A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Abu Dhabi vs. Brisbane for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Abu Dhabi and Brisbane can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Abu Dhabi or Brisbane?

Abu Dhabi

It doesn't get more "lifestyles of the rich and famous" than a vacation to Abu Dhabi. The federal capital and center of government for the United Arab Emirates is arguably the most modern city in the world.

Abu Dhabi has a population of 1.5 million and provides a home to several oil companies and embassies, but this place is definitely a playground for the world's fanciest tourists. This city has several large projects underway including Yas Island's Formula 1 track and Ferrari theme park.

Note: homosexuality is still outlawed in the UAE with harsh punishments including deportation, fines, jail time or even a death sentence.

Brisbane

Although Brisbane is often overlooked as a travel destination in Australia, it is the capital of the state of Queensland, and is the third largest city in Australia. It's a very young and vibrant city with an active nightlife and a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It's a modern and economically thriving city and, if you do have time to visit, it actually has a lot to offer travelers. It has some beautiful scenery, a wonderful warm climate all year long, and is actually one of the fastest growing cities in Australia.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Arab Emirates, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Brisbane or Abu Dhabi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Abu Dhabi Prices
    UAE Prices
    Brisbane Prices
    Australia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Abu Dhabi $164
    Brisbane $156

The average daily cost (per person) in Abu Dhabi is $164, while the average daily cost in Brisbane is $156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Abu Dhabi and Brisbane in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Abu Dhabi $98
    Brisbane $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Abu Dhabi $196
    Brisbane $164
Compare Hotels in Abu Dhabi and Brisbane

Looking for a hotel in Abu Dhabi or Brisbane? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Abu Dhabi


Hotels in Brisbane


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Abu Dhabi Hotel Prices and Brisbane Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Abu Dhabi $20
    Brisbane $18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Abu Dhabi

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Abu Dhabi are as follows:


  • Car Rental
    $31
  • Taxi to Airport
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Abu Dhabi

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Abu Dhabi:

  • Private Transfer from Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) to Ras Al Khiamah: $276
  • Private Transfer from Qasr Al Sarab to Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH): $276
  • Private Transfer from Jebel Dhanna Resort to Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH): $276
  • Private Transfer from Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) to Sharjah: $276
  • From 2 Dives for Certified Divers with transfer: $231
  • From Scuba Dive and Snorkeling with BBQ, Transfer: $231
  • Abu Dhabi Helicopter Ride with optional Private Transfers: $222
  • Private Transfer: Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airport DXB in Luxury SUV: $220
  • Private Transfer: Abu Dhabi Airport AUH to Dubai in Luxury Van: $214
  • Full Day Ferrari world Tour with Private Transfers from Dubai: $212
  • Ferrari World with Fast Track Access , Meal Voucher and Transfer: $200
  • Abu Dhabi Airport to Dubai Hotels Transfer: $199

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brisbane

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Brisbane:


  • Airtrain to the City
    $9.93
  • Go Card
    $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brisbane

Also for Brisbane, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Transfer Service from Brisbane Airport: $21
  • Movie World Theme Park from Brisbane Hotel One Way Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Brisbane Port: $33
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Hotels to Brisbane Cruise Port: $33
  • Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Brisbane hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $35
  • Brisbane hotels to Brisbane Airport (BNE) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Brisbane Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Brisbane city: $42
  • Brisbane Airport: Shared Transfer to Gold Coast: $52
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Brisbane Airport to Hotel: $53
  • Brisbane Airport to Sunshine Coast Transfer Service: $55
  • Brisbane Airport to Brisbane Hotels Private Round-Trip Transfer: $71
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Brisbane Airport BNE or Brisbane City: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Abu Dhabi or Brisbane?

Prices for flights to both Brisbane and Abu Dhabi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Abu Dhabi $45
    Brisbane $55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Abu Dhabi

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Abu Dhabi.

  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari BBQ Dinner Live Shows Pick & Drop More: $25
  • Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $38
  • Dubai Marina luxury Dhow Cruise Dinner (catamaran): $43
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari Tour with Shows and BBQ Dinner: $60
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With Live Shows And BBQ Buffet Dinner: $60
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Live Shows: $60
  • Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi With BBQ Dinner: $63
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and all Camp Activities : $72
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari & Dinner Under the Stars: $77
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Shows: $80
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari (Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride & Sand Skii): $80
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari 4x4, BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride: $81

Typical Food Prices in Brisbane

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Brisbane:


  • Hamburger Lunch
    $5.30
  • Cup of Coffee
    $1.99
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    $8.28
  • Ice cream
    $3.64
  • Japanese Meal
    $14
  • Smoothie
    $4.30
  • Japanese Soup
    $7.62
  • Coffee & Muffin
    $4.64
  • Morning Mint Tea
    $2.32
  • Veggie Burger & Chips
    $9.27
  • Bread
    $1.72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brisbane

For Brisbane, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Vertigo Dinner: Dining on the edge!: $131
  • Dinner on the Edge with Vertigo Brisbane: $167
  • Guided Food Tour with Coffee, Seafood and Wine: $590

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Abu Dhabi $39
    Brisbane $24

