The beginning of 2018 was a momentous time in the UAE.

Value Added Tax was introduced for the first time ever when 5% tax was added to most goods and services on January 1st. 

So Dubai peeps; like it or lump it, it’s time to start tightening your belt.

Together with Virgin Mobile UAE, who themselves are offering flexible mobile plans that put you in control; we’ve come up with five genius hacks to save money in 2018.

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5. Keep track of your spending

The most effective way to curb your spending is keeping track of your outgoings. What seems like a measly AED20 for a cup of coffee once a day is the equivalent of AED400 a month…What?! That’s the price of a fancy brunch. 

Stick to the instant and mind your dirhams.

4. Know where to cut costs

Whether it’s picking a bank account or finding a mobile plan to suit you, knowing WHERE you can cut costs simply is key.

With Virgin Mobile UAE, you can customize your plan from over 125 plan options, pause your plan whenever you go on holidays and change your phone plan whenever need be.

A simple ‘Recommend’ feature on the app will even suggest the best plan for you based on your previous usage. Genius!

3. Decide on your priorities

Rather than spending money frivolously, (which will leave you short at the end of the month) prioritize and define your goals to figure out what you need to achieve financial security in the long term.

Acknowledging and prioritizing your ‘needs’ over your ‘wants’ now is the first step. 

2. Fix a goal

Whether you’re thinking short-term savings (a night in the Burj Al Arab sounds dreamy) or more long-term, (a deposit for an apartment is goals) focusing on a future plan makes the here-and-now treats seem less significant.

Whatever you need to save for, making smart decisions with your money now will get you there.

1. Make the bank work for you

This one is key.

Arrange a direct debit with your bank; pick an amount you’re sure you can afford to live without per month and transfer it directly into a savings account.

This means your money is already in savings (so you won’t be tempted to use it) and once it’s set up, it requires zero effort on your part.

Virgin Mobile UAE is helping you take charge 

While there’s no magic spell you can cast to improve your saving skills, there is a formula that won’t fail you.

Rather than stressing over money (or lack of) take control of your finances by accessing your priorities, creating goals, and sticking to a budget. 

Virgin Mobile UAE wants to help you get there with flexible monthly subscriptions you’re not bound to; so no contracts or long-term commitments. Winning!

Simply download the Virgin mobile app, to start saving serious money today.