Students who have just received acceptance letters from renowned universities in both Dubai and the United Kingdom may be curious about the cost of living in Dubai vs UK. They may want to understand how the essential living expenses in these two regions differ, as this will be crucial for making an informed financial decision while weighing their options.
To help you compare the cost of living in Dubai vs UK, we have outlined the essential expenses to consider before making a final decision on which country or city to choose for higher studies. This blog provides students with a clearer picture of what each destination offers. Let’s dive in!
Table of contents
- Cost of Living in Dubai vs UK Overview
- Average Accommodation Costs in Dubai vs UK
- Utility Costs in Dubai vs UK
- Groceries Costs in Dubai vs UK
- Cost of Meals in Dubai vs the UK
- Transportation Costs in Dubai vs the UK
- Miscellaneous Costs in Dubai vs UK
- Cost of Health Insurance in Dubai vs the UK
- Cost of Studying in Dubai vs the United Kingdom
- FAQS on Cost of Living in Dubai vs UK
Cost of Living in Dubai vs UK Overview
The major difference in the cost of living in Dubai vs UK is the overall cost of living in each region, which provides an overview of the amount a student should consider for living expenses in both regions. On average, the cost of living in Dubai for a student is approximately GBP 1,892 including food and rent, while the cost of living in the UK is around GBP 1,879, according to LivingCost data.
This comparison highlights that the cost of living in Dubai vs UK is almost similar. However, Dubai’s cost of living is approximately 0.69% higher than in the UK for a student. Despite this, living expenses can vary across different categories, depending on personal preferences. To provide a clearer overview of the cost of living in Dubai vs UK, the table below compares the monthly expenses for both regions, specifically from a student’s perspective.
| Category | Approx Cost in Dubai (Per month ) | Approx Cost in the United Kingdom (Per month ) |
| Cost of Living (One Person) | GBP 1,892 | GBP 1,879 |
| Rent and Utility | GBP 1,248 | GBP 1,168 |
| Food Expenses | GBP 376 | GBP 438 |
| Transport Expenses | GBP 152 | GBP 137 |
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Average Accommodation Costs in Dubai vs UK
Accommodation costs are a significant monthly expense for students studying abroad. The cost varies depending on the type, location, and amenities. Whether opting for on-campus or off-campus housing, understanding how accommodation expenses contribute to the costs of living in Dubai vs UK is crucial for effective budgeting.
Generally, accommodation in the city centres of the Dubai region is more expensive than student accommodation in the United Kingdom, with a difference of approximately GBP 300 for a one-bedroom apartment. For your reference, below we have given an overview of the comparison of the average monthly accommodation costs in Dubai vs. the U.S.:
| Location | Accommodation Type | Size | Cost |
| Dubai | 1 Bedroom Apartment (City Center) | 40 m² (430 ft²) | GBP 1,516 |
| Cheap 1 Bedroom Apartment | 40 m² (430 ft²) | GBP 959 | |
| United Kingdom | 1 Bedroom Apartment (City Center) | 40 m² (430 ft²) | GBP 1,199 |
| Cheap 1 Bedroom Apartment | 40 m² (430 ft²) | GBP 939 |
Utility Costs in Dubai vs UK
Utility bills in the United Kingdom are slightly higher than in Dubai for a single person, including electricity, heating, water, and more. However, the utility expenses in both regions can vary according to the location and energy consumption.
On the other hand, internet services tend to be more affordable in the United Kingdom. To help you better plan your budget, here is a breakdown of the average monthly utility costs, which contribute to the cost of living in Dubai vs UK:
| Country | Type of Expense | Approx. Cost |
| Dubai | Utility Bill (One person: electricity, heating, water, etc.) | GBP 107 |
| Internet Plan (50 Mbps+, 1 month unlimited) | GBP 70.4 | |
| United Kingdom | Utility Bill (One person: electricity, heating, water, etc.) | GBP 144 |
| Internet Plan (50 Mbps+, 1 month unlimited) | GBP 32.8 |
Groceries Costs in Dubai vs UK
The price of daily groceries is quite similar between the UK and Dubai, meaning you won’t need to make significant adjustments to your grocery budget when comparing the cost of living in Dubai vs UK. To give you a clearer picture, the table below provides a detailed comparison of average grocery prices in both regions, helping you better plan your monthly Grocery expenses.
