Dubai Family Budget Guide — What It Really Costs to Visit With Kids
Dubai is often labeled “expensive,” but when you break everything down into categories — flights, hotels, taxis, food, and attractions — families can control and balance costs easily. This guide gives you a realistic look at what to expect, how to budget smartly, and where most families accidentally overspend.
Quick Tools to Check Prices
How Much Does Dubai Cost for Families?
Dubai is flexible: you can spend modestly or go full luxury. What matters is understanding the categories that affect your budget most. Here’s what most families find:
- Flights: $450–$1,200 round-trip per adult depending on season and origin
- Hotels: $80–$350 per night for family rooms outside peak season
- Food: $40–$150 per day per adult depending on dining style
- Transportation: $5–$40 per day (metro vs taxi/Uber)
- Attractions: $30–$100+ per attraction depending on age and interest
Tip: Dubai works best when you look at total trip cost rather than categories — because what you save on transportation you may spend on attractions.
Flights: How to Save
Flights often form the biggest portion of the Dubai budget. Prices vary by season, but flexible dates can make a huge difference.
- Fly midweek whenever possible
- Look at nearby hubs (LAX, SFO, SEA, JFK, ORD)
- Book 6–12 weeks out — not last minute
Tools: Compare Dubai flight prices
Hotels: What Families Spend
Dubai offers everything from budget hotels near metro lines to luxury beachfront suites. Location plays the biggest role.
- Budget: $70–$120 per night (Al Barsha, Deira, Business Bay deals)
- Mid-range: $140–$240 per night (Marina, JBR, Downtown)
- Luxury: $300+
Find family-friendly options: Compare hotels
Food Costs
Dubai food spending ranges wildly, but families can easily stay moderate:
- Food courts: $6–$12 per meal
- Casual dining: $12–$20 per plate
- Upscale restaurants: $25–$60 per adult
Most families combine: simple breakfast → mall lunch → nice dinner a few times per trip.
Transportation Costs
Dubai is spread out, which affects your budget depending on how many taxis you use.
- Metro: $1–$2 per ride
- Taxi/Uber: $6–$18 per ride depending on distance
- Car rental: $25–$45 per day
Compare rental cars: Search rental cars
Attractions: Your Biggest Variable Cost
Dubai’s attractions range from budget-friendly to premium experiences.
- Affordable: Fountains, beaches, souks
- Moderate: Aquarium, Museum of the Future, KidZania
- Premium: Burj Khalifa, Atlantis Aquaventure, Desert Safari
Check ticket prices & bundles: Dubai attractions (Viator)
Hidden Costs Families Forget
- Stroller-friendly taxis (slightly higher)
- Water, snacks, sunscreen, hats
- Airport meals
- Extra metro cards (Nol) for older kids
How Travel Insurance Fits Your Budget
While small compared to other categories, it protects your entire budget from bigger losses.
Check family coverage: SafetyWing Travel Insurance
The Guides That Help You Budget More Accurately
