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

Should you visit Abu Dhabi or Paris?

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 Paris can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Abu Dhabi or Paris?

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.

Paris

Paris is a dream destination for many people. It's location on the river Seine contributes to its stunning beauty and you can spend many days wandering through its wonderfully diverse neighborhoods. It's known as a city of culture, fashion, food and fun. There is never a shortage of entertainment and activities around town and a highlight of many people's trips to Paris is to explore the city at night, when it truly comes to life. It is not hard to see why this city has received the nickname as the "City of Lights."

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Arab Emirates, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Arab Emirates, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Paris or Abu Dhabi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Abu Dhabi is $164, while the average daily cost in Paris is $257. 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 Paris in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Abu Dhabi $98
    Paris $167
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Abu Dhabi $196
    Paris $334
Compare Hotels in Abu Dhabi and Paris

Looking for a hotel in Abu Dhabi or Paris? 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 Paris


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 Paris Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Abu Dhabi $20
    Paris $24
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:

  • Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Tickets with Private Transfers: $289
  • Private Transfer from Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) to Ras Al Khiamah: $282
  • Private Transfer from Qasr Al Sarab to Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH): $282
  • Private Transfer from Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) to Fujairah: $282
  • Ferrari world & Warner bros. parks with transfer from Dubai: $250
  • Visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi From Dubai Included Transfer and Tickets: $235
  • Abu Dhabi Helicopter Ride with optional Private Transfers: $222
  • Warner Bros World Ticket's -Abu Dhabi Without Transfer: $220
  • Private Transfer: Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airport DXB in Luxury SUV: $213
  • Full Day Ferrari world Tour with Private Transfers from Dubai: $212
  • Private Transfer: Abu Dhabi to Dubai Airport DXB in Luxury Van: $208
  • Private Transfer: Abu Dhabi Airport AUH to Dubai in Luxury Van: $208

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    $7.07
  • Train from Airport
    $9.94
  • Metro tickets
    $7.51
  • Train
    $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

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

  • Private transfer from/to CDG, ORLY airports <=> DISNEYLAND: $3.38
  • Private round trip transfer from/to Paris airports: $3.38
  • Private Transfer from Disneyland Paris to Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airports: $11
  • Paris Private transfer Orly Airport to Paris City: $16
  • City Of Paris : Private Transfer From /To Paris-Orly Airport: $17
  • Paris Moulin Rouge Private Round-Trip Transfer: $20
  • Lido de Paris Private Round-trip Transfer: $20
  • Transfer PARIS to/from Airport CDG or ORLY: $22
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport Charles de Gaulle OR Orly TO La Defense: $24
  • Private transfer from Paris to Chantilly or Chateau de Montvillargenne: $24
  • Private Transfer CDG ORY Airport to Disney Land: $31
  • Paris Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Railway Station: $31

Is it cheaper to fly into Abu Dhabi or Paris?

Prices for flights to both Paris 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
    Paris $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Abu Dhabi

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

  • Abudhabi Desert Safari Buffet Dinner & Live Entertainments Shows: $24
  • Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $37
  • Dubai Marina luxury Dhow Cruise Dinner (catamaran): $45
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari BBQ Dinner Live Shows Pick & Drop More: $59
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari Tour with Shows and BBQ Dinner: $60
  • Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi With BBQ Dinner: $63
  • Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With Live Shows And BBQ Buffet Dinner: $65
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and all Camp Activities : $72
  • Desert Safari Abu Dhabi w/ Sand Boarding, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner: $75
  • Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari & Dinner Under the Stars: $77
  • 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 Paris

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


  • Ice Cream
    $8.84
  • Breakfast
    $7.73
  • Breakfast for 2
    $33
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    $95
  • Dinner
    $63
  • Cheese
    $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

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

  • No Diet Club - A selection of the best pizzas in Paris !: $50
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $61
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $64
  • Le Marais Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $69
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $70
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $71
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Seine River Cruise with Aperitif or Dinner: $72
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Eat Like a Parisian Food Tour with a Local Guide: $77
  • Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien: $78
  • Paris Food Tour: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Abu Dhabi $39
    Paris $85

Tours and Activities in Abu Dhabi

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

  • Abu Dhabi Louvre Museum Entrance Ticket: $41
  • Admission Ticket To Qasr Al Hosn Abu Dhabi: $20
  • Falcon Hospital Tour with Transportation : $101
  • 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
  • Ticket to Louvre Museum, Abu Dhabi: $19
  • 1 Day 2 Yas Island Park Tickets Combo: $130
  • 17 Minutes Helicopter Tour in Abu Dhabi: $245
  • 2 Days 2 Park- Ferrari World +Yas Waterworld Or Warner Bros World Combo Tickets: $155
  • 8 Hour Ticket/Pass For Yas Water World In Dubai.: $103

Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

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


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    $20
  • Admission to Pantheon
    $5.52
  • Catacombs (2)
    $25

Tours and Activities in Paris

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

  • Self Guided Private Tour of Paris Best Kept Secrets: $3.38
  • Self Guided Tours in Paris with 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.38
  • Paris Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.38
  • Montmartre Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.38
  • Central Paris Highlights Walking Tour: $4.52
  • Paris (Montmartre) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.39
  • Kid-Friendly Marais: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.49
  • Louvre Museum Audio Guide via Smartphone App (no ticket): $5.54
  • Private Self Guided Walking Tour in Montmartre Paris: $5.65
  • Self Guided Big City Audio Tour in Paris: $5.65
  • Visit the Eiffel Tower at your own pace Self-guided audio tour: $6.11
  • WWII Occupation & Liberation Quest Experience in Paris: $6.20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Abu Dhabi $13
    Paris $27

Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • City Center Guided Pub Crawl with Shots & Club Entry: $12
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $14
  • Pub Crawl with Shots and Nightclub Entry: $14
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $15
  • Le Havre : Distillery Tour with Tasting: $17
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $33
  • Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $34
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $40
  • Wine tasting near Tour Eiffel & Invalides - 3 wines: $43
  • French Rosé Wine Tasting: $44
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $51
  • Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $51


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Abu Dhabi and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Abu Dhabi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Abu Dhabi is in Middle East and Paris is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Abu Dhabi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Abu Dhabi and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Abu Dhabi.

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 Paris Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Abu Dhabi or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Abu Dhabi. When comparing the sizes of Abu Dhabi and Paris, 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 Paris?

Paris 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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Abu Dhabi as well as Paris. Abu Dhabi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Abu Dhabi this time of the year. Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Abu Dhabi averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. 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 Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 331 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in July than Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Abu Dhabi 35°C (95°F) 
    Paris 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris 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, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the autumn, Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Abu Dhabi in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Paris during autumn. Abu Dhabi gets 314 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Abu Dhabi 29°C (84°F) 
    Paris 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris 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 travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. In January, Abu Dhabi is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Abu Dhabi average around 18°C (64°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

It's quite sunny in Abu Dhabi. In the winter, Abu Dhabi often gets more sunshine than Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 269 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Abu Dhabi usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Abu Dhabi 18°C (64°F) 
    Paris 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Abu Dhabi or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Abu Dhabi and Paris. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Abu Dhabi year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Abu Dhabi is much warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Abu Dhabi averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Abu Dhabi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Abu Dhabi usually receives more sunshine than Paris during spring. Abu Dhabi gets 297 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Abu Dhabi usually receives less rain than Paris. Abu Dhabi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Abu Dhabi 27°C (81°F) 
    Paris 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Paris and Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Paris
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 31°C (88°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 35°C (95°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 36°C (97°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 29°C (84°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 21°C (70°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)