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

Should you visit Dubai or Koh Samui?

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 Samui 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a rainforest-covered, lush, and laid back resort island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Koh Samui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Koh Samui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Koh Samui are popular destinations, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is very popular for its skiing, museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Samui is more touristy than Dubai and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. 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 Koh Samui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Koh Samui 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.

Koh Samui is not a skiing destination.

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

Dubai is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Dubai offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Koh Samui both to be great 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 Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find world-class options in both Dubai and Koh Samui.

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.

The nightlife in Koh Samui is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Music?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Koh Samui 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.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Dubai and Koh Samui.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Dubai is a perfect choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Koh Samui offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

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

Koh Samui is a great resort 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 Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

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 Samui Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui 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 Samui is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

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 Samui Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Koh Samui?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island 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.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Families?

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

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 Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is a great resort island for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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 Samui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is a great resort island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

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 Samui Better for Students?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui 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.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Dubai and Koh Samui 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.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Dubai or Koh Samui a more walkable city?

Dubai and Koh Samui are reasonable 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.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Samui or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Koh Samui?

Both Dubai and Koh Samui have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui.

One day in Dubai or Koh Samui?

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 Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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 Samui?

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 Samui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Koh Samui?

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

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.

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful 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. 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, and The Best Budget Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Samui Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Koh Samui?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Koh Samui, 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 Samui?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Samui in the Summer?

Both Koh Samui and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Dubai is June to August. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Samui. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is a little warmer than Koh Samui in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Samui in the Autumn?

Both Koh Samui 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round.

December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Samui. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Dubai is a little warmer than Koh Samui. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Samui averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Samui in the Winter?

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

Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Samui. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In January, Dubai is generally cooler than Koh Samui. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Samui fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Samui in the Spring?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Samui. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Dubai is around the same temperature as Koh Samui in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Samui and Dubai