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

Pros

Popular museums and historical sights
Popular for food and cuisine
Good music scene
Family-friendly
Good for couples and romance
Big city activities
Impressive beauty

Cons

Less popular with backpackers
Public transit not as usable
Less walkable

Pros

Popular museums and historical sights
Good music scene
Good for couples and romance
Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Good public transit
Very walkable
Big city activities
Impressive beauty

Cons

Less popular for food
Less family-friendly

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 Museums and Historical Sights?

Dubai

Amsterdam

You'll find a number of 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.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Food?

Dubai

Amsterdam

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Dubai a bit more than Amsterdam.

Dubai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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?

Dubai

Amsterdam

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find comparable options between 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

Amsterdam

Dubai and Amsterdam are both destinations where visitors can find 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 Shopping?

Dubai

Amsterdam

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Amsterdam both offer plenty of spots.

Many people travel to Dubai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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

Amsterdam

Dubai offers a wider variety of activities for kids than Amsterdam.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubai. 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.

Amsterdam is not the most family-friendly destination. 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?

Dubai

Amsterdam

Both Dubai and Amsterdam are good destinations to visit as a couple.

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

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Dubai or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit?

Dubai

Amsterdam

Amsterdam has better public transit to get you around.

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?

Dubai

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is more walkable than Dubai.

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.

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. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Dubai is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Amsterdam is 2-7 days.

How many days in Dubai or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay

Dubai 3-7

Amsterdam 2-7

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. 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. 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. 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 party-oriented big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Which city is cheaper, Amsterdam or Dubai?

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

Dubai Prices

Amsterdam Prices
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day

Dubai $198

Amsterdam $143

The average daily cost (per person) in Dubai is $198, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is $143. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dubai and Amsterdam in more detail.

Accommodation

Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person

Dubai $136

Amsterdam $82
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room

Dubai $272

Amsterdam $164

Compare Hotels in Dubai and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Dubai or Amsterdam? 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: Dubai Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation

Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.

Dubai $10

Amsterdam $16

Typical Local Transportation prices in Dubai

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

Taxi Ride

$12
Airport Taxi

$12
Sea Taxi

$0.54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubai

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

1 Hour Dune Buggy Dubai with 2 way Private Transfers from Dubai: $195
2 Hours Buggy Can Am X3 with Transfers for 2 Persons: $654
2 Hours Buggy Polaris 1000cc with Transfers: $391
Abu Dhabi Airport Transfers : Dubai City to Abu Dhabi Airport AUH in Luxury Van: $149
Abu Dhabi Airport Transfers: Dubai City to Abu Dhabi Airport AUH in Business Car: $108
Abu Dhabi City Tour & Louvre Museum Admission With Dubai Hotel Transfers: $72
Abu Dhabi City Tour+Lunch with Sharing Transfers: $52
Abu Dhabi City tour with Private Transfers: $122
Abu Dhabi City tour with Sharing Transfers: $30
Abu Dhabi City tour+Ferrari with Sharing Transfers: $112
Abu Dhabi City tour+Lunch with Private Transfer: $149
Abu Dhabi City tour+Warner Bros ticket with Sharing Transfers: $112

Typical Local Transportation prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:

Ride on Tram

$3.33
Renting a Bike

$16
One Hour Canal Cruise

$10
Single Day Transit Pass

$2.71
Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport

$3.54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Bayeux - Up to 7 people: $2,675
Excursion Brussels: transfer and guided tour in Brussels: $2,173
Amsterdam to Paris: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $1,860
Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Paris: $1,725
Amsterdam to Frankfurt: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $1,574
Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Frankfurt: $1,460
Amsterdam to Brussels: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $716
Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Brussels: $664
Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Berlin with 2 Sightseeing Stops: $549
Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Bruges: $379
Private Transfer form Amsterdam to Keukenhof (Roundtrip incl Tickets): $373
Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Brussels: $347

Is it cheaper to fly into Dubai or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Dubai 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

Dubai $45

Amsterdam $36

Typical Food prices in Dubai

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

French bread

$0.95
Sumo salad in Dubai Mall + Juice

$10
Lemon Mint Tea

$4.36
Coffee & Cake

$6.53
Smoothie

$5.45
Shawarma

$1.91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubai

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

Romantic Dhow Creek Dinner Cruise With Live Shows and International Buffet: $17
Sightseeing Dhow Cruise Dinner: $18
Dubai Deira Cruise with International Buffet Dinner with Live Shows: $19
Cruising with Dinner and Live Shows at Dubai Creek: $20
Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise Dinner: $20
Dhow Dinner Cruise at Dubai Creek (Without Transfers): $20
Sail along the Dubai Creek Dhow cruise with a delectable Dinner from AED 60: $21
Sightseeing Romantic Dhow Cruise Dinner: $21
Dhow Cruise Dinner Dubai: $22
Dhow Cruise Dinner on Dubai Creek: $22
Evening Dhow Dinner Cruise in Dubai: $22
Dubai Creek 2-Hour Romantic Dhow Cruise Dinner: $23

Typical Food prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:

Afternoon Tea

$6.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

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

Live online cooking class from Classic European 2-course meal: $23
Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise: $40
Three course lunch/dinner voucher: $42
Walking Food Tour: $43
3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $48
Withlocals the 10 Tastings: Amsterdam's Favourite Private Food Tour with a Local: $50
Private Pizza Canal Cruise Amsterdam: $62
Dinner with an Amsterdam artist on the river: $62
Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock Café: $63
Amsterdam Small Group Food Tour: $69
Food Tour in the Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam: $73
Delicious Dutch Dinner in an Amsterdam Canalhouse: $75

Entertainment

Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.

Dubai $15

Amsterdam $31

Typical Entertainment prices in Dubai

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

Visit to the Dubai Museum

$0.82

Tours and Activities in Dubai

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

Global Village Entry Tickets: $4.11
Dubai Full-Day Global Village Tickets: $4.11
Global Village Entry Ticket: $4.19
Skip the Line: Global Village Ticket: $4.32
Global Village Dubai (Ticket): $4.85
Dubai Global Village Entrance Ticket: $5.20
Dubai Marina: Explore its activities & attractions on this audio walking tour: $5.50
Ethnic Emirati Dining Experience: $12
Resident Marina Sightseeing Tour: $12
Dubai City Tour, Dubai: $12
Dubai Virtual City Tour With Live Video Chat Commentary: $15
Flying Cup Experience Ticket Dubai: $17

Typical Entertainment prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:

Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum

$6.25
Entry for two to the Anne Frank House

$18

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

1 hour Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $87
1,5 hours Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $174
1.5 Hour Walking Tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with a Local: $41
1.5-hour Amsterdam Bubbly Bike tour: $757
2 Hours Private Walking Tour of the Highlights of Amsterdam: $81
2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $162
2-Day Nightclub Admission Ticket: Best Nightlife in Amsterdam: $13
2-Hour Private Anne Frank Walking Tour with Drink: $162
2-Hour Private Custom Amsterdam Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $70
2-Hour Semi Private All-Inclusive Cruise on our Boutique Style boats: $79
2.5 hours Amsterdam Pedicab Tour: $249
2.5-Hour Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour by Bike: $204

Alcohol

Alcohol Drinks for one day

Dubai $18

Amsterdam $20

Typical Alcohol prices in Dubai

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

A Couple Drinks

$25

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22
Amsterdam Bar Crawl: $27
Amsterdam Shared Bar Crawl: $31
Private Amsterdam Red Light District and pub tour: $61
Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings: $67
4 hour Amsterdam Brewery Tour: $81
High Class Culinary Lunch in Amsterdam - Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $102
Drew's 3-Hour Amsterdam Brewery and Bar Tour to Top Rated Bars: $106
Discover 3 gastronomic restaurants in Amsterdam - self-guided food & wine tour: $129
Experience 4 Culinary Restaurants in Amsterdam Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $152
Amsterdam Bachelor Party Bar Crawl: $488

About these numbers

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.

When is the best time to visit Dubai or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a tropical climate with fairly warm 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 tropical 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. Temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Amsterdam stays 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.

Summer Average Temperatures July

Dubai 35°C (95°F)

Amsterdam 17°C (62°F)

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 tropical 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 temperature in Dubai is usually 29°C (84°F) in October, and Amsterdam stays 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.

Autumn Average Temperatures October

Dubai 29°C (84°F)

Amsterdam 11°C (51°F)

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 tropical climate 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 are around 19°C (66°F), and Amsterdam is 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.

Winter Average Temperatures January

Dubai 19°C (66°F)

Amsterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Dubai or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Amsterdam. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and tropical climate. 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. Temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Amsterdam stays 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.

Spring Average Temperatures April

Dubai 26°C (79°F)

Amsterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Dubai

	Dubai		Amsterdam
	Temp (°C)	Rain (mm)	Temp (°C)	Rain (mm)
Jan	19°C (66°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	2°C (36°F)	66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb	20°C (68°F)	40 mm (1.6 in)	3°C (37°F)	49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar	23°C (73°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	5°C (41°F)	63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr	26°C (79°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	8°C (46°F)	52 mm (2 in)
May	31°C (88°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	12°C (54°F)	61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun	33°C (91°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	15°C (59°F)	68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul	35°C (95°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	17°C (62°F)	75 mm (3 in)
Aug	36°C (97°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	17°C (62°F)	71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep	33°C (91°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	14°C (57°F)	67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct	29°C (84°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	11°C (51°F)	72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov	25°C (77°F)	10 mm (0.4 in)	6°C (43°F)	81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec	21°C (70°F)	20 mm (0.8 in)	3°C (38°F)	80 mm (3.1 in)

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Dubai vs. Amsterdam Travel Comparison

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