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

Should you visit Dubai or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles 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, Dubai attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Dubai travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Dubai and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Dubai. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, beaches, and hiking, while Dubai attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Dubai and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Dubai is famous for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style.

How is Dubai different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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 Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Dubai is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Dubai is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find first-rate options in both Dubai and Los Angeles.

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 Los Angeles is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Dubai and Los Angeles are both destinations where visitors can find first-rate live music.

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.

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Dubai is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai and Los Angeles both offer nice scuba diving or snorkeling spots.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

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 Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Los Angeles?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Los Angeles both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

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.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles More Beautiful?

Dubai is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Dubai attracts visitors from all around. With its many skyscrapers and high end resorts, this is a beautiful city to visit.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Dubai is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

For students, both Dubai and Los Angeles are first-rate places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

Dubai and Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Dubai or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Los Angeles?

Both Dubai and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Dubai. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Dubai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Dubai or Los Angeles?

Dubai is a glamorous 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 Los Angeles, many people enjoy the theater and nightlife that this dynamic big city offers. 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.

A weekend in Dubai or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles?

Dubai is a modern 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.

Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. In Los Angeles, many people enjoy the live music and food that this big city 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 Los Angeles?

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.

In Los Angeles, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this multicultural big city 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Dubai and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Dubai is in Middle East and Los Angeles is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Los Angeles. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is much warmer than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In July, Dubai usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Los Angeles. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Dubai is much warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Los Angeles. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In January, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Dubai is much warmer than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Los Angeles. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Dubai