DubaivsStockholm
Overall
💰+6.3%
Dubai is 6.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% lower
Dining
🍽️+13.3%
Restaurants 13.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+14.3%
Food shopping 14.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Stockholm, Sweden reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Dubai is more expensive than Stockholm by approximately 6.3%. 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 Stockholm by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Dubai's city center costs around AED 8,000, while the same in Stockholm is approximately SEK 15,000.
Dining out in Dubai offers significant savings compared to Stockholm. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs AED 40 in Dubai versus SEK 120 in Stockholm.
Public transportation in Dubai is more affordable, with monthly passes at AED 350 compared to SEK 970 in Stockholm.
Grocery shopping in Dubai is more affordable by approximately 13%. 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 Stockholm, the same lifestyle would cost around SEK 4,702. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about AED 8,169 monthly in Dubai versus SEK 16,457 in Stockholm. 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 Stockholm, 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 Stockholm 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
Stockholm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai more expensive than Stockholm?
Yes, Dubai is approximately 6.3% more expensive than Stockholm overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Dubai compared to Stockholm?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Stockholm salary when living in Dubai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Stockholm, you'd need about $53,125 in Dubai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Dubai and Stockholm?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 25%, 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, Stockholm provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Dubai if you prioritize earning potential, or Stockholm for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Dubai vs Stockholm?
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 Stockholm, these figures are SEK 15,702 for singles and SEK 34,457 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Dubai and Stockholm 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 Stockholm to maintain your lifestyle from Dubai
Calculate Salary Equivalence