travel dubai cost

Is Dubai expensive? What to budget & how to save when visiting

With palatial five-star hotels and stunning skyscrapers dominating its skyline, Dubai is known for its glitz and glamor. It’s perceived to be pricier than most cities, but you can still explore the Gulf emirate on a modest budget.

Depending on where you stay and eat , and what you plan to do in Dubai, we’ve got tips to help you stretch your dollar. From flights and accommodation to food and transportation, we’ve broken down each part of your budget to show you how much your trip to Dubai could cost.

How much are flights to Dubai?

Dubai is a popular layover destination, thanks to its sweet spot on the world map. In terms of airfare, a direct flight on Emirates Economy class from New York City to Dubai costs around $1,000. If you’re traveling from New Delhi to Dubai on the same airline, your flight could set you back around $340.

To ensure your airfare remains low, consider non-direct flights or budget airlines like FlyDubai or Air Arabia. Consider traveling between June and August if you don’t mind the heat. The off-peak season coincides with Dubai’s searing summer months, so hotels and flights see steep discounts. Avoid November to April, when prices surge due to the year-end holidays and cooler months.

How much is a hotel in Dubai?

Dubai has hotel options for all budgets: ritzy 5-star resorts , cozy vacation rentals and hostels . Deira , Bur Dubai , Satwa and Al Barsha are fantastic areas for affordable lodging. A decent 4-star hotel costs about $50 a night on average, while a 5-star hotel comes up to at least $75 per night. Hostels are much cheaper at around $15 a night. If you’re ditching hotels to backpack, connect with the Couchsurfing community and enjoy free lodging.

Besides hotels, Dubai has pocket-friendly apartments in districts like Mirdif —great for those traveling in groups or with kids. For a family of four with two kids, you can get a cozy studio apartment complete with a sofa bed for just $70 a night. Aside from privacy, these residences come with a fully-equipped kitchen and washing machine. Tip: Whipping up your own meals and doing your own laundry are great ways to stretch your budget.

In Downtown Dubai , hotel rates are notoriously high. But if you dislike commuting and want to be near The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa , look into Dusit Thani Dubai or DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Business Bay (about $128 a night).

Is food in Dubai expensive?

There are countless food options in Dubai. In the mood to splurge at posh restaurants like Ossiano or Kohantei Restaurant ? Be prepared to shell out at least $273 per person.

To keep your budget in check, go for mouth-watering shawarmas for $1 at hole-in-the-wall joints instead.

If you’re looking for cheap eats around Dubai, head to food courts at the malls . Tuck into a full meal with generous servings for $7. Besides food courts, discover where and what locals eat for an authentic, local culinary experience. Check out Antar Cafeteria , well-known for their burgers and wraps at just $3, or Eat & Drink , which offers fuss-free kebab sandwiches for $2.

How much is alcohol/nightlife in Dubai?

Dubai is a conservative Muslim city, hence the strict rules and high taxes on alcohol. If you’re wondering, a pint of beer costs around $11 and a glass of wine starts from $15.

Tip: If you’re planning to enjoy some bubbly, catch Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m, or swing by Ladies Night on Tuesdays. Night clubs and bars such as Barasti Beach Bar and Asia Asia offer great deals. Of course, there’s the convenient option of buying duty-free alcohol at the airport .

Is shopping in Dubai expensive?

With city-sized malls housing everything from a ski slope to the world-class Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , Dubai takes shopping to the next level. The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world, with 1,200 stores spanning four floors. Plus, it has the highest concentration of designer boutiques. Prices are not necessarily cheaper due to the exchange rate. In fact, most luxury brands and fashion outlets are more expensive in Dubai compared to North America, Europe and Asia.

Similarly, at the Mall of The Emirates , you’ll find luxury and high-street brands. If you’re searching for discounted luxury goods, hitch a 45-minute cab ride from the city to The Outlet Village .

For a real bargain, head to Dubai Creek or Bur Dubai’s local souks . Save up to 30 per cent on items here compared to Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar . Snap up pashminas, attars and Arabian sandals, or pack home spices (specifically saffron) from Dubai Spice Souk . And if you love gold, Deira’s Gold Souk is a major draw. Practice your haggling skills for the best deals when you shop at the local markets.

How much is transportation in Dubai?

You can navigate around town efficiently with a NOL card (think Oyster Card in the UK). A basic rechargeable NOL card costs $0.50 and grants access to the metro, buses, and water buses.

The two-line metro is the most convenient and cheapest transportation in Dubai, especially for zones such as Dubai Marina , Burj Khalifa or Deira. A short trip costs $0.80, while an average ride costs $1.40. For longer distances, combine a metro ride with a taxi.

Taxis & ride-hailing services

Taxis are abundant and operate by meter, while rides on Uber or Careem have fixed fares. Although these ride-hailing services tend to be more expensive, their car fleet is better and the drivers more reliable. Also, you won’t have to worry about meter jumps due to traffic congestion.

Renting a car

There are interesting things to do in Dubai’s outskirts and emirates like Fujairah , Sharjah , and Abu Dhabi . If you’re traveling in a group, consider renting a car for $11 a day. There are many car rentals in Dubai, and gas is only $0.97 per liter.

How much do tours/attractions cost?

Dubai has an array of attractions —from theme parks and landmarks to modern museums —waiting to be explored. Some are ticketed, while others are free to enjoy like the city’s pristine beaches, La Mer and Kite Beach .

Entry to Burj Khalifa costs $22, but observing it from the ground is free. Plus, there’s a magical fountain show to boot. Nearby, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo tickets start from $46. And if you’re a theme park lover, entry fees for Motiongate Dubai , LEGOLAND Dubai , and Bollywood Parks are between $80 to $90. To save on attractions, pick up passes such as the Go City Dubai Card or The Dubai Pass to save up to 60 per cent. Several museums here also offer free entry, notably the Etihad Museum and Al Shindagha Museum .

Alternatively, if you’re short on time, visit the major attractions at a go on a package tour. Join a tour of Old Dubai (from $37) and catch the sunset on an $0.30 abra ride across the Dubai Creek. If you prefer to experience Dubai from the waters, a thrilling 90-minute speedboat tour (from $40) will take you across Dubai Marina, Atlantis The Palm , and Burj Al Arab .

How much is a trip to Dubai?

Depending on how much you travel within the city, allocate $4 on local transportation (metro) and $19 for three meals a day. An average 3-star hotel will cost around $40 per night. After adding miscellaneous expenses like shopping, you’ll need at least $81 a day if you really watch your budget.

If you’re going for upscale hotels and planning to include more paid activities, set aside at least $250 a day. And for a luxury holiday, be ready to splash out at least $550 a day.

In summary, a one-week trip—including airfare at $600—will cost approximately $1,170 for a solo traveler on a budget. A mid-range traveler can expect to spend $2,350, and if you’re planning to really pamper yourself, you're looking at least $3,000 for a week’s retreat.

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• Everything you need to know about gold shopping in Dubai
• The ultimate guide to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
• All you need to know about visiting Dubai’s Burj Khalifa

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

How to travel in Dubai on a budget (Updated 2024)

By Joan Torres 22 Comments Last updated on April 9, 2024

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Dubai is probably the most expensive and least backpacking-friendly country I have ever been to . Accommodation, food, alcohol and any sort of activity always turn out to be very expensive. On top of this, public transportation is quite limited, therefore on occasions, you are forced to take a taxi.

Besides that, whereas in other expensive cities (such as London or New York), you can always find a cheaper alternative and free events, in Dubai it seems that only the expensive choice is available. For any kind of social event, you always end up paying an exorbitant amount.

And why is that? In Dubai, people have money. All these events are exclusively organized for expats and these expats, are willing to pay whatever is needed in order to enjoy a couple of beers and have fun. They don’t care because they can afford it.

Read: 10 Reasons to visit Dubai

Yeah, backpacking in Dubai on a budget is not easy. This is not a coincidence. Sheikh Mohamed has a very clear objective, which is for  Dubai to become the number one destination in the world for luxury tourism .

However, whereas it’s true that, in order to enjoy fancy Dubai, you need to spend a lot of money, there are loads of free activities and ways to save money. I lived in Dubai for over two years and, as the budget traveler I am, I was always trying to have fun at the minimum cost.

In this backpacking guide to Dubai you find:

Table of Contents

• First quick tips
• Top free things to do
• Cheapest accommodation
• How to save money on food
• How to save money on alcohol
• How to save money on transportation
• How much does a trip to Dubai cost?
• More Information

Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai Keep in mind that Dubai’s health care is private and terribly expensive, so insurance is a must. IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets. Get your 5% exclusive discount if purchasing via this link

First quick tips on how to have your cheap holidays to Dubai

In Dubai, activities and events are pretty expensive. Here’s a couple of tips that will help you cut your costs when planning your trip to Dubai.

Remember that, in Dubai, health care is private

If you want to know more options, read how to find the right travel insurance

Get The Entertainer

The Entertainer is an endless series of discounts for hundreds of restaurants, bars and all sorts of activities, which all expats have.

Most of the discounts are 2 for 1 and it is valid for 1 year, from January to December. If you bought it in June, it will be only valid for six months. It’s available in book format and for mobile as well.

If you are alone and plan to stay in Dubai  for just a few days , it may not be worth it to get it. However, if you have friends to share the cost with or you are planning to stay longer, with only going one night out or to do any activity with your kids, you will already cover the cost.

I would never recommend something which I would not trust or use and the truth is that The Entertainer was an essential tool that helped me cut my budget for Dubai after living there for 3 years.

Budget Tours

If you want to get the most budget tours, I recommend you book them through GetYourGuide , a pretty cool website that offers loads of different deals and tours to Dubai at the lowest possible prices. 

Useful Page events

In order to find out about all the events and free activities, I recommend you to check  Time Out Dubai   and  What’s On Dubai regularly.

They announce all cheap and free events.

Top free things to do in Dubai

This Middle Eastern metropolis is not just about massive shopping malls and expensive and glamorous events but, actually, there’s a lot of cheap things to do in Dubai that are very related and aim at experiencing the authentic Emirati culture. 

Camel racing

One of the few things you can do in Dubai to experience the authentic and real Emirati culture. Camels can run very fast and attend a race is frankly impressive. These races usually take place on Fridays from 6am to 8am, but only from November to March. Where?

In the Dubai Camel Racing Club . This is, definitely, on my top list of free things to do in Dubai.

Deira Gold Souq 

If you like gold, apparently, the Deira Gold souq sells some of the cheapest gold-jewelry in the world. However, even if you’re not into gold, strolling down the alleys in search of good picture opportunities is also a lot of fun.

At the Deira Gold Souq, you can also find a store window containing the biggest ring in the world and be seeing dozens of tourists posing for a picture in front of it is an attraction by itself.

Read: How to go backpacking in Oman on a budget

Hindu temple (Shiva and Krishna Mandir)

Although Dubai has a huge Hindu population, Shiva and Krishna Mandir is the only Hindu temple in the city.

The best time to visit it is on Fridays around noon when all the Hindus go there to bring offerings to their gods. It’s located in the heart of Bastakiya, the old part of Dubai.

Street wrestling

One of my favorite ones. This modality of street wrestling is very popular in Iran , Pakistan , and India. On Friday afternoons, the Indian and Pakistani workers, meet and go to enjoy it in the streets of Deira, near the fish market.

The event is not about the fight itself but the atmosphere, really far away from the glitzy and pretentious Dubai.

Read: Saudi Arabia travel guide

Crossing the Creek on a boat 

Pay only one Dirham and enjoy a fabulous ride in the abra, the traditional water taxi to cross the atmospheric Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira on the opposite side. The quaint old wooden boat has a fishtail carved out of wood.

Horse racing in Meydan

One of the best free things to do in Dubai is going to see a horse race, the national sport and also Sheik Mohamed’s favorite. It’s completely free. It takes place on Thursdays at 7pm, from November to March.

A spectacle is guaranteed, and not only because of the horses, but also because of all the different types of people who come and gather.

The general entrance ticket is for free but you can also book more premium seats which allow you access to the bar and restaurant.

For more information, check out the official website .

Walking around Souq Madinat

A traditional Arab souq from the 21st century and built in a fancy Dubai style. There are fountains containing giant turtles and you get to see fantastic views of the Burj Al-Arab.

The Souq Madinat is also a great place to hang out in the evenings, as there is a wide range of bars and restaurants serving alcohol. However, they are quite pricey so you should better come here with The Entertainer .

Wandering around Al Bastakiya

Bastakiya is the old part of the city, which was destroyed during the 80s to build an office complex.

However, thanks to a preservation campaign, the project was stopped and the houses restored. Nowadays, traditional Arab Gulf buildings and homes stand along its streets.

In Bastakiya, you can also find the Dubai Museum which, for only 3 Dirhams, it gives you a great summary of the UAE’s history, from before the black gold times. It also gives you a glimpse of future innovative city projects.

Deira fish market

Update: It’s definitely closed!  If you like walking around markets, Deira fish market is, without a doubt, the most authentic one in the city. And it’s not only interesting to visit, but also sells the cheapest fish in town. It’s a real shame that they closed this market, as it used to be one of the best cheap things to do in Dubai.

Dubai Marina and its skyscrapers

Dubai is about skyscrapers and the good thing is that they are impressive and free to see. The marina is around 8km long, with fancy yachts moored all along the waterfront.

On each side of the marina, there is a mosque (just one has been built so far) which is also worth seeing.

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is a small but beautiful mosque which non-Muslim people can visit and the only cultural site to visit in the new part of the city.

The walk and beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence

By the beach, the area next to Dubai Marina is called Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). It’s sort of a promenade trying to imitate the one in Santa Monica.

There are camels, the beach, clean toilets and free wifi. What else do you need? The Walk is one of the best things to do in Dubai on a budget.

The bottom of Burj Khalifa

What? This is one of the best cheap places to visit in Dubai, right? At 823 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the highest building on Earth and observing it from the bottom is completely free.

Besides, there is a fountain show which takes place every half hour from 6pm on, every day of the year.

Backpacking in Dubai: Best accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers

Land prices in Dubai have massively increased over the past few years. Nowadays, it seems that this has stabilized, however, prices are almost equal to those in Tokyo and London.

If you really want to travel in Dubai on a budget, here’s the best and cheapest suggestions for both backpackers and budget travelers.

Important: In summer, hotel prices tend to decrease drastically. That’s because, in summer, the weather is so hot that many events and activities are temporarily closed. Traveling during this season is way more economical but, to be very honest, it’s not very recommendable. 

Budget Hostel – At The Top Hostel – If you are backpacking in Dubai, this is probably, the best budget option for budget travelers. It’s located right next to where I used to live, in front of the beach, at the most Western-friendly neighborhood in the city (Marina). The hostel is a 66th-floor apartment and it offers several dorms.

Budget Hostel – Backpacker 16 Hostel – This one is cheaper than the previous hostel but the location is not as epic. However, the position is not as bad, as it’s located in Tecom, a neighborhood which is pretty well connected to the metro and just 15 minutes driving from Marina.

Budget Hostel – Backpackers Hostel   – This was the first backpacker’s hostel ever in Dubai. It’s located in Al Karama, home to a large Indian community and where you find the cheapest restaurants in the country. It’s also very close to Old Dubai and Deira. The only disadvantage is that it’s really far away from the cool expat areas but, if your objective is to experience the authentic Dubai, this should be your preferred choice.

Backpacker Hostel –   Backpacker Tina  – Budget hostels are slowly being opened all across the city and, in Marina, Tina is the most budget one. Like most buildings here, everything is great, brand-new and the building has all kind of facilities, including a gym and a pool! If you are a backpacker, this is the best hostel to stay in Dubai .

Couchsurfing

If you are backpacking in Dubai, here the Couchsurfing community is pretty active and finding a couch to surf is feasible. Besides, many events are organized.

Dubai on a budget: How to save money on food

In Dubai, the price of a meal varies significantly among restaurants across the city. One day, you may eat an amazing and filling Vietnamese soup for only $5, and the next day you can end up eating a shitty sandwich and pay more than $30.

What do you need to avoid?

If you really want to travel in Dubai on the cheap, forget about eating in hotels and restaurants where they serve alcohol. They can charge you double just because you can order a beer along with your meal. At the average night pub, a burger can easily cost you around 90AED ($25).

If on top of this you also order a beer, then you’ll end up paying a minimum of $35 for a crappy dinner. So, how to save money on food?

First, remember to get The Entertainer

As I said before, The Entertainer offers 2×1 in most Dubai restaurants, including the ones located in expensive hotels. 

Eat at mall food courts

I know, they don’t serve the best food ever, but many stalls offer reasonably good meals for as little as 25AED. Food is very varied, from Italian to Lebanese, Indian and Oriental.

The best quality-price restaurants

Outside of hotels, JBR and downtown, there are plenty of high-quality restaurants offering good quality meals for only 50-60 AED (around 15USD). Dubai is a city composed of hundreds of thousands of expatriates from all parts of the world.

That means there are also hundreds of restaurants with all types of authentic cuisine. Here’s a list of awesome (and cheap) restaurants which I compiled:  Best (and cheapest) restaurants where the expats go .

Cook at home

If your accommodation has a kitchen, I suggest you buy groceries in the supermarket and cook at home. LULU Hypermarket is the one with the lowest prices. Apart from groceries, they also sell ready to eat meals cheaply.

There’s a LULU in All Barsha, right next to Mall of the Emirates. Other LULUs are in Bur Dubai or Deira. Carrefour is the alternative to LULU. Prices are slightly higher, but the range is larger. There is a huge Carrefour inside Mall of the Emirates. This would be the best way to bring costs down and keep your trip to Dubai on a budget.

Read: A guide to Liwa Oasis and the Moreeb dune in Abu Dhabi

Backpacking in Dubai: How to save money on alcohol

Dubai is a very conservative, Muslim country, therefore alcohol taxes are fairly high. On average, you pay 40AED ($12) for a pint of beer in the most normal bar. Yes, getting drunk in this city is expensive, and getting wasted even more. How to save money on alcohol?

