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

Should you visit Dubai or Sukhothai?

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 Sukhothai 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.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Sukhothai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Sukhothai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubai than Sukhothai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubai is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai is more popular for its historical sights. Dubai is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Sukhothai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Skiing?

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

Sukhothai is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Sukhothai and Dubai.

Many visitors head to Dubai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Sukhothai both to be very good 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, Sukhothai makes for a great culinary experience. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai 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.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Music?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Sukhothai 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.

Sukhothai is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Dubai is a perfect choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Beaches?

Dubai is very good for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Dubai to enjoy the beach. 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.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Sukhothai?

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

Sukhothai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Families?

Dubai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Sukhothai 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.

Sukhothai is a nice destination for couples. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Sukhothai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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 Sukhothai Better for Students?

Dubai is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sukhothai is not popular with students.

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.

Sukhothai is not popular with students.

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

Dubai and Sukhothai 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.

Sukhothai has a few public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Is Dubai or Sukhothai a more walkable city?

Dubai and Sukhothai are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Dubai is generally not a very walkable city. 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.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Dubai Worth Visiting? and Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sukhothai or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Sukhothai?

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

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

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 Sukhothai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this world class destination 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 Sukhothai?

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 Sukhothai. 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 Sukhothai?

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.

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

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 food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. 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 10-Day Tours in Thailand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Sukhothai?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Sukhothai, 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 Sukhothai?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Sukhothai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Sukhothai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Sukhothai. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is a little warmer than Sukhothai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Sukhothai averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Sukhothai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Sukhothai. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Sukhothai. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Dubai is generally around the same temperature as Sukhothai. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Sukhothai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Sukhothai in the Winter?

Both Sukhothai and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The rainy season in Dubai is January to March. In January, Dubai usually receives more rain than Sukhothai. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Dubai is cooler than Sukhothai in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Sukhothai fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Dubai or Sukhothai in the Spring?

Both Sukhothai 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round.

June to August is the dry season in Dubai. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Sukhothai. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