Which place is cheaper, Brussels 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.
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Should you visit Abu Dhabi or Brussels?
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 Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Abu Dhabi or Brussels?
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.
Brussels
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and also the sight of the headquarters of the European Union. Generally speaking, it's an expensive city that sees a good amount of travelers. It is also a highly political city that has an air of importance and power. It's an incredibly international city, with people from all over the world flocking to it due to its political, economical, and cultural significance.
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 Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium.
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Abu Dhabi Prices
UAE PricesBrussels Prices
Belgium Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayAbu Dhabi $197Brussels $185
The average daily cost (per person) in Abu Dhabi is $197, while the average daily cost in Brussels is $185. 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 Brussels in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personAbu Dhabi $98Brussels $82
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomAbu Dhabi $196Brussels $164
Compare Hotels in Abu Dhabi and Brussels
Looking for a hotel in Abu Dhabi or Brussels? 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.
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 Brussels Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Abu Dhabi $20Brussels $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Abu Dhabi
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Abu Dhabi are as follows:
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Car Rental$31
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Taxi to Airport$14
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Abu Dhabi
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Abu Dhabi:
- Qasr Al Watan/King Palace Abu Dhabi with Entry Ticket & Transfer: $185
- Abrahamic Family House Tour with Transfer: $89
- Abu Dhabi : Private Half Day Guided Tour - Transfer Included: $191
- Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Abu Dhabi Hotel or Address): $34
- Abu Dhabi Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Any Hotel in UAE: $37
- Abu Dhabi Airport Private Departure Transfer: $30
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfer (Within Abu Dhabi Only): $19
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfer To or From Anywhere within Abu Dhabi: $70
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfer to Hotel or Vice Versa: $61
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfer to or from Dubai to Abu Dhabi Airport: $140
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfers: $40
- Abu Dhabi Airport Transfers: Abu Dhabi City to Airport AUH in Business Car: $91
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:
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Subway Pass$5.05
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Atomium train ticket (2)$8.99
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:
- Bus Transfer between Charleroi & Zaventem Airport: $21
- Brussels Charleroi Airport: Bus Transfer from/to Antwerp: $23
- BRU Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $31
- Brussels Airport (BRU) Transfer to Brussels/Ghent/Antwerp/Brugge: $35
- Private Airport Transfer to the City: $57
- Private arrival OR departure transfer in Brussels from/to airport: $63
- Arrival Private Transfer Brussels Train Station to Brussels by Luxury Car or Van: $71
- Brussels Airport(BRU) to Brussels hotels-Arrival Private Transfer: $72
- Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU) - Departure Private Transfer: $72
- Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Airport (BRU): $76
- Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $79
- Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $79
Is it cheaper to fly into Abu Dhabi or Brussels?
Prices for flights to both Brussels 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
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Food Meals for one dayAbu Dhabi $78Brussels $74
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Abu Dhabi
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Abu Dhabi.
- Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi With BBQ Dinner: $58
- Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Tour with Shows & Buffet Dinner: $60
- Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With Live Shows And BBQ Buffet Dinner: $60
- Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi with Hot BBQ Dinner : $65
- Evening Desert Safari Camel Ride Dinner Live Shows in Abu Dhabi: $69
- Desert Safari Abu Dhabi w/ Sand Boarding, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner: $75
- Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari & Dinner Under the Stars: $79
- Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Shows: $80
- Abu Dhabi Desert Safari 4x4, BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride: $81
- Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi with BBQ Dinner & Shows: $81
- Abu Dhabi Desert safari with BBQ Dinner,Sandboarding & Camel ride: $90
- Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner- Standard Tour : $99
Typical Food Prices in Brussels
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:
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Ice Cream & Macaroons$5.17
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Dessert (Turkish Delights)$5.34
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Cheese$6.29
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Olives and Snacks$7.84
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Waffle$3.37
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.
- Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $31
- Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $32
- City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $70
- Guided Food Tour with Full Meal and Drinks: $107
- VIP Belgian Beer World tour incl. Lunch/Dinner: $112
- Brussels Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better: $113
- Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $133
- Secret Food Tours Brussels: $146
- Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $177
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Abu Dhabi $39Brussels $26
Tours and Activities in Abu Dhabi
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Abu Dhabi are as follows:
- Self Guided Audio Tour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi: $7.97
- Fast-Track Admission Ticket to Qasr Al Hosn: $8.37
- Skip-the-Line Ticket for Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi: $9.40
- Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum General Admission Ticket: $12
- Qasr Al Hosn Skip the Line Tickets: $13
- Louvre Join an Express Guided Tour: $14
- Skip the Line Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi Ticket: $14
- Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi Entry Ticket: $16
- Qasr Al Watan Presidential Palace Abu Dhabi Ticket: $16
- Admission Ticket to Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi: $17
- Qasr Al Watan Abu Dhabi Entry Ticket: $17
- Skip the Line Ticket to Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi : $17
Tours and Activities in Brussels
Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- FREE TOUR OF BRUSSELS⭐️THE MOST COMPLETE⭐+PDF GUIDE: $3.38
- THE MOST COMPLETE TOUR of BRUSSELS! + PDF tour guide: $3.38
- Brussels Walking Tour with Guide plus PDF: $3.40
- Tour of Brussels in English (with booking fee) : $3.40
- Self Guided Tours Brussels With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.40
- Brussels Hidden Delights A Self Guided Epicurean Adventure: $3.40
- Spanish Footprint Tour in Brussels: $3.40
- Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels - by Legends: $3.40
- Walking Tour of the Historic Center with a local guide in Spanish: $3.95
- Brussels Old City’s Highlights Walking Tour: $4.55
- Brussels Luggage Storage Day Tour: $6.47
- Museum Halle Gate Entry Ticket: $7.91
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayAbu Dhabi $13Brussels $15
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:
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Bottle of Wine$11
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Beer$6.74
Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:
- Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
- Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $19
- BXL Pub Crawl Guided Tour: $23
- micro brewery & distillery tour (incl 2 tastings): $28
- Beer tasting in a Brussels Micro Brewery and Distillery: $28
- Brussels Pub Crawl Tour: $28
- beer tasting workshop in a micro brewery: $45
- Beer Pong in a Micro Brewery and Distillery: $73
- Beer & Chocolate Tasting in a Brewery-Distillery: $75
When comparing the travel costs between Abu Dhabi and Brussels, 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 Brussels is in Europe, 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 Brussels Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Abu Dhabi or Brussels?
Brussels has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Abu Dhabi. When comparing the sizes of Abu Dhabi and Brussels, 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 Brussels?
Brussels 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 Brussels in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Abu Dhabi and Brussels. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Abu Dhabi year-round. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
It's very hot in Abu Dhabi this time of the year. Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Abu Dhabi averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).
In Abu Dhabi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Abu Dhabi gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyAbu Dhabi 35°C (95°F)Brussels 18°C (65°F)
Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brussels in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Abu Dhabi as well as Brussels. Abu Dhabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.
In the autumn, Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Abu Dhabi in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Abu Dhabi this time of the year. In the autumn, Abu Dhabi often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 314 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.
Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberAbu Dhabi 29°C (84°F)Brussels 12°C (54°F)
Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brussels in the Winter?
Both Brussels and Abu Dhabi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Abu Dhabi throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.
It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In January, Abu Dhabi is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Abu Dhabi average around 18°C (64°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Abu Dhabi gets 269 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryAbu Dhabi 18°C (64°F)Brussels 3°C (38°F)
Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Brussels in the Spring?
Both Brussels and Abu Dhabi during the spring 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 travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.
Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Abu Dhabi averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).
It's quite sunny in Abu Dhabi. In the spring, Abu Dhabi often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 297 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.
Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilAbu Dhabi 27°C (81°F)Brussels 10°C (49°F)
Typical Weather for Brussels and Abu Dhabi
| Abu Dhabi | Brussels | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 18°C (64°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
| Feb | 20°C (68°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
| Mar | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
| Apr | 27°C (81°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
| May | 31°C (88°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
| Jun | 33°C (91°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) |
| Jul | 35°C (95°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| Aug | 36°C (97°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Sep | 33°C (91°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| Oct | 29°C (84°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) |
| Nov | 25°C (77°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
| Dec | 21°C (70°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 4°C (40°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.