| Item | Dubai Price | UK Price |
| Milk, 1 L | GBP 1.45 | GBP 1.34 |
| Bread, 0.5 kg | GBP 1.22 | GBP 1.34 |
| Rice, 1 kg | GBP 1.76 | GBP 1.82 |
| Eggs, 12 | GBP 2.66 | GBP 3.34 |
| Cheese, 1 kg | GBP 9.05 | GBP 8.42 |
| Apples, 1 kg | GBP 1.95 | GBP 2.42 |
| Banana, 1 kg | GBP 1.53 | GBP 1.32 |
| Oranges, 1 kg | GBP 1.55 | GBP 2.40 |
| Tomato, 1 kg | GBP 1.35 | GBP 2.76 |
| Potato, 1 kg | GBP 1.03 | GBP 1.20 |
| Onion, 1 kg | GBP 1.25 | GBP 1.23 |
| Water, 1 L | GBP 0.34 | GBP 0.80 |
Cost of Meals in Dubai vs the UK
Dining out in Dubai is generally more budget-friendly than in the UK, particularly for inexpensive and mid-range restaurants. Although fast food prices are similar in both regions, Dubai offers a wider variety of traditional food in Dubai with affordable dining options, making it appealing for students and expatriates aiming to control their food expenses.
Understanding these differences is essential when evaluating the cost of living in Dubai vs UK, helping individuals make informed decisions about their living arrangements and lifestyle choices while abroad. Here’s a detailed comparison of dining costs:
| Meals | Approx. costs in the United Kingdom | Approx. costs in Dubai |
| Lunch Menu | GBP 16.3 | GBP 8.56 |
| Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 | GBP 65.8 | GBP 57.5 |
| Fast Food Meal (e.g., McDonald’s) | GBP 5.35 | GBP 7.7 |
Transportation Costs in Dubai vs the UK
Transportation costs in Dubai are generally lower than those in the UK across various modes of transport, including public transit, taxis, and parking fees. This affordability makes living or studying in Dubai more financially manageable, particularly for students who need to carefully budget their daily expenses while pursuing education abroad. Here’s a breakdown of transportation expenses in both regions:
| Expense Type | Dubai Prices | UK Prices |
| Average Monthly Transportation | GBP 69.00 | GBP 74.30 |
| Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) | GBP 1.34 | GBP 3 |
| Taxi Ride (8 km / 5 miles) | GBP 9.11 | GBP 16.90 |
Miscellaneous Costs in Dubai vs UK
In addition to the primary expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation, there are several other costs that can impact your overall financial planning. These additional expenses, such as doctor’s visits, cinema tickets, gym memberships, clothing, and more, are important to consider when comparing the cost of living in Dubai vs UK.
To give you a clearer understanding of the miscellaneous costs in both countries, below is a comparison of the approximate prices for these miscellaneous things. Take a look!
| Expense | Approximate cost in the United Kingdom | Approximate cost in Dubai |
| Gym Membership (1 month) | GBP 37.9 | GBP 62.2 |
| Cinema Ticket (1 person) | GBP 11.5 | GBP 11 |
| Doctor’s Visit | GBP 94.5 | GBP 72.8 |
| Haircut (simple) | GBP 11.9 | GBP 7.81 |
| Brand Jeans | GBP 70.2 | GBP 46.4 |
| Brand Sneakers | GBP 81.2 | GBP 80.8 |
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Cost of Health Insurance in Dubai vs the UK
Both Dubai and the UK offer robust healthcare systems, but the costs of health insurance can differ significantly. Dubai has higher health insurance premiums due to mandatory private coverage and rising healthcare expenses, while the UK’s publicly funded system reduces healthcare costs for residents.
Understanding these differences is key for expatriates and students in making informed healthcare decisions. This comparison of health insurance is an important aspect of the cost of living in Dubai vs UK, helping you understand the broader financial differences.
- Dubai: The average annual cost for individuals is around GBP 677.28–GBP 903.87.
