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

by Trip.com

February 21, 2023

Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) known for its luxurious lifestyle, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife🥰. It is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Dubai is home to many world-famous landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building👀, the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree🌴, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world😍. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as desert safaris, theme parks, and water sports.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

The cost for a vacation to Dubai varies depending on several factors, such as the time of year, accommodation, activities, and dining choices. Generally, Dubai is known to be a luxurious destination, and prices for hotels and restaurants tend to be higher compared to other tourist destinations. However, there are still affordable options available, such as budget hotels and street food. A week-long vacation in Dubai can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on your preferences and travel style.

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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.

Cheap Flights to Dubai

Flights from LA to Dubai

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Flights from New York to Dubai

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

Atlantis, The Palm

The cost for hotels when traveling to Dubai can vary widely depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. Dubai is known for its luxurious hotels, but there are also more budget-friendly options available.

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

5 star

Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai

9.1/10Great182 Reviews

World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|0.73km from city center

Had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful throughout our visit, making us feel truly welcomed. The location was convenient, and the overall atmosphere was relaxing and enjoyable. Great service, excellent hospitality, and delicious food as well. Would definitely recommend this hotel and look forward to staying here again!😊

FromUS$49

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences

9/10Great286 Reviews

Business Bay Dubai|3.12km from city center

Excellent service all around, from the front desk to the restaurant and guest rooms. A special shout-out to Lily at the front desk for being so warm and attentive. I stayed for two nights, and the night view from the room's balcony was absolutely stunning. Getting around by taxi was also very convenient. Highly recommended!

FromUS$107

Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City

8.7/10Very Good299 Reviews

Business Bay Dubai|2.75km from city center

My one-night stay at the Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City was an absolute delight, perfectly combining luxury, convenience, and world-class entertainment that made it feel like a mini-vacation in Dubai. The hotel's location in Al Habtoor City is fantastic—right on the Dubai Water Canal with stunning skyline views. The exterior is impressive, especially at sunset, and the modern lobby welcomes you with elegance and efficiency. The absolute standout was attending La Perle by Dragone—Dubai's must-see aquatic acrobatic show, conveniently located right in the Al Habtoor City complex (just a short walk from the hotel!). The custom-built theatre is incredible, and the performance blew me away with jaw-dropping dives, aerial stunts, motorcycles, and mesmerizing water effects. It's a perfect blend of artistry, athleticism, and theater—truly unforgettable!

FromUS$73

Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai

9.2/10Great142 Reviews

Bur Dubai Dubai|5.23km from city center

We had a pleasant stay at Movenpick Hotel. The staff are courteous, polite and very helpful. Specially i must mention Hussain, Rahul and Vinayak. They were very accommodating and helpful. The location is in Bur Dubai, which is quite close to all main attractions. However you will have to use a taxi to get everywhere. Closest Metro is probably around 1.5km away. But taxi is easy to get. They have complimentary Chocolate Hour every day 4-5 pm. All in all very pleased with my stay. Will come again.

FromUS$35

Fairmont Dubai

9.1/10Great203 Reviews

Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|2.76km from city center

Check in was smooth and was attended by Rash. She was courteous and helpful in getting the room. Was given a room on a higher floor facing partial Dubai frame. The soap etc is very poor quality and bed sheets not white, something not expected of such hotel. Bikash at concierge was rude and I feel need training on customer relations. Gave him the card and instead of handing back, he just placed on the table. Valet parking was also slow and disorganised. Imagine waiting 30 mins just for them to pick up the car. I don't see this in Sofitel Downtown or the JW Marriot. Location is ok but there are definitely other better hotels around the area. Other facilities such as steam room and pool area are quite old.

FromUS$87

Swimming pool

The S Hotel Al Barsha

8.3/10Very Good441 Reviews

Al Barsha Dubai|15.22km from city center

Nice hotel with many amenities. Supermarket is open for 24h and within 5min walk as well as the bus stop is near the supermarket. Just the location is 20 miles off downtown and need to take taxi to get close to Dubai center area. Nice price with all the good sides. Would recommend.

FromUS$28

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Dubai Deira

7.9/10Good360 Reviews

Deira Dubai|9.45km from city center

Good Location, price is relatively more compare to the amenities offered. The hotel was packed with groups of guest and the breakfast room was crowded and noisy. Most breakfast items were suitable for South Indian guests. The management may consider bringing variations in the breakfast for the other international guest. Overall stay was Okay!

FromUS$23

Montreal Barsha Hotel

6.4/10109 Reviews

Al Barsha Dubai|12.62km from city center

Well even though we are not come to the room.that we book..tje place is nice and good.

