Backend Developer vs Data Engineer salary
In United Arab Emirates, a data engineer earns about 3% more than a backend developer — $132,335 vs $128,795 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is AED). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Engineer$132,335/yr
- Monthly
- $11,028
- Hourly
- $64
- Range
- $84,683–$190,551
- 10-yr outlook
- +30%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Backend Developer | Data Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $82,423 | $84,683 |
| 25th | $105,623 | $108,509 |
| Median | $128,795 | $132,335 |
| 75th | $157,141 | $161,443 |
| Senior (90th) | $185,459 | $190,551 |
National United Arab Emirates figures in AED. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a backend developer or data engineer earn more in United Arab Emirates?
- A data engineer earns more, at about AED 486,000 per year vs AED 473,000 for a backend developer — roughly 3% (AED 13,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United Arab Emirates?
- A backend developer typically earns AED 302,700–AED 681,100, while a data engineer earns AED 311,000–AED 699,800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United Arab Emirates?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about AED 39,400 and a data engineer about AED 40,500.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United Arab Emirates, a backend developer earns about AED 302,700 while a data engineer earns about AED 311,000 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United Arab Emirates, a backend developer earns about AED 681,100 while a data engineer earns about AED 699,800 per year.
- Are backend developer and data engineer similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.