DubaivsCasablanca
Overall
💰-47.5%
Dubai is 47.5%cheaper
Rent
🏠-70.7%
Housing is 70.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-49.3%
Restaurants 49.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-42.9%
Food shopping 42.9% less
Comparing the cost of living between Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Casablanca, Morocco reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Dubai is more affordable than Casablanca by approximately 47.5%. 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 Casablanca by 241%. A one-bedroom apartment in Dubai's city center costs around AED 8,000, while the same in Casablanca is approximately MAD 6,000.
Dining out in Dubai is notably more expensive compared to Casablanca. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs AED 40 in Dubai versus MAD 50 in Casablanca.
Public transportation in Dubai is more expensive, with monthly passes at AED 350 compared to MAD 300 in Casablanca.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Casablanca.
Grocery shopping in Dubai is more expensive by approximately 75%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher 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 Casablanca, the same lifestyle would cost around MAD 2,364. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about AED 8,169 monthly in Dubai versus MAD 8,274 in Casablanca. 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 Casablanca to Dubai, 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 Dubai to Casablanca 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
Casablanca
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai more expensive than Casablanca?
No, Dubai is approximately 47.5% cheaper than Casablanca. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Dubai compared to Casablanca?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 68% of your Casablanca salary when living in Dubai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Casablanca, you'd need about $33,898 in Dubai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Dubai and Casablanca?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 241%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller 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, Dubai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Dubai if you prioritize earning potential, or Casablanca for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Dubai vs Casablanca?
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 Casablanca, these figures are MAD 5,864 for singles and MAD 15,274 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Dubai and Casablanca in 2025 shows significant 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 Casablanca to maintain your lifestyle from Dubai
Calculate Salary Equivalence