The thought of living in Dubai conjures up images of Dior handbags, lavish restaurants, expensive beachside cafes and a generally glamorous lifestyle.
But a British family of four has detailed the real cost of living in Dubai.
Poppy Owen, a mum of two, is currently living in Damac Hills in Dubai, a luxury gated golfing community.
She shared the details of her life and expenses on her Instagram account @thepoppyowen.
Firstly, she says their three-bedroom villa with maid’s room costs 10,000AED per month, which equates to around £2,030.
Her family food shop per month totals 4,000AED, around £815.
Next, school for her two children costs 8,500AED monthly – £1,730.
As for mobile phones, the family pays 400AED (£84) a month.
Poppy Owen, a mum of two, shared her family expenses
She wrote in detail of her monthly spending, including her food shop
Driving is another expense in Dubai – Poppy says her car rental monthly is 2,000AED (£407) and petrol adds up to 400AED (£84).
Her family also pays 1,500 AED (£300) for medical insurance each month.
Water bills and electricity are next up on Poppy’s financial round-up – at an estimated 1,600AED (£300).
Their cleaner, who comes twice a week, adds up to 1,200AED (£245) per month.
Finally, high-speed internet costs 500AED (£100) monthly.
That adds up to a grand total of 30,100AED each month – around £6,120.
Viewers shared their thoughts on the spendings in the comments, with some impressed.
One wrote: ‘This is quite good and accurate. Not factoring in lifestyle and “nice to haves”. It’s a reality. Great post.’
Renting in Dubai can be one of the highest expenses – this is what Poppy pays
Another added: ‘This is super helpful! I’m a family of four and wanting to take the leap to move to Dubai within 18 months! No clue where to set up so I will be following your account for more tips!’
Others pointed out this is a reasonable monthly spend for the area, with one writing: ‘This is one of the most reasonable and realistic breakdowns I’ve seen… very accurate too.’
One viewer chimed in: ‘It’s not bad. Your rent is very low, you are lucky.’
Others disagreed, with one saying costs are extortionate: ‘Wow, this is crazy expensive! (For me) I am really considering a move but ideally looking for lower costs so I can slow down and enjoy life.’
Another wrote: ‘Cost of living looks legit. Just missed the average of extra activities as restaurants, malls, kids stuff, etc.
‘You guys might be spending a good 40k at least per month. It’s a good and solid reference for other people.’