Download Guzzle App

Guzzle is a mobile application which provides 2 for 1 offers on beverages in a large number of restaurants. You can download and use the app for free. They also offer a premium version, which merely gives you a higher number of discounts

Get the best out of the happy hour

Most of the bars in Dubai push for happy hour from Sunday to Thursday, from 5pm to 8pm. Some of the bars offering good deals are Tribeca (Ocean View Hotel), Barasti (Westin Hotel) and Garden 7 (Media One Hotel).

Ladies night

If you are a girl, then this might be your lucky day because loads of bars give away drinks to all girls. Tuesday is the most popular day for Ladies night. The most famous one is China Grill (Westin Hotel). Girls have open-bar all night long. For free. Promise.

Go for a Brunch

If your objective is to get smashed, I definitely recommend you go for a brunch. What’s going for a brunch? For many expats, Friday brunch is sort of a ritual. It consists of all you can drink and eat from 12 noon to 4 pm. There’s no alcohol limit.

Prices range from 150AED to 800AED. The Entertainer   offers 2 for 1 on many of them. If you don’t have it, some of the cheapest and most popular brunches are Pizza Express (Movenpick, JLT) and Double Deckers (Al Murooj Rotana, Downtown).

Buy alcohol at the airport

It seems pretty obvious but the truth is that, in Dubai, you can’t buy alcohol unless you are a resident and have an alcohol license. As soon as you land, go to the airport duty-free, and stock-up on alcohol.

Trip to Barracuda

If you run out of duty-free alcohol, only 60km from Dubai, there’s a liquor store named Barracuda where you can buy alcohol without a license. The downside is that you can only get there by car. If you are renting one, great.

Otherwise, remember to buy enough at the airport. How to get there? It’s located in the Emirate called Ajman. Google maps finds it as  Barracuda Wine Shop, Ajman .

Budget Dubai: How to save money on transportation

If you were to ever ask me what’s the thing I hate most about Dubai, I would say that it’s a city built to move around in exclusively by car. It’s a vast city with a very low population density. Distances are huge.

The area of the city is a perfect 40x40km square and there’s only one metro line that goes through it in a straight line. The bus system is not convenient at all. If you can’t reach a place by metro, you need to go by car. Below, I will show you the cheapest way to travel in Dubai.

The cheapest option. Don’t buy single tickets. Ask for a NOL card at the counter. It costs 20AED, but it comes with 15AED of extra credit. A short trip costs 3AED, whereas the longest one costs 8AED.

The metro is convenient only if you go to the main touristic sites: Marina, Burj Khalifa, Deira or Bur Dubai. If you wish to go anywhere which isn’t close to the metro, I recommend you get as close as possible by metro and take a taxi from there.

Renting a car

Honestly, if you are traveling with other people, you should hire a car 100%.

Gas is cheap and outside of Dubai, there are loads of interesting things to do which are accessible only by car. 

The public bus is not convenient at all, except for one line: line number 8.

It goes parallel to the metro from Marina to Bur Dubai but by the sea. It passes by interesting places such as Souq Madinat, Burj Al-Arab and Kite Beach.

Read: 101 simple ways to save money for travel

Conclusion – How much does a trip to Dubai cost?

Given the huge range of prices, it would be very difficult to estimate an average daily price. However, assuming that you travel by yourself, stay in a budget hostel, travel by metro and eat and drink on a budget, the cost of traveling to Dubai would be:

265 AED = $70 a day

Accommodation – Budget dorm: 100AED

• Breakfast at the hostel
• Lunch at the mall (Entertainer 2×1): 15AED
• Dinner at an Indian restaurant (Entertainer 2×1):  50AED

Beers – 2 happy hour:  40AED

• 4 metro trips:   20AED
• Round trip taxi to go to see the horse races:  40AED

Activities – Only free stuff

More useful information for backpacking in Dubai

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

More UAE Articles:

• Most authentic restaurants in Dubai
• North Korean Restaurant in Dubai
• Dubai off the beaten track
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• VPN for Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary
• Best Desert Safaris in Dubai
• Best tours, excursions and activities to do in Dubai
• Travel Guide to Liwa Oasis and the Moreeb dune

22 comments

I loved reading through your article. It was very informative and I got a lot of great tips! Knowing how it’s possible to enjoy Dubai in a budget will certainly attract a lot of travelers!

Hey Agness, thanks for your comment. Yes, the city keeps being not that cheap but there are many things other than luxury and super expensive things! I wish backpackers would travel more to Dubai!

I’m so delighted and found this post worth a read. Dubai is a pleasure for all but these are some must visit

Hi, thanks for your comment. Note that I removed your link, as this is not a place to advertise. If you want to include a link, put it in the ”website” field before commenting

Thank you for sharing your beautiful story and some thoughts of Dubai, very detailed and well written! I would like to commend the Author of this Blog for sharing us an interesting idea. Keep it up a good job!!

Thank you so much for the article as I will be traveling to Dubai next Friday, October 23rd. I will be staying downtown @ The Sheraton Dubai Grand but I got a really good deal as part of the Sheraton rewards program. I have already planned out my activities and when I tallied up my daily expenses it came up to around 30to 50 dollars a day. Great tips and yes I agree hopefully people will realize that it is possible to see Dubai without breaking the bank!!!

Cheers mate! I hope you enjoy Dubai!

I loved reading through your article. These are all what it means to travel. Beautiful adventures I could only dream of.

Thanks for sharing this amazing article here. Just love it. I’m also planning to visit Dubai this year with family hope all these mentioned tips and guide helps me.

Dubai is one of my most favourite places to visit and I am really glad to read all the details given in this article which I wasn’t aware of. Thanks!

Hi there, First of all, this is great because I found Dubai to be the single most expensive place I have ever been period and your comments on alcohol are spot on. You mention you lived in Dubai – for how long and most importantly did you enjoy Dubai? I was really disappointed, it reminded me of Vegas in the Middle East. This said I have friends that flock there year after year. Thoughts? Nikki

Classic post to share, We are planning to visit Dubai and I just shared your post with my friends to see all the things that what we can do in Dubai within our budget. I love the idea about how we can save money with our food expenses and alcohol. Please keep sharing more stuff and if you have already posted something related to Dubai share the link with us.

I was planning for Dubai and I found it to be relatively expensive. But, some of these are really underrated things we can do and that’s for free. Great information, keep sharing.

Hey Joan, I enjoyed reading your post. Yes, anyone can visit Dubai and enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. Despite its reputation as a glamorous and expensive city, Dubai has a lot to offer budget for travellers as well.

Great blog post! I am planning to travel to Dubai this summer and I am going to follow your mentioned tips and places to make the trip successful. I am going to follow the estimated daily cost of $70 in my mind. Keep sharing content like this!

Best Regards,

Thanx for the tips you gave am actually planning to relocate to dubai from Lagos Nigeria in march ,my hubby works in dubai but the problem there is the expensive accommodation

Thank you for this amazing article. You did not mention Airbnb, is that an option you recommend for accommodation in Dubai?

Thank you very much!

Thanks so helpful and interesting! I really like the idea of walking and actually making that the activity, something in London we don’t appreciate.

hi joan, nice article there ! i don’t know if i can afford a trip there, but you gave me some indications… yet you did not mention the theme parks….i wish to take my child there, but prices are huge…at almost 100 euros per person ! any tips for that ?

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Cost of a Trip to Dubai, AE & the Cheapest Time to Visit Dubai

The average price of a 7-day trip to Dubai is $1,498 for a solo traveler, $2,690 for a couple, and $5,044 for a family of 4 . Dubai hotels range from $35 to $107 per night with an average of $46, while most vacation rentals will cost $210 to $530 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Dubai International Airport ( DXB ) are between $722 and $1,105 per person for economy flights and $2,266 to $3,467 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $26 to $53 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Dubai, AE

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to DXB and stay in a Dubai hotel:

• January 8th to March 25th
• August 27th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Dubai is usually early November .

Average Dubai Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Dubai for a week is $861-$2,286 ($123-$327 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $26 to $53 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $445 to $961 for economy

Lodging : $39 to $47 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $130 to $159 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Dubai for a week is $2,042-$3,906 ($292-$558 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $106 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $890 to $1,922 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Dubai for a week is $2,976-$6,666 ($425-$952 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $104 to $212 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,780 to $3,844 for economy

Lodging : $78 to $94 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $208 to $223 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Dubai

How cheap can you make a vacation to Dubai? The cheapest trip to Dubai is about $101 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $64 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $29.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Dubai for a week is $710-$1,714 ($101-$245 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $13 to $27 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $29 to $35 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $64 to $94 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Dubai for a week is $1,246-$2,864 ($178-$409 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $26 to $54 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Dubai for a week is $2,492-$5,392 ($356-$770 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $108 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $58 to $70 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $96 to $132 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is easy to travel to Dubai cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Dubai Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Dubai.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Dubai for a week is $1,947-$9,409 ($278-$1,344 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $49 to $95 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,322 to $2,066 for first class

Lodging : $47 to $107 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $530 to $1,113 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Dubai for a week is $3,612-$12,140 ($516-$1,734 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $98 to $190 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,644 to $4,132 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Dubai for a week is $7,224-$20,272 ($1,032-$2,896 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $196 to $380 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,288 to $8,264 for first class

Lodging : $94 to $214 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $848 to $1,558 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Dubai Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Dubai is lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Dubai due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Dubai Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Dubai hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Dubai.

Flight Costs to Dubai

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,105 average in late December to a low of $722 in early November. Median flight price is $676. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Dubai our data includes 410 originating airports, and 194 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Dubai from an airport like Savoonga ( SVA ) in Savoonga, AK (the United States) for an average $9,251 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Bahrain International ( BAH ) in Manama (Bahrain) at an average of just $168.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Dubai, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $383, so you can easily save about 53% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Dubai can easily cost $200 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $13 per person. Private tours can cost $403 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Dubai Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Deira, the United Arab Emirates
• Bur Dubai, the United Arab Emirates
• Garhoud, the United Arab Emirates
• Trade Center, the United Arab Emirates
• Al Qusais, the United Arab Emirates
• Downtown Dubai, the United Arab Emirates
• Al Majaz, the United Arab Emirates
• Sharjah, the United Arab Emirates
• Rumailah, the United Arab Emirates
• Ajman, the United Arab Emirates

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Hoi An, Vietnam
• Atlanta, GA, US
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Dubai Travel Cost Breakdown: Ultimate Budget Guide

• Tourist Spots
• December 15, 2023

A trip to Dubai can cost between $1,500 to $4,000 per person for a week, depending on travel style. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment vary greatly, influencing the total expense.

Dubai, known for its opulence and futuristic architecture, offers a travel experience that caters to a range of budgets. The city’s cost of travel hinges on your choices, from luxury hotels and fine dining to budget-friendly hostels and eateries. Visitors can explore iconic skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa, shop at sprawling malls, enjoy sun-kissed beaches, or embark on desert safaris.

Transportation is easily accessible, with options such as taxis, metros, and buses adding to your budget considerations. Planning ahead ensures a memorable Dubai adventure that aligns with your financial expectations. Always consider peak tourist seasons, as prices can spike, impacting your total travel cost significantly. Balancing your desires with a well-crafted budget allows you to indulge in the marvels of Dubai without breaking the bank.

Introduction To Dubai Travel: Why Budget Matters

Welcome to the shimmering oasis of Dubai, where tradition intertwines with avant-garde architecture and luxury knows no bounds. Understanding budgeting for travel to this extravagant city is crucial. The allure of Dubai is undeniable – from the towering Burj Khalifa to the sun-soaked beaches, every experience is designed to astound. Yet, this grandeur comes with a price tag, and without a well-planned budget, one may miss out on fully savoring the breadth of what Dubai offers.

Dubai is not just a destination; it’s an experience that calls for meticulous financial planning. Whether you seek the thrill of sky-diving over Palm Jumeirah or the tranquility of a desert safari, having a budget ensures that all your dreams can become a reality without breaking the bank.

Understanding Dubai As A Luxury Destination

Dubai has become synonymous with opulence and extravagance. This cosmopolitan metropolis boasts an array of world-class attractions , luxury accommodations , and unparalleled shopping experiences . Visitors can indulge in deluxe spa treatments, dine at top-tier restaurants, or shop at upscale boutiques. Luxury comes at a premium , and Dubai exemplifies this notion in every aspect of its offerings, elevating the importance of budget awareness.

The Importance Of Budgeting For Dubai Travel

Setting a budget before embarking on your Dubai adventure is more than just a wise move – it’s essential. A budget acts as a navigational tool guiding you through the myriad of opulent temptations while keeping your finances in check. Here’s how budgeting benefits your Dubai travel plans:

• Prevents Overspending: By establishing spending limits, you’re less likely to succumb to impulsive purchases and extravagant experiences that can quickly deplete your resources.
• Enables Comprehensive Planning: A budget helps you prioritize which experiences are must-dos, ensuring you get the most value out of your trip.
• Facilitates Stress-Free Travel: Knowing you have the funds for your planned activities makes for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re seeking a opulent suite or a more modest accommodation, dining in lavish restaurants or enjoying street food, budgeting allows you to allocate your resources efficiently. Be ready to embrace everything Dubai has to offer, from its sumptuous feasts to its adrenaline-pumping adventures, all within a budget that suits you.

Pre-trip Expenses: Planning Your Dubai Journey

Embarking on an adventure to Dubai, the city of superlatives, requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to managing your finances. Your journey to this desert metropolis begins long before you set foot on the plane, which means considering pre-trip expenses that will set the stage for an unforgettable experience. From securing your travel documents to snagging the most cost-effective flights, understanding these expenses in advance will ensure a seamless and stress-free trip.

Prioritizing your travel documentation is the first step toward a worry-free Dubai vacation. Entry into the UAE necessitates a visa, with costs varying based on type and duration. Several types of visas exist, such as tourist, transit, or long-term, and fees can range from approximately $90 to $500 .

• Tourist Visa : For short stays, suitable for vacationers
• Transit Visa : Ideal for brief stopovers in Dubai
• Long-Term Visa : For extended visits or business purposes

Equally important is securing travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances. Typical policies cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Prices will vary based on coverage levels, and it’s essential to ensure that the policy includes COVID-19 related incidents for added peace of mind.

Booking your flight is a substantial portion of any travel budget. To find the best airfare deals to Dubai, savvy travelers should start their search early and remain flexible with travel dates. Airfare fluctuates frequently, so use price comparison websites and set up alerts for price drops.

Budget airlines can offer significant savings, especially if you’re traveling light. Consider flights with stopovers, which can be cheaper than direct routes. Keep an eye out for promotions and sales offered by major carriers. Flying during the shoulder season can also lead to lower prices, avoiding the peak tourist periods.

Accommodation Costs In Dubai: From Budget To Luxury

Embarking on a journey to Dubai promises an array of experiences, from the charm of ancient souks to the splendor of modern skyscrapers. Securing a place to stay is a critical piece of trip planning, and in Dubai, accommodation costs can vary tremendously. Visitors can choose from simple budget options to the most opulent luxury resorts. In this section, we’ll explore the various lodging possibilities awaiting you in Dubai and provide savvy tips to help you find your ideal stay without breaking the bank.

Overview Of Accommodation Options

Dubai’s accommodation scene caters to all tastes and budgets. Here’s a quick glance at what you can expect:

• Budget Stays: Hostels and guesthouses, offering basic amenities at low prices.
• Mid-range Hotels: Three to four-star hotels, balancing comfort with affordability.
• Luxury Hotels: Five-star and above, providing world-class amenities and service.
• Serviced Apartments: Ideal for longer stays, with added space and home comforts.

Whether you prefer a no-frills room or a decadent suite, Dubai’s diverse accommodations will not disappoint.

Tips For Securing Affordable Lodging

A lavish destination like Dubai doesn’t necessarily mean a lavish hotel bill. Check out these tips to snag great lodging deals:

• Travel Off-Peak: Visit during the summer months or start of the year when rates are lower due to the climate or post-holiday lull.
• Book in Advance: Secure early-bird rates or promotional deals by booking ahead.
• Use Comparison Sites: Platforms like Booking.com or Agoda can help you compare prices across a range of hotels.
• Loyalty Programs: Sign up for hotel loyalty programs which can offer discounts, upgrades, or free nights.

Apply these strategies to make the most of your budget without compromising on the Dubai experience.

Dining In Dubai: A Guide To Eating On A Budget

Dubai is renowned for its opulence and luxury dining experiences, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the city’s culinary delights without breaking the bank. With a diverse range of cuisines and dining options, foodies looking to savour Dubai’s flavors on a budget can certainly find delicious and affordable meals. In this section, we’re diving into how you can enjoy dining in Dubai on a budget , from understanding the average cost of meals to discovering cheap eats and incredible food deals around the city.

Average Cost Of Meals

The cost of dining out in Dubai can vary widely based on the choice of restaurant and cuisine. While a meal at a high-end restaurant could set you back several hundred dirhams, there are plenty of options that are kind on the wallet. On average, a budget-friendly meal at an inexpensive restaurant would cost approximately 25 to 50 AED per person. Mid-range restaurants typically charge between 50 to 150 AED per person. By selecting local eateries or food courts, you can enjoy a hearty meal for a fraction of the price you would pay at a more upscale venue.

Cheap Eats And Food Deals

Finding great food in Dubai without a hefty price tag is easier than you think. Street food stands, local cafes, and food trucks offer a plethora of cheap eats that don’t skimp on taste. For example, savory shawarmas, falafel wraps, and Indian snacks can be found for under 10 AED, making them perfect for a quick and low-cost meal.

• Shawarma: 5 – 10 AED
• Falafel Wrap: 8 – 12 AED
• Samosas: 2 – 4 AED each

Moreover, keep an eye out for food deals at various eateries, particularly during lunch hours or specific days of the week when restaurants offer special prices. Many eateries in Dubai also feature ‘happy hours’ or set menu deals that can provide significant savings. Additionally, apps and discount vouchers can be a goldmine for securing reduced prices at more upscale eateries.

• Look for lunch specials at restaurants and cafes.
• Visit eateries during happy hours for discounts.
• Use food apps and vouchers for special pricing.

