A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Koh Tao for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Dubai or Koh Tao?

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 Tao 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back 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 Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Koh Tao 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 Tao is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Koh Tao 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 Tao is not a skiing destination.

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

Dubai is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Koh Tao both to be excellent 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 Tao makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Dubai is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

Koh Tao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Music?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Koh Tao is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Dubai. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Koh Tao is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Dubai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

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

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao is not to be missed. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

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 Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao 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 Tao is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

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 Tao Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Koh Tao for the hiking trails. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Koh Tao?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Dubai draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Dubai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dubai is very family-friendly. 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 Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

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

Koh Tao is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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 Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Tao, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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 Tao Better for Students?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Dubai is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Dubai or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a great island for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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 Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Koh Tao?

Both Dubai and Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Koh Tao?

Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this mellow destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tao?

Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. In Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. Because Dubai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back 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 for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Koh Tao?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 820 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

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 Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao 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 Tao 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 Tao. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao 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 Tao year-round.

October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao. Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Dubai is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tao in the Winter?

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

Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Dubai is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tao in the Spring?

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

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Tao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Dubai