when i made my researches almost 7 months ago indeed the living costs were quite similar. so far and since the crisis dubai is getting cheaper and cheaper. i did a very intersting shopping tour in carrefour dubai and did exactly the same overhere in doha. same product same branch...and doha is 30% more expensive...in grocery...as well renting when you have to pay for yourself it takes out half of your salary if you want to leave in a nice place...