Transportation Expenses Within Dubai

Dubai, a glittering oasis in the United Arab Emirates, isn’t just known for its opulent architecture and vibrant nightlife; it also presents a variety of transportation options catering to tourists and residents alike. Whether you’re budget-conscious or looking for the quickest way to navigate the city, understanding the transportation costs will help you manage your travel finances and ensure a smooth journey around this bustling metropolis.

Public Transportation Vs. Taxi Services

Finding the right balance between convenience and cost is crucial when choosing how to travel within Dubai. Dubai’s public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and trams, is both affordable and efficient .

• Metro : A ride on the Dubai Metro can cost anywhere from 3 AED to 14 AED, depending on distance and whether you choose the regular or gold class.
• Buses : With fares starting at just 2 AED, buses are an economical choice for short distances.
• Trams : Trams operate in areas like Dubai Marina and have similar pricing to Metro services.

Contrarily, taxi services offer more personalized and direct transportation . A taxi ride costs a starting fare of 6 AED during the day and 7 AED at night, with the meter increasing at 1.82 AED per kilometer. For those opting for comfort and speed over cost, a taxi might be the preferred choice.

The Cost Of Renting A Car

If you value flexibility and independence , renting a car may be the ideal solution for exploring Dubai. The average cost for a small rental car starts from about 100 AED per day excluding insurance and fuel expenses. However, rental prices can vary significantly based on the model and rental company.

Remember to account for additional costs such as parking fees , which in a premium destination like Dubai, can add up quickly, as well as potential fines for traffic violations.

Attractions And Activities: Budgeting For Fun

Embarking on a journey to Dubai, a city gleaming with opulent attractions, can stir excitement and a bit of worry about expenses. Keeping an eye on your vacation budget doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. Let’s navigate through cost-saving tips while ensuring your adventure in Dubai remains unforgettable.

Free And Low-cost Attractions

Dubai showcases a plethora of free or low-cost attractions that promise enchanting experiences without draining your wallet. Engage in these budget-friendly and often complimentary adventures scattered across the city.

• The Dubai Fountain: Behold the captivating water dance without spending a dirham.
• Beaches: Soak up the sun at JBR or Kite Beach, perfect for a cost-free day out.
• Art Galleries: Walk through the alleys of Alserkal Avenue, spotting contemporary art at no cost.
• Heritage Sites: Step back in time in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, an open-air historical museum.

Pricing Of Popular Tourist Activities

While some experiences might come with a price tag, planning ahead can lead to significant savings. Below is an indicative list of popular Dubai attractions with their usual entry fees .

Booking online and looking for combo deals for these attractions can save money. Additionally, some hotels and travel agents offer discounted or inclusive passes for these experiences.

Shopping In Dubai: Balancing Splurge With Savings

Welcome to the dazzling world of Dubai, a paradise for shoppers who yearn to navigate the fine line between lavishness and penny-pinching. Dubai is renowned for its opulent malls and traditional souks , promising an exhilarating shopping experience that doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank. In this segment, learn to master the art of shopping in Dubai by uncovering the secret to striking a perfect balance between splurging on high-end products and saving on delightful bargains.

Dubai Shopping Festival And Seasonal Sales

The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is a shopper’s dream come true, offering a wide array of discounts on luxury brands, electronics, and much more. Plan your trip during this extravaganza and you could save a fortune on high-end purchases. The DSF isn’t the only time for great deals; Dubai’s malls host seasonal sales throughout the year. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate these events:

• Identify the sales: Keep an eye on announcements for upcoming discounts in Dubai’s major shopping centers like The Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates.
• Make a wishlist: Prioritize what you want to buy to avoid getting overwhelmed by the sheer variety of discounted items.
• Early bird gets the deal: Arrive early to get first dibs on the best sale items, as high-demand products sell out quickly.
• Compare prices: Use price comparison apps to ensure you’re actually getting a good deal.

Souvenirs And Bargaining At Local Souks

For an authentic shopping experience, head over to one of Dubai’s traditional souks where bargaining is an art. The souks are home to unique souvenirs such as hand-woven fabrics, spices, and gold jewelry. Here’s how to secure the best deals:

Remember, the key to successful bargaining is politeness and a smile. Sellers are more likely to offer a good price to shoppers who treat them with respect and kindness.

Dubai’s Nightlife And Entertainment: Spend Wisely

Experiencing Dubai’s vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene is a must for any traveler. From glittering rooftop bars to pulsating nightclubs and world-class shows, Dubai offers an array of nocturnal activities suits every taste and budget. Yet, it’s no secret that a night out in this luxurious city can quickly add up if you’re not careful. In this part of our Dubai travel cost guide, we’re going to explore how to enjoy Dubai’s sparkling nightlife without burning a hole in your pocket.

Average Costs Of Nightlife Venues

Knowing the average costs of nightlife venues is crucial for budget-savvy travelers. Prices can vary significantly, so understanding what you’re likely to spend is key to a well-planned evening.

The typical expenses you might incur include:

• Club Entry Fees: Starting from 100 AED and can go up significantly based on the venue and event.
• Drinks: Expect to pay between 40-100 AED per cocktail and 30-50 AED for a beer.
• Table Reservations: Starting from a few hundred dirhams to several thousands depending on the club and its location.
• Cabaret Shows and Performances: Ticket prices typically range from 150-500 AED .

Keep in mind that during special events or with guest DJs, prices can skyrocket.

Affordable Entertainment Options

While Dubai is famous for its opulence, there are plenty of affordable entertainment options available for those looking to enjoy the nightlife without overspending. Here are several ways to enjoy the night on a budget:

• Ladies’ Nights and Happy Hours: Many venues offer special deals, with some even providing complimentary drinks for women.
• Bar Hopping: Instead of staying at one high-priced venue all night, explore various bars that offer unique experiences and better deals.
• Beach Clubs: During the day, some beach clubs offer free entry where you can enjoy the ambiance and stay on for the nightlife.
• Outdoor Cinemas: Enjoy the cool Dubai evening by watching a movie under the stars at a fraction of the cost of a club night.

For live entertainment that won’t break the bank, consider cafes and bars featuring local bands and DJ sets , often with no cover charge. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming gigs.

Understanding Communication Costs: Staying Connected

Welcome to a key aspect of your Dubai travel experience – staying digitally connected. As a vibrant hub teeming with culture, business, and tourism, Dubai understands the importance of communication. For those planning to visit, managing communication costs effectively means more budget for exploring this glittering city. Understanding the communication ecosystem, including local SIM cards, data plans, and Wi-Fi availability, is crucial for a hassle-free Dubai adventure.

Local Sim Cards And Data Plans

When arriving in Dubai, acquiring a local SIM card is a smart choice to avoid exorbitant roaming charges. Dubai offers various competitive mobile operators , such as Du and Etisalat, that provide tourists with cost-effective options. These SIM cards come with different data plans tailored to your length of stay and usage requirements .

Visitors should note that passport identification is required when purchasing SIM cards. Additionally, many kiosks and outlets selling SIMs provide instant activation to get you connected immediately.

Free Wi-fi Spots

Dubai is also generous with its free Wi-Fi hotspots . Popular locations such as The Dubai Mall, Dubai International Airport, and along the beaches of JBR offer complimentary internet access. Here’s a quick list of spots where you can expect free Wi-Fi:

• Shopping Malls: Most malls provide free connectivity to shoppers.
• Public Parks: Recharge both personally and digitally in Dubai’s green spaces.
• Public Transport: Stay connected even on the move on Dubai Metro and Buses.

Always ensure that the connection is secure before accessing personal information or performing sensitive transactions. While free Wi-Fi is convenient, visitors should remain vigilant about guarding their digital privacy.

Tipping Culture In Dubai: Gratuities And Service Charges

Exploring Dubai’s glittering skyline, luxurious experiences, and world-class services often leads to a common question among travelers: what’s the tipping etiquette in this bustling cosmopolitan? Whilst not mandatory, tipping in Dubai is a customary practice to show appreciation for good service. Service charges in Dubai are usually included in the bill at upscale restaurants and hotels, yet there remains a grey area on whether these gratuities reach the service staff. Understanding when and how much to tip can help smooth your journey through this dynamic city.

When And How Much To Tip

Dubai does not have a hard and fast rule when it comes to tipping, which can leave many travelers uncertain. The general tipping practice in Dubai is quite flexible and often based upon the quality of service received. Typically, a small gratuity , say 10-15% of your bill, is appreciated in restaurants if a service charge isn’t included. For taxi drivers or valet parking attendants, rounding up your fare or bill to the nearest whole number, or offering an extra 5-10 AED is customary.

Tipping Etiquette For Different Services

In Dubai, the tipping etiquette can be different for various services, and it’s beneficial to know whom to tip and an approximate amount. In hotels, while a service charge could be part of your bills, leaving a daily tip for housekeeping (10-20 AED) showcases direct appreciation.

• Restaurants: Leave 10-15% if no service charge; nothing required if it’s included unless the service was exceptional.
• Taxi Drivers: Simply rounding up the fare is appreciated; for a longer trip, consider a 10 AED tip.
• Bellboys: A tip between 5-10 AED per bag is good practice.
• Spa and Salon Workers: Tipping 10-15% of the service cost reflects satisfaction with the service.

At the end of the day, tipping remains a personal choice, reflecting gratitude for a service well-rendered . With cash being king for tips, ensure you have small denominations handy to avoid any awkward situations.

Budgeting For Excursions: Day Trips From Dubai

Embarking on day trips from Dubai opens a treasure trove of experiences, from bewitching desert safaris to cultural deep-dives in surrounding emirates. Planning and budgeting for excursions can be straightforward with the right guidance, ensuring that the marvels of the UAE don’t come with a hefty price tag. Each journey promises its unique allure, and considering costs in advance helps travellers make the most of their Arabian adventures.

Cost Of Popular Day Trips

Enthusiasts ready to explore beyond the sparkle of Dubai’s skyscrapers will find an array of memorable day trips. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect budget-wise for these popular expeditions:

These amounts give a preliminary idea of the investments involved, allowing travellers to create a budget that aligns with their itineraries.

How To Find Deals On Excursions

Savvy travellers looking to enjoy the wonders of the UAE without breaking the bank can make use of several strategies to find exciting deals:

• Book in Advance – Early reservations often come with discounts.
• Group Discounts – Travelling with friends or family could lower costs per individual.
• Tour Combo Deals – Purchasing package deals can provide savings over individual excursions.
• Local Travel Sites – Explore regional travel platforms for exclusive offers.
• Discount Vouchers – Keep an eye out for promotions and vouchers in tourist publications or online discount sites.
• Seasonal Promotions – Travel during off-peak seasons for potential deals.

These approaches can lead to a reduced financial load while maximising the journey’s pleasure and exploration scope.

Hidden Costs: Avoiding Unforeseen Expenses

Embarking on a journey to Dubai promises an array of breathtaking sights, luxurious experiences, and cultural richness. Yet, the splendor often comes with a price tag that can escalate if you’re not wary of hidden costs . To ensure that unexpected expenses don’t dampen the sparkle of your desert adventure, we delve into ways to dodge these stealthy budget busters.

Tourist Traps And Scams

Many travelers get caught in the glittery web of Dubai’s tourist traps. Keeping an eye out for common scams is crucial to protect your wallet. From the moment you arrive, be circumspect about overly friendly locals offering guided tours or ‘exclusive’ deals. Be bold and negotiate prices or, better yet, stick to verified service providers. Some common areas where tourists face inflated prices include:

• Taxis: Confirm the ride is metered or agree on a fare in advance.
• Shopping: Souvenirs in popular tourist spots are often overpriced. Explore local markets for better deals.
• Attractions: Pre-book tickets for sites and experiences to avoid hiked-up door prices.

Unexpected Charges And Fees

Beyond the obvious expenses, miscellaneous charges can silently pile up. Stay vigilant of these potential financial snares:

Become a savvy traveler by keeping these tips in mind to sidestep unexpected charges and fees . A trip to Dubai, when thoroughly planned for, can be as cost-effective as it is captivating. Be proactive, research ahead, and your dream vacation to Dubai will not only be memorable but also economically comfortable.

Creating Your Dubai Travel Budget: A Step-by-step Guide

When planning a voyage to the City of Gold, mapping out your Dubai travel budget is essential for a stress-free experience. The allure of this desert metropolis, with its soaring skyscrapers, luxurious shopping, and unseen wonders, is undeniable – but without a well-structured budget, your dream vacation could become more expensive than anticipated. This guide is your companion in creating a travel budget that allows you to enjoy the splendors of Dubai without breaking the bank.

Daily Budget Plans

Begin your budget planning by estimating your daily expenses. Dubai offers a diverse range of accommodation, dining, and activity options to suit various budgets. Here’s a quick rundown of different daily budget plans:

• Economy Travelers: If you’re looking to save, consider budget hotels or hostels, use public transport, and dine at local eateries.
• Mid-range Enthusiasts: Opt for 3-4 star hotels, savor meals at mid-tier restaurants, and mix in some paid attractions with free sights.
• Luxury Seekers: Bask in the opulence of 5-star hotels, dine at fine restaurants, and splurge on exclusive experiences and private tours.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s an example table of potential daily costs:

These are just estimates. Prices can vary based on factors such as seasons, specific locations, and personal preferences.

How To Manage And Track Your Spending

Once your daily budget is set, it is important to manage and track your spending to avoid overspending. Consider these tips:

• Use Budgeting Apps: Apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or your bank’s mobile app can help you track expenses on the go.
• Record Every Expense: Keep receipts and make a habit of noting down all your expenditures, no matter how small.
• Review Regularly: Take time each evening to review your spending against your planned budget to make adjustments for the next day if needed.
• Carry a Prepaid Travel Card: Prepaid cards are a safe way to carry money and many allow you to track spending through an associated app.
• Set Daily Alerts: Use banking apps to set up daily or transaction alerts to keep your spending in check.

Remember, effective budget management isn’t just about recording what you spend; it’s about making informed decisions that help you stay on course with your financial goals while still enjoying your Dubai adventure.

Conclusion: Making The Most Of Your Dubai Trip

Your journey through Dubai promises to be an exhilarating whirlwind of culture, luxury, and adventure. As you plan for this gleaming gem of the desert, understanding the potential expenses can empower you to enjoy all that Dubai offers without unnecessary financial surprises. In this section, we will recap the critical budget considerations and share savvy tips to ensure your trip is as cost-effective as it is unforgettable.

Summary Of Key Budget Considerations

A successful trip to Dubai hinges on smart financial planning. Here’s a summary of what you need to consider:

• Accommodation: Options range from budget-friendly hostels to ultra-luxurious hotels.
• Dining: Indulge in street food delicacies or dine at high-end restaurants.
• Attractions: Free sights and paid experiences are plentiful—prioritize what matters to you.
• Transport: Public transport is economical, while taxis offer convenience at a higher price.
• Shopping: From souks to malls, shopping can be tailored to both modest and opulent budgets.

Final Tips And Tricks For Cost Savings

Stretch your dirhams further with these smart strategies:

• Travel off-peak: Plan your visit outside of peak tourist seasons to snag better deals on flights and accommodation.
• Book in advance: Early reservations can translate to significant discounts.
• Use discount platforms: Websites and apps often offer vouchers for attractions and dining.
• Leverage public transport: Get a Nol card to save on trips by metro, buses, and trams.
• Embrace local cuisine: Savor delicious yet affordable meals at smaller, local eateries.

By adopting these tips, visitors can enjoy the splendor of Dubai while keeping their spending in check—a balance that ensures a memorable trip without compromising on the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions For Dubai Travel Cost

How much does a trip to dubai cost.

A trip to Dubai can cost between $1,500 to $4,000 for a week per person, varying widely based on travel style, accommodation choice, and activities planned.

How Much Does A 7 Day Dubai Trip Cost?

A 7-day trip to Dubai typically costs between $1,500 to $3,000 per person, including flights, accommodations, and activities. Prices vary based on travel style and season.

Is It Expensive To Travel Around Dubai?

Traveling around Dubai can be costly, but various options cater to different budgets. Public transportation is affordable, while taxis and private tours may increase expenses.

How Much Does A Meal Cost In Dubai?

A meal in Dubai typically costs around 35-45 AED for budget dining and 100-400 AED for mid-range to upscale restaurants. Fast food prices average around 25 AED.

Dubai’s allure is undeniable, a city of luxury and culture. Planning your travel budget effectively ensures unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. Remember, costs can vary widely, but with savvy research and choices, Dubai’s wonders are within reach. Safe travels and treasure those desert memories!

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Dubai Trip Cost: Pricing for Flights, Food & Accommodation

Plan your Dubai trip with our guide on flight, food, & accommodation costs. Get budget tips for a lavish experience without breaking the bank.

Dubai has evolved over the years to become one of the world's most popular and prestigious tourist sites, enticing visitors from different parts of the world. Visitors can spend hours admiring modern and Arabic architecture, swimming with the dolphins, discovering the history and culture of the Emirates, or enjoying the beautiful view of the waterpark.

However, while planning your Dubai vacation, it is essential that you know what the trip will cost you and how to navigate these costs.

The average cost of a 7-day trip to Dubai is around $1,472 for a solo traveler. Couples can expect to spend up to $2,842 for a 7-day Dubai trip. This leaves us at an average cost of $210 per day. This amount includes food, accommodation, local transportation, sightseeing, and other related travel expenses. 

There's no denying that Dubai is relatively expensive to visit, but there are so many things to see and do that you'll not want to pass on any opportunity to visit. The remaining parts of this article cover everything you should know about the costs of visiting Dubai.

Average Cost Of A Trip To Dubai

We often hear people refer to Dubai as the playground for the rich. But that's not exactly true, as just anybody can visit Dubai from any county. You just need proper budget planning to pull a Dubai vacation through. 

One of the first pieces of information you should know while preparing your budget is the average cost of a Dubai vacation. This information will help you plan your spending for your trip. 

That said, the average total cost of a Dubai vacation stands at about $2,426. A more detailed cost quote includes flight tickets and other travel expenses. Couples can expect to spend an average of $4,172, while a family of four will spend around $7,421 on their Dubai vacation. 

Again, remember that these costs will depend on where you're traveling from, your lifestyle, and several other factors. Don't worry; there are proven strategies to bring the overall costs down.

