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

Should you visit Dubai or Brussels?

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 Brussels 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Brussels are roughly the same size, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights. Dubai is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Skiing?

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

Brussels is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Brussels 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 Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Brussels both to be high quality 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, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Dubai is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Music?

Dubai is renowned for live music. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Resorts?

Dubai is renowned for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Dubai for its luxury resorts. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Dubai offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Brussels?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Brussels both offer plenty of first-rate 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.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Brussels.

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.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Dubai or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Brussels Better for Students?

Dubai is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels a more walkable city?

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

Brussels is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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 Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Brussels?

In either Dubai or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Brussels?

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 Brussels, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels. 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 Brussels?

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.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. In Brussels, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Brussels?

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 authentic big city of Brussels. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Brussels?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

Brussels 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 Brussels in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Brussels. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels 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, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Brussels. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels 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, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. Dubai is much warmer than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Brussels. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Brussels. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Dubai