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

Should you visit Dubai or Bangkok?

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 Bangkok can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a modern, glamorous, and opulent city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Dubai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Dubai travel costs.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a alluring, spirited, and colorful capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Bangkok attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bangkok travel costs.

Dubai and Bangkok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Bangkok?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Dubai than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is better known for its skiing, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bangkok is more popular for its museums and attractions and food. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Bangkok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Skiing?

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

Locals like to visit Dubai to take advantage of their winter sports. 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.

Bangkok is not a skiing destination.

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

Bangkok is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Bangkok has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dubai can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Bangkok 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.

Bangkok has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

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 Bangkok Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bangkok is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Music?

Dubai is a world-class destination for live music. However, Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Dubai is a world class music destination. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Bangkok is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Dubai is a world class resort vacation destination. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dubai. 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.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Bangkok?

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

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Is Dubai or Bangkok More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Dubai and Bangkok.

With stunning beauty, Dubai attracts visitors from all around. With its many skyscrapers and high end resorts, this is a beautiful city to visit.

Bangkok is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Bangkok.

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.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Is Dubai or Bangkok Better for Couples?

Bangkok 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, Bangkok has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

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 Bangkok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Bangkok, as it is a very popular capital city for budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

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 Bangkok Better for Students?

Dubai is a world-class destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Bangkok is a great capital city 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.

Bangkok offers a very effecient public transportation network. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

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 Bangkok a more walkable city?

Dubai and Bangkok are respectable 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.

Bangkok is generally not very walkable. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Bangkok or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Bangkok?

Both Dubai and Bangkok 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 Bangkok. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Bangkok.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Bangkok?

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 Bangkok, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural big city offers. This capital 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 Bangkok?

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 Bangkok. 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 Bangkok?

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.

Bangkok is a fun place to experience. In Bangkok, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 Bangkok?

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.

In Bangkok, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this high energy 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Arab Emirates, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Arab Emirates, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Bangkok?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Bangkok, 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 Bangkok?

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 Bangkok in the Summer?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Bangkok. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Bangkok. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is a little warmer than Bangkok. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Bangkok averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bangkok in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bangkok. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Bangkok. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Bangkok fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bangkok in the Winter?

Both Bangkok 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round.

January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. Dubai usually gets more rain in January than Bangkok. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Dubai is cooler than Bangkok in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Bangkok fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Bangkok in the Spring?

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

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bangkok. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bangkok receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In the spring, Dubai is cooler than Bangkok. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Bangkok averages at about 31°C (87°F).

Typical Weather for Bangkok and Dubai