A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Khao Lak for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Dubai or Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a relaxed, friendly, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Dubai and Khao Lak: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Khao Lak?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubai than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubai is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Khao Lak?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Skiing?

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

Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Khao Lak?

Dubai is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dubai. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

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

Dubai is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Dubai has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Music?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

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 Khao Lak Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak 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, Khao Lak is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

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 the Shopping Better in Dubai or Khao Lak?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Dubai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Families?

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

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.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak Better for Couples?

Khao Lak 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, Khao Lak has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

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 Khao Lak Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a great area for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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 Khao Lak Better for Students?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

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

Dubai and Khao Lak both offer notable 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.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Dubai or Khao Lak a more walkable city?

Dubai and Khao Lak 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.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Khao Lak or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Khao Lak?

Both Dubai and Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 5-7 days is enough time in Khao Lak.

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Khao Lak. 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 Khao Lak. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubai than Khao Lak 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 Dubai.

One day in Dubai or Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this idyllic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This area 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 Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Khao Lak?

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.

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

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.

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxed 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Khao Lak?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 670 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Khao Lak, 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 Khao Lak?

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 Khao Lak in the Summer?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Khao Lak. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 284 mm (11.2 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 Khao Lak. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Khao Lak in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Khao Lak fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Khao Lak in the Winter?

Both Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak year-round.

January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Khao Lak. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Should I visit Dubai or Khao Lak in the Spring?

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

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Khao Lak. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Khao Lak receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In the spring, Dubai is around the same temperature as Khao Lak. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Khao Lak averages at about 29°C (83°F).

Typical Weather for Khao Lak and Dubai