The United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to glittering cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, blends futuristic skylines, luxurious resorts, vast deserts, and rich cultural heritage. A trip here can be as affordable or extravagant as you make it—from budget backpacking to ultra-luxury indulgence.
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style, season, origin, and choices in accommodation, dining, and activities. In 2025, expect higher prices during peak winter months (November–March) and major events like the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.
Key Cost Factors
- Flights: Round-trip economy from the US typically ranges $600–$1,500; from Europe $400–$900; from Asia/Australia often cheaper.
- Visa: Free on arrival for many nationalities (e.g., US, EU, UK) for 30–90 days. Others pay AED 350–700 (~$95–$190) for a tourist visa.
- Season: Peak (winter) prices are 20–50% higher than summer (when it’s very hot but deals abound).
- Location: Dubai is pricier than Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.
- Currency: 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED (fixed rate).
Breakdown for a 7-Day Trip (Per Person, Excluding Flights)
Based on 2025 data from travel sites like BudgetYourTrip and recent reports:
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $50–$100 (hostels/3-star) | $150–$300 (4–5 star) | $400+ (iconic resorts) |
| 7 Nights Total | $350–$700 | $1,050–$2,100 | $2,800+ |
| Food (daily) | $30–$50 (street food/fast casual) | $60–$100 (restaurants) | $150+ (fine dining) |
| 7 Days Total | $210–$350 | $420–$700 | $1,050+ |
| Transport (daily) | $10–$20 (metro/taxi) | $30–$50 (taxis/rides) | $100+ (private/driver) |
| 7 Days Total | $70–$140 | $210–$350 | $700+ |
| Activities (total) | $100–$200 (free beaches, some paid sights) | $300–$600 (Burj Khalifa, safari, tours) | $1,000+ (private experiences) |
| Total (excl. flights) | $730–$1,390 | $1,980–$3,750 | $5,550+ |
| + Flights (avg. from US) | $1,400–$2,600 | $2,700–$5,000 | $6,500+ |
Daily Averages (on-ground, per person): Budget ~$100–$200; Mid-range ~$280–$500; Luxury ~$750+.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
- Flights Economy round-trips in 2025: $600–$1,200 from major US cities (cheaper with layovers). Direct flights on Emirates or Etihad often cost more but offer comfort. Book 3–6 months ahead for deals.
- Accommodation
- Budget: Hostels or basic hotels ~$50–$100/night.
- Mid-range: 4–5 star chains ~$150–$300.
- Luxury: Icons like Burj Al Arab or Atlantis ~$400–$1,000+. Abu Dhabi is often slightly cheaper than Dubai.
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- Food & Dining
- Budget: Street eats or mall food courts ~$10–$20/meal.
- Mid-range: Casual restaurants ~$20–$50.
- Luxury: Fine dining ~$100+. Alcohol adds extra (taxes high). Groceries for self-catering can cut costs.
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- Transportation Dubai Metro is cheap (~$2/ride). Taxis/Uber ~$20–$50 for city trips. Car rental ~$30–$50/day (fuel cheap). Inter-city bus to Abu Dhabi ~$7.
- Activities & Attractions
- Free/Cheap: Beaches, malls, fountains show, mosque visits.
- Popular Paid: Burj Khalifa ~$50; Desert safari ~$50–$150; Aquaventure ~$100.
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Tips to Save Money
- Travel in summer for lower hotel/flight rates (despite heat).
- Use public transport and eat local/in malls.
- Book combo tickets for attractions.
- Stay in Sharjah or Deira for cheaper options near Dubai.
- Skip alcohol and peak events.
A UAE trip offers incredible value across budgets—whether admiring free wonders like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque or splurging on a desert dune dinner. With smart planning, your 2025 adventure can be unforgettable without breaking the bank!
