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How to save money in Dubai

Though Dubai offers a sophisticated and comfortable lifestyle, saving money in this city can be a real challenge.

Dubai is a city of excitement and opportunities. Hundreds of people from around the world come here to seek employment and dream of living in the city. Though Dubai offers a sophisticated and comfortable lifestyle, saving money in this city can be a real challenge.
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Here are some tips that can help you save money while living and working in the city
House rent:
If you are living in a 'posh' area in a two bedroom lavish apartment, the rent is sure to dig a hole in your pocket. Cutting down on rents can add a good amount to your savings. Consider living in areas with cheaper rents. If living in a studio apartment or single bedroom flat can serve your purpose, make a move. You may also consider living in nearby emirates, which can significantly bump up your savings.
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Usage of water and electricity
Try to save on Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) bills. Avoid wasting water by closing the tap while bathing, washing dishes or doing laundry and fix the leakages around the house.
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Cutting down on the use of air-conditioner can heavily slash your electricity bills. Switch off the AC when not needed, use LED power-saving bulbs. Also, switching off lights whenever not in use can help.
Phone bills
Moving to phone bills, how much are you spending on international calls?
Consider using Skype, get mobile service cards that offer international calls at cheaper rates. You can also make use of WhatsApp voice messages whenever possible.
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When calling locally, consider using landline which offers free calls to landlines in all other emirates.   
Eating out
Preparing food at home is both cost effective and healthy. Limiting your visits to restaurants and coffee shops can help in saving quite a bit of money. Avoid eating out more than once a week.
Transport
If you don't own a car, use the bus and metro more frequently compared to taxis. If the weather permits, you can choose to walk for short distances.
Shopping
Dubai is a shopper's paradise. Every major brand in the world is available here. To save time and money, prepare a list of things you need to buy before you step out, and stick to that list as much as possible.
Buy only what's necessary. Bulk shopping once or twice a year during sale periods will help save money.
sana@khaleejtimes.com