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

Should you visit Dubai or Portland?

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 Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a modern, glamorous, and opulent city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Dubai and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dubai than Portland. Dubai is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dubai is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Skiing?

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

Locals like to visit Dubai to take advantage of their winter sports. 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.

Portland is not a skiing destination.

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Dubai. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Dubai is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Music?

Dubai is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Dubai is known as a music capital around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Resorts?

Dubai is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great city for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Portland?

Dubai is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Dubai. 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Families?

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

Dubai is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Portland are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Dubai is a good city for couples to visit. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Dubai or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Dubai is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Dubai and Portland both offer notable 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.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Dubai or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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 Portland?

Dubai is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this quirky destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Portland?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Portland?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the laid-back destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Portland?

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

Portland 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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Portland. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Portland. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Portland. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Portland in the Winter?

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

The weather in Portland can be very cold. Dubai is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Portland. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland 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, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Portland and Dubai