The cost of living in Dubai

Dubai is a great place to live with fine restaurants and great night life.  However, it is not cheap and the high cost of living often makes up for the zero taxes.

To rent a property in the UAE, you will usually be expected to pay the entire year's rent in advance, either in cash or by cheque. The majority of letting agents will also charge a commission of around 5%, which you must pay directly to them. A municipal tax is payable on the annual rental paid for rented accomodation in Dubai, currently 5% of the annual rent for residential premises and this is added to your monthly water and electricity bill.

Generally, if you are an expat in Dubai, the contract for your apartment rental will be drawn up with your sponsor (your employer) named as the principal. This has the benefit of providing the owner with a contact who is not likely to leave the country, and who may also be a UAE or GCC national. The full year's rent is payable in advance and it is normal practice for your employer to make the payment, then deduct the charges from your salary each month.

Shopping is plentiful and good bargains are available. Haggling is acceptable in the markets and ‘souqs'; department stores and shopping malls operate on a fixed price system.

Below is a table of some helpful price comparisons:

Average price comparisons between Sydney, London and Wellington and Dubai (NZD$)

To find out how much your currency is worth in AED, view XE's website.

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