FromUS$26

Signature 1 Hotel Tecom

8.6/10Very Good492 Reviews

Barsha Heights Dubai|15.47km from city center

I had a comfortable stay at Signature 1 Hotel in Barsha Heights. The rooms were modern, clean, and well-equipped, with a cozy atmosphere that made it easy to relax after a long day. The staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to assist with any request. The location is convenient, with easy access to public transport, nearby restaurants, and Dubai’s main attractions. The hotel also offers good value for money considering the quality of service and amenities. A special thanks to the receptionists, MrArpan and Mr Mohamed, for making my check-out experience smooth and pleasant. They were professional, efficient, and friendly, leaving a great final impression of the hotel.

FromUS$30

Emirates Grand Hotel

5.6/10405 Reviews

Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|0.78km from city center

We had an excellent experience on the Dubai desert safari. The tour was well organized, and everything was on time from pickup to drop-off. Our guide was professional, friendly, and very knowledgeable, making the dune bashing both exciting and safe. The desert views were beautiful, and the activities like sandboarding and the camp experience were enjoyable. Overall, it was a memorable trip and great value for money. Highly recommended.

FromUS$62

Family friendly

Hyatt Regency Dubai

8.7/10Very Good387 Reviews

Deira Dubai|8.9km from city center

Honestly, the hotel is a bit old, but it's well-maintained. After all, it's not a super luxurious hotel, so I'm not going to be overly picky about the facilities. It has everything a five-star hotel should have; even in an Arab country, the minibar offers Tennessee whiskey 🥃, which is a big plus. The hotel is very close to the metro station, making transportation convenient. The biggest highlight is the breakfast, which features a unique and ever-changing array of Indian 🇮🇳 dishes – definitely worth trying. However, if you have a 'Chinese stomach,' be warned: it's fine for a day or two, but by the third day, it might be hard to stomach.

FromUS$40

Gevora Hotel

8.6/10Very Good298 Reviews

World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|1.05km from city center

Stayed here recently for a short staycation and overall had a pleasant experience, particularly considering the very reasonable rate we paid for a suite. The hotel itself is certainly impressive visually, with its distinctive golden tower design and famous status as one of Dubai’s landmark hotels. Check-in and valet parking were efficient, the elevators were surprisingly quick for such a tall building, and the room itself was clean and well maintained. We also ordered room service during our stay and found the food tasty, reasonably priced, and delivered promptly. One thing I did not realise when booking is that this is a dry hotel, so alcohol is not served anywhere on the property. That was my oversight rather than the hotel’s, but it may be useful information for future guests to know in advance. Our suite was spacious and more apartment-style in layout, with a separate bedroom and kitchen area. However, the overall setup felt quite minimalist in terms of amenities and furnishings. Although the suite includes a kitchen, there are notices advising guests not to use it, and aside from two drinking glasses there were no utensils, crockery, or cutlery provided. Similarly, amenities throughout the room felt limited to the basics: two guests but only two bath towels, two rolls of toilet paper across two bathrooms, and minimal additional furnishings such as sofa cushions or dining seating around the kitchen counter area. The room itself was comfortable enough, although there were a few practical details that impacted sleep quality for us. The illuminated touch-panel light controls remain quite bright overnight, and once your eyes adjust the room never becomes fully dark. There was also overnight construction noise nearby during our stay, although of course that may be temporary and outside the hotel’s control. Guests sensitive to light or noise may wish to keep this in mind. Another thing worth noting is that many rooms appear to face sideways toward neighbouring towers rather than directly toward Sheikh Zayed Road or the coastline, so lower-floor rooms may have fairly limited views depending on their orientation. Overall, I would say the stay represented fair value for the price we paid. While it may not feel especially luxurious or fully equipped compared with some other Dubai four-star properties, it was clean, efficient, and suitable for a short stay, particularly for guests looking for a well-located and affordable suite-style hotel experience.

FromUS$42

Grand Hyatt Dubai

9/10Great158 Reviews

Bur Dubai Dubai|6.3km from city center

yes I had so good experience with Grand Hyatt Dubai besides my above good ratings, The food mainly the breakfast along with all the service staff are remarkable and mainly these persons Chef Raafat, Miss Claris, Tarek, Lissa and all all breakfast staff were great and serving us and all with always open smiling faces Wish them all the best I have a small note that long time before the breakfast even it is paid with the reservation, the staff usually present a breakfast bill in a folder to be signed by us the customers and usually this step is good to have some tipping to these great service people ,,, and these days all hotels they cancell presenting the breakfast bill similarly to the in room dining to get the opportunity to payback for breakfast staff serving and smiling

