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

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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

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.

Flight Costs to Dubai from Major US Cities

Jumeirah Beach Park

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.

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

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

9.2/10Great196 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.
FromBRL 270
9.4/10Amazing2551 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.
FromBRL 632
9/10Great295 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!
FromBRL 697
8.6/10Very Good291 Reviews
Business Bay Dubai|2.75km from city center
I had a wonderful experience at this hotel. A special mention to the lady at the front desk vanessa who assisted me during check-in and check-out. she was welcoming, patient, and very professional. Explained to me what are the events as i was here for new year. Asked me if i wanted to avail discounted things for the new year. Her friendliness made the stay even more pleasant. Excellent service! Room were clean and spacious as well. Your room are always maked up and the bed is really comfortable. This is my second time here and will always choose to stay here coz of the wonderful service.
FromBRL 414
9.1/10Great143 Reviews
Bur Dubai Dubai|5.23km from city center
This hotel not far from Al Nasr sport hall. 10 minutes walk. We had competition there. That’s why we chose this location. Airport Dubai also not so far. Hotel is old, many rooms have smell. First we got room with broken AC, it was like sauna. Good that they gave us another room, we had choice between 3 rooms(only one of them was without bad smell). Bed was very comfortable. I especially liked the down pillows and blankets There was a lot of Indian food at breakfast. We stayed 5 nights and 2 times we had indigestion, after we stopped eating this food, we ate only tea with cake. In general it wasn’t so bad and staff was friendly and helpful but I don’t think that I will come back to this hotel.
FromBRL 187

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Swimming pool

8.3/10Very Good417 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.
FromBRL 143
8/10Very Good360 Reviews
Deira Dubai|9.45km from city center
The best thing about this hotel is its proximity to the metro station, just 200 meters away, making travel incredibly convenient. You can easily get to places like the Dubai Mall, Gold Souk, and Dubai International Airport from here. However, the facilities are quite old, but that's acceptable to me.
FromBRL 192
6.4/10108 Reviews
Al Barsha Dubai|12.62km from city center
It was a great stay. Hotel is clean, and quiet. It is at 20min walk from Mall of the Emirates. Lots of food options available In the vicinity.  For Muslim travelers the Mosque is right behind the Hotel. Staff was friendly.  Checkout time is 12 noon so you have ample time to checkout .
FromBRL 150
8.6/10Very Good471 Reviews
Barsha Heights Dubai|15.47km from city center
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff were extremely friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help with anything we needed. The service was excellent from check-in to check-out, making the whole experience smooth and pleasant. The location was convenient, and the facilities were top-notch. Overall, it was a very enjoyable stay, and I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for comfort and great hospitality.
FromBRL 187
5.7/10393 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.
FromBRL 274

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Family friendly

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.
FromBRL 479
8.8/10Very Good403 Reviews
Deira Dubai|8.9km from city center
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Excellent Stay at Hyatt Regency Dubai** I stayed at the **Hyatt Regency Dubai** in a King Room from **June 17–18, 2026**, and had a wonderful experience. The room was spacious, clean, and very comfortable, with a large bed and all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay. The hotel staff were professional, friendly, and always ready to assist. Check-in and check-out were smooth and efficient. The location is convenient, providing easy access to major attractions, shopping areas, and transportation. The facilities were well-maintained, and the overall atmosphere of the hotel was welcoming and luxurious. I highly recommend this hotel for both business and leisure travelers and would be happy to stay here again in the future.
FromBRL 182
8.7/10Very Good303 Reviews
World Trade Centre DIFC Dubai|1.05km from city center
A Truly Exceptional Stay at Gevora Hotel! I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Gevora Hotel, and I cannot recommend it highly enough! From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the cleanliness of the hotel. It was evident that the staff takes great pride in maintaining a pristine environment for their guests. The service at Gevora Hotel was outstanding. The staff members were friendly, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure my stay was comfortable. Whether it was providing local recommendations or promptly addressing any requests, their commitment to excellent service truly stood out. One of the highlights of my stay was the breathtaking view from my room. The panoramic vistas of the city skyline and surrounding landscape were simply stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset.  Overall, my experience at Gevora Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. If you're looking for a clean, welcoming hotel with fantastic service and incredible views, look no further. I can't wait to return for another visit!
FromBRL 219
8/10Very Good736 Reviews
Barsha Heights Dubai|15.16km from city center
① Location: The hotel is right by the metro exit, making it easy to find. (There are two exits on one side; one leads to the second floor, requiring a short walk, while the other opens directly onto the hotel's side entrance on the ground floor.) There's a free government-run bus service outside the hotel to Yas Island/Louvre, which you can board with a ticket. Currently, it runs once a day. ② Room facilities: Quite old, feels like it hasn't been well-maintained since it was built a long time ago. There are many guests, usually families, and the elevators are insufficient. You often have to wait a long time (there are elevators on two sides, and the one for long-term guests on higher floors can go down). ③ Other: A 500 AED cash deposit is required upon check-in. Before getting your deposit back, you'll need to allow 10 minutes for a room inspection. I recommend taking photos at check-in to document the room's condition. The hotel offers a shuttle bus to attractions, but it needs to be booked a day in advance on a first-come, first-served basis. I originally booked this hotel for its convenient location to catch the free bus to Abu Dhabi, but it's really quite dated. If you're considering it for the same reason, I'd suggest looking at other hotels nearby, as there are plenty of options within walking distance.
FromBRL 207
9.3/10Great138 Reviews
Dubai Marina Dubai|20.05km from city center
Great hotel, very near the beach. Rooms are clean and very well maintained. Will definitely recommend this hotel to travellers coming to Dubai. I will definitely come back one day.
FromBRL 556

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

Al Mahara

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:
DishAverage Cost (in AED)
Shawarma5-10
Falafel Sandwich5-10
Hummus with Pita Bread15-20
Mixed Grill (Shish Taouk, Kebabs, etc)40-60
Arabic Mezze Platter30-50
Chicken Machboos (spiced rice dish)40-60
Fish and Chips50-70
Burger and Fries40-60
Sushi Roll35-60
Pad Thai40-60
Margherita Pizza40-60

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

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:
SouvenirAverage Cost (in AED)
Arabic Coffee Set50-200
Camel Milk Chocolate20-40
Dates10-50
Perfume50-500
Traditional Arabic Clothing100-500
Arabic Calligraphy Artwork100-500
Gold Jewelry500-5000+
Spices10-50
Hookah100-500
Handmade Carpets and Rugs500-5000+

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 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

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:
  1. Burj Khalifa: AED 149 for general admission to the observation deck.
  2. Dubai Mall: Free admission, prices for activities vary.
  3. Dubai Fountain: Free admission.
  4. Dubai Museum: AED 3 for adults, AED 1 for children.
  5. Palm Jumeirah: Free admission, prices for activities and restaurants vary.
  6. Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 55 for adults, AED 40 for children.
  7. Dubai Creek: Prices for boat rides vary depending on the type of boat and duration.
  8. 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?

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.

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

Burj Khalifa

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:

InformationDetails
Cost$50 to $200 USD per person
CoverageMedical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, emergency medical evacuation, baggage loss or delay, and more
ProvidersAllianz 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:
CategoryEstimated 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.

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.

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:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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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