RiyadhvsDubai
Overall
💰+45.5%
Riyadh is 45.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+114.3%
Housing is 114.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+34.6%
Food shopping 34.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Riyadh is more expensive than Dubai by approximately 45.5%. 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 Riyadh are lower than in Dubai by 53%. A one-bedroom apartment in Riyadh's city center costs around SAR 3,000, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Riyadh offers significant savings compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs SAR 25 in Riyadh versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Riyadh is more affordable, with monthly passes at SAR 140 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Riyadh.
Grocery shopping in Riyadh 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 Riyadh can expect to spend approximately SAR 1,307 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 SAR 4,575 monthly in Riyadh 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 Riyadh 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 Riyadh 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
Riyadh
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riyadh more expensive than Dubai?
Yes, Riyadh is approximately 45.5% more expensive than Dubai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Riyadh compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.5x of your Dubai salary when living in Riyadh. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $72,727 in Riyadh for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Riyadh and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 53%, 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, Dubai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Riyadh if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Riyadh vs Dubai?
In Riyadh, a single person needs approximately SAR 3,307 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about SAR 8,575. 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 Riyadh 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Dubai to maintain your lifestyle from Riyadh
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