FromUS$117

Sofitel Dubai the Obelisk

9.1/10Great270 Reviews

Bur Dubai Dubai|5.63km from city center

This hotel boasts an excellent location, very close to the metro station, making transportation incredibly convenient. Right next door, there's a shopping mall and a Carrefour supermarket, which was absolutely perfect for our last-minute shopping spree before heading back home. The room itself was incredibly spacious. We stayed on the 30-something floor, offering expansive views and a spectacular cityscape. The bathtub was huge, making for a wonderfully relaxing soak, and the bedding was also superb, ensuring a very sound sleep. The TV was actually the largest we saw during our entire trip to the UAE. As a honeymoon couple, the hotel thoughtfully prepared a chocolate cake for us, which tasted fantastic. The most delightful surprise was the hotel's outdoor swimming pool on the sixth floor. It's really large, divided into two sections: 1.2 meters and 1.5 meters deep. There were plenty of loungers by the pool and even a bar. We went twice in total; the first time we stayed for three hours, and the second time we indulged for a full six hours. Just lying there, reading a book, browsing on our phones, occasionally taking a dip, and then coming back to relax some more – it was truly delightful. When we got hungry, we'd order pizza, quesadillas, or fries, and the prices were very reasonable. Plus, they had a happy hour from 4 PM to 7 PM daily, offering various alcoholic beverages. The only minor inconvenience was that if you ordered takeout, you had to go downstairs to pick it up yourself. Delivery drivers weren't allowed upstairs, and the hotel didn't offer room service for deliveries. All in all, we had a very enjoyable two-day stay here.

FromUS$78

Carlton Downtown Hotel

8.9/10Very Good306 Reviews

World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|0.64km from city center

How wonderful place to stay~~!! It is too much enough for me and I love your team's attitude and nice smile. Abdul thx for your kind help, it as also nice for us. I have a mind to visit again and again. I can say only one thing to all. ”Come and experience~~~!”

FromUS$40

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

Al Mahara

Dubai is known for its diverse and multicultural cuisine, with options ranging from traditional Arabic dishes to international cuisine from around the world😍. Here are some examples of typical dishes and their average cost in Dubai:

Dish	Average Cost (in AED)
Shawarma	5-10
Falafel Sandwich	5-10
Hummus with Pita Bread	15-20
Mixed Grill (Shish Taouk, Kebabs, etc)	40-60
Arabic Mezze Platter	30-50
Chicken Machboos (spiced rice dish)	40-60
Fish and Chips	50-70
Burger and Fries	40-60
Sushi Roll	35-60
Pad Thai	40-60
Margherita Pizza	40-60

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

Dubai is a popular destination for shopping, and there are plenty of options for unique souvenirs and gifts🎁. The cost of souvenirs in Dubai can vary widely depending on the item and the location, but here are some examples of popular souvenirs and their average cost:

Souvenir	Average Cost (in AED)
Arabic Coffee Set	50-200
Camel Milk Chocolate	20-40
Dates	10-50
Perfume	50-500
Traditional Arabic Clothing	100-500
Arabic Calligraphy Artwork	100-500
Gold Jewelry	500-5000+
Spices	10-50
Hookah	100-500
Handmade Carpets and Rugs	500-5000+

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

Dubai has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are some examples of transportation options in Dubai:

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

Dubai is a city known for its modern architecture, luxurious shopping malls, and diverse cultural attractions😍. Here are 8 popular attractions and activities to check out when traveling to 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.

Burj Khalifa Tower Ticket

Legoland Dubai Ticket

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

Staying connected and communicating while traveling to Dubai is important for many travelers. Here are some key points to keep in mind📞:

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.

United Arab Emirates eSIM Day Pass

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?

Here is information on the cost of travel insurance when traveling 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:

Information	Details
Cost	$50 to $200 USD per person
Coverage	Medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, emergency medical evacuation, baggage loss or delay, and more
Providers	Allianz Global Assistance, World Nomads, Travel Guard, and more

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

Here is an estimate of the cost for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Dubai, broken down into different categories:

Category	Estimated Cost
Flights	$600 to $1,200 USD per person
Accommodation	$200 to $500 USD per person
Transportation	$30 to $50 USD per person
Food and drinks	$80 to $150 USD per person
Sightseeing and activities	$100 to $300 USD per person
Travel insurance	$50 to $200 USD per person
Souvenirs and miscellaneous expenses	$50 to $100 USD per person
Total	$1,110 to $2,500 USD per person

**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.

Dubai Itinerary for 3 Days

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

The cost of traveling to Dubai will depend on various factors such as the type of traveler (family, couples, or single), the duration of the trip, the time of year, and personal preferences. Here are some general estimates:

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.

Go City: Dubai Explorer Pass

Methods to save money when travelling to Dubai

Here are some tips on how to save money during a Dubai vacation💲. By following these tips, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Dubai without compromising on your travel experience:

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

Here are some tips for traveling 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.

FAQ

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.

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