15,000 AED is the threshold where a family of 3-4 can live comfortably in Dubai — but just barely. Rent for a 2-bedroom in areas like Al Qusais or International City runs 5,000-7,000 AED. School fees add 2,000-4,000 AED per child.
With employer-provided housing, 15,000 AED becomes genuinely comfortable with 4,000-6,000 AED in monthly savings. Without housing support, savings drop to 1,000-2,000 AED after all essentials.