Are you all ready to go on a super fun vacation with your family but you don’t know what budget you should keep? Well, that’s what we’re here for! This Dubai trip budget guide is a savior for you. Say goodbye to wasting any time and get a clearer picture in just a few minutes. Whether you want to know the cost of the attractions or the hotels, this blog will help you understand and plan accordingly.
Dubai Trip Budget Guide: What Will You Really Spend?
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Visa Costs
When planning a trip to the UAE, one of the first things you should arrange is your visa. Applying for Dubai visa in advance gives you plenty of time to plan your trip with peace of mind. Now, you have to be careful here because there are several different tourist visa options that the UAE offers. And depending on how long you plan to stay and whether you want a single or multiple-entry visa, your cost will be determined. Besides, the earlier you sort this part out, the fewer last-minute surprises you will have.
- Typical visa fees: Approx. AED 115 – AED 768+
- Processing time: Usually 1 to 5 working days.
- Documents required: Valid passport, passport-size photograph, return flight ticket, and accommodation details. (can vary as per nationality)
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Flight Expenses
Let’s be honest here, flights are what put many of our minds in a trap because of costs. It can either be the best deal of your trip or the reason for the sudden shoot up. But that doesn’t happen randomly and you can still have a little control over that aspect. For example, the earlier you book, the better deal you get. However, it also depends on when you’re booking the ticket. Because if it’s during a peak tourist season or during holidays, there will be a surge in flight costs. You usually have a better chance of finding low fares if you are flexible with your schedule.
Average return airfare from major Indian cities:
- Delhi: AED 691 to AED 1,343
- Mumbai: AED 691 to AED 1,228
- Bengaluru: AED 768 to AED 1,458
- Hyderabad: AED 691 to AED 1,343
- Best time to book flights: Around 6 to 10 weeks before departure.
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Accommodation Costs
When it comes to staying in hotels on an international trip, we expect it to be at least comfortable. The good news is that Dubai has a variety of options for all kinds of travelers. For example, budget-friendly travelers can definitely check out the hotels in Deira or Bur Dubai and families choose Al Barsha because of its convenience and value. However, if your wish is to wake up to a waterfront view every morning during your trip, then Dubai Marina is the best option.
- Budget hotels: AED 77 – AED 211 0per night
- Mid-range hotels: AED 231 – AED 576 per night
- Luxury hotels: AED 768+ per night
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Transportation Budget
The one mistake that each one of us has made at least during one trip is booking taxis all the time. Of course, they offer comfort to you and are a great choice when you have several shopping bags but it also adds up to your budget. You can save a lot by traveling in Dubai metros and buses, which are easily available. In addition, you can also pick up an NOL card that can make your travel smoother and even more affordable. However, if you’re traveling with family or want to experience a luxury ride, renting a luxury car in Dubai is the best option.
Tips:
- Go for Careem and Uber if you want taxis.
- But if you want to make it a one-time extravagant experience, then choose car rental options that will cost you around AED 77 – AED 231+ per day, depending on the car model you choose.
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Food and Dining Expenses
The best part here is that Dubai has multiple types of cuisines and restaurants that will undoubtedly satisfy your hunger at the end of the day. Who doesn’t want a fulfilling meal after a day of sightseeing and hundreds of photo clicks? Now your whether your priority is just to have a good food or to enjoy dining with stunning city views, the budget will vary according to it. But worry not because this Dubai trip budget guide has covered it for you.
- Budget-friendly eateries: AED 16 to AED 39 per meal (Ravi Restaurant, Al Ustad Special Kabab)
- Mid-range restaurants: AED 58 to AED 135 per person (Gazebo, Zaroob)
- Fine dining experiences: AED 231+ per person (At.mosphere, Ossiano)
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Sightseeing and Activities
Now comes the fun part of the blog that most of you must have been waiting for. This is where we recommend you create your itinerary with a mix of all kinds of activities, from a bit expensive to the budget friendly. One of the prime experiences is, of course, a Burj Khalifa At The Top ticket that will give you the best panoramic views. You can then enjoy an evening desert safari or a Dhow cruise dinner at Marina for a relaxing end to your day. If you want a favorable option, then booking a Dubai city tour is perfect!
Tip: There are several free attractions that are worth checking out and will easily become the highlight of your Dubai trip:
- Dubai Fountain Show
- JBR Beach
- Al Seef
- Dubai Marina Walk
Sample Dubai Trip Budgets
Why worry when your Dubai trip budget guide is here to make it even easier for you. You don’t need to hold a calculator because here are estimates that are based on realistic expectations:
Budget Traveler (3-5 Days)
- Per person: AED 1,727 to AED 2,686
- Family of 4: AED 6,906 to AED 10,742
Mid-Range Traveler (3-5 Days)
- Per person: AED 2,878 to AED 4,604
- Family of 4: AED 11,509 to AED 18,415
Luxury Traveler (3-5 Days)
- Per person: AED 5,755 and above
- Family of 4: AED 23,018 and above
Takeaway
None of us wants to be constantly wary of the money that we’re spending on a trip because it is supposed to be a fun vacation. Therefore, this Dubai trip budget guide is here to help you avoid unnecessary surprises. You can bookmark this guide and be ready to enjoy a holiday that matches your budget.