A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Bali for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Dubai or Bali?

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 Bali 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Bali?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Bali, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali is known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Dubai and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Bali 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.

Bali is not a skiing destination.

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

Dubai is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bali is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Music?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Bali 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.

Bali is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Dubai and Bali.

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.

Bali offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali is not to be missed. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

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

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Beaches?

Bali is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

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 Bali Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great island for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Bali?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit 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 Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Families?

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

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.

Bali is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Is Dubai or Bali Better for Couples?

Bali is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

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 Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

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 Bali Better for Students?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for students. However, Bali is not popular with 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.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Dubai and Bali 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.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Dubai or Bali a more walkable city?

Dubai and Bali 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.

Bali is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bali or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Bali?

Both Dubai and Bali have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Bali has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bali than Dubai. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 5-7 days is enough time in Bali.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali 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 Bali.

One day in Dubai or Bali?

Dubai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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 Bali?

Dubai is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Bali?

Dubai is a glamorous big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bali is a fun place to experience. In Bali, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Bali?

Dubai is a opulent city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Bali?

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Dubai or Bali in the Summer?

Both Bali and Dubai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

June to August is the dry season in Dubai. April to September is the dry season in Bali. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Bali. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Bali. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bali in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Bali. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bali. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Dubai is around the same temperature as Bali in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bali in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Bali. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

January to March in Dubai is the rainy season. October to March in Bali is the rainy season. Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Bali. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Dubai is cooler than Bali. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Bali averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bali in the Spring?

Both Bali and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Dubai is June to August. The dry season in Bali is April to September. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bali. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Bali. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Typical Weather for Bali and Dubai