SeoulvsDubai
Overall
💰+6.7%
Seoul is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+50.0%
Housing is 50.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+36.4%
Restaurants 36.4% pricier
Groceries
🛒-22.2%
Food shopping 22.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seoul, South Korea and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seoul is more expensive than Dubai by approximately 6.7%. 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 Seoul are lower than in Dubai by 33%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seoul's city center costs around ₩1,200,000, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Seoul offers significant savings compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₩8,000 in Seoul versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Seoul is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₩55,000 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 Seoul.
Grocery shopping in Seoul is more expensive by approximately 29%. 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 Seoul can expect to spend approximately ₩528,000 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 ₩1,848,000 monthly in Seoul 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 Seoul 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 Seoul 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
Seoul
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul more expensive than Dubai?
Yes, Seoul is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Dubai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Seoul compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Dubai salary when living in Seoul. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $53,333 in Seoul for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seoul and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 33%, 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 Seoul if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seoul vs Dubai?
In Seoul, a single person needs approximately ₩1,228,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₩3,648,000. 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 Seoul and Dubai 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.
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