- United Kingdom: The average monthly cost for individuals in the UK is around GBP 50 to GBP 110.
Cost of Studying in Dubai vs the United Kingdom
Both Dubai and the UK offer excellent educational opportunities and vibrant student life experiences. However, the overall cost of studying in Dubai tends to be lower when considering tuition fees. Understanding these financial aspects will help students make informed decisions about their educational journey in either location. Here’s a breakdown of tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in each location:
- Dubai: Tuition fees for undergraduate programs in Dubai typically range from GBP 8,800 to GBP 22,000 per academic year, depending on the university and program. For postgraduate programs, fees usually range from GBP 11,000 to GBP 26,400 annually. Notable institutions like the American University in Dubai charge between GBP 9,592.22 and GBP 18,150 for undergraduate degrees.
- United Kingdom: In the UK, tuition fees for undergraduate programs average around GBP 9,250 per year for domestic students. For international students, fees can range from GBP 15,000 to GBP 38,000, depending on the institution and course. Postgraduate tuition fees also vary widely, typically ranging from GBP 12,000 to GBP 30,000 annually.
The cost of living in Dubai vs UK is relatively similar, with Dubai’s overall living expenses being slightly higher by about 0.69%. However, both regions offer unique advantages and challenges when it comes to budgeting. Whether you choose to study in Dubai or the UK, it’s essential to plan your finances carefully to make the most of your international experience.
For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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FAQS on Cost of Living in Dubai vs UK
The average monthly cost of living for a student in Dubai is approximately GBP 1,892, while in the UK it is GBP 1,879. This makes the cost of living in both regions quite similar, with Dubai being only 0.69% more expensive.
The average cost of living for a student or a person in Dubai is approximately GBP 1,892, while the cost of living in the United Kingdom is around GBP 1,879. This shows that the cost of living in Dubai and the UK is very similar, with Dubai being slightly more expensive by about GBP 13 on average.
To live comfortably in Dubai, a student typically requires around GBP 1,892 per month. This amount is equal to the average cost of living in Dubai for a single person, including rent and other essential expenses.
When comparing the cost of living in Dubai vs the UK, both regions have similar expenses. The average monthly cost of living for a person in Dubai is around GBP 1,892, while in the United Kingdom, it is approximately GBP 1,879.
Rent in Dubai for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs about GBP 1,516, while in the UK, the same accommodation typically costs GBP 1,199 in major cities like London.
Groceries in Dubai and the UK are fairly comparable. For instance, a litre of milk costs around GBP 1.45 in Dubai compared to GBP 1.34 in the UK, while other staples like rice, eggs, and bread are also similar in price.
Dining out in Dubai tends to be cheaper, with an average lunch costing GBP 8.56 compared to GBP 16.3 in the UK. Similarly, a dinner for two in Dubai will cost around GBP 57.5, while the same meal in the UK averages GBP 65.8.
Monthly transportation in Dubai costs GBP 69, while in the UK, it’s slightly higher at GBP 74.30. A one-way public transport ticket in Dubai costs GBP 1.34, compared to GBP 3 in the UK, and a taxi ride (8 km) is GBP 9.11 in Dubai, as opposed to GBP 16.9 in the UK.
Utility costs in the UK are generally higher, with an average monthly utility bill of GBP 144 for one person, compared to GBP 107 in Dubai. Internet costs, however, are more affordable in the UK at GBP 32.8, compared to GBP 70.4 in Dubai.
In Dubai, a gym membership typically costs GBP 62.2, while in the UK it’s GBP 37.9. A cinema ticket costs about GBP 11 in Dubai, similar to the GBP 11.5 in the UK. Other expenses like haircuts and doctor’s visits tend to be more affordable in Dubai.
Health insurance premiums in Dubai tend to be higher due to mandatory private coverage, ranging from GBP 677 to GBP 903 annually. In contrast, the UK’s public healthcare system offers more affordable healthcare, with individual health insurance costing between GBP 50 to GBP 110 monthly.
Accommodation in city centres is generally more expensive in Dubai, with one-bedroom apartments costing about GBP 1,516 in comparison to GBP 1,199 in the UK. However, outside the city centre, both locations offer more affordable housing options.
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