The UAE Federal Labour Law doesn't have provisions for minimum wage. This means that, unlike most cities, the Emirate of Dubai doesn't have a fixed base salary for employees.
However, if you choose to live alone in an inexpensive area, don't eat out too often, and maintain ordinary spending habits, you can live a very comfortable life with AED 5000-8000 (USD 1,360 - 2,180) per month including rent.
For a single person living in Dubai, we can expect a cost between 3000 and 5000 AED per month.
To live comfortably in Dubai, you should expect a salary of at least 10,000 to 15,000 AED. This should allow you to cover your rent and bills and have enough disposable income to enjoy Dubai to the fullest.
Summary of cost of living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,772.5$ (13,856.1AED) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,080.7$ (3,969.4AED) without rent. Dubai is 34.0% less expensive than New York (without rent).
Renting a House or Apartment
The average rent in the UAE ranges between 30,000 to 50,000 AED (8,100 to 13,600 USD) per year for a studio apartment. One-and two-bedroom apartments range between 70,000 and 100,000 AED (19,000–27,220 USD).
To live comfortably in Dubai, you should expect a salary of at least 10,000 to 15,000 AED. This should allow you to cover your rent and bills and have enough disposable income to enjoy Dubai to the fullest.
Absence of taxation
There is currently no personal income tax in the United Arab Emirates. As such, there are no individual tax registration or reporting obligations.
Working in the Dubai is a legal way to stay in the country for a longer period of time. It is also a valuable way to gain work experience. The UAE labor market is ready to offer foreign nationals a wide range of jobs.
If you are looking to start a new life in Dubai, you can expect good salaries and minimal taxation, but rent will take up a little more than 30 per cent of your monthly wage. You should probably consider buying a car in the long term and the cost of going out and drinking alcohol is fairly high compared to back home.
Apply for jobs in Dubai at the right time of year
There is nothing stopping you getting a job in Dubai at any time of the year. But, in Dubai there are months where recruitment slows almost to a standstill. There are also months where recruitment activity is high.
For those entering the UAE without a job offer, a long-term multiple-visit visa is your best option. This visa allows you to stay in the country for 90 days with the option to renew. Those who already have a job lined up typically employers take care of all the paperwork and visa applications on your behalf.
Average AED 2,186 per month.
Generally, the legal age for drinking alcohol is 18 in Abu Dhabi, but a Ministry of Tourism by-law prevents hotels from serving alcohol to those under the age of 21. In Dubai and all other emirates besides Sharjah, the drinking age is 21. Drinking alcohol in Sharjah is illegal.
The most favorable price for a 500 mL can of regular Coca-Cola in Dubai, UAE is AED 5 and can be purchased at Supermart with the added bonus of free shipping and same-day delivery. Supermart also offers the product for up to AED 5. See also How to Order Cake in Dubai from India?
To live comfortably in Dubai, you should expect a salary of at least 10,000 to 15,000 AED. This should allow you to cover your rent and bills and have enough disposable income to enjoy Dubai to the fullest.
Dubai and UAE minimum salary and wages 2023
As of now, the UAE does not have a national minimum salary or wage since the country's labor law does not specify any minimum salary requirements. However, it is mandated that employees' salaries and wages should cover their basic needs.
Alcohol prices are notoriously high in Dubai, with pints costing around 45 AED (€11) in many hotel bars.
The ancient Al-Fahidi district in the Emirate is home now mainly to labourers from Pakistan and India. Before moving to Dubai, I was overwhelmed with excitement at the thought of experiencing the glitz and glamour of this world-renowned city.
Dubai's public healthcare services are available for free (or at a very low cost) to Emirati nationals. Expats in Dubai can access public healthcare services, but they must pay for a health card, and then pay a fee each time they use the services.
The tax-free salaries in Dubai make it one of the best places to build one's future. For most expats who come to Dubai looking for greater opportunities, tax-free income can mean a higher income and greater wealth, presenting a compelling reason to move to Dubai.