040

₹2.1L

Legal Assistant

7,750

₹1.8L

Secretary

6,530

₹1.5L

Customer Service Representative

5,140

₹1.2L

Tourist Guide

4,250

₹99,695

Domestic Worker

1,830

₹42,930

Also read

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How expensive is to live in Dubai?

The cost of living in Dubai for one person is around INR 1.3L to 3.9L per month. For families with single or two children, the average monthly living expenses in Dubai can range from around AED 5,675 to AED 16,945.

2. How much is the rent in Dubai per month?

The on-campus accommodation rate starts from 2,700 AED to 7,000 AED per month. The off-campus accommodation range also starts from AED 5,675 per month and can increase up to AED 16,945 per month.

3. What salary do I need to live in Dubai?

A salary of AED 10,000 to 20,000 is considered a decent amount required to live in Dubai. As the living expenses start from AED 5000, the earned salary will be good enough for savings or for any extra expenditure.

4. How much income is required to live in Dubai?

A salary range of AED 10,000 to 20,000 is considered a decent amount to live in Dubai. As the cost of living expenses starts from AED 5000, the earned salary will be pretty decent for savings and extra expenditure.

5. Is Dubai affordable for Indian students?

Dubai can be costly for Indian students. Dubai is one of the most expensive cities in the world, and the cost of living varies with many factors. However, there are scholarships and financial aid options available to help students.

6. Is 15k a good salary in Dubai?

Yes, AED 15,000 is considered a good salary in Dubai for a single person. A person can comfortably live in Dubai if they spend mindfully and follow a monthly budget. 

7. How much is Indian food in Dubai per day?

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around AED 40 which is approximately INR 940. However, a three course meal at a decent restaurant might cost you around AED 295 which is around INR 6,920.  

8. Is Dubai tax free?

Dubai does not charge income tax however, they charge some percentage of VAT on goods and services. Hence, there is no tax on the personal income. 

9. What is the highest paid job in Dubai?

Healthcare, finance and aviation are considered some of the highest-paying jobs in Dubai. Dubai also offers some of the best courses in these fields at theirtop universites for international students. 

10. Is education free in Dubai?

No, education is not free in Dubai. International students will be charged a tuition fee for their desired course at any university in Dubai. The fees for undergraduate studies is around AED 37,000 and AED 70,000 (INR 8L and INR 16L) annually and for postgraduate tuition costs between AED 45,000 to AED 90,000 (INR 10L - 20L) for government universities and from AED 65,000 to AED 110,000 (INR 15L - 25L) for private universities.

11. How much can a student earn in Dubai?

International students are permitted to work for a maximum of 15 hours per week and 40 hours per week during academic breaks. For a part-time job in Dubai, students can earn around  AED 15 to AED 30 per hour.

12. Is healthcare free in Dubai?

No, healthcare is not free in Dubai. International students must have health insurance. However, emergency care is available in Dubai.

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Hello Dear,

If a candidate wanted to take admission to an MBA program in Dubai, he should have relevant work experience of 2-4 years depending upon the program. The academic requirement for admission to study in UAE includes scores of English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Students applying to study in UAE for MBA programmes are required to have good scores in GMAT. For detailed information you can visit the link:

https://studyabroad.careers360.com/articles/study-in-uae#:~:text=The%20academic%20requirement%20for%20admission,have%20good%20scores%20in%20GMAT.

Good Luck

Hi

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Hello Aspirant,

You are not eligible to sit for this exam because first you are a foreigner and second this exam eligibility criteria says that the student must be an Indian National.

I hope you have got your answer.

Good Luck

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