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

One way
Round-trip

Flights from New York to Dubai

One way
Round-trip

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

9.1/10Great193 Reviews

World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|0.73km from city center

Swissôtel Al Murooj is a beautiful hotel with a stunning backdrop of the Dubai skyline. We enjoyed strolling around the area in the evening. It was peaceful, quiet, and felt very safe. The pool area is one of the highlights of the hotel. It’s clean, beautifully designed with waterfalls, and incredibly Instagram-worthy. A tip for anyone staying here: if you want an amazing top-view photo of the pool, take it from the elevator window. The view is absolutely stunning! The staff were generally helpful, especially Yaseer, Elsayed, Sandeep and the lady at the breakfast reception. I’d like to give special recognition to Yaseer, who consistently greeted every guest with genuine warmth and kindness. His excellent hospitality really stood out and made our stay even more enjoyable. While most of the staff were pleasant, a few could be a bit more welcoming with a smile, as small gestures like that can make guests feel even more at home. Our room was very spacious, comfortable, and filled with beautiful natural sunlight in the morning, making it a wonderful place to relax. Overall, we had a great stay and would happily recommend Swissôtel Al Murooj to anyone looking for a comfortable hotel in a peaceful location with excellent facilities and warm hospitality.

FromCAD 70

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

9.4/10Amazing2559 Reviews

Business Bay Dubai|2.51km from city center

Overall, my stay was quite average and didn't really meet my expectations for a JW Marriott (five-star) hotel. I had booked a sea-view room, but upon check-in, I was informed that the building housing the sea-view rooms was temporarily closed, so I couldn't get the room type I had originally booked. The hotel assigned me to another building, stating it offered the best available view. However, the actual view was significantly different from the sea view shown on the booking page. What was particularly disappointing was that there was no prior notification, nor was any compensation or upgrade offered throughout the process. During my stay, I called the front desk to inquire about a late check-out. The first call was disconnected almost immediately after being answered—I'm not sure if it was an accidental hang-up or another reason—and I only managed to communicate successfully after calling a second time. Additionally, I noticed some red marks on my leg, possibly insect bites, during my stay. While I can't definitively link it to the hotel, I'd still recommend that the hotel enhance its pest control measures in the rooms. As for breakfast, the overall quality was decent, but the variety was quite ordinary, and there's definitely room for improvement compared to other five-star hotels of the same caliber. During this Dubai trip, I also stayed at The St. Regis and Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. In comparison, this hotel has room for improvement in terms of service details, overall stay experience, and honoring booked room types. I hope the hotel can further enhance its service quality in the future.

FromCAD 169

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences

9/10Great292 Reviews

Business Bay Dubai|3.12km from city center

Had a great stay at SLS Dubai. The Signature Room with the balcony was fantastic—spacious, modern, and offered an incredible panoramic view of the Dubai skyline. The rooftop pool area is easily one of the best highlights of the property, with an amazing atmosphere and views. Breakfast had a wide variety of delicious options, and the overall cleanliness was top-notch. The only minor downside is that the elevators can get a bit slow during peak hours due to the sheer height of the building, but the staff was efficient and friendly enough to make up for it. Definitely a solid luxury experience!

FromCAD 184

Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City

8.6/10Very Good291 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!

FromCAD 111

Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai

9.1/10Great143 Reviews

Bur Dubai Dubai|5.23km from city center

The rooms were generally good, but it was incredibly noisy, making it completely unsuitable for a business trip. Every night, I could hear loud club music. One night was particularly outrageous; at 11 PM, the banquet hall downstairs was still blasting music for a party that the entire hotel could hear. When I called to complain, they said it was a wedding and would be over in 15 minutes, showing a complete disregard for other guests' comfort. We had two twin rooms booked, but were given king-sized beds instead, and the hotel refused to acknowledge their mistake. Even after we repeatedly expressed our dissatisfaction and showed them our English booking confirmation (for twin rooms), they still insisted we contact our booking agent. We finally compromised and got an extra bed, but by then it was already 2 AM.

FromCAD 45

Swimming pool

The S Hotel Al Barsha

8.3/10Very Good424 Reviews

Al Barsha Dubai|15.22km from city center

I had a great stay at the hotel. The service was really good, especially the shuttle bus staff—they were very accommodating and helpful. The restaurant hall also offered delicious food, and the staff there were friendly and attentive. The pool area was welcoming and relaxing as well. Overall, a pleasant experience and definitely worth recommending.

FromCAD 39

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!

FromCAD 34

Montreal Barsha Hotel

6.4/10108 Reviews

Al Barsha Dubai|12.62km from city center

We had a wonderful time here and were very comfortable with the bed. Although one staff member at the reception was a bit grumpy, overall our stay was pleasant and nice.

FromCAD 38

Signature 1 Hotel Tecom

8.6/10Very Good477 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.

FromCAD 51

Emirates Grand Hotel

5.7/10395 Reviews

Sheikh Zayed / DIFC Dubai|0.78km from city center

🎉 This hotel was really easy to find, you could see it right from the metro station exit! ✅ The location is super convenient, right at the Financial Centre Metro Station entrance. 😎 There's a handy supermarket downstairs with a great selection of products. 😄 And the Burj Khalifa is right outside the window – the night view is absolutely stunning! 😘😘😘

FromCAD 73

Family friendly

Fairmont Dubai

9.1/10Great201 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.

FromCAD 128

Hyatt Regency Dubai

8.9/10Very Good399 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.

FromCAD 49

Gevora Hotel

8.7/10Very Good302 Reviews

World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|1.05km from city center

The Gevora Hotel is a lovely hotel, very well located, close to downtown Dubai and the Museum of the Future. There's also a metro station just a few steps away, making it super convenient for getting around Dubai's attractions. The room we were given on the 27th floor was very spacious and comfortable. Although the views were to one side of the building, given the hotel's height, you could still get great city views. The beds were comfy, the sheets clean, and the pillows were also comfortable. Our room had a kitchen, but in reality, you can only use the fridge as cooking isn't allowed in the apartment. However, it's useful if you want to bring in pre-made food or drinks. The breakfast was comprehensive and varied with different food selections; it just needed a little more fruit, but that's a minor detail. The only annoying thing was the construction noise around the hotel, which barely stops for a few hours in the early morning. But this is a constant issue in most Dubai hotels; there's construction everywhere, and it's hard to escape the noise. Another thing we suggested to the hotel is to renovate the carpets as they looked worn or stained in some places. Everything else was good. The pool and gym area were very nice and offered beautiful city views.

FromCAD 57

Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites And Apartments

8/10Very Good732 Reviews

Barsha Heights Dubai|15.16km from city center

Pros: 1. Located right next to the Internet City metro station, making it incredibly convenient to get to directly from the airport by metro. 2. The suite was very spacious and comfortable. 3. Within walking distance to a supermarket, so daily necessities are not an issue. Cons: 1. The facilities are a bit dated, showing the hotel's age. 2. Being on a high floor means a bit of a wait for the elevator every time.

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Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

9.3/10Great138 Reviews

Dubai Marina Dubai|20.05km from city center

Clean & Modern Perfect location & views (JBR) The dinner buffet was amazing (AOC Brasserie) but service was slow at times. The balcony was small with a partial sea view. Helpful front desk.

FromCAD 143

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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