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

Should you visit Dubai or Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Dubai and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dubai than Reykjavik. Dubai is bigger than Reykjavik, 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, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Skiing?

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

Reykjavik is not a skiing destination.

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

Dubai is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dubai is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in 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 Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Dubai has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

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.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Reykjavik?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

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.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Reykjavik is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

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 Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Reykjavik is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

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 Reykjavik Better for Students?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

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

Dubai and Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik has a few public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Dubai or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

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

Reykjavik is a very walkable destination. The city is small and compact, so it's easy 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 Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Reykjavik?

In either Dubai or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this safe destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dubai or Reykjavik?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Reykjavik?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the friendly destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When comparing the travel costs between Dubai and Reykjavik, we can see that Dubai 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 Reykjavik is in Europe, 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 Reykjavik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Reykjavik?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

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

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Reykjavik. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Dubai is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Dubai