DubaivsOslo
Overall
š°+18.8%
Dubai is 18.8%more expensive
Rent
š-13.3%
Housing is 13.3% lower
Dining
š½ļø+33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% pricier
Groceries
š+35.7%
Food shopping 35.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Oslo, Norway reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Dubai is more expensive than Oslo by approximately 18.8%. 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 Oslo by 15%. A one-bedroom apartment in Dubai's city center costs around AEDĀ 8,000, while the same in Oslo is approximately NOKĀ 14,000.
Dining out in Dubai offers significant savings compared to Oslo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs AEDĀ 40 in Dubai versus NOKĀ 180 in Oslo.
Public transportation in Dubai is more affordable, with monthly passes at AEDĀ 350 compared to NOKĀ 770 in Oslo.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Oslo.
Grocery shopping in Dubai is more affordable by approximately 26%. 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 AEDĀ 2,334 per month (excluding rent), while in Oslo, the same lifestyle would cost around NOKĀ 5,944. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about AEDĀ 8,169 monthly in Dubai versus NOKĀ 20,804 in Oslo. 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
š Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
š½ļø Food & Dining
š Groceries
š Transportation
š” Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Dubai to Oslo, 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 Oslo 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
Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai more expensive than Oslo?
Yes, Dubai is approximately 18.8% more expensive than Oslo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Dubai compared to Oslo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Oslo salary when living in Dubai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Oslo, you'd need about $59,375 in Dubai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Dubai and Oslo?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 26%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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, Oslo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Dubai if you prioritize earning potential, or Oslo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Dubai vs Oslo?
In Dubai, a single person needs approximately AEDĀ 7,334 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about AEDĀ 18,169. In Oslo, these figures are NOKĀ 16,944 for singles and NOKĀ 39,804 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Dubai and Oslo in 2025 shows notable 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Oslo to maintain your lifestyle from Dubai
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