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

Should you visit Dubai or Auckland?

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 Auckland 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. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Auckland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Auckland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auckland is known for its beaches and hiking. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Auckland 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.

Auckland is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Auckland 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 Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Auckland both to be very good destinations.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Auckland makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Dubai is a world class party destination. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Music?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Dubai. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland 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.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland 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.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a great city for the beach. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its beaches.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

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.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Auckland is very good for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Auckland?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Dubai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Auckland.

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.

Auckland is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Dubai or Auckland Better for Couples?

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

Auckland is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

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 Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

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 Auckland Better for Students?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

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

Dubai and Auckland 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.

Auckland has a few public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Dubai or Auckland a more walkable city?

Dubai and Auckland are decent when it comes to walkability.

Dubai is generally not a very walkable city. 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.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Auckland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Auckland. 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.

One day in Dubai or Auckland?

Dubai is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Auckland, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adrenaline-filled big city offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Auckland?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Auckland?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Auckland. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Auckland?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the adventurous big city of Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Auckland?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Auckland, 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 Auckland?

Auckland 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 Auckland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Auckland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Aucklandin January. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Aucklandin January. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Auckland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Auckland. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Dubai is much warmer than Auckland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Aucklandin April. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Auckland in the Winter?

Both Auckland and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Auckland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Auckland averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland and Dubai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Aucklandin October. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Aucklandin October. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Dubai