A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Dubai or Dubrovnik?

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

Dubai

Dubai is a opulent, modern, and glamorous city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal coastal town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Dubrovnik attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Dubai and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Dubai is famous for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also well known for Burj Khalifa.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Dubrovnik is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Dubai for snow skiing. 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.

Dubrovnik is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Music?

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

Dubai has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Dubai is a great choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Dubrovnik. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Dubai has a few good snorkeling spots. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubai and Dubrovnik are nice choices for a beach vacation.

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.

Dubrovnik has a beach worth visiting. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Dubrovnik is revered around the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Dubrovnik?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

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.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik has plenty to offer. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular coastal town for budget travelers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Dubai and Dubrovnik both offer nice 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.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Dubai or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Dubrovnik is a very easy coastal town to get around on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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 Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Dubrovnik?

In either Dubai or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Dubrovnik?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this famous destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal town 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 Dubrovnik?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Dubrovnik?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Dubrovnik?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dubrovnik. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Dubrovnik?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is a little warmer than Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Should I visit Dubai or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Dubai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In the autumn, Dubai is much warmer than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Dubrovnik. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Dubai is generally much warmer than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Dubrovnik. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Dubai is much warmer than Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Dubai