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

Should you visit Dubai or Koh Lanta?

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 Koh Lanta 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 live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path, and tranquil island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Dubai and Koh Lanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Koh Lanta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Koh Lanta are both popular with visitors, Dubai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lanta is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dubai is more touristy than Koh Lanta and is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Koh Lanta is popular for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Koh Lanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Skiing?

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

Koh Lanta is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Koh Lanta?

Dubai is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island 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 Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta makes for a great culinary experience. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Lanta has a few options to choose from. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Music?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Lanta is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta to choose from. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is a great island 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 Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

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 Koh Lanta Better for Beaches?

Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta is a very popular vacation destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

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 Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Hiking?

Koh Lanta is a great island for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Lanta for the hiking trails. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Koh Lanta?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Families?

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

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.

Koh Lanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

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 Koh Lanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lanta is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Koh Lanta is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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 Koh Lanta Better for Students?

Dubai is a world-class destination for students. However, Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Lanta is not popular with students.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options 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 quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Dubai or Koh Lanta a more walkable city?

Dubai is a city with a few options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable city. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Lanta or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Koh Lanta?

In either Dubai or Koh Lanta, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Koh Lanta because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Koh Lanta.

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Koh Lanta. 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 Koh Lanta. 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 Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta?

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 Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quiet destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island 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 Koh Lanta?

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 Koh Lanta. 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 Koh Lanta?

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.

Koh Lanta is a fun place to experience. In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife 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 Koh Lanta?

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 nightlife and food around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Koh Lanta. 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 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 Eco Tours in Thailand, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Koh Lanta?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Koh Lanta, 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 Koh Lanta?

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 Koh Lanta in the Summer?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Koh Lanta. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 269 mm (10.6 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 Koh Lanta. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Koh Lanta fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Lanta in the Autumn?

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Lanta. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Dubai is around the same temperature as Koh Lanta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Koh Lanta fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Lanta in the Winter?

Both Koh Lanta 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 Koh Lanta year-round.

January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. January to April is the dry season in Koh Lanta. Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Koh Lanta. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Dubai is cooler than Koh Lanta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Lanta averages at about 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Lanta in the Spring?

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

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Lanta. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Lanta receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Dubai is generally cooler than Koh Lanta. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Lanta fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Lanta and Dubai