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Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
Dubai is 23% cheaper than Riyadh
Quick answer
Comparing Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a moderate single-person monthly budget is approximately $2,400 in Dubai versus $1,850 in Riyadh. Dubai is roughly 23% cheaper overall. Central 1-bed rent: $2,300/mo (Dubai) vs $900/mo (Riyadh). Estimates use World Bank PPP data + national statistics + (where available) item-level price snapshots.
Key facts
| Lifestyle | 🇦🇪 Dubai | 🇸🇦 Riyadh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1,700/mo | $1,300/mo | -24% |
| Moderate | $2,400/mo | $1,850/mo | -23% |
| Comfortable | $3,600/mo | $2,800/mo | -22% |
Estimates for a single person. Based on World Bank PPP data and national statistics.
| Category | 🇦🇪 Dubai | 🇸🇦 Riyadh | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (1-bed, center) | $2,300/mo | $900/mo | -61% |
| Groceries & Food | $480/mo | $370/mo | -23% |
| Dining Out | $200/mo | $120/mo | -40% |
| Transport | $80/mo | $0/mo | -100% |
| Utilities & Internet | $240/mo | $185/mo | -23% |
| Healthcare | $192/mo | $148/mo | -23% |
| Leisure & Personal | $168/mo | $130/mo | -23% |
Explore more: Dubai city guide | Riyadh city guide | United Arab Emirates | Saudi Arabia