For example, renting a car in Deira, Dubai , which tends to be a somewhat expensive area, can be mitigated by booking early and planning ahead. Trust me, you'll want to rent a car when you go there. It'll allow you to see that many more places.

When Is The Cheapest Time Of The Year To Visit Dubai?

One of the biggest hacks to bringing the cost of your Dubai trip down is knowing when to travel. Like every other vacation location, Dubai has its peak travel seasons and other seasons when it doesn't get as many visitors. 

In the United States and parts of Europe, vacations are usually more expensive around summer and school holidays. However, the timeline is different in Dubai because of the steaming hot weather that comes with summer. 

Traveling between May and November may earn you discounts on hotels and flights. Many sightseeing locations will also either allow free entrance or charge a token to allow visitors to access tourism sites. 

However, note that the temperature will soar above 32°F during this period and can even reach 45°F around August.

So, you'll need to be clever when choosing your travel date. Many travelers will book their travel in May or November to allow them to enjoy fair weather and good deals.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Dubai

Travel Costs & Trip Breakdown

Now that you know the average cost of visiting Dubai, you're probably wondering how we arrived at this cost. Don't worry; here's an item-by-item review of everything contributing to this cost. Remember that a detailed understanding of these items will help you prepare a better budget and allocate funds where needed. 

1. Flight Costs 

Despite having one of the busiest airports in the world, Dubai is surprisingly still somewhat expensive to fly to. The cost of flight travels to Dubai will always vary, depending on the airline and flying locations.

After careful studies, we've found that a trip to Dubai from most North American airports will cost around $900. On the other hand, Europe is closer to Dubai than America, so a trip from most European countries, Asia, or Africa will be around $600 to $700. Flights from within the Middle East will be far cheaper than these. 

It's also important to add that Dubai is the hub for Emirates Airlines. So most Emirates flights will stopover in Dubai before moving on to your destination. In other words, your London-bound Emirates flight may stop over in Dubai for a few days.

You could use the few days to tour Dubai before moving on to your destination. While this does not necessarily reduce Dubai trip costs, most travelers find it a fascinating way to maximize their vacation plans.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Jordan

2. Accommodations

Besides transportation, accommodations take the most significant chunk of travel expenses, irrespective of where you're traveling from. Your trip to Dubai won't be different. Like every other top city around the world, Dubai hotel costs vary.

There are plenty of luxurious hotels in the city, including the self-proclaimed 7-star Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel, which costs between $628 and $8,200 per night. Don't get scared if you want to travel on a budget; there are many cheaper options throughout the city. 

Traditionally, people tend to focus on location when picking hotels to stay in, but that shouldn't be a criterion when choosing a hotel in Dubai. Why? Because Dubai is pretty spread out, without the over-concentration of tourist sites or amenities in any location. However, different areas still feature different hotel costs. 

Some areas with more concentration of reasonably priced hotels include Dubai Internet City, Business Bay, and Al Barsha. Older neighborhoods like Deira feature relatively cheaper hotels and are still accessible from anywhere in Dubai. 

It's also important to note that you won't find traditional hostels in Dubai as in most parts of the world. Most available hostels are big apartments converted by their owners to make quick cash.

3. Intra-City Transportation

You can easily move around the city of Dubai using the Dubai public transport network. The network efficiently and securely connects different parts of the city . Let's review the different options and their expected costs. 

• Dubai Metro

Easily the most popular means of public transportation in Dubai. It features beautiful, driverless, automated trains and charges start from $0.95 to $2 per trip, depending on the zones covered. 

Although relatively new, this transportation mode is quickly gaining popularity because of its world-class services and ability to access the most important parts of Dubai. Dubai tram has a fixed price of $0.82, irrespective of the distance covered. So, it's an excellent option for tourists intending to travel on a budget. 

The public bus network is one of the cheapest transport options for public transportation in Dubai. It's a convenient mode of transport and covers nearly all the urban areas of Dubai. Costs begin from $0.54 per trip, depending on where you're going and the time. 

Another popular option for tourists looking to move around is taxis. This option is available in nearly every part of the city and can access any area. Taxis in Dubai are typically quick and comfortable, although that comes at additional costs. Costs include:

• Base fee (incl. 3.80 km) -  $3.27
• Kilometer price - $0.50.
• Chauffeur Services

An exquisite option for those who value comfort and personalized service,  chauffeur services in Dubai  offer a premium travel experience. These services are readily available across all parts of the city, ensuring that no destination is out of reach. While this option comes with a higher price tag, it offers exclusive benefits in terms of convenience and luxury. Pricing is as follows:

Hourly rate starting at $30 per hour, with a minimum service duration of 3 hours. This arrangement is ideal for travelers who require reliable transportation for extended periods, whether for comprehensive city tours, business engagements, or simply to enjoy the day without the hassle of multiple transport modes.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Cairo

In Dubai, food costs always vary, depending on the food and where you choose to eat. However, food prices in Dubai restaurants are relatively costlier than food prices in most other cities. So, we typically advise budget travelers to eat most of their meals in cafes and low-budget restaurants.

On the other hand, if you want more upscale dining options, you can visit big restaurants spread around the city. The average cost of food in Dubai per person is around $40.82 per day.

5. Tours & Tourist Attractions 

What's a Dubai vacation without touring the city's beautiful landscapes and fascinating tour locations? Once you touch down in Dubai, you'd want to take tours, visit tourist attractions and enjoy wonderful experiences. 

There are so many things to see and do in Dubai that you'll hardly go a day without documenting a new experience in your travel journal. Thankfully, Dubai has so many free tourism sites that you can access at different times of the day. The city, on its own, is beautiful, so you can simply walk around while enjoying the beautiful sights it offers. 

Notwithstanding, there are also many locations that cost money. For example, climbing the top of Burj khalifa costs around $44, while a desert safari ride on a camel costs around $87. Whatever the case, inquire about the cost of touring your chosen location before booking. On average, you can expect to spend around $832 on tours and attractions during a 7-days stay in Dubai.

How To Save Money During Your Dubai Trip

Dubai is one of the hottest destinations on the planet right now. Everyone's going there, and you probably want to go too. But there's one important thing to take note of - it's a very expensive travel destination . We know how much toll a Dubai vacation can take on your finances, and we've invented tips you can use to save costs. 

1. Stay in A Budget Hotel

We can't overemphasize this one. Dubai is known for having so many 7-star hotels and luxurious resorts. But you don't have to stay in these hotels if you can't afford them. So many simpler options still offer the basic amenities you'll need in a hotel. 

An important trick when looking for such hotels is to search by neighborhood. Don't just jump on the first option you see. Be patient during your search and compare prices and amenities. 

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Israel

2. Skip The Booze

We know how hard it is to go on a vacation and not party very hard, but avoiding alcohol is a fantastic way to save money in Dubai. Alcohol is quite expensive in this city, and a night of light drinking can cost you between $54.45 to $81.64. By avoiding alcohol, you'll be able to save a lot of money that you can easily spend on other essential things. 

3. Take The Metro

As we've pointed out earlier, the metro is one of the cheapest means of transportation in Dubai. Yes, taxis and ride-hailing services are usually the most comfortable and convenient, but they're also costly.

On the other hand, the metro allows you to get around the city on a budget. Add that to the fact that it offers you a fantastic view of the city and you can tell it's a win-win for you. 

4. Visit Spots With Free Entry

Dubai may be an expensive city to visit, but it still has so many sites that allow free entry. A fantastic hack for saving money on your Dubai travel is to minimize the amount you'll spend on your regular outings.

Tons of beaches, historic sites, and clubs are available for free. So, depending on your preferred lifestyle, you can search for some of these locations and have maximum fun in them without paying to enter. 

5. Use Groupon To Find Good Deals When Possible

Groupon is pretty popular in Dubai. It's an exciting option to jump on if you want to save money on your Dubai trip. If you're patient and look well, you can find lots of unmatched deals here to take your Dubai travel experience to a new level. Cruises, dinners, even  trip to the zoo - You'll find a deal on Groupon!

6. Cook Your Meals 

One of the best ways to save money when traveling in a group is to cook your meals. Whether you're traveling to Dubai with your family or with a group of friends, cooking your meal can be a lifesaver, especially if you're renting a hostel or a shared apartment. 

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4 days in dubai travel cost – our budget breakdown.

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Explore our detailed breakdown of Dubai travel cost for a 4-day trip, offering insights into expenses from accommodations to excursions.

Welcome to our comprehensive breakdown of our Dubai travel cost. As a couple who’s been on the road for over four years, we’ve had our fair share of unique travel experiences. However, our trip to Dubai, the glimmering jewel of the Middle East, was our first foray into this destination. In this post, we’ll provide a detailed account of our expenses during our visit, offering a perspective that balances our pursuit of comfort with our keen sense of budgeting.

We’ll cover Dubai travel cost, best time to visit Dubai, and more!

As a quick note, we are not backpackers; we rarely stay in hostels and are very cautious with street food. We like to save money where possible, but we certainly spend it on what is important to us.

This is not representative of what you will spend in Dubai, even for the same period of time or season. This is merely an overview of what we spent and some of our tips and reasons for the amounts. Please use it as a guide to your future trip to the United Arab Emirates!

This post is all about our Dubai travel cost.

Planning a trip to...

The middle east.

Dive into our regional guides, including itineraries and cost posts! Or look at individual countries to start planning your Asian adventure!

Best time to Visit Dubai

We visited Dubai in August, and quite frankly, the heat was unbearable. We could only be outside for a maximum of ten minutes. Although you may find cheaper rates during this time, we don’t really advise traveling in the summer months due to the extreme temperatures. Even the sea was too warm to enjoy. We couldn’t even fully enjoy a lot of the free outdoor activities due to the heat. And we definitley couldn’t walk anywhere. 

Ideally, the best time to visit Dubai is between November and April when the weather is cooler and more conducive for outdoor activities. But you will find higher prices. Try traveling in the shoulder seasons to get a good mix of both worlds. 

1 Week UAE Itinerary

This post on Dubai travel cost is just one part of our larger one week trip to the UAE. We started our journey in Dubai, spending the first four nights exploring the city’s unique blend of modern architecture and traditional culture. We then moved on to Abu Dhabi for the next four nights, where we experienced its rich history and luxurious lifestyle. 

Dubai – 4 nights

Abu Dhabi – 4 nights

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Dubai Travel Cost

Total: $495

We found a budget airline for our round trip from Tirana, where we live, to the United Arab Emirates. Although our first destination was Dubai, we chose to land in Abu Dhabi as it was the cheaper option. Conveniently, affordable transportation options are available between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way. More details on the cost are in the Transportation Section . 

If you’re traveling from the U.S., you can find heavily discounted round-trip airfare on FareDrop . This platform often provides great deals on flights, making your Dubai travel more affordable.

• Find your (discounted) flight to Dubai with FareDrop!

As of our visit, there were no specific entry requirements or fees for US citizens traveling to the UAE. However, these conditions can change frequently due to various factors. You can check with your government’s embassy program or, even easier, with iVisa . 

• Double check your entry requirements for the UAE!

Accommodations

Total: $353

Average: $88 per night

During our stay in Dubai, we spent a total of $353 on accommodations, averaging $88 per night. Although this is fairly high for our nightly budget, this was an awesome find in the UAE. This was primarily influenced by the time of year (read: no one visits in summer for a reason) and our Diamond Hilton Honors status .

We had the privilege of staying at the  Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah  for two nights, a truly luxurious experience. For the other two nights, we lodged at the  Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City , which also offered excellent services and amenities. 

WHERE TO LAY YOUR HEAD IN...

Food & Drink

Total: $170

Average: $42.50 per day

Average: $21.25 per person per day

Over four days, our food and drink expenses mostly consisted of local street food and fast-casual meals, with shawarma being a staple in our diet. We made a conscious effort to explore local eateries, relishing the authentic flavors of Dubai. Furthermore, being Hilton Diamond members, we enjoyed complimentary breakfast at our hotels, which considerably reduced our food costs. Thus, our strategic dining choices enabled us to enjoy the local cuisine without significantly inflating our budget.

try a local food tour

Transportation.

Total: $229

Average: $57.25

We frequently relied on Uber for transportation during our stay—it was quite popular and extremely convenient. The cost of each Uber ride varied depending on the distance and traffic, but on average, it ranged from $10 to $20 per trip.

• How we get $200 in UBER CASH for Free every year!

Since we flew into Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) and stayed in Dubai, we used a bus service to get back and forth. It was reasonably priced at $10 per person per way. After our arrival at DXB airport, we chose to use Uber to reach our destination at the  Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm . This particular trip was a bit pricier, costing us $46, but considering the comfort and convenience of traveling late at night, it was the best option for us.

• Or you could rent a car!

Our excursion expenses during our 4-day stay in Dubai were quite minimal since we primarily engaged in free activities. This included visiting the Dubai Mall, strolling along the Dubai Marina, and exploring the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi, all of which offered rich experiences without any cost. However, we did choose to spend a bit on an exciting roller skating experience at Roll DXB, which added a unique and fun element to our trip. 

Overall, our excursion costs were kept significantly low thanks to the abundance of cost-free activities in the vibrant city of Dubai. Obviously, there are plenty of options for fun paid activities in Dubai. Some affordable options might be a desert safari , the Global Village , or the Dubai Frame .

Affordable activities in Dubai

Total: $105

Our personal expenses in Dubai were mainly driven by shopping, as the city is a renowned shopping destination with a ton of unique options. This includes the world’s largest mall, the Dubai Mall, which offers an extensive range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment activities. There are also traditional souks where a variety of local goods and souvenirs can be found. Overall, shopping in Dubai was a unique experience that added to our travel costs but also enriched our visit to this vibrant city.

We also budgeted for data expenses during our stay in Dubai, choosing to use Airalo, an easy-to-use e-SIM provider . This decision added convenience to our trip, as we were able to stay connected without dealing with physical SIM cards. It was definitely more expensive than we are used to while traveling, but that was just the nature of the destination. 

• Get your Dubai data before you land!

Travel Insurance

We always secure travel insurance before embarking on any trip and highly recommend others to do the same. For our 4-day Dubai adventure, we pro-rated our usual monthly payment of $45 per person. Our chosen provider is SafetyWing , which covers our travel and emergency medical expenses. For instance, it covers trip cancellation, lost luggage, as well as unforeseen medical emergencies such as accidents or sudden illness. Having this coverage provides peace of mind allowing us to fully enjoy our travels.

Better safe than sorry...

Are you covered for your next trip? Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a long-term adventure,  SafetyWing  has you covered. From medical emergencies to lost luggage, they’ll take care of it all. Plus, they even offer emergency response and natural disaster coverage – pretty cool, huh? 

Total Dubai Travel Cost

Total: $991

Average: $248 per day

Average: $124 per person per day

Total with Flights: $1,486

In summary, our four-day trip to Dubai was a significant expenditure, with total costs reaching $991, or an average of $248 per day and $124 per person per day. This included accommodations, food and drink, transportation, excursions, personal expenses, data expenses, and travel insurance. 

It’s important to note that our journey was during a less popular time of year, and costs could be even higher during peak season. Despite the high costs, the experience offered by Dubai was well worth it, providing a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional culture.

Dubai Travel Cost - 4 Days

$991 for 2 people

Daily Total:

$248 per day for 2 people; or

$124 per person per day

Value for Money:

This post was all about our Dubai Travel Cost.

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We’re Alicia & Nate, a couple that traveled full-time for 3 years straight. We are now living in a cozy little apartment in Albania. We have a passion for exploring new places and trying new foods.

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Is Dubai Expensive to Visit? The Cost of Travelling in 2024

If you’re considering Dubai as your next holiday destination, some important questions to ask yourself are: Is Dubai expensive to visit? Or is it possible to visit Dubai on a small budget? You will find the answers to all of your questions in this post.

Dubai is an increasingly popular city in the United Arab Emirates and to be honest, this isn’t the cheapest destination in Asia , nor is the U.A.E. the cheapest country that you can visit.

After all, Dubai is famous for its luxury tourism, and it’s home to the Burj Al Arab – the only 7-star hotel in the world. This city has often been dubbed the Playground of Millionaires and the City of Gold .

However, this doesn’t mean that only millionaires can afford a visit to this city. The cost of travelling in Dubai widely depends on the decisions that you make and your style of travelling . Dubai is a city where you can easily spend thousands of dollars a day, but it’s also possible to travel here on a much smaller budget.

I visited Dubai on a budget on the way back to Belgium from Nepal , and although I did spend more than I usually do when I travel, I was able to limit my expenses!

This post will give you a better idea of how expensive Dubai is to visit , how much things cost in this city and how you can save money during your trip to Dubai .

How Expensive is Dubai for Tourists: The Cost of Travelling in Dubai

Let’s look at the vacation cost in Dubai. How expensive exactly is Dubai for tourists? And is it possible to visit Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget?

The short answer to the question of how expensive Dubai is for tourists is that you will need anything between USD 280 (shoestring backpacker budget) and USD 1400 (mid-range budget) per week if you’re planning on travelling to Dubai.

This budget does not include activities, however. But if you’re travelling with two people or more, you will be able to cut down some costs by sharing a room or taxi.

As mentioned in the introduction, the cost of travel in Dubai depends on your travel style. To make it a little more clear, I divided this post into three sections:

• Travelling in Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget (USD 40 to USD 50 per day)
• Travelling in Dubai on a mid-range budget (USD 70 to USD 200 per day)
• Travelling in Dubai in luxury (the sky is the limit)

Travelling in Dubai on a backpacker’s budget

Although Dubai is not your typical backpacker’s destination, it’s an easy stopover on the way to Asia and it’s possible to visit this city on a smaller budget .

This being said, Dubai is not a very backpacker-friendly city and you will have to spend more money here compared to many other countries. So this may not be the best place to stay for a long time if you’re on a super tight budget.

🏣 Hostel prices

The best way to cut costs in Dubai is by saving on accommodation and staying in hostels.

You can find hostels with prices between USD 8 and USD 25 per night for a bed in a dorm . These can be found in nearly any area in the city, but you may pay more depending on the location.

