DubaivsBrisbane
Overall
💰+2.5%
Dubai is 2.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠-13.3%
Housing is 13.3% lower
Dining
🍽️+6.7%
Restaurants 6.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+11.4%
Food shopping 11.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Brisbane, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Dubai is more expensive than Brisbane by approximately 2.5%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Dubai are higher than in Brisbane by 15%. A one-bedroom apartment in Dubai's city center costs around AED 8,000, while the same in Brisbane is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Dubai costs about the same compared to Brisbane. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs AED 40 in Dubai versus A$20 in Brisbane.
Public transportation in Dubai is more expensive, with monthly passes at AED 350 compared to A$175 in Brisbane.
Grocery shopping in Dubai is more affordable by approximately 10%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Dubai can expect to spend approximately AED 2,334 per month (excluding rent), while in Brisbane, the same lifestyle would cost around A$791. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about AED 8,169 monthly in Dubai versus A$2,769 in Brisbane. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Dubai to Brisbane, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Brisbane to Dubai requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Dubai
Brisbane
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai more expensive than Brisbane?
The cost of living in Dubai and Brisbane is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Dubai compared to Brisbane?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Brisbane salary when living in Dubai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brisbane, you'd need about $51,250 in Dubai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Dubai and Brisbane?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 15%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Dubai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Brisbane provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Dubai if you prioritize earning potential, or Brisbane for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Dubai vs Brisbane?
In Dubai, a single person needs approximately AED 7,334 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about AED 18,169. In Brisbane, these figures are A$2,491 for singles and A$5,569 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Dubai and Brisbane in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Brisbane to maintain your lifestyle from Dubai
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