When Sarah and Ahmed discovered they were expecting their first child in Dubai, their joy quickly mixed with a familiar concern: “How much is this actually going to cost us?”
If you’re asking the same question, you’re not alone. The cost of having a baby in Dubai can feel overwhelming, but understanding the real figures helps you plan with confidence rather than worry in the dark.
Dubai’s healthcare system offers world-class maternity care, but it comes at a premium. From prenatal appointments to those essential first-year expenses, we’ve broken down the true costs you can expect in 2026.
Healthcare and delivery expenses
The largest chunk of your baby budget will likely go towards medical expenses. In Dubai’s private healthcare system, prenatal care typically costs between AED 3,000-5,000 throughout your pregnancy, including regular check-ups, scans, and necessary tests.
Delivery costs vary significantly depending on your chosen hospital and type of birth. A normal delivery at a reputable private hospital ranges from AED 8,000-15,000, whilst a caesarean section can cost between AED 12,000-20,000. Premium hospitals like American Hospital Dubai or Mediclinic City Hospital sit at the higher end of this spectrum.
Comprehensive maternity insurance can reduce these costs dramatically. Many employers offer enhanced coverage, and it’s worth upgrading your policy before conception if possible. Without insurance, you’re looking at the full cost of having a baby in Dubai, which can easily reach AED 25,000 just for medical expenses.
Don’t forget about paediatrician visits – budget around AED 300-500 per consultation, with newborns typically requiring 4-6 visits in their first year for routine check-ups and vaccinations.
Essential baby gear and ongoing monthly costs
Once you’ve navigated the medical expenses, the practical costs begin. Setting up your nursery and buying essential baby gear in Dubai typically costs between AED 8,000-15,000, depending on your choices.
A quality cot ranges from AED 800-2,500, whilst a good stroller costs AED 1,200-3,000. Car seats (absolutely essential in the UAE) start at AED 600 for basic models, with premium options reaching AED 2,000. Many parents find shopping during Dubai’s seasonal sales can reduce these costs by 20-40%.
Your monthly ongoing expenses will include:
- Formula and baby food: AED 400-600 monthly (if not exclusively breastfeeding)
- Nappies and wipes: AED 250-400 monthly
- Clothing: AED 200-500 monthly (babies grow fast!)
- Childcare products and toys: AED 150-300 monthly
These monthly costs typically total AED 1,000-1,800, though they decrease slightly as your child grows and requires fewer nappy changes.
Childcare and longer-term financial planning
Perhaps the most significant ongoing cost is childcare. Dubai nurseries charge between AED 2,000-6,000 monthly, with premium facilities reaching AED 8,000. Many parents are shocked by these figures, but remember that quality childcare is an investment in your child’s development and your ability to return to work.
Full-time domestic help, popular among Dubai families, costs approximately AED 2,500-4,000 monthly including visa and accommodation allowances. Part-time nannies may charge AED 25-40 per hour.
Smart financial planning can ease these pressures. Many parents start a dedicated baby savings account during pregnancy, aiming to save AED 2,000-3,000 monthly. This creates a buffer for unexpected expenses and helps spread costs over time rather than facing large lump sums.
Consider timing major purchases strategically. Dubai Shopping Festival and summer sales offer significant discounts on baby equipment. Many families also find that joining parent groups on social media helps them access second-hand items in excellent condition at fraction of retail costs.
Making it work for your family
These prices might seem daunting, but remember – you don’t need everything at once, and there are ways to manage these expenses smartly.
Focus on essentials first: safe sleeping arrangements, car seat, feeding supplies, and basic clothing. Everything else can be acquired gradually. Many parents find that friends and family are generous with gifts, which can significantly reduce your shopping list.
Most importantly, don’t let financial concerns overshadow this exciting time. With proper planning and realistic budgeting, families across Dubai successfully navigate these costs every day. Your baby doesn’t need the most expensive everything – they need love, care, and parents who feel confident about their financial decisions.
What matters most is creating a plan that works for your family’s unique situation.
