Dubai covers every budget: luxury hotels and fine dining are expensive, but the metro, street food in Deira and free beaches keep costs down. Summer brings big discounts on hotels.
Is Dubai expensive?
Expensive for most visitors. Dubai covers every budget: luxury hotels and fine dining are expensive, but the metro, street food in Deira and free beaches keep costs down.
Money, cards and tipping
Currency: UAE dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Tipping: Around 10–15% in restaurants if a service charge isn't included; round up for taxis.
Where to save money
- Use the metro and Nol card for transport.
- Eat Indian, Pakistani and Arabic food in Deira and Bur Dubai.
- Visit in summer for lower hotel prices (but the heat is intense).
- Watch the Dubai Fountain show for free.
- Use public beaches, which are free.
Where it is worth spending
- Burj Khalifa at sunset.
- A desert safari with dinner.
- A dhow dinner cruise.
Free things to do in Dubai
- The Dubai Fountain show
- Public beaches such as Kite Beach and Jumeirah
- Al Fahidi Historical District and the Creek
- Window-shopping and the Dubai Mall aquarium view
Prices, ticket rules and safety conditions change. Treat this as a starting point and check official sources and your government's travel advice before you go.
Dubai budget questions
What currency is used in Dubai?
UAE dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Is tipping expected in Dubai?
Around 10–15% in restaurants if a service charge isn't included; round up for taxis.
How can I save money in Dubai?
Use the metro and Nol card for transport. Eat Indian, Pakistani and Arabic food in Deira and Bur Dubai. Visit in summer for lower hotel prices (but the heat is intense).