• Dubai Eye ( ⭐   8.9)
• Hostel World Capsule ( ⭐   8.3)
• Robin Hostel Dubai ( ⭐  8.3)

🍛 The cost of cheap restaurants in Dubai

When it comes to food, there are plenty of places where you can eat street food for less than USD 5 .

A cheap restaurant will cost you around USD 12 per person. So there’s more than luxury restaurants and bling-bling alone in Dubai!

🎡 Cheap and free activities in Dubai

There are also many cheap and even free things to do in Dubai . You will find some examples below:

• Burj Khalifa and its fountains : As long as you don’t go to the top levels of the Burj Khalifa, you can see the world’s largest building along with its fountains and the daily fountain show for free. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Asia !
• Dubai Mall : The Dubai Mall is located inside the Burj Khalifa, and it’s free to visit too (as long as you don’t buy anything, of course).
• Gold souks : The same applies to the gold souks, as long as you don’t buy anything, these are free to visit.
• Dubai Frame : You can see the Dubai Frame for free but you will have to pay an entrance fee of 50 AED if you want to enter this landmark.
• Burj Al Arab : You can also see the world’s only 7-star hotel for free. It just costs (a lot of) money if you want to stay or eat here.
• Jumeirah Mosque : This is one of the most famous mosques in Dubai and there’s no entry fee to visit it. It does cost money if you want to take a guided tour.
• Dubai Marina : This is one of the most popular areas in Dubai and taking a stroll here is completely free.

🚗 Getting around Dubai on a budget

Finally, when it comes to getting around the city, the cheapest way to do so is by taking the metro (which is great). You can get a day ticket for 20 AED (USD 5,45).

Keep in mind, though, that you might have to take a taxi or Uber from time to time and these are not that cheap.

👉 Can Dubai be cheap? The cost of visiting Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget

Taking into account all the information above, visiting Dubai on a tight backpacker’s budget will cost you a minimum of around USD 40 to USD 50 per day (or USD 280 to USD 350 a week).

This can be done by staying in dorms, eating in cheap restaurants without consuming alcohol and getting around using the metro.

Entry tickets are not included in this budget, but I hardly spent anything on entry tickets when I visited Dubai. There are plenty of free things to do as well.

Tip: The best way to visit Dubai if you’re on a limited budget is by visiting this city during a short stopover to another (cheaper) destination, which is what I did. It’s perfectly possible to see much of what this city has to offer in just 2 or 3 days.

Visiting Dubai on a mid-range budget

If you have a larger, mid-range budget, you will find plenty of nice hotels, cosy restaurants and fun activities to do in Dubai.

🏣 Average hotel prices in Dubai

You will find numerous hotels with prices ranging between USD 50 and USD 120 per night nearly anywhere in the city. You will get a nice hotel for this price.

This being said, it speaks for itself that the higher your budget, the better your hotel will be.

• Al Seef Heritage Hotel ( ⭐  8.3)
• Heritage Home Guest House ( ⭐  8.1)
• Holiday Inn Express Safa Park ( ⭐  7.9)

🍛 Eating out on a mid-range budget in Dubai

Expect to pay around USD 30 per person for a meal in a nice mid-range restaurant in Dubai.

There are, however, many cheaper restaurants (or street food) as well as more expensive ones. So make sure to determine your budget and look around.

🎡 How much do entry tickets and activities cost in Dubai

When it comes to the price of activities , you will find both cheap as well as more expensive things to do in Dubai . You can find some popular examples below:

• Burj Khalifa : Prices range between 20 AED (USD 5,45) and 769 AED (USD 209,37), depending on the experience you choose. The cheapest tickets will bring you to the Burj Khalifa’s 125th and 124th floors. While the most expensive ones will take you to the 154th, 153rd and 152nd levels. Here, you will find the world’s highest lounge.
• Dubai Aquarium : Prices start at a whopping 199 AED (USD 54,18) per person to visit the Dubai Aquarium.
• Dubai Frame : The entry ticket costs 50 AED (USD 13,61), which is quite reasonable compared to the other entry prices.
• Desert safari : The costs of a desert safari range between 250 AED (USD 68) and 1000 AED (USD 272). This depends on the company you book it with, what’s included and how luxurious you want it to be.
• Aura Skypool : A visit to this beautiful infinity pool with a view over the skyline of Dubai will cost a minimum of 200 AED (USD 54,45) per person.

🚗 Getting around Dubai on a mid-range budget

Although the metro is great, if you have a bigger budget, you can also opt to rent a car in Dubai . This will give you more flexibility and it will help you save some time as well.

You can expect to pay a minimum of USD 30 for one day .

If you decide to rent a car, I recommend using  Discover Cars  to find the best rates. This company compares car rental companies so that you can get the best price.

 👉 The cost of visiting Dubai on a mid-range budget

You can expect to pay anything between USD 70 and USD 200 per day* (or USD 490 and USD 1400 per week) to visit Dubai on a mid-range budget.

This only includes accommodation, food and transportation, though. The price of activities is not included .

* This estimate was made for a solo traveller . If you’re travelling as a couple, with a friend or with a group you will be able to share accommodation costs, which will make your trip somewhat cheaper.

Tip : Make sure to book your tickets in advance if you want to visit the Burj Khalifa. There is a ticket counter onsite, but tickets tend to sell out very quickly.

The cost of a luxury trip to Dubai

If you’re a billionaire and are up for a really luxurious trip, then Dubai is a city where you will find exactly what you are looking for!

After all, this city is known for its luxury and bling-bling. You could easily spend a couple of thousands or even ten thousands of dollars a day here.

🏣 Expensive hotels in Dubai

Some of the most expensive hotels in Dubai are Jumeirah Al Qasr (from USD 320/night to USD 9000/night), Burj Al-Arab (from USD 1100/night to USD 5100/a night), Atlantis The Palm (from USD 575/night to USD 1000/night) and Rixos The Palm (USD 600 to USD 1300).

There are other luxury hotels that are a little more affordable too, though. Some examples are the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel , Lemon Tree Hotel and Leva Hotel & Suites .

Luxury hotels are one of the things Dubai is famous for. So if you can afford to stay in these, you will have an abundance of choices!

You can opt for underwater suites, rooms with a view of the Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Marina, luxurious lofts and apartments, the only 7-star hotel in the world (the Burj Al-Arab ) and more.

🍛 Luxurious restaurants in Dubai

This city is also full of luxury restaurants like the underwater restaurant Ossiano , Al Mahara and the restaurants located in the famous Burj Al-Arab .

The average costs per person in luxurious restaurants range between USD 135 and USD 190 .

All in all, there is no shortage of luxurious and decadent restaurants in Dubai, and if you want to try dishes from Michelin-starred chefs, this is the city to go!

🎡 Luxury activities in Dubai

When it comes to luxury activities, it comes as no surprise that Dubai has an abundance of these as well!

From private air charters to super-yacht cruises , luxury desert safaris , hot air balloon flights , luxury trips combining Dubai and t he Maldives and much more, you will find plenty of luxurious things to do in Dubai.

You just need to be super rich to be able to afford them.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Dubai?

Apart from the cost of accommodation, transport, food and activities, another important thing to consider is the cost of the flight to get to Dubai in the first place.

This depends on where you’re flying from when you’re visiting Dubai, how flexible you are and when you book your tickets. Flights tend to be more expensive during the high season. If you’re flexible, you could opt to fly on the cheapest available date of the week or month.

Depending on where you’re from and the season you’re travelling, a round-trip to Dubai should cost you:

• New York to Dubai: USD 700 to USD 1000
• London to Dubai:  USD 300 to USD 600
• Sydney to Dubai: USD 750 to USD 1200
• New Delhi to Dubai: USD 200 to USD 350

It’s good to know that due to the conflict in Ukraine, global oil prices have risen in the last year. This is causing flights to be more expensive than normal. I adapted the prices mentioned above.

>> Read: 4-Day Dubai Itinerary: The Best Things to See and Do

Tip : An easy way to find the cheapest flights is by using Skyscanner . This website enables you to compare flight fares across the internet. I would recommend booking through the official website of the airline to avoid problems, though.

Tips to Save Money in Dubai

Dubai clearly isn’t the cheapest holiday destination out there. However, a trip to this city doesn’t have to be crazy expensive either.

There are numerous ways to cut the costs of your stay in Dubai. You will find 7 easy ways to save money in Dubai below.

1. Stay at budget accommodation

Dubai is famous for its abundance of luxury hotels and resorts but it speaks for itself that staying here will cost you a lot of money.

One of the easiest ways to travel on a smaller budget is by staying in budget hotels, hostels or dorms.

2. Watch your dining budget

Just like with the accommodation, you will find plenty of expensive restaurants in Dubai BUT there are plenty of affordable restaurants in this city too!

Researching the cheap restaurants to eat at in Dubai and opting for street food will save you a lot of money.

3. Take the metro

Dubai isn’t a very walkable city, as the distances you will have to cover are huge.

There may be plenty of taxis and Ubers in the streets of this city but the cheapest way to get around Dubai is by taking the metro.

Dubai has some of the nicest and cleanest metros I’ve ever taken, so it will be a very comfortable ride (and the metro has AC, which is great when it’s hot)!

4. Visit Dubai during the low season

It will be SUPER hot (40°C to 50°C or 104°F to 122°F), but if you visit Dubai in June, July or August, you will be able to book hotels for a cheaper price.

It’s good to know that there’s AC practically everywhere in Dubai.

5. Don’t drink alcohol

Alcohol tends to be quite expensive in Dubai. So an efficient way of saving some money is by sticking to non-alcoholic drinks during your stay in this city.

6. Look for free places to visit

Another great way of saving costs on a visit to Dubai is by looking for free activities.

Going to the public beach, visiting the park and strolling along the Dubai Marina , for example, are some nice things to do that won’t cost you any money.

7. Don’t go shopping

This one might be easier said than done if you enjoy shopping. After all, Dubai is home to the world’s largest shopping mall.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, it’s better to avoid coming here unless you’re up for some window shopping instead because Dubai isn’t the cheapest country to buy things.

Is It Expensive to Live in Dubai?

One of the things that makes Dubai such a popular destination for expats is that there is no income tax in this city. This being said, Dubai may be a tax haven, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap to live here.

Dubai has been ranked 31st on the list of the most expensive cities to live and work in for expats . However, it’s less expensive compared to cities like New York City, London and Singapore.

On average, a one-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre will cost you around USD 900, and you can expect to pay around USD 900 in monthly costs as well. This means you will need an average of USD 1800 to live in Dubai.

It all depends on your lifestyle though, and you can come by with less or more money as well.

Is Dubai Expensive to Travel to? Final Thoughts

As you can see, Dubai is one of the more expensive destinations out there. However, there are ways to cut costs and save some money.

Travelling on a backpacker’s budget in Dubai won’t be the same as it’s in Southeast Asia, for example. However, it’s still possible to travel here without spending loads of money.

This being said, compared to other major cities like London, New York and Paris , Dubai actually isn’t that expensive. You will pay around the same amount of money or sometimes even more in some other large cities.

I hope that this post helped you to get a better idea of the cost of travelling in Dubai. Let me know your thoughts or any questions you may have in the comments.

Dubai Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Dubai on Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via Booking . 🚗 Rent a car with Discover Cars to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to check if you need a visa to visit Dubai.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Why i don’t like dubai: 3 things i..., 4 days in dubai: the best things to....

Hi Laure, I’ve enjoyed reading your blog entry. I believe the negative aspects of Dubai that you have highlighted have meanwhile intensified. In my view, Dubai now qualifies to be the world capital of overindulgence hyper consumption and decadence.

Thanks for reading 🙂 Aargh, I think about Dubai the same way, Over indulgence, hyper-consumption and decadence describe it very well!

Is it worth visiting? I am planning to travel there on a budget package. My goal is to make new friends and enjoy my tour. I have never been to the middle east. You can replay me at [email protected]

Hi Nesan, it depends on your personal interests and the kind of places you like to visit. 🙂 I personally don’t like Dubai very much, there’s a post on here with the reasons why ( https://www.laurewanders.com/why-i-didnt-like-dubai/ ).

Most people would say Dubai is known for wealth, skyscrapers, luxury shopping, glitzy nightlife, and white-clad Arabs driving expensive cars on desert roads. Dubai is also known for being a jet-set holiday destination.

Dubai is now the seventh most expensive city in the world for luxury living. Dubai is now the seventh most expensive city in the world for luxury living, having jumped seven places in a ranking based on report by Swiss private bank Julius Baer. But your tips are so powerfull and can help tourist for sure.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Cost of a Trip to Dubai: Plan Your Fantasy Vacation on a Budget

by Trip.com

February 21, 2023

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Flight Costs to Dubai from Major US Cities

Jumeirah Beach Park

The cost of flights to Dubai from the US can vary depending on the time of year, airline, and departure city. On average, a round-trip economy class ticket can range from $700 to $1,500 or more ✈️ . However, prices may fluctuate due to seasonal demand, so it's recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance for the best deals 👍 .

The flight time from the US to Dubai can vary depending on the departure city and the airline, as well as any layovers or connecting flights. From New York City , the flight time to Dubai is typically around 12-14 hours , while from Los Angeles, it can take around 16-18 hours or more. Direct flights are available from some US cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, while others may require one or more connecting flights.

• Sort by: Lowest Price
• Sort by: Earliest Flight

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

How much does it cost for hotels when travelling to Dubai?

Atlantis, The Palm

• On average, a mid-range hotel in Dubai can cost around $80 to $150 per night, while a luxury hotel can cost $300 or more per night. However, during peak tourist season or major events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival or Dubai World Cup, prices can be significantly higher.
• It's also worth noting that Dubai has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to high-end resorts, so there are choices to suit all budgets. Some areas of the city, such as Deira and Bur Dubai, offer more affordable options, while others, such as the Palm Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai, are more expensive.

It's recommended to book accommodation in advance, particularly during peak season, to ensure availability and to get the best deals. Online booking sites such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia offer a wide range of options and often have competitive prices.

Best Hotels in Dubai

Swissôtel al murooj dubai, knight castle hotel (formerly carlton palace hotel), swissôtel al ghurair dubai, paramount hotel dubai, jw marriott marquis hotel dubai, swimming pool, the s hotel al barsha, ramada plaza by wyndham dubai deira, montreal barsha hotel, sls dubai hotel & residences, hilton dubai al habtoor city, family friendly, legoland hotel dubai, holiday inn dubai al-maktoum airport, signature 1 hotel tecom, mövenpick hotel & apartments bur dubai, emirates grand hotel, how much does it cost for food when travelling to dubai.

Note : Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the location and type of restaurant. Additionally, higher-end restaurants and hotels in Dubai may have higher prices.

How much does it cost for souvenirs when travelling to Dubai?

Madinat Jumeirah

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the location and type of store. Additionally, higher-end stores and souks may have higher prices for certain items. It's always recommended to bargain and compare prices before making a purchase.

How much does it cost for transportation when travelling to Dubai?

Dubai Creek

• Metro: Dubai has a modern, clean and efficient metro system that connects most major areas of the city. There are two lines, the Red Line and the Green Line, and the fares are based on the distance traveled.
• Buses: Dubai also has a network of public buses that serve most areas of the city. The buses are air-conditioned and comfortable, and the fares are based on the distance traveled.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Dubai and can be easily hailed on the street or booked through an app. The taxis are metered, and the fares are reasonable compared to other major cities.
• Uber and Careem: Uber and Careem are also available in Dubai and can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
• Water taxis: Dubai has a network of water taxis known as abras that connect the old and new parts of the city. They are a traditional way to travel and offer a unique experience.
• Rental cars: Rental cars are also available in Dubai, but it's important to note that the traffic can be heavy, and the driving can be challenging for visitors who are not used to the roads.
• Walking: Dubai is a relatively safe city, and many areas are pedestrian-friendly. Walking can be a great way to explore the city and see the sights up close.

How much does it cost for sightseeing when travelling to Dubai?

Skydive Dubai

• Burj Khalifa : AED 149 for general admission to the observation deck.
• Dubai Mall : Free admission, prices for activities vary.
• Dubai Fountain : Free admission.
• Dubai Museum : AED 3 for adults, AED 1 for children.
• Palm Jumeirah : Free admission, prices for activities and restaurants vary.
• Dubai Miracle Garden : AED 55 for adults, AED 40 for children.
• Dubai Creek : Prices for boat rides vary depending on the type of boat and duration.
• Desert Safari : Prices vary depending on the type of tour and duration, but start around AED 150 for a basic package.

How much does it cost for WiFi & communication when travelling to Dubai?

• WiFi: Most places offer free WiFi, including the airport.
• SIM cards: Prices vary depending on the provider and plan, but start around AED 50.
• Internet calling: Visitors can use VPN services for free, or pay for premium services.
• Local calling: Prices vary depending on the provider and plan, but start around AED 0.60 per minute.
• Emergency services: Dialing emergency services is free.
• Cultural considerations: Following cultural norms is free, but being mindful and respectful is important.

How much does it cost for passport when travelling to Dubai?

Burj Khalifa

The cost of a passport for traveling to Dubai will depend on the individual's country of origin. However, if you already have a passport and it is still valid, then there is no additional cost for travel to Dubai.

It's important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your stay in Dubai, as this is a requirement for entry into the country. If you need to renew your passport or apply for a new one, the cost will vary depending on your country's passport issuing fees.

How much does it cost for insurance when travelling to Dubai?

• Cost: The cost of travel insurance for Dubai will depend on a variety of factors such as the traveler's age, trip length, and coverage options. On average, a comprehensive travel insurance policy for Dubai can cost between $50 to $200 USD per person .
• Coverage: Travel insurance for Dubai typically covers medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, emergency medical evacuation, and baggage loss or delay. Some policies may also offer additional coverage for adventure activities, rental car insurance, and more.
• Providers: There are many travel insurance providers that offer coverage for Dubai. Some popular options include Allianz Global Assistance, World Nomads, and Travel Guard.

Here is the information in a table format:

How much does it cost for 2 nights & 3 days when travelling to Dubai?

**REMINDER**: Keep in mind that these are estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, travel dates, and personal spending habits.