Tours and Activities in Abu Dhabi

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Abu Dhabi are as follows:

  • Abu Dhabi Tour-Sheik Zayed Mosque, Emirates Palace With Louvre Musuem: $115
  • Admission Ticket To Qasr Al Hosn Abu Dhabi: $20
  • Ferrari World Entrance ticket : $95
  • Full Day Abu Dhabi City & Louvre Museum Tour: $90
  • Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi Ticket: $26
  • Private Full-Day Tour in Abu Dhabi: $279
  • Yas island abu dhabi 1/2/3 park admission tickets : $95
  • 1 Day 2 Yas Island Park Tickets Combo: $130
  • 17 Minutes Helicopter Tour in Abu Dhabi: $245
  • 8 hours Private Tour: Ferrari World and Louvre Museum with Pickup: $270
  • Abu Dhabi 'Hidden Gems' by City Break - walking tours made fun!: $33
  • Abu Dhabi City Tour: $95

Typical Entertainment Prices in Brisbane

For Brisbane, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Concert Tickets
    $13

Tours and Activities in Brisbane

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Brisbane.

  • Trevena Glen Farm Animal Experience: $17
  • Fortitude Valley Historical Crime Walking Tour: $22
  • True Crime Tour: $22
  • Winery Tour and Tasting: $23
  • Haunted Brisbane CBD Ghost Tour: $23
  • Bloody Brisbane CBD Crime Tour - Crime Tours Australia | Jack Sim: $23
  • Solve a Detective Case in a themed adventure: $26
  • Sightseeing River Cruise with Morning Tea: $32
  • Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise on the Brisbane River: $32
  • City Walking Tour 90 minutes: $32
  • Midday River Guided Sightseeing Cruise: $32
  • Brisbane River Cruise 12.30pm: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Abu Dhabi $13
    Brisbane $51

Typical Alcohol Prices in Brisbane

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Brisbane:


  • Evening at the Bar
    $9.93
  • Sixpack of Beer
    $9.27
  • Guiness Beer
    $5.63
  • Sixpack of Beer
    $8.60

Sample the Local Flavors in Brisbane

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Brisbane:

  • XXXX Beer Brewery Tour & Beer Tasting: $24
  • XXXX Brewery Tour: $25
  • Stone & Wood Brewery Tour: $30
  • City Winery Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $50
  • Brewery Tour River Cruise in Brisbane: $66
  • Sirromet Wine Tasting And Blending Workshop For 2: $82
  • Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High Speed Boat Tour in Brisbane : $100
  • Wine tasting tour to Tamborine Mountain: $103
  • Half Day Gold Coast Brewery Tour: $106
  • Tamborine Wine & Distillery Tour + 2 Course Lunch: $125
  • Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour: $133
  • Brisbane Brewery Full Day Tour with Lunch: $133


When comparing the travel costs between Abu Dhabi and Brisbane, we can see that Abu Dhabi is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Abu Dhabi is in Middle East and Brisbane is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Abu Dhabi Expensive? and Is Brisbane Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Abu Dhabi or Brisbane?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Abu Dhabi. When comparing the sizes of Abu Dhabi and Brisbane, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane?

Brisbane has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Abu Dhabi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Abu Dhabi as well as Brisbane. Abu Dhabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

Abu Dhabi can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Abu Dhabi is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein January. Daily temperatures in Abu Dhabi average around 35°C (95°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Abu Dhabi this time of the year. In the summer, Abu Dhabi often gets more sunshine than Brisbanein January. Abu Dhabi gets 331 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in July than Brisbanein January. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Abu Dhabi 35°C (95°F) 
    Brisbane 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane in the Autumn?

Both Brisbane and Abu Dhabi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Abu Dhabi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Brisbane for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Abu Dhabi is a little warmer than Brisbane in the autumn. The daily temperature in Abu Dhabi averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Brisbane fluctuates around 22°C (71°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Brisbane during autumn. Abu Dhabi gets 314 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. In October, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Brisbanein April. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Abu Dhabi 29°C (84°F) 
    Brisbane 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane in the Winter?

Both Brisbane and Abu Dhabi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Abu Dhabi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brisbane in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Abu Dhabi is a little warmer than Brisbane. Typically, the winter temperatures in Abu Dhabi in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Brisbane averages at about 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Abu Dhabi. In the winter, Abu Dhabi often gets more sunshine than Brisbanein July. Abu Dhabi gets 269 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun.

Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in January than Brisbanein July. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Abu Dhabi 18°C (64°F) 
    Brisbane 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brisbane in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Abu Dhabi and Brisbane. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Abu Dhabi year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Abu Dhabi is generally a little warmer than Brisbanein October. Daily temperatures in Abu Dhabi average around 27°C (81°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In Abu Dhabi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Brisbane during spring. Abu Dhabi gets 297 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Brisbanein October. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Abu Dhabi 27°C (81°F) 
    Brisbane 21°C (69°F)

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Brisbane
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 169 mm (6.7 in)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 146 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
May 31°C (88°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 35°C (95°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 36°C (97°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Oct 29°C (84°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 21°C (70°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 127 mm (5 in)