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

Should you visit Dubai or Hanoi?

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 Hanoi 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a high energy, colorful, and cultural 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 Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Hanoi?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Dubai than Hanoi. While Hanoi is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hanoi is known for its museums and historical sights. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Skiing?

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

Hanoi is not a skiing destination.

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

Hanoi 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, Hanoi has many famous sights for visitors. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

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 Hanoi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Dubai and Hanoi both to be superb 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, Hanoi makes for a great culinary experience. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Hanoi for the nightlife scene. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Music?

Dubai is renowned for its live music scene. However, Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Resorts?

Dubai is renowned for its resorts. However, Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for the beache. However, Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi 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 Hanoi is revered around the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Hanoi?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Hanoi 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.

Hanoi is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Families?

Dubai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Hanoi are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Dubai is a good city for couples to visit. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Hanoi is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Dubai or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Hanoi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

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 Hanoi Better for Students?

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

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.

Many students visit Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

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

Dubai is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Dubai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Dubai or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Hanoi is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

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 Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Hanoi?

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

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

One day in Dubai or Hanoi?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Hanoi, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Hanoi?

Dubai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. In Hanoi, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. 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 Hanoi?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural big city of Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Hanoi, 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 Hanoi?

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 Hanoi in the Summer?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 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 Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Hanoi in the Autumn?

Both Hanoi 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 Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Dubai is a little warmer than Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Hanoi in the Winter?

Both Hanoi 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 Hanoi year-round.

January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. Dubai usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hanoi. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Dubai is a little warmer than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Hanoi in the Spring?

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

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Dubai