A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Music, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Dubai or Amsterdam?

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 Dubai and Amsterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Dubai and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Amsterdam?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Dubai. While Dubai is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Dubai is known for its skiing, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Dubai and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style.

How is Dubai different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amsterdam and Dubai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Amsterdam?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Amsterdam and Dubai.

Many visitors head to Dubai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Dubai or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubai is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Dubai. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Dubai and Amsterdam.

People head to Dubai just to party. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Dubai and Amsterdam are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

Dubai has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Dubai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubai has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Dubai has a beach worth visiting. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Amsterdam?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Amsterdam. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Dubai is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very kid-friendly city. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great city for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Amsterdam is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Dubai is a great destination for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Amsterdam is a very easy city to get around on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

For even more information, also check out Is Dubai Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Amsterdam?

Both Dubai and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Dubai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Dubai than Amsterdam. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubai, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Dubai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Dubai if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amsterdam.

One day in Dubai or Amsterdam?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Amsterdam, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this canal-lined big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dubai or Amsterdam?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Amsterdam?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. In Amsterdam, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Amsterdam?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Amsterdam, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this canal-lined big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Amsterdam, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Amsterdam 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Amsterdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Amsterdam?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Amsterdam, 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 Dubai or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Dubai or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Amsterdam. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dubai is much warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Dubai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Amsterdam. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Amsterdam. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Dubai