Is 100 Dirhams per Day a Lot of Money in Dubai?

When considering travel to Dubai, a budget of 100 Dirhams (approximately US$27 per day) may sound appealing, but the reality of how much this amount can cover varies widely depending on your lifestyle and budgeting habits. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of what 100 Dirhams a day can and cannot cover, based on key aspects of your stay: accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Accommodation

Among the essentials for travelers, accommodation can be a significant expense in Dubai. Basic hotels or hostels can range from 100 to 300 Dirhams per night. If you plan to stay at a mid-range hotel, you are likely to spend more than 100 Dirhams per night, making this budget insufficient for comfortable accommodation. Moreover, if you are staying with a family consisting of a wife and a child, a budget of 100 Dirhams a day would be very tight, and survival would be extremely difficult even without accommodation expenses.

Food

Food constitutes another important aspect of your daily budget. In Dubai, you can find affordable meals for around 30-50 Dirhams at local eateries. However, if you dine at nicer restaurants or enjoy higher-end meals, the costs can quickly escalate. If your budget of 100 Dirhams is just for food, you will find yourself with limited choices, and your diet will be rather modest.

Transportation

Transportation in Dubai is relatively affordable, with metro fares typically ranging from 3 to 7 Dirhams. However, if you prefer to use a car or hailing a taxi, the costs can add up quickly. Furthermore, if you do not have a company-provided accommodation, visa, or transport facilities, you would need to allocate additional Dirhams to cover these expenses.

Activities

Attractions and activities in Dubai can vary widely in terms of cost. Some free attractions may include visiting the Dubai Mall, Fountain, or the founder’s statue. However, entry fees for more popular tourist attractions, excursions, and entertainment can be significantly higher. For instance, many well-known sites and activities can cost you anywhere from 100 to 200 Dirhams or more. Without allocating a significant portion of your budget to these activities, your visit to Dubai may lack the depth and excitement you were hoping for.

Overall Budget Considerations

It is evident that 100 Dirhams a day might be enough for a very basic experience, but it would be challenging to cover accommodation, meals, and activities comfortably. If you are staying with a family, the budget will be insufficient, and your daily expenses will be greatly constrained. If you are on a tighter budget, it is advisable to readjust your expectations and plan for a more modest experience. Alternatively, you can stretch your budget by choosing a less expensive accommodation or finding free activities.

While 100 Dirhams a day may seem like a reasonable budget for some, the overall visitor experience in Dubai will be limited. It is essential to consider your lifestyle, accommodation, and personal comfort levels when planning your budget for a trip to Dubai.