Apart from tuition, how much will I need each month for living expenses in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Living expenses in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, excluding tuition, typically range from AED 5,000 to 9,000 per month. Accommodation is the biggest item, followed by food, personal spending, utilities, transport and health insurance, and the total depends on your lifestyle and location.
Apart from tuition, you should typically budget around AED 5,000 to 9,000 per month (approx INR 1.32 to 2.37 L) for living in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Your actual spending depends on your lifestyle and the area you choose. The table below shows how the money is usually split.
Typical monthly cost breakdown
| Expense | Approximate monthly cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared, dorm or studio) | 2,000 to 7,500 (approx INR 52,740 to 1.98 L) |
| Food and groceries, home-cooked | 800 to 1,500 (approx INR 21,096 to 39,555) |
| Food, dining out | 500 to 1,200 (approx INR 13,185 to 31,644) |
| Transportation (public transport) | 150 to 500 (approx INR 3,956 to 13,185) |
| Utilities and internet | 400 to 900 (approx INR 10,548 to 23,733) |
| Health insurance | 150 to 400 (approx INR 3,956 to 10,548) |
| Personal and miscellaneous | 500 to 1,500 (approx INR 13,185 to 39,555) |
Keeping costs in check
- Shared housing or a dorm usually costs far less than a studio.
- Cooking at home can cut your food spending.
- These figures are typical but can change, so check current rents in your target area.
My Advice
Accommodation decides most of your budget, so settle that first. Compare university housing with shared flats near public transport, and add a small buffer for personal spending. For a budget that matches your own habits, work from your shortlisted university's location and price a few real listings.
How much will a month abroad cost you?
Rent, food and travel. A real monthly budget, city by city.
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