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when travelling to Dubai?

• Family : For a family of four (2 adults and 2 children), a 5-day trip to Dubai can cost between $4,000 to $8,000 USD, depending on accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.
• Couples : For a 4-day romantic getaway to Dubai, couples can expect to spend between $1,500 to $3,500 USD, depending on accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.
• Single : For a 3-day solo trip to Dubai, a single traveler can expect to spend between $800 to $1,500 USD, depending on accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.

**REMINDER**: These are just general estimates and the actual cost will vary based on individual preferences, travel style, and budget.

Methods to save money when travelling to Dubai

• Plan your trip during the off-season: Dubai is a popular destination and prices can go up during peak seasons. Traveling during the off-season can help you save money on flights, accommodation, and activities.
• Stay in budget-friendly accommodations: Dubai has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Opting for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, Airbnb, or budget hotels can save you money.
• Use public transportation: Taxis can be expensive in Dubai, but the city has an efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams. Using public transportation can help you save money on transportation costs.
• Look for free or discounted activities: There are many free or discounted activities to do in Dubai, such as visiting the public beaches, exploring the souks (markets), and watching the Dubai Fountain Show.
• Eat at budget-friendly restaurants: Dubai has many affordable restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Eating at budget-friendly restaurants or street food stalls can help you save money on food.
• Avoid excessive shopping: Dubai is known for its shopping malls and luxury stores, but shopping can quickly add up. Avoiding excessive shopping or sticking to a budget can help you save money.
• Use coupons or discount codes: Dubai has many discount codes and coupons available for various activities, restaurants, and shops. Using these codes can help you save money on your trip.

Tips for travelling to Dubai

• Weather : Dubai has a hot desert climate with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) during the summer months. It's best to plan your trip during the cooler months between November and March when temperatures are more moderate.
• Clothing : While Dubai is a modern and cosmopolitan city, it's still important to dress modestly, especially in public places. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, women should wear long dresses or pants and cover their heads with a scarf. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.
• Best time to go : The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months between November and March when temperatures are more moderate. It's also a good time to explore outdoor attractions and participate in outdoor activities.
• Religious tips : Dubai is an Islamic country, and visitors should respect local customs and religious traditions. When visiting mosques, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. During Ramadan, it's important to be respectful of those fasting and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
• Cultural tips : Dubai is a multicultural city, and visitors should respect local customs and cultural traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and be respectful when taking photos of locals or religious sites.

How much does a flight to Dubai cost?

The cost of a flight to Dubai can vary depending on the departure location, time of year, and airline. On average, a round-trip flight from the United States can cost between $700 and $1,500.

How much does accommodation cost in Dubai?

Accommodation in Dubai can range from budget-friendly hostels and hotels to luxurious resorts and villas. On average, a night in a budget-friendly accommodation can cost between $50 and $150, while a night in a luxury hotel or resort can cost upwards of $500.

How much does food cost in Dubai?

The cost of food in Dubai can vary depending on the type of cuisine and restaurant. On average, a meal in a budget-friendly restaurant can cost between $10 and $20, while a meal in a more upscale restaurant can cost upwards of $50.

How much should I budget for attractions and activities in Dubai?

The cost of attractions and activities in Dubai can vary depending on the type of experience. On average, a visit to a major attraction like the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall can cost between $30 and $100 per person. Other experiences like desert safaris or water parks can cost upwards of $100 per person.

What's the best way to save money when traveling to Dubai?

To save money when traveling to Dubai, consider traveling during the off-season, using public transportation, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, and eating at affordable restaurants. Additionally, look for free or discounted activities and attractions, and avoid excessive shopping.

Dubai Travel Cost

• 1. Flight Costs to Dubai from Major US Cities
• 2. How much does it cost for hotels when travelling to Dubai?
• 3. How much does it cost for food when travelling to Dubai?
• 4. How much does it cost for souvenirs when travelling to Dubai?
• 5. How much does it cost for transportation when travelling to Dubai?
• 6. How much does it cost for sightseeing when travelling to Dubai?
• 7. How much does it cost for WiFi & communication when travelling to Dubai?
• 8. How much does it cost for passport when travelling to Dubai?
• 9. How much does it cost for insurance when travelling to Dubai?
• 10. How much does it cost for 2 nights & 3 days when travelling to Dubai?
• 11. How much does it cost for family, couples or single when travelling to Dubai?
• 12. Methods to save money when travelling to Dubai
• 13. Tips for travelling to Dubai

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Travel Stories

How much does it cost to travel to dubai (with calculator).

People often ask “how much does it cost to travel to Dubai?” and they’d be surprised to know the amount. The interesting and my favorite part about Dubai is you can travel frugally, moderately and luxuriously. Dubai is one of the most expat cities in the world, it’s ease in immigration and no taxes (in most scenarios) has made it favorable.

Budget Travel Cost to Dubai

By my estimates average cost per day (if solo) would come to about 30-35$ (or 28-32€). Breakdown: 1. Accommodation – 60 AED / 16.5$ / 15€ at capsule hotel in Dubai. Capsule Hotel isn’t like the ones you’d see in Japan but rather a hostel and one of the few around the city. 2. Transportation – Since you chose budget, I’d assume you’d go around with public transportation. For public transportation in Dubai you’d get a Nol card with a daily pass for 20 AED / 5.45$ / 5€ 3. Breakfast – You’ll find cheap breakfast options in Dubai, best are Manakeesh spots, or South Indian breakfast spots or simply from the supermarket. A Manakeesh or Manakish would cost you around 7 AED / 1.9$ / 1.75€. 4. Lunch & Dinner – In Dubai you’ll find cheap spots for lunch and dinner all around the city. In areas bur dubai, deira, karama and so on. My favorite unhealthy eat spots are cafeterias like Jabal Al Noor, seashell cafe, golden falcon cafeteria. To be honest, they all have the same menu, usually with the same supplier they tend to have the same products and similar flavors and similar pricings.

This disclaimer informs readers that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual. We take no liability for the accuracy of the information and cannot be held liable for any third-party claims or losses of any damages.

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Dubai Prices & Travel Costs

In only a couple decades, Dubai has earned a reputation as one of the world’s greatest shopping destinations as well as a great place to soak up some sunshine in the winter months. There may not be much history to speak of in Dubai, but there is actually a lot more to see and do here than you might expect.

Is Dubai Expensive or Cheap?

While Dubai would not be considered a ‘cheap destination,’ it’s far more affordable than some people imagine. It’s true that Dubai has some of the world’s nicest and most expensive hotels, yet the huge city also has hundreds of more modest hotels, many of them apartment-style with multiple rooms, and prices can be surprisingly affordable.

Alcoholic drinks cost a fortune in Dubai so stocking up at the Duty Free on the way in is wise. Food can be quite affordable if you follow the local service workers instead of the other tourists.

Travel Costs to Dubai

Accommodation costs in dubai.

Dubai has a reputation for being very expensive, and it’s still mostly deserved, but new hotels and affordable restaurants keep opening so it’s now within the budget of many backpacker-types. Those who are interested in seeing what all the fuss is about can now usually find an affordable hotel and meals, at least outside of the peak season.

During December and January the Dubai hotels charge their highest rates so this is a time to avoid for those on a budget. Otherwise you can often find very good hotel rates at some of the newer and nicer places. Most hotels are modern and clean, and are of international standards.

Dubai Hotel Seasons

Dubai hotels are at their most expensive during the Christmas and New Year’s weeks, with the general high season lasting from September through May. Low season is the warmest months, from June through August, and during this period it’s possible to get some very good deals at hotels, especially near the top of the price range, as long as you can stand the heat.

Dubai Hotel Prices

Dubai hostels prices, dubai attractions prices.

It’s true that Dubai has a great number of huge (and wonderfully air-conditioned) shopping malls, and even those who don’t care for shopping will at least want to see what they are all about. The famous indoor ski slope is worth a look even if you don’t plan on actually skiing.

Dubai does have some really nice beaches including some public family-style beaches.

The Dubai nightlife is also notorious in the region. It’s true that the only legal bars are ones that are attached to hotels, but it’s also true that Dubai has hundreds of bars and some hotels have 5 or 6 different watering holes. Drink prices are quite high and happy hour deals are only a small relief.

Best tours in Dubai

There are hop-on, hop-off tours of Dubai, but the city is so spread out and hot during summer that they aren’t a great option for many. Fortunately, the Dubai Metro system is fast, cheap, air-conditioned, and it stops near all of the malls and other main points of interest.

There is a free bus tour of the new Downtown Dubai area, and that is worth a try when you are visiting the Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Food and Drink Prices

Food does tend to be quite expensive in the sit-down restaurants in hotels and otherwise aimed at tourists, but there are plenty of reasonably priced options that are mostly there to serve the city’s ever-expanding international population. In other words, eating out in Dubai can be cheap if you follow the local workers or somewhat expensive if you follow the tourists and other expats. Drinks, however, are only available in hotels and licensed shops, and prices are quite high. This isn’t the place to come to be a cheap drunk. Many of the top attractions are fairly pricey so you might want to check our Go Dubai Card review as a way to save money.

Featured articles

Dubai transport prices, getting to dubai.

Unless you are coming from Abu Dhabi, you are almost certainly going to fly into the enormous and impressive Dubai International Airport. There are great fares from all over the world into Dubai and the transportation system from the airport to the rest of the city is fantastic since it’s conveniently located on the Metro system.

Getting around Dubai

Taxis in Dubai are quite modern and affordable so they are a great option for groups in particular. The Metro system is all above ground and it’s a pretty amazing thing to experience all by itself. It’s fast and cheap, which also helps.

When to visit Dubai

Temperature and rainfall, dubai weather advice.

Dubai has a very predictable climate, with almost no rain at any time during the year. Most will find that from November through April the city is pleasantly warm during the day and at night, but starting in May the heat can become unbearable and it stays that way for six months. At least the humidity is relatively low for most of the year.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

• Travel Planning Guide

United Arab Emirates Travel Budget - Visit United Arab Emirates on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Is the United Arab Emirates Expensive?
• How much does a trip to the United Arab Emirates cost?
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• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in the United Arab Emirates
• Best Hotels for One Night in the United Arab Emirates
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in the United Arab Emirates
• Best Hotels for Skiing in the United Arab Emirates
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• UAE Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to UAE
• The Best Historical Tours in UAE
• The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in UAE
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in UAE
• The Best Adventure Tours to UAE
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in UAE
• The Best Cultural Tours in UAE
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in UAE
• The Best Safaris in UAE
• The Best Tours Under $1000 in UAE
• The Best Budget Tours to UAE
• The Best Tours for Seniors to UAE
• How much does it cost to travel to the United Arab Emirates? (Average Daily Cost)
• The United Arab Emirates trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in the United Arab Emirates?

Is the united arab emirates expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to the United Arab Emirates?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to the United Arab Emirates?

You should plan to spend around $252 (AED926) per day on your vacation in the United Arab Emirates. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $52 (AED192) on meals
• $16 (AED60) on local transportation
• $320 (AED1,176) on hotels

A one week trip to the United Arab Emirates for two people costs, on average, $3,528 (AED12,957) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 252 AED 926
• One Week Per person $ 1,764 AED 6,479
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 3,528 AED 12,957
• One Month Per person $ 7,560 AED 27,766
• One Week For a couple $ 3,528 AED 12,957
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 7,056 AED 25,915
• One Month For a couple $ 15,121 AED 55,531

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the United Arab Emirates cost?

A one week trip to the United Arab Emirates usually costs around $1,764 (AED6,479) for one person and $3,528 (AED12,957) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to the United Arab Emirates on average costs around $3,528 (AED12,957) for one person and $7,056 (AED25,915) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the United Arab Emirates will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to the United Arab Emirates on average costs around $7,560 (AED27,766) for one person and $15,121 (AED55,531) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in the United Arab Emirates is $208 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Dubai & Emirates - 8 days 8 Days - 4 Destinations $ 1,299
• Independent Dubai City Stay 4 Days - 1 Destinations $ 909

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

The United Arab Emirates is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates is very expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in the Middle East for its travel costs. There are only a few countries as expensive or more expensive than the United Arab Emirates in the region.

For more details, see Is the United Arab Emirates Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to the United Arab Emirates?

The average United Arab Emirates trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these United Arab Emirates travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in the United Arab Emirates

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in the United Arab Emirates is $160 (AED588). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in the United Arab Emirates is $320 (AED1,176). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 160 AED 588
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 320 AED 1,176

Hotel Prices in the United Arab Emirates

Looking for a hotel in the United Arab Emirates? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in the United Arab Emirates based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $72. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Rove Downtown Dubai Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 62
• The Address Dubai Marina Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 99

Local Transportation Budget in the United Arab Emirates

The cost of a taxi ride in the United Arab Emirates is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $16 (AED60) per person, per day, on local transportation in the United Arab Emirates.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 16 AED 60

Recommended Services

• Hatta Adventure Tour with Kayaking Experience with hotel transfer Viator $ 150
• One way Dubai Airport Private Transfer Viator $ 61

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in the United Arab Emirates are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in the United Arab Emirates, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Taxi to Airport AED 50
• Sea Taxi AED 2.00
• Airport Taxi AED 46
• Taxi Ride AED 45
• Car Rental AED 115

Food Budget in the United Arab Emirates

While meal prices in the United Arab Emirates can vary, the average cost of food in the United Arab Emirates is $52 (AED192) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in the United Arab Emirates should cost around $21 (AED77) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in the United Arab Emirates is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 52 AED 192

Recommended

• Premium Dubai Red Dunes with quadbike, camel ride and VIP Dinner Viator $ 98
• Desert Safari Dubai With High Speed Dune Buggy And Dinner in 5… Viator $ 139

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in the United Arab Emirates are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in the United Arab Emirates, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Shawarma AED 7.00
• French bread AED 3.50
• Lemon Mint Tea AED 16
• Smoothie AED 20
• Coffee & Cake AED 24
• Sumo salad in Dubai Mall + Juice AED 38

Entertainment Budget in the United Arab Emirates

Entertainment and activities in the United Arab Emirates typically cost an average of $29 (AED107) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 29 AED 107

Recommended Activities

• 1 hour Jetski Tour - Burj Al Arab and Royal Atlantis Viator $ 165
• Small-Group Tour: Falcon 2—Dubai Falconry Safari Viator $ 199

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in the United Arab Emirates are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in the United Arab Emirates, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Visit to the Dubai Museum AED 3.00

Tips and Handouts Budget in the United Arab Emirates

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in the United Arab Emirates is $3.02 (AED11) per day. The usual amount for a tip in the United Arab Emirates is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 3.02 AED 11

Alcohol Budget in the United Arab Emirates

The average person spends about $19 (AED71) on alcoholic beverages in the United Arab Emirates per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19 AED 71
• Pub Crawl Dubai: Private, Birthdays & Corporate Events Viator $ 110
• Pub Crawl Dubai: Nightlife Tours Viator $ 66

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in the United Arab Emirates are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in the United Arab Emirates, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• A Couple Drinks AED 92

Water Budget in the United Arab Emirates

On average, people spend $1.12 (AED4.10) on bottled water in the United Arab Emirates per day. The public water in the United Arab Emirates is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 1.12 AED 4.10

Related Articles

The united arab emirates on a budget.

At A Glance

• The weekend here is on Friday and Saturday. Many businessmen work a half day on Thursdays, but they do often work the entire day on Saturday. Businesses are closed on Friday mornings, but many open in the afternoon after services and by the evening you will find many people out and about socializing.
• During Ramadan the schedule changes dramatically. Restaurants are closed during daylight hours and most offices and shops close down in the afternoon. The fast is broken after the sunset during a meal that is referred to as iftar. Some businesses open back up between the hours of 8:00PM and midnight.
• Dubai has a major international airport and many connecting flights to Africa or Asia have a layover in this city. A great way to conveniently explore the city is to extend your layover to several days. This allows you time to see what you want to see, but you don't have to buy an additional plane ticket to reach the area.
• Public transportation is challenging in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The systems are not well established and you will likely end up taking taxis to most places. Prices are cheap however. You can expect to pay about US$2.00 to most places within the city. An additional US$3 may be added to the total during evening hours after 10:00 PM. If you plan to travel between cities, renting a car is a popular option. Rental cars cost slightly less than you would expect to pay in the United States.
• The beaches in the area are quite impressive and worth a visit. The water is strikingly blue and very clean. Recent construction has made the water somewhat more cloudy, but it is still a very beautiful place to visit and not to be missed while you're in the area. There is also some excellent snorkeling and diving in the Indian Ocean. The water is very warm and clear. The beaches can range from very touristy to almost isolated, even near Dubai. Wearing a bathing suit in public is not recommended so your best option if you plan to swim or sunbath is to pay for access to a private beach near a hotel.

Top Tourist Attractions

Popular foods.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Your Dubai Vacation

For a glitzy, glamorous vacation package deals, Dubai it is. This glossy desert oasis is the perfect stopover en route to Asia and an incredible destination all on its own. Start building your perfect vacation package to Dubai by choosing a luxurious hotel in the city—maybe a spot on The Palm or high in the iconic Burj al Arab, or a resort along Jumeirah Beach. Each one has activities galore: dune buggying in the desert, shopping in the Gold Souk, or dancing at a rooftop bar—and that’s just scratching the surface.

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Palm Jumeirah

Discover an archipelago of artificial islands featuring recently opened destinations like The Pointe, Club Vista Mare, and Nakheel Mall. Enjoy various hotels, resorts, and hotel residences, while exploring retail and dining options, all connected by the Palm Jumeirah Monorail.

Downtown Dubai

Home to iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, this mixed-use complex offers luxury shopping, an Olympic-size ice rink, and a variety of dining options along Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Boulevard.

Dubai Marina

Artificial canal city boasting the world's largest human-made marina, featuring Dubai Marina Mall with 140 retail outlets, and The Walk at JBR for dining. Enjoy Marina Promenade views and access Al Sufouh Tramway for easy transport.

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Waterfront community in Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence boasts 40 towers, The Beach retail complex, and a 1.7-km strip called The Walk. Enjoy views of Ain Dubai on Bluewaters Island and easy access to Dubai Marina, Dubai Tram, and Dubai Metro.

