The UAE's reputation as a luxury destination is well-earned but not the whole picture. Budget travelers can manage on $80-110/day by staying in Deira budget hotels ($30-50/night), eating at Pakistani and Indian restaurants ($3-8/meal), and using the excellent Dubai Metro ($1-2 per journey).
Major attractions add up quickly: Burj Khalifa observation deck ($35-70), Dubai Frame ($14), and desert safaris ($50-100). The Dubai Mall and JBR beachfront are free. Mid-range travelers ($200-300/day) can stay at decent hotels, dine at good restaurants, and visit major attractions comfortably. Alcohol is expensive and limited to licensed venues (hotels, some restaurants).