GenevavsDubai
Overall
💰-27.3%
Geneva is 27.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-25.0%
Housing is 25.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-37.5%
Restaurants 37.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-39.1%
Food shopping 39.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Geneva, Switzerland and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Geneva is more affordable than Dubai by approximately 27.3%. 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 Geneva are higher than in Dubai by 33%. A one-bedroom apartment in Geneva's city center costs around CHF 3,000, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Geneva is notably more expensive compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CHF 25 in Geneva versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Geneva is more affordable, with monthly passes at CHF 80 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Purchasing power in Geneva is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Dubai.
Grocery shopping in Geneva is more expensive by approximately 64%. 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 Geneva can expect to spend approximately CHF 798 per month (excluding rent), while in Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CHF 2,794 monthly in Geneva versus AED 8,169 in Dubai. 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 Geneva, 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 Geneva 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
Geneva
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Geneva more expensive than Dubai?
No, Geneva is approximately 27.3% cheaper than Dubai. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Geneva compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 79% of your Dubai salary when living in Geneva. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $39,286 in Geneva for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Geneva and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 64%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Geneva offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Geneva provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Geneva if you prioritize earning potential, or Dubai for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Geneva vs Dubai?
In Geneva, a single person needs approximately CHF 2,998 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CHF 6,794. In Dubai, these figures are AED 7,334 for singles and AED 18,169 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Geneva and Dubai 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.
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