Historically significant, this district boasts centuries-old gold and spice souqs, ancient forts, and iconic structures. Shop at City Centre Deira mall, explore the Waterfront Market, or take a boat across Dubai Creek.

Dubai Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in dubai, burj khalifa.

The tallest man-made structure on earth is a city in the sky that houses luxury apartments, offices and a hotel.

Browse, shop, play and dine at one of the largest shopping and entertainment malls in the world.

Marina Beach

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Marina Beach, a popular beach in Dubai. Stroll along the marina or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

What to do in Dubai

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$339 Find cheap flights to Dubai

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to dubai departing on 7/30. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to dubai.

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Cheap flight deals to Dubai

Flights to dubai - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to dubai to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to dubai.

If traveling to Dubai, the cheapest city to fly from in the last 3 days was Washington, D.C. , with flights as low as $339 one-way and $580 round-trip. Flights from New York are the most searched and start at $580 for a return trip.

How much is a flight to Dubai?

On average, a flight to dubai costs $1,095. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $537 and departed from miami. the most popular routes on kayak are chicago to dubai which costs $1,325 on average, and new york to dubai, which costs $1,344 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to dubai, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to dubai is tuesday where tickets can be as cheap as $1,044. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $1,169 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to dubai, the cheapest month for flights to dubai is january, where tickets cost $916 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are december and june, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,524 and $1,271 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is october with an average price of $886., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to dubai, the cheapest time of day to fly to dubai is generally in the evening, when flights cost $737 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to dubai is generally in the morning, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $1,027., what is a good deal for flights to dubai, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to dubai, 25% of our users found tickets to dubai for the following prices or less: from chicago o'hare intl airport $579 one-way - $1,101 round-trip, from san francisco $608 one-way - $1,161 round-trip, from miami $621 one-way - $986 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to dubai, to get a below average price, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 72 days before departure., how long is the flight to dubai, the duration of your flight to dubai depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to dubai on kayak are from new york , which takes 12h 30m, newark , which takes 13h 20m, miami , which takes 14h 15m, and san francisco , which takes 15h 35m., how many direct flights to dubai are there each day, there are around 13 direct flights from within united states to dubai every day. most flights depart in the evening, with 5:00 pm the most common departure time and 38% of flights departing in the evening., how many direct flights to dubai are there each week, each week there are around 88 direct flights from within united states to dubai. the most common day for departures is friday, with 15% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to dubai each week, there are not any medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) or short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to dubai. instead, there are 88 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), with the most arriving from new york., how many cities have direct flights to dubai, from the united states, there are direct flights to dubai from 11 cities. the city with the most direct flights is new york, with 21 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to dubai, faqs - booking dubai flights, are there car rentals near dubai international airport (dxb).

Hertz car rental is located at arrivals Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, giving travelers arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) enhanced convenience in renting their preferred Hertz car model. Apart from Hertz, you can rent a car from Sixt Rent a Car at Terminal 3 and Europcar at Terminal 1.

What amenities can I enjoy at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Located at Terminal 1 on the arrival level and Terminal 3 on the hotel level, the DXB’s business center offers enhanced convenience to business travelers arriving at the airport with some work to do. Mothers traveling with their kids will also enjoy dedicated nursing rooms in the Family Lounge at Terminal 3, where they can change their babies and breastfeed them with guaranteed privacy.

Where can you stay in Dubai to have convenient access to Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

There are several hotels near Dubai International Airport (DXB) where you can book a room for your stay in Dubai. For instance, you can stay at Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport, an IHG Hotel, which is about 1.7 miles from the airport. If you are traveling with your kids, Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel will be a good place for you to stay once you land in Dubai.

Is there parking at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Yes, there are affordable and convenient parking facilities for everyone at Dubai International Airport (DXB). You will be able to get a choice of premium and economy parking at Terminals 2 and Terminal 1.

How can I get from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark?

To get from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, you will need to either take the metro (red line) or take a private taxi or car. The trip via metro will take about one hour and 48 minutes. Or, you can get there in less than 30 minutes via taxi or car.

What kind of services do the Dubai airports offer?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a variety of services including showers, Muslim prayer rooms, free high speed WiFi and a variety of business centers. Al Maktoum International Airport offers meet and greet services to expedite your passage through the airport as well as Airshell rentals to protect your valuables while you’re there.

Which Dubai airport offers good options for shopping?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers the best shopping choices. You will have your choice of stores for clothing and accessories, food, electronics, souvenirs, and fragrances. At Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) you can find duty free options as well as jewelry, fashion, and skin care products.

Which Dubai airports have play areas for children?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a play area for children. The interactive Kids’ Zone includes a choice of interactive games and a climbing area to help the kids burn off extra energy. The Kids’ Zone play area is located between Gates B7 and B8.

What can I see near Dubai International Airport (DXB) while waiting for a connecting flight?

There are a number of different sites you can visit that are located near Dubai International Airport (DXB). The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and it is located 8 miles from the airport. Or, take time to visit the Grand Mosque which is located 7 miles from the airport. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the Mosque but can explore the outer section and grounds.

How far is Dubai from central Dubai?

Central Dubai is 7 miles away from Dubai.

What is the name of Dubai’s airport?

Dubai is served by Dubai, also commonly referred to as Dubai Intl. The airport code is DXB.

On average, a flight to Dubai costs $1,095. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $537 and departed from Miami Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Dubai?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Dubai.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Dubai?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Dubai is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Dubai?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Dubai with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Dubai?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Dubai up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Dubai

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Dubai flight deals.
• Those booking flights to Dubai should be aware of customs during Ramadan . The exact date changes each year but will be during May or June. During this time, those flying into Dubai should show respect by not eating, drinking or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.
• If you are booking flights to Dubai , you will be flying into either Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Dubai International Airport is the main airport serving Dubai and is the world’s busiest airport based on passenger travel. This airport is located 2.5 miles southeast of Dubai. Al Maktoum International Airport is located 23 miles southwest of Dubai.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the hub for the Fly Emirates, which is popular among travelers for its amenities and customer service. Fly Emirates flights arrive at Gates A, B, and C of Emirates Terminal 3. The lounges offer a personal haven to travelers who want to relax away from the crowds or catch up on work.
• Once you land at Dubai International Airport (DXB), you will be able to connect to various destinations in the city by getting transport services from the various shuttle operators. Many of these have their desks at Terminals 1 and 3. You can also enjoy using courtesy shuttles offered by various hotels near the airport to connect to and from the airport. These hotel shuttles stop at Terminal 3 of the DXB.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) has three different passenger terminals . There is a shuttle service that connects each passenger terminal and travelers should allow at least 20 minutes transit time from one area to the other. Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) currently has one terminal. Dubai International Airport is approximately 23 miles away from Al Maktoum International Airport. The drive will take you about 45 minutes depending on traffic.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is known for its amenities . If you have time to spend there, be sure that you visit their Zen Garden for a relaxing stroll. Or, rent out a Snooze Cube for a short nap between flights. Or, if you have energy to spare, visit their fitness room for a good workout and follow it up with a stop at the sauna.
• The exceptional services offered to the travelers arriving in Dubai, especially those with disabilities, is what makes Dubai International Airport one of the best in the region. The airport has essential aids at all critical points, such as the baggage claim areas and the gates. By making early arrangements with your airline or airport management, you will be able to take advantage of these services.
• The five-star Dubai International Hotel, located between Terminal 1 and 3 of the airport will offer you a perfect short rest in between international flights through Dubai International Airport (DXB). Spend a relaxing night at the hotel if you want to depart with an early flight from the DXB. Staying closer to the hotel helps you get there on time for your early departure.
• Sharjah is one of the nearby cities that you can travel to conveniently after landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Dubai. You will take 40min to travel by bus from Sharjah to DXB. Additionally, you can connect from the airport to Sharjah using a car rental from Hertz or Europcar.
• If you are traveling into Dubai, be sure that you purchase your alcohol in the duty free shops at the airport. The duty free allowance will let you purchase 4 liters of alcohol. Tourists are not allowed to purchase alcohol in the emirate itself.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Dubai Intl?

Find which airlines fly direct to Dubai Intl, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Dubai Intl

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +89 more

ANA, ASKY, +90 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +87 more

ANA, ASKY, +88 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +92 more

ANA, ASKY, +93 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +86 more

ANA, ASKY, +87 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +85 more

ANA, ASKY, +86 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +90 more

ANA, ASKY, +91 more

Nonstop returns

Dubai Intl to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to dubai.

Flights were both delayed. No luggage on arrival for the whole plane and no contact since submitting a PIR.

Flight got canceled without any prior information and it caused lot of trouble

Nice selection of movies and TV shows. Plane was generally nice, not the newest but nice nonetheless. However, Emirates should have cancelled the flight, as hardly any flights flew out of Dubai at the time. Flight delays and cancellation was poorly communicated and passengers were left guessing and to their own devices on what to do. Connection desks were staffed too thinly, there was one desk with more than a hundred clients and just one poor lady. When I had my flights rebooked, I was told meal vouchers can be scanned using my boarding pass, nope. Was told to comeback for my hotel voucher, none. Had to book my hotel voucher the usual way through Dubai Connect despite having been told twice to comeback to the counters twice.

On the Dubai-Gatwick flight the only meal options were Beef or Chicken. No vegetarian option. This was a surprise. I would usually order in advance but did not this time. Would have been good to know that a vegetarian meal is not available as a standard meal. Thankfully it was just me travelling, but if I’d had my kids with me that would have been a big problem for us.

Staff were friendly, and provided great service. The food was plentiful and delicious. Food could have been hotter.

More leg room and comfortable seats at least for long flights

The entertainment selections are amazing. But the live TV is sometimes spotty. If you’re going to have it, then have it. If you can’t make it consistent, then, perhaps it’s better not to have it. The crew are always cordial when approached, but they seem to do the minimum and sit around, talking to each other in the back of the plane during the flight. I realize that delays are not always predictable, but I missed my flight in Dubai because we left 90 minutes late from Washington. I will say that Emirates took very good care of me in Dubai. But I would rather not be delayed.

Probably the best flight I’ve ever been on. Emirates first class is leagues beyond British airways and Lufthansa’s.

Great flight. Comfortable seats, courteous service, and excellent selection for entertainment.

Serving food took so long . Almost time close to lend. Plus during landing air pressure in cabin cuss ear blocked took long time to unblock.

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

Operated by American Airlines. Very chaotic and the crew was bit rough responding any enquiries. Restricted leg space.. Qatar would have been better

Qatar airways from Doha to guangzhau was excellent big bird Boeing 777 more room and smoothly flight, I Love it

It was good no problems made it on time for the next flight overseas!

The made us waiting and held our passports and boarding pass making us miss our flights

Not impressed. Only allowed one carry on on such a long flight.

The flight was good but my neighbor had the vent open full power for the whole flight and because the air was blowing from the side instead of from the top and I got very cold and ended up with a sore throat.

Bad experience with the delay n long wait time for connecting flight after missing the connection flight from Doha.

Wore experience due to delay and took me 3 days to reach my destination.

All over with Qatar airlines my experience was really bad due to delays and then putting me on different airlines and after 8 hours of wait I had to listen to their is no plane to fly for another 24 hours. Wore experience ever.

Excellent will be flying again in May with Qatar. to Botswana.

Nothing really was great as such. Seen other no name airlines perform better.

Quality of service on board was very inconsistent. FA service primarily seemed robotic and they barely engaged with passengers

I’m unclear why I had to pay extra for assigned seats as Turkish airlines did not honor the seating. We were placed across the aisle from each other on TK 34, and were seated behind one another on TK 694. Because my name was misspelled on e-ticket (Klawiter, instead of Klawitter) I could not log onto website to get the connection gate number in Istanbul. The monitors in the airport were a jumbled mess 1/2 Arabic and 1/2 English.

On line check in needs a lot of improvement. I tried and gave up.

Food not good, flight attendants not the best, not accommodating very ruff

the female flight attendant was racist towards me. I could tell she treated the two other passengers next to me with more softness.

Oh my god! For an13 hour flight they serve you food just one time. Also don’t be thirsty they give you a little small cup of soda to drink. They seem like their goal is to feed you one so they don’t have to be bothered with you. It quite surprise for such a long flight there are several times to eat at least three and the food was well lackluster. The food and lack of offering drinks which were always hot no ice provided.

We were traveling first class. Checkin counter lady and her manager, both were in bad mood and did not treat us well about checking in the handbag. The gate agent took care of it right away. I travel Turkish twice a year in first class. No one has ever refused to check in the hand bag. Not sure, why this agent and her manager refused. Everything else was excellent.

The 787 economy was a disaster for long haul. The space was too little compared to 777 or 747. Also the extremely low tray table behind the seat made any dining effort a nightmare. However, the movies were up to date, and the food taste was good, despite of terrible serving process caused by small space.

A little bit more comfort. It’s tight space around the seats. But all else is great and a smooth flight!

Nothing beats ANA customer service on my opinion. Maybe because of their Japanese culture (and food). Arigatō

So so. Terrible aircraft choice for that leg of the flight.

Due to one crew member not showing up to work, our flight was significantly delayed causing us to miss our connecting flight in Houston to Mississippi causing us to be delayed by more than 6 hours and missing our event all together. Very disappointing. All because ONE crew member called in sick. United did grant us a $15 meal voucher, which was a small but appreciated concession that I wasn’t able to use because I ordered my lunch and paid for it before applying the concession, and the staff said it was too late to use it. Ugh! We also had a TWO delay coming back from Mississippi, but that was on American Airlines and it was due to weather, so not their fault. Anyway, not at all impressed with United’s handling of our flight and the HUGE disappointment of missing our important family event for our 90 year old mother. All that money and all that stress and emotions for nothing. Having to wait the hour to bring an employee from LAX seemed like something that should not have happened. Why don’t you have a local back-up? Santa Ana is not a little airport in a rural area.

Flight delayed from Cape Town to Washington then got diverted to miami and in miami we had to fend for ourselves , im still trying to get to Shreveport now

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

I just wrote a text which was supposed to be for the flight from Denver to spokane not Frankfurt to Denver.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

The delays (5 hrs) were a comedy of errors, and the multiple safety issues encountered were very concerning.

flight delays, staff only communicating when pushed, food service lasting a grand total of 7 minutes, stuck in seat from 45mins into flight until landing

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Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

Dubai Online

Dubai Metro Tickets and Fares

The Dubai Metro system is one of the most popular ways to travel in Dubai. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also a quick and easy way to get around the city.

We will provide you with all the information you need to know about Dubai Metro tickets and fares. We’ll cover everything from single journey fares to passes, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.

Modes of public transport in Dubai include the  Dubai Metro ,  Dubai Tram , bus, and water bus.

Journeys can be made using a combination of different modes of transport and paid for using credits added to a contactless travel card (Nol Card).

Dubai’s transport system is divided into 7  zones . The price paid for a journey depends on the number of zones crossed during the trip. Ticket prices are cheap compared to similar systems in other major cities.

Children aged up to 5 years travel free. Concessionary fares for students and senior citizens are only available to residents.

Passengers pay with Nol Cards; contactless smart cards. Different types of cards are available to meet individual passenger needs. Cards must be purchased before travel.

• Silver Nol Cards – Suitable for residents and tourists.
• Gold Nol Cards – Suitable for residents and tourists wishing to travel in Gold Class (first class carriages).
• Personal Nol Cards – Personalised card with photo. Concessionary fares are available for students, seniors, and the disabled.
• Red Tickets (paper) – Ideal for occasional users. Can be loaded with up to 10 trips or 5 daily passes.

Passengers cannot use cash as a direct payment method on the Dubai Metro, buses, or water buses. Credit cards and other payment forms are also not accepted as direct payments. Cash and credit cards can be used to buy the Nol cards, top them up, and add passes.

Gold Class carriages are for those that wish to travel first class. Every Dubai Metro train has one Gold Class carriage. They have bigger and more comfortable seats with more legroom. Gold Class carriages are typically less crowded than Standard Class carriages.

Nol Cards can be purchased at many locations in Dubai, including ticket offices at Dubai Metro stations and Dubai Bus stations. There are ticket offices at all stations on both the Red Line and the Green Line .

Nol Cards can be used on different forms of transport (Metro, buses, water buses).

Passengers are only charged once, dependent on the length of the journey, provided transfer times between different modes are adhered to (30 minutes maximum permitted).

For example, if your journey involves a trip on the Dubai Metro and a bus, your journey will be counted as a single trip provided you check-in on the bus within 30 minutes of checking out of the Dubai Metro station.

Nol is the Arabic word for ‘fare’.

The fare is charged at the end of the journey and is dependent on the number of zones passed through. The fare is deducted when the card is tapped on one of the card readers located at the exits of Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram stations, buses, or water buses.

The latest AED exchange rates are:

• Euro – 1 AED = 0.25 euros
• British pound – 1 AED = 0.22 British pounds
• US dollars – 1 AED = 0.27 US dollars

Exchange rates were last updated on Friday 26th of April 2024 at 2:22 am . Exchange rates for other currencies can be found here .

A 50 percent discount is available to resident students and senior citizens holding Personal Nol Cards. Personal Nol Cards are only available to UAE nationals and residents (application procedure and ID required).

Small children (aged 5 and under) travel free (regardless of nationality and residence).

A map showing the zones and all Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram stations can be found  here .

The easiest way to work out the cost of a Metro trip is to use the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) S’hail app. The app gives the cost of the trip and journey times. It will also give the cost and journey times for other modes of transport (bus, local taxi, Uber, etc.).

Passes are available and can be added/charged to Nol Cards. They allow unlimited travel on the Metro, buses, Dubai Tram, etc. Passes offer cheaper fares for frequent travellers.

Prices for passes are shown in the table below:

As an example, holders of a Silver Card can add a 7-day all-zone pass for 110 AED (£ 23.95 , € 27.92 , $ 29.95 ).

Holders of Silver Cards can add an all-zone monthly pass (30-day) at a cost of 350 AED (£ 76.2 , € 88.83 , $ 95.29 ).

Resident students and seniors enjoy a 50 percent discount on the cost of travel passes.

