The glittering image of life in Dubai, often associated with designer shopping and luxury beach clubs, has been given a stark reality check by a British family of four. Poppy Owen, a mother living with her family in the emirate, has broken down their exact monthly outgoings, revealing a total that may give potential expatriates pause for thought.
The Monthly Financial Breakdown
Sharing the details on her Instagram account, @thepoppyowen, Poppy explained that her family resides in Damac Hills, a gated golf community. Their largest expense is housing: a three-bedroom villa with a maid's room costs 10,000 AED (£2,030) per month in rent.
Education for her two children is the next significant outgoing, at 8,500 AED (£1,730) monthly. The family's grocery shop totals around 4,000 AED (£815), while running a car—a necessity in Dubai—adds 2,000 AED (£407) for rental and 400 AED (£84) for petrol.
Additional Essential Costs
Other fixed costs quickly accumulate. The family pays 1,500 AED (£300) for medical insurance and an estimated 1,600 AED (£300) for utilities (water and electricity). A cleaner visiting twice a week costs 1,200 AED (£245), mobile phone bills are 400 AED (£84), and high-speed internet is 500 AED (£100).
When tallied, these essential expenses for a family of four reach a substantial 30,100 AED per month, equivalent to approximately £6,120. This figure notably excludes discretionary spending on dining, entertainment, and other lifestyle activities.
Public Reaction: "Reasonable" or "Crazy Expensive"?
The detailed post sparked considerable discussion among followers. Many found it a valuable and accurate benchmark. One commenter noted, "This is one of the most reasonable and realistic breakdowns I’ve seen… very accurate too," while another called it "super helpful" for their own planning.
Some observers even considered the family fortunate, with one pointing out, "Your rent is very low, you are lucky." However, others were taken aback by the total. "Wow, this is crazy expensive! (For me)," wrote one, adding they were seeking a lower cost base to enjoy life more.
Another astute follower highlighted that the real monthly spend was likely higher, commenting, "You guys might be spending a good 40k at least per month. It’s a good and solid reference for other people."
Poppy Owen's candid account provides a crucial, ground-level perspective on the cost of living in Dubai, cutting through the glamour to reveal the significant financial commitment required for a family to establish life in the UAE's most famous city.
