Dubai vs Singapore: Key Differences Explained

Dubai vs Singapore cost of living comparison

To understand daily life in Singapore vs Dubai, it is important to look at core living costs including housing, transport, groceries, schooling and healthcare. While both cities are considered high-cost destinations, expenses are structured very differently.

Housing and rent

Housing is typically the largest expense for expats comparing Dubai vs Singapore. Property prices and rental rates vary significantly based on location, size, connectivity and amenities in both cities.

Approximate pricing benchmarks include:

Buying a one-bedroom apartment

• Dubai: from AED 1.2M (approx $330,000)

• Singapore: from SGD 900,000 (approx $700,000)

Renting a one-bedroom apartment

• Dubai: AED 80,000 per year onwards (approx $22,000)

• Singapore: SGD 3,700 per month (approx $34,000 per year)

Overall, entry prices for property ownership are generally higher in Singapore. Meanwhile, Dubai typically offers more flexibility, larger living spaces and stronger rental yield potential for expats and investors alike.

Utilities & transportation

Another key Dubai vs Singapore comparison is the cost of utilities and transportation. Both cities offer efficient public transport systems alongside private options. In Dubai, residents often prefer private cars or taxis, while in Singapore, car ownership is significantly more expensive and public transport is widely used.

Monthly utility costs for a small apartment in Dubai typically range from AED 650 to 750. In Singapore, comparable utility costs generally fall between SGD 100 and 200.

Transportation costs also reflect the higher cost of living in Dubai vs Singapore. In Dubai, a metro and bus pass averages around AED 300 per month depending on usage. In Singapore, monthly public transport costs typically range between SGD 100 and 150, with an adult monthly travel pass priced at SGD 128.

Groceries & dining out

Food and groceries are a central part of the Dubai vs Singapore expat experience. Both cities rely heavily on imported goods, contributing to higher grocery prices compared to many other global cities.

The average monthly grocery spend for a household in Singapore is around SGD 455, varying based on household size and lifestyle. In Dubai, grocery costs typically range from AED 1,500 to AED 3,000 per month.

Dining out can be expensive in both cities. In Dubai, a casual to mid-range meal typically costs around AED 40-80, while in Singapore similar meals are priced at approximately SGD 20–30. Both cities also offer more affordable local options alongside premium fine-dining experiences.

Schooling & healthcare costs

Schooling and healthcare represent some of the most significant living costs when comparing Dubai vs Singapore, particularly for families.

In Singapore, schooling costs for expatriates vary widely depending on school type, with international school fees generally higher than local alternatives. In Dubai, annual school tuition typically ranges from AED 35,000 to AED 90,000 depending on curriculum and institution.

Healthcare is another important consideration. In Dubai, uninsured outpatient emergency visits can exceed AED 1,000, while insurance coverage can significantly reduce costs. In Singapore, healthcare expenses can range from SGD 3,000 to SGD 35,000 depending on the hospital and treatment required.

Dubai vs Singapore: real estate differences

Real estate performance is a key indicator when comparing the Singapore vs Dubai economy, as transaction activity and rental yields reflect affordability, demand and investor confidence.

In Singapore, demand for private residential property remains strong. URA data recorded 7,404 private housing transactions in Q3 2025, representing a 37.83% increase quarter-on-quarter. However, rental yields in Singapore remain relatively compressed, with average gross yields estimated at around 3–4% in 2025, reflecting a mature and highly regulated market.

Dubai’s real estate market, by contrast, has seen record-breaking activity. In 2025, total property sales surpassed 190,000 transactions, marking one of the strongest years on record. Rental yields in Dubai continue to outperform many global cities, with average yields sitting at approximately 6.76% across the market and exceeding 7% for apartments in well-performing communities.

For investors comparing Dubai vs Singapore, these differences highlight two distinct market dynamics. Singapore is often viewed as a capital-preservation market with long-term stability, while Dubai offers higher income potential driven by stronger yields, tax efficiency and market liquidity.

Overall, both cities continue to benefit from sustained demand and resilient real estate fundamentals, but they appeal to different investment strategies and risk profiles.

Lifestyle comparison

Lifestyle is a meaningful differentiator in the Dubai vs Singapore comparison, particularly for expatriates weighing long-term quality of life. While both cities are highly international and well-equipped for global residents, the lived experience differs in several key areas.

Key lifestyle differences include:

• Luxury and visibility: Both cities offer high-end living and access to elite social circles. In Dubai, luxury is more outwardly visible and experience-led, while in Singapore it tends to be understated and discreet.

• Cultural and religious landscape: Dubai is shaped primarily by Islamic culture, influencing daily rhythms, public holidays and social norms. Singapore is religiously diverse, with no single dominant faith.

• Leisure and recreation: Residents in both cities benefit from extensive leisure options. Dubai is known for beach clubs, resorts and outdoor lifestyle experiences, while Singapore offers curated urban spaces, parks and cultural attractions.

• Dining and social life: Both cities host world-class dining scenes. Dubai places stronger emphasis on experiential dining and nightlife, whereas Singapore is recognised for culinary diversity and a strong food culture at every price point.

• Pace of life: Dubai generally offers a faster-paced, opportunity-driven environment, while Singapore is often perceived as more structured, regulated and predictable.

• Climate and outdoor living: Climate plays a significant role in lifestyle choice. Dubai’s hotter climate encourages indoor living during summer months, while Singapore’s tropical climate allows for more consistent year-round outdoor activity.

Business & investment opportunities

After comparing the cost of living in Dubai vs Singapore, it is worth examining the scope of business and investment opportunities offered by both cities.

Key characteristics of Singapore’s business and investment environment include:

• A competitive corporate tax structure supported by efficient regulation and low bureaucracy

• Consistent ranking among the world’s leading cities for ease of doing business

• No capital gains tax, inheritance tax or wealth tax for investors

By comparison, Dubai offers a distinct set of incentives:

• A wide network of free zones providing 100% foreign ownership and streamlined regulatory processes

• Long-term residency options, including the Golden Visa, designed to attract investors and entrepreneurs planning to reside in the UAE

• No personal income tax, capital gains tax or tax on rental income for property investors

In the Dubai vs Singapore comparison, both cities take different approaches to supporting business and investment activity. Despite these differences, each has proven successful in attracting international companies, investors and professionals.

Dubai or Singapore: which is better for expats?

When comparing Dubai vs Singapore for expats, it is important to look beyond headline advantages and consider how each city aligns with your personal goals, career plans and lifestyle preferences.

Before deciding which city is the better fit, consider the following:

• Climate preferences: Both cities have very different climates and weather patterns, which can significantly influence day-to-day living.

• Business and investment environment: Consider which city’s regulatory framework and investment landscape best supports your professional or entrepreneurial objectives.

• Residency plans: Are you planning a short-term stay or long-term relocation? Residency options and visa structures differ meaningfully between the two cities.

• Lifestyle and leisure: Both Dubai and Singapore offer extensive recreational, dining and cultural options. The key difference lies in how these experiences are integrated into daily life.

• Cost of living considerations: While the cost of living is high in both cities, a detailed breakdown of housing, education, transport and lifestyle expenses will help determine which location suits you best.

Conclusion: which city fits you best?

Ultimately, the Dubai vs Singapore decision depends on your personal priorities, circumstances and long-term plans. Both cities offer strong economic foundations, international connectivity and a high quality of life, but they appeal to different lifestyles and investment strategies.

Dubai often attracts those seeking tax efficiency, higher rental yields and flexible residency options, while Singapore appeals to individuals prioritising long-term stability, regulatory structure and regional business access. Neither is objectively better. The right choice is the one that aligns most closely with how you want to live, work and invest.

For those considering a move to Dubai, securing the right property is often the natural next step. Engel & Völkers offers discreet, informed guidance across Dubai’s residential and investment markets, supporting buyers and investors with tailored advice grounded in local expertise.

If you would like to explore your options or discuss your plans in more detail, our consultants are available for a confidential conversation.