Anonymous Silver Card and Gold Card users can only add a 7-day pass. To add 30-day (monthly), 90-day, or 1-year passes, users need to register their cards.

Red Ticket holders can add a standard 1 day pass for 20 AED (£ 4.35 , € 5.08 , $ 5.45 ). The cost of a 1-day pass for travel in Gold Class carriages is 40 AED (£ 8.71 , € 10.15 , $ 10.89 ). The 1-day ticket allows holders to travel in all zones by any method of transport. More 1 day passes can be added if and when required.

Best Nol Card for Tourists

Most tourists that plan to get around the city using public transport, will find that the Nol Silver Card suits their needs.

They can add a 7-day pass to the card without having to register the card. Further 7-day passes can be added for longer stays.

Tourists anticipating infrequent use of public transport should purchase a Red Ticket and add funds as required.

Nol Cards – Other Uses – Taxis, Parking, Shopping, etc

Nol Cards were introduced to pay for public transport (Dubai Metro, buses, etc.).

Since being launched their use has expanded. Holders can now use the Nol Card system to pay for a variety of services and goods including:

• Shopping – Stores accepting Nol Cards include Circle K (convenience store) and Carrefour.
• Restaurants – Nol Cards can be used to buy food and drink at outlets such as Burger King and Gloria Jean’s Coffees.
• Parking – The latest parking meters allow drivers to pay for their parking without obtaining a paper ticket. Drivers simply enter their number plate on the touchscreen of the parking meter and pay using a Nol Card (or coins)
• Public Parks – The small fee to enter public parks can now only be paid by Nol Card. Public parks where entry fees apply include  Zabeel Park ,  Al Mamzar Beach Park ,  Dubai Creek Park , and  Mushrif Park .

Nol Cards only work in Dubai. They are not accepted as a form of payment in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any of the other emirates.

Comments and Additional Information

I am interested, didn’t even know you can travel in Dubai but it’s cool, if I wanted to go this place, besides a passport, what else would I need? I’m from America.

I travel everyday on work from sharjah to dubai and back. Can I use the unlimited monthly pass on Dubai sharjah bus?

I want renew my NOL card which last renewed in Feb 20. Please advise I can renew online the same

I have silver nol card, if I will take 1 zone monthly pass. Is it possible to travel once in a month to other zone.

I am regular commuter from Union Metro station to Oud Metha metro , or Baniyas metro station to Oud metha. Is there any discounts package available?

We will be in Dubai from 3/3-3/7 and most of what we will be seeing is along the Red Line. Is that all one zone? We have no need for a five day pass. So I assume single ticket? Can I put a load on it such as 50 AED?

I need to travel daily from Al Ghubaiba bus station to Al Quoz Industrial Area 4. How much for a monthly card?

I want to know the rate for monthly unlimited pass for a resident visa holder.

I am holding a silver nol card. Does it have an unlimited pass option for bus and train for 1 month?

Can I use a silver card for two persons?

My son (21 years old) and I will be travelling to Dubai for 7 days. We are tourists. I presume Silver Card would be convenient. 1. Can I purchase the Silver Card from the Airport? 2. Since we will be using this card most of the time on the metro, bus and monorail, how much top up should we have? Just an estimate. 3. Can we get a refund on the unused amount in the Silver Card? Possible to get at the Airport Metro? Thanks.

How can I travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by train and how much does it cost. It is cheaper to book online or when you are in Dubai?

I am a resident using metro and bus. I have to take two buses to reach my room from work and same to go for work. Which pass is suitable for me and how much does it cost?

We are five friends are travelling to Dubai for holidays. So which card should we buy and what would be the price?

You can buy the tickets from each station as you travel.

Go for silver card (one for each). 25 aed (6 aed card price – 19 aed balance), and the details for charges between different zones you can see above.

How do I get from the Dubai airport to the Burj Khalifa.

From Terminal 3 take the Red Line and exit at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station.

Burj Khalifa is on the Red Line.

Silver card is enough. The cost is depends on how many zones you are crossing, not how many buses you take.

I want to use this card from abudabi to dubai bus. And in dubai that day to the visiting house and next day to airport for twice in total. Then which card should I buy?

Take silver nol card to travel inside Dubai. From Abu Dhabi to Dubai you have to pay by cash.

Is there any discount for everyday commuters?

Yes, you can take the monthly pass, and there are 3 types of pass available. if you are travelling between only one zone then the pass cost will be 140 AED. A two zone pass is 240 AED. A three zone of more pass is 340 AED..

Yes. You can buy 1 year, 30 days or 7 days unlimited travel pass for all zones or some of the zones.

For tourists, Gold Class travel in metro train is advisable as regular class is most often too congested.

At the time of writing, Gold class unlimited pass for 7 days for all zones costs around AED 400 (around US$ 110) and it covers metro train, bus and tram.

I’ll be visiting Dubai for a month with a friend. Which would be the best card to move between Ajman and Dubai?

Red card is valid for 90 days. Or you can get the silver card (AED 25 extra) if you plan to visit again within 5 years. Get a gold card if you want to use the gold class.

You can’t use nol card to travel between different emirates.

Take a bus from Al Mussallah Bus Station in Ajman to Al Rashidya Bus Station in Dubai (and back). One-way ticket costs around 12 to 15 dirhams (around US$4).

Sliver card is affordable for tourists or residents.

What do T1, T2 and T3 mean?

Terminals at the airport

Please refer RTA MAP

Dubai Transport is Devided in 7 Zones. T1: Travelling in One Zone Only T2: Travelling in 2 Only. T3: Includes more than 2 Zones

Dubai Airport terminal 1, 2 and 3

T1 – Single trip starts and ends in same zone T2 – Single trip starts in one zone and ends in adjacent zone T3 – Single trip through more than two zones

I want 1 day pass for all zone how much is cost

Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. Explanation added to text.

Hello, I will be in Dubai overnight (from 10pm to 8am next day). Is the 1 day ticket for 24 hours or for a calendar day?

Only until midnight. 🙁

its valid for the following day till midnight 12.00 a.m.

I’m a foreign student coming to Dubai for my educational program which is of 2 years. Which card or pass will be best suitable for me?

The Silver card Or the Gold card if you want to travel in STYLE

Silver nol card is ok for you.

depends on how often you use the public transport within Dubai. If you travel on daily basis then get a (money saver) 3 month pass (if your semester is going to take more then 3 months to finish), or go for monthly passes if you travel more then 20day a month (and if you semester break is less than 3 months far from now)

The Blue nol card standard class

The blue nol card would be best.

Ask the station master. He will advise you.

I suggest you go for the Silver Nol Card.

It depends where you are going and where you are living. You can take Dubai Tram or Dubai Metro.

We are staying in Dubai for 5 nights travelling 2 people. please suggest the best card for transportation in Dubai. thank you 🙂

Don’t be lazy, see list above!

Don’t be lazy. Give a proper answer!!!

Nol is the best card for transportation.

Silver will be better.

If you are staying only for 5 days, I think buying a daily metro ticket would be the best and cheapest.

Thank you for the article. It was very informative.

Just a quick query. I recently got a job in Dubai Investment Park. However, I will be staying quite far away from my work place. Since I would be using the metro & bus regularly, would it be beneficial for me to get a 30 day pass? And on which type of card would it be better? Silver or Blue? Thanks again in advance! Cheers!

Get the Silver card. You can go for Gold card if you want premium seats at the front of the metro. But the fare of the gold card is double that of silver cards.

Do the day passes have to be consecutive? We will be in Dubai before and after a cruise and would like to use the metro before and after.

You can buy a consecutive one.

Can you buy family travel passes in Dubai? How does that cost? If children go free, what is the maximum age? Or is there any discount price for children?

Children below 1 metre can ride for free

5 and under are free. Otherwise you must pay full fare.

The maximum age for free metro in Dubai is 5 years and under.

can i buy a metro card online before i get to dubai

yes, visit, nol.ae

No you can’t. But when you get out of the airport there is a metro station where you can buy at the counter.

HI There, we going Dubai this month for 5 days with kids and 1 person is 65, we would like to travel my metro, could you please advice which is best line we need to use and the tickets price.

Gold metro daily ticket.

Hello! I will soon visit Dubai for 10 days (9 nights) with my husband. Can you please advise me which card is suitable for us to roam from places to places until night and the total cost for 2 adults.

I am not understanding the difference between daily passes and cards. Are the costs different? Do the cards allow us to use bus or do we need to pay additional fees?

Thanking you in advance Shakeela

Get the silver card. As your stay is long, daily tickets are of no use to you. Silver card gets you 10% discount from the normal fare of daily cards. Yes you can use the cards on bus.

We will be in Dubai for 2 days. We will use the metro from the International Airport. we are arriving at 11 pm. What is the operating hour for the metro What card will i need if i were to travel from airport to Al Ras station and also to Dubai mall the next day. We are a family of 4 so do we need 4 cards?

Going to be in Dubai for 13 hours. Looking to go from the airport to downtown Dubai. Is the red card, with a daily pass, a good bet? Thanks

How do you change metro lines? Do you go out of the metro station?

No, you get out of the train and take another train.

My wife and I, would like to visit Dubai for 7 days. We would like to use all public transportations (tram, metro and buses). What card we should buy and where can we buy it?

Regards and thanks

Me and my husband will be staying in Dubai for 8 days. What pass do we buy?

Hello! We are staying in Dubai for 4 days. Can we buy mutliple red cards and refill it every day? Can we chose to get 1 gold card and fill it for 7 days?

Planning to visit Dubai in June for 11 days. Travelling with my family, 2 daughters aged 10 & 5. Questions: Is there a big difference between Gold and Standard Class? Is there discount for children travelling?

Hi, everyday I used to travel from Emirates Metro Station to UAE Exchange Metro Station back to back. Metro train is my daily transportation to office. Is there anything you can advise me to do to have a discount or to save more? I’m an expat holding residence visa.

Is a day pass good for 24 hours or a calendar day?

Found the silver card very handy and easy to use. Cheaper than individual fares, cost us five for journey which cost non card holder ten. Very similar to using the Dublin Leap card.

I am coming to Dubai for one day only and making the following 4 trips: 1) Airport to Dubai Media City 2) Dubai Media City to Dierah City Center 3) Dierah City Center to Dubai Mall 4) Dubai Mall to Airport

What is the cheapest ticket I can buy. And up to what time the metro operates. Thanks.

In my opinion, it is just easiest to pay for each trip using the Silver Nol card. The red cards and day passes are confusing and not a good deal.

The first time you ride the metro, buy a Silver card from the manned kiosk near the entry turnstyles. It costs only 25AED and comes with 19AED value on the card. When the card has less than 8AED, simply top it up with another 10-15AED at the same manned kiosk, or the top up machines at the station.

Messing around with single trip tickets and day passes are overly complicated to me.

Before leaving Dubai, simply give your card as a gift to a hotel worker or taxi driver that was nice to you. They will appriciate the gesture, I’m sure.

Very helpful, thank you!

Thanks Harry.

Good job Harry

Thanks for this very useful information.

We are going to Dubai for holidays and we need to travel a lot between Dubai and Sharjah. Can the Dubai metro passes be used for buses in Sharjah ? If not, is there any other pass that covers the public transport in both the Emirates ?

Nearest metro from Sharjah is Al Quasis metro station green line. You would then have to switch lines after a few stops to the red line to continue to Damac which is Dubai Marina

Minimum fare from one station to very next station is AED 3 for silver card holders for both red and green lines?

We’re traveling in a group of two people. Can one silver card be used by two people at the same time of do we need to purchase two cards?

It is one card per person. There is no option to swipe twice for two people.

Hi, If I buy red ticket and load it with 7 days passes, would it allow me to have unlimited rides for 7 days or not?

I have limited mobility and can’t do stairs. Is the Metro easily accessible for those with limited mobility?

All Metro stations are equipped with lifts and escalators for access.

Use public transport it’s cheap safe metro can get a bit crowded but that’s part of the fun sometimes

Can I buy cards online?

Nol card is issued by RTA and this cannot be purchased online. Just dont buy red card as it is only valid for 90 days.

Good information and useful

Does one need 2 cards for travel on the red line and green line or 1 card is enough to travel both lines?

You only need one card.

We are two seniors (ages 72 and 74) travelling to Dubai for five days in February. We are looking for a pass that covers trains, trams and buses (including water buses).

NOL Card works on Trains, Trams and Buses. You shall have to check for water buses..

Hi. I’m going to visit Dubai this month for the job hunt. That means I will need to travel a lot. I’m coming for 30 days. Which card will be suitable for me? Thanks in advance.

You can get a Silver card (no ID required) and load it with a 30 day pass. The new fares came out late last year. I presume you will want a pass that covers all zones. This will cost 350 AED.

You don t need that much. 100-150 aed might be well enough, depending on how much you travel. Sometimes 1 to 3 rudes enough cause day ends up pretty fast before you finish visiting one area. Take it easy. If you need more you can top up at the metro station,

30 days pass available for person having Resident Visa Only. On Tourist Visa One month pass not given

We’re in Sharjah and Dubai on holiday for seventeen days. Is there any card which is valid for public transport to visit exciting places like Dubai Mall etc?

Depends how long you are in Dubai for? If you are in Dubai for a week you could buy a Silver card and charge it up with a 7 day pass for all zones for 110 AED (or two 7 day passes). You could also buy a red ticket(s) for 1 day at 20 AED.

That can be used for any form of public transportation.

We at staying in Dubai for 5 days. Is there a ticket that will cover all public transport for the 5 days or do we need to get a ticket for each trip?

You could buy a Red Ticket and load it with 5 daily passes. The Red Ticket costs 2 AED for the ticket itself. A daily pass costs 20 AED. So the total cost would be 102 AED.

The ticket would be valid for the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, and buses.

If you want to travel Gold Class on the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram the daily pass costs 40 AED per day.

Is it loading the Red ticket to 20 aed the only option? Can’t we load a lesser amount like 10 aed, if we are gonna travel only once to n fro.

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What is cloud seeding and did it cause record rainfall in Dubai?

Huge downpours which caused widespread disruption in the United Arab Emirates city have been attributed to a process that encourages rainfall - here we take a look at what the experts have said.

Wednesday 17 April 2024 21:37, UK

A record amount of rainfall was said to have caused "absolute carnage" in Dubai on Tuesday - with schools closed, flights suspended and people working from home.

More than 14cm (5.6 inches) of rain soaked the United Arab Emirates (UAE) city on Tuesday - the heaviest rainfall there since records began in 1949, the state-run WAM news agency said.

As people in Dubai continue to face disruption due to the downpours, some have suggested the rain could have been caused by a practice carried out by humans known as "cloud seeding".

Here we take a look at what the process involves and whether it was responsible for Dubai's wet Tuesday.

What is cloud seeding?

The practice is a type of weather modification process whereby small planes fly through clouds burning salt flares which can increase precipitation to help make it rain.

The UAE, located in one of the hottest and driest regions on Earth, has been leading the effort to seed clouds and increase precipitation.

Did cloud seeding cause the storm?

Following the downpour , several reports quoted meteorologists at the National Centre for Meteorology, the UAE's meteorology agency, as saying they flew six or seven cloud seeding flights before the rain.

Flight-tracking data showed that one aircraft linked to the UAE's cloud seeding efforts flew around the country on Sunday.

However, the meteorology agency told Reuters news agency there were no such operations before the storm.

It comes as a number of experts have also said it is unlikely the downpours would have been caused by cloud seeding.

What have the experts said?

Sky News weather producer Chris England said he doubted cloud seeding contributed to the downpour, as the evidence of the practice working is "pretty slim at best".

He added: "Some studies have indicated climate change will bring an increase in rainfall to the area."

Friederike Otto, a senior lecturer in climate science at Imperial College London, also said it was misleading to talk about cloud seeding as the cause of the rainfall.

"Cloud seeding can't create clouds from nothing. It encourages water that is already in the sky to condense faster and drop water in certain places. So first, you need moisture," she said.

"Without it, there'd be no clouds."

Update: TOWIE stars stranded by floods forced to hitchhike

Dr Otto added that rainfall was becoming much heavier around the world as the climate warms because a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture.

Professor John Marsham, Met Office joint chair at the University of Leeds, said speculation around cloud seeding is a "distraction from the real story here".

"We know that man-made climate increases extreme rainfall - this is well understood physics as warm air holds more water.

"A rainfall event such as the one that caused the Dubai floods, which covered a large area and where over Dubai a year's worth of rain fell in one day, cannot happen without large-scale weather conditions driving enormous convergence of water vapour in the atmosphere and so extreme rainfall.

"Any possible effect of any cloud seeding in these circumstances would be tiny."

Professor Maarten Ambaum, a meteorologist at the University of Reading who has studied rainfall patterns in the Gulf region, said: "The UAE does have an operational cloud seeding programme to enhance the rainfall in this arid part of the world, however, there is no technology in existence that can create or even severely modify this kind of rainfall event."

Read more from Sky News What missiles could Israel use in an attack? Shannon Matthews' kidnapper dies Scotland set to scrap key climate targets

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If it wasn't cloud seeding - what did cause the storm?

Prof Ambaum said the UAE is characterised by long periods without rain and then "irregular, heavy rainfall".

He added: "These storms appear to be the result of a mesoscale convective system - a series of medium-sized thunderstorms caused by massive thunderclouds, formed as heat draws moisture up into the atmosphere. These can create large amounts of rain, and when they occur over a wide area and one after another, can lead to seriously heavy downpours. They can rapidly lead to surface water floods, as we have seen in places such as Dubai airport."

Meanwhile, climate scientists say that rising global temperatures, caused by human-led climate change, are leading to more extreme weather events around the world, including intense rainfall.

Esraa Alnaqbi, a senior forecaster at the UAE's National Centre of Meteorology, has said climate change likely contributed to the storm.

She said the Dubai downpour came after a low pressure system in the upper atmosphere and low pressure at the surface acted like a pressure "squeeze" on the air.

That squeeze, intensified by the contrast between warmer temperatures at ground level and colder temperatures higher up, created the conditions for the powerful thunderstorm, she said.

Related Topics

• climate change

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong