7 Day Dubai Trip Cost: Real Budget Breakdown for a Week in Dubai

If you’re planning to spend a week in Dubai, the first question is always "how much will it cost?" The answer depends on where you stay, what you eat, and how you move around. Below is a straight‑forward look at the main costs you’ll face, so you can set a realistic budget before you book your flight.

Daily Expenses You Can Expect

Accommodation is the biggest line item. A mid‑range hotel in a central area runs about 150‑200 AED per night, while budget hostels or Airbnb rooms can drop to 70‑100 AED. Luxury resorts start at 400 AED and go much higher. For a balanced mix of comfort and price, many travelers choose a 4‑star hotel for the first three nights and switch to a budget option for the rest.

Food costs vary a lot. A simple shawarma or falafel sandwich from a street stall costs 10‑15 AED. If you prefer a sit‑down meal at a mid‑range restaurant, expect to spend 50‑80 AED per person. Fine‑dining experiences can easily exceed 150 AED. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 100 AED per day for food if you mix street eats and occasional restaurant meals.

Transportation around the city is affordable with the Dubai Metro and public buses. A daily Metro pass is 20 AED, while a single ride is 5‑8 AED. Taxis cost more, about 12‑15 AED for a short trip, but ride‑hailing apps let you set a budget. Budget around 30 AED per day for mixed transport.

Attractions add another layer. The Burj Khalifa observation deck ticket starts at 150 AED, while museum entries range from 30‑50 AED. Desert safaris, a popular night‑time activity, are around 250 AED per person. Plan for at least 200 AED per day if you want to hit a few major sights.

Saving Tips for a Week‑Long Stay

Book your accommodation early and look for deals on booking sites. Many hotels offer free cancellation and a lower rate if you pay upfront. Also, consider staying a little outside the main tourist zones; the metro will still get you to the hotspots quickly.

Eat like a local. Food courts in malls and small eateries serve tasty meals for half the price of upscale restaurants. Try the local supermarkets for fresh fruit, yogurt, and snacks – great for a quick breakfast and saves money on cafés.

Use a Nol card for all public transport. It’s cheaper than buying single tickets and you can load it with any amount. For longer distances, the intercity bus to Abu Dhabi or Sharjah costs under 30 AED, a fun side‑trip without breaking the bank.

Watch out for combo tickets. Some attractions bundle a dhow cruise, museum entry, and a lunch for a set price that’s lower than buying each separately. Check the official tourism website for current promotions before you go.

Finally, set a daily spending limit and track it on your phone. It’s easy to get carried away with shopping malls, but a quick glance at your expenses helps you stay on target.

Putting it all together, a comfortable mid‑range week in Dubai will cost roughly 4,200‑5,000 AED per person (about $1,150‑$1,370). Budget travelers can bring that down to 2,500‑3,000 AED by choosing cheaper lodging and dining options. Luxury seekers should expect 7,000 AED or more.

Use this breakdown to plan your itinerary, compare options, and enjoy Dubai without surprise bills. Happy travels!