Cost of living in Dubai vs. Germany: A detailed comparison

Introduction

Dubai, the dazzling metropolis of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Germany, the economic powerhouse of Europe, are two very different worlds. Many people consider moving to Dubai, whether for career opportunities, tax benefits or simply for the lifestyle. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the cost of living between Dubai and Germany and looks at what it means to live in both places.

Living

1. Rent:

• DubaiRental costs in Dubai are notoriously high, especially in central areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. A one-bedroom apartment in these areas can cost between EUR 1,500 and EUR 3,000 per month. In the suburbs or less central areas, costs can drop to around EUR 800 to EUR 1,500.
• GermanyIn major German cities such as Munich, Frankfurt or Berlin, rental costs are also high, but tend to be somewhat lower than in Dubai. A one-bedroom apartment in central locations costs between EUR 1,000 and EUR 2,000 per month. In smaller cities or outlying areas, rental costs are around EUR 600 to EUR 1,200.

1. Purchase of real estate:

• DubaiReal estate prices in Dubai vary greatly depending on the location and type of property. Luxurious apartments and villas in prime locations can cost several million euros. Average property prices are around 4,000 to 8,000 EUR per square meter.
• GermanyIn German cities such as Munich or Hamburg, real estate prices are also high, but often more stable. Prices per square meter can range from EUR 6,000 to EUR 12,000, depending on location and amenities.

Cost of living

1. Food:

• DubaiThe cost of food in Dubai is relatively high, especially for imported products. An average weekly shopping trip for one person can cost around 80 to 120 EUR. However, local products and markets often offer cheaper alternatives.
• GermanyFood costs are comparatively lower in Germany. An average weekly purchase for one person is around EUR 50 to 80. The variety and availability of local and fresh products is a great advantage in Germany.

1. Eating out:

• DubaiThere is a wide range of restaurants in Dubai, from budget eateries to luxurious gourmet restaurants. A simple lunch in a restaurant can cost around 10 to 20 EUR, while a dinner in an upscale restaurant can easily cost 50 to 100 EUR or more.
• GermanyThere is also a wide variety of restaurants in Germany. A simple lunch costs around 8 to 15 EUR, while a dinner in an upscale restaurant can cost between 30 and 70 EUR.

Transportation

1. Public transportation:

• DubaiThe public transportation system in Dubai includes subways, buses and streetcars. A monthly ticket for public transportation costs around 70 to 100 EUR. Cabs are also relatively cheap and widely available.
• GermanyPublic transportation in Germany is well developed and efficient. The cost of a monthly pass varies depending on the city and is between 60 and 100 EUR. Cabs are also available here, but are more expensive than in Dubai.

1. Car costs:

• Dubai: Due to low gasoline prices and low taxes, car costs in Dubai are relatively low. A liter of petrol costs around 0.60 EUR. However, car purchase costs can be high, especially for imported vehicles.
• GermanyIn Germany, petrol prices are significantly higher, around EUR 1.50 to 2.00 per liter. The purchase costs for cars vary greatly, and there are additional costs for taxes and insurance.

Healthcare

• DubaiHealthcare in Dubai is of high quality but expensive, especially if you don't have insurance. A simple consultation can cost 50 to 100 EUR, while more complex medical treatments can cost several thousand euros. It is therefore advisable to take out comprehensive health insurance.
• Germany: In Germany, the healthcare system is largely covered by health insurance. People with statutory health insurance generally only pay small co-payments for visits to the doctor and medication. Private insurances offer additional comfort and faster services.

Education

• DubaiInternational schools in Dubai are expensive and annual fees can range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 30,000 per child. However, the quality of education is high and there are many schools offering different international curricula.
• GermanyIn Germany, education in public schools is free of charge. However, private and international schools charge fees, which can range from EUR 5,000 to EUR 20,000 per year, depending on the school and program.

Other costs

1. Leisure and entertainment:

• DubaiLeisure activities in Dubai, such as visiting theme parks, cinemas or beaches, can be expensive. A movie ticket costs around 10 to 15 EUR, and a day at a water park can easily cost 50 to 100 EUR.
• Germany: In Germany, leisure activities are often cheaper. A movie ticket costs around EUR 8 to 12, and many public leisure activities, such as parks and museums, are inexpensive or free.

1. Insurances:

• DubaiInsurance : Insurance, including health and car insurance, is necessary in Dubai and can be expensive, especially for foreigners.
• GermanyInsurance is required by law in Germany and is widely available. Costs vary, but statutory health insurance is often cheaper than private insurance in Dubai.

Conclusion

There are significant differences between the cost of living in Dubai and Germany. Dubai is known for its high rents and cost of living, but also for its tax advantages and luxurious lifestyle. Germany, on the other hand, offers a more stable and often lower cost of living, a strong social security system and a high quality of life.

For people looking to move to Dubai, it is important to plan for the higher cost of living and adapt to the city's unique conditions. At the same time, Dubai offers many professional opportunities and a dynamic, international environment. Germany, on the other hand, offers stability, a lower cost of living and a comprehensive welfare system, making it an attractive place to live for many people.

The decision whether to move to Dubai or Germany ultimately depends on individual priorities, professional goals and financial possibilities.