A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Dubai or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Kyoto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Dubai than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is known for its museums, historical sights, 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. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Skiing?

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

Kyoto is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Kyoto?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Kyoto 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, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Dubai is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Music?

Dubai is renowned for its live music scene. However, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

Dubai is renowned for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dubai. 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Kyoto is revered around the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Kyoto?

Dubai is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Families?

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

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.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Dubai or Kyoto Better for Couples?

Kyoto 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, Kyoto has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto Better for Students?

Dubai is renowned for students. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

Kyoto is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Kyoto offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Dubai or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Kyoto?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

One day in Dubai or Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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.

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This city 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Kyoto?

Dubai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Dubai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

Kyoto has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Kyoto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Kyoto. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Kyoto. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Kyoto in the Autumn?

Both Kyoto and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Dubai is much warmer than Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Kyoto in the Winter?

Both Kyoto 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

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

Should I visit Dubai or Kyoto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Kyoto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Dubai