Are you considering moving to either Canada or Dubai? Before you make your decision, it’s essential to understand the real cost of living in both countries. In this in-depth comparison, we will break down the expenses of daily life in Canada versus Dubai, giving you insights to help you make an informed choice.
Canada: Housing in Canada varies greatly depending on the city. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have some of the highest real estate prices in the country. As of 2024, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Toronto is around CAD 2,500, while in Vancouver, it can reach CAD 3,000 or more. However, in smaller cities or towns, rent is significantly lower, averaging around CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,500 for a similar apartment.
Dubai: Dubai's real estate market is also diverse, but on average, housing costs can be higher than in Canada. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Dubai can range from AED 7,000 to AED 10,000 per month (approximately CAD 2,600 to CAD 3,700). However, more affordable options can be found in suburban areas, with prices ranging from AED 4,000 to AED 7,000 (CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,600).
Canada: Grocery prices in Canada are moderate, though they can vary depending on the region. On average, a monthly grocery bill for a single person is around CAD 300 to CAD 400. Canada is known for its high-quality produce and meats, but imported goods can be expensive due to transportation costs.
Dubai: In Dubai, groceries can be a bit more expensive, especially for imported goods. The average monthly grocery bill for a single person ranges from AED 1,200 to AED 1,800 (CAD 440 to CAD 660). Dubai offers a wide range of international products, but this variety often comes with a higher price tag.
Canada: Canada has a well-developed public transportation system, particularly in larger cities. A monthly public transit pass typically costs between CAD 90 and CAD 150, depending on the city. Gasoline prices are relatively high, averaging CAD 1.60 per liter, making owning a car more expensive in the long run.
Dubai: Dubai’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. A monthly pass for public transport costs around AED 300 (CAD 110). Fuel prices in Dubai are considerably lower than in Canada, averaging AED 2.40 per liter (CAD 0.90), making car ownership more accessible and affordable.
Canada: Canada offers universal healthcare to its residents, meaning most medical services are covered by the government. This significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses, making healthcare in Canada very affordable compared to many other countries. However, dental and vision care often require private insurance.
Dubai: Healthcare in Dubai is of high quality, but it is predominantly private. Expatriates are usually required to have private health insurance, which can cost anywhere from AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 annually (CAD 1,800 to CAD 5,500). While employers often provide health insurance, it’s essential to understand the coverage details.
Canada: Canada offers a broad range of entertainment options, from outdoor activities like skiing and hiking to cultural events in urban centers. The cost of dining out varies, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around CAD 20 to CAD 40 per person. Overall, lifestyle expenses in Canada can be moderate to high depending on your preferences.
Dubai: Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and world-class entertainment. Dining out in Dubai can be more expensive, with mid-range restaurants charging around AED 100 to AED 300 per person (CAD 35 to CAD 110). Additionally, Dubai offers numerous high-end shopping and leisure options, which can drive up overall lifestyle costs.
Canada: In Canada, public education is free for residents up to the secondary level, and post-secondary education is heavily subsidized for citizens and permanent residents. However, international students pay higher tuition fees, which can range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
Dubai: Education in Dubai is predominantly private, with school fees varying widely based on the institution. Annual tuition for private schools can range from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000 (CAD 7,300 to CAD 36,500). Higher education is also expensive, especially in international universities.
Dubai: Dubai has long been a hub for expatriates, including a large Filipino community. Many Filipinos work in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, construction, retail, and administration. The average monthly salary for a Filipino worker in Dubai can range from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 (approximately CAD 1,100 to CAD 3,700), depending on the industry and job level. Skilled professionals like nurses, engineers, and IT specialists may earn higher, often benefiting from tax-free income, which is a significant advantage.
However, while Dubai offers tax-free income and faster growth opportunities, the cost of living can offset some of these benefits, particularly in terms of housing and lifestyle expenses.
Canada: In Canada, Filipinos have access to a range of job opportunities in specific sectors, such as healthcare, IT, engineering, education, and the service industry. The average salary in Canada is generally higher than in Dubai, but income tax is also significantly higher. For example, a registered nurse in Canada can earn between CAD 60,000 to CAD 90,000 annually, depending on the province, while an IT professional might earn between CAD 70,000 to CAD 120,000. However, take-home pay is reduced by taxes, which can be as high as 30-40% depending on the income bracket and province.
Despite the higher taxes, Canada offers job stability and pathways to permanent residency and citizenship, which are key attractions for many Filipinos.
When comparing the cost of living between Canada and Dubai, it’s clear that each location has its own advantages and challenges. Canada offers more affordable healthcare and a stable, predictable cost of living, especially outside major urban centers. On the other hand, Dubai provides a tax-free income environment and lower transportation costs but tends to be more expensive in terms of housing and lifestyle expenses.
For many Filipinos who have made the move from Dubai to Canada, the transition has come with adjustments, but also with the opportunity to enjoy a different pace of life, more personal space, and the benefits of universal healthcare and public education. Their stories highlight the trade-offs between these two vibrant locations and the personal priorities that guide such a significant decision.
