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

Should you visit Dubai or Osaka?

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 Osaka 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 live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Osaka

Osaka is a cultural, high energy, and colorful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Osaka?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dubai than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dubai is very popular for its skiing, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Osaka attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Dubai is famous for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also well known for Burj Khalifa. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Skiing?

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

Osaka is not a skiing destination.

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

Osaka 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, Osaka has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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 Osaka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka 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.

Osaka has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Dubai and Osaka.

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 Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Music?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Osaka 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.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

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

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubai has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

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.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Osaka. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Osaka?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Osaka both offer plenty of terrific 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.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Osaka.

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.

Osaka is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Is Dubai or Osaka Better for Couples?

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

Osaka is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

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 Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

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 Osaka Better for Students?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

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 Osaka a more walkable city?

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

Osaka is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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 Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Dubai or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dubai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Osaka?

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 Osaka, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Osaka?

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 Osaka. 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 Osaka?

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.

Osaka is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Osaka. 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 Osaka?

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 vibrant big city of Osaka. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Osaka, 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 Osaka?

Osaka 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 Osaka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is a little warmer than Osaka in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Osaka. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Osaka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Osaka. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Osaka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Dubai is much warmer than Osaka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Osaka averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Osaka. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Osaka in the Winter?

Both Osaka 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, most visitors come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Dubai is generally much warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Osaka. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Osaka in the Spring?

Both Osaka 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Osaka because of the activities around the city.

Dubai is much warmer than Osaka in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Osaka. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Dubai