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

Should you visit Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

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 Tarutao 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Dubai and Koh Tarutao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Dubai is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also well known for Burj Khalifa. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Koh Tarutao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao is not a skiing destination.

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

Dubai is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Dubai is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Music?

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

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Dubai for its luxury resorts. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

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

Dubai is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Koh Tarutao is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao is a very popular vacation destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

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 Tarutao Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Koh Tarutao for the hiking trails. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options 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 Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Families?

Dubai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao Better for Couples?

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

Koh Tarutao is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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 Tarutao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Koh Tarutao is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

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 Tarutao Better for Students?

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

Dubai is a very popular place to visit for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Dubai is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Dubai has some public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Dubai or Koh Tarutao a more walkable city?

Dubai and Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tarutao or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Koh Tarutao. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Tarutao.

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

Dubai is a modern city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this undiscovered destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Tarutao?

Dubai is a glamorous big city where you can fill many days. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Tarutao. 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 Tarutao?

Dubai is a glamorous city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

Dubai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find around the secluded destination of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, and The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand.

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

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 Tarutao Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Dubai or Koh Tarutao?

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 Tarutao in the Summer?

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

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Tarutao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tarutao receives 269 mm (10.6 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 Tarutao in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Koh Tarutao fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tarutao in the Autumn?

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

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tarutao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tarutao receives 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Dubai is around the same temperature as Koh Tarutao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Tarutao averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tarutao in the Winter?

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

The rainy season in Dubai is January to March. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Koh Tarutao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tarutao receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In January, Dubai is generally cooler than Koh Tarutao. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Koh Tarutao fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Koh Tarutao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tarutao and Dubai during the spring 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 Tarutao year-round.

June to August is the dry season in Dubai. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Tarutao. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tarutao receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Dubai is cooler than Koh Tarutao in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Koh Tarutao fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Tarutao and Dubai