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

Should you visit Dubai or Antwerp?

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 Antwerp 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.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Antwerp, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Antwerp is known for its historical sights. Dubai is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Antwerp 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.

Antwerp is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Antwerp 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 Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

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

Dubai is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Dubai is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Music?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Dubai The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Dubai is a perfect choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Antwerp is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Beaches?

Dubai is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Dubai to enjoy the beach. 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.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is a great port 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 Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Antwerp?

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

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Families?

Dubai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Antwerp 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.

Antwerp is a nice destination for couples. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Dubai or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

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 Antwerp Better for Students?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Antwerp is a great city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

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

Dubai and Antwerp both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Dubai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Antwerp has a few public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Dubai or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Antwerp is a great port city for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Antwerp is a very walkable destination. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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 Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Antwerp. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Antwerp. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubai than Antwerp 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 Dubai.

One day in Dubai or Antwerp?

Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dubai or Antwerp?

Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. 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 Antwerp?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Antwerp, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Antwerp 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 Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Antwerp?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Antwerp, 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 Antwerp?

Antwerp 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 Antwerp in the Summer?

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

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Antwerp. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp 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 travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Dubai is much warmer than Antwerp in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp 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, many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Antwerp averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Antwerp. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Antwerp in the Spring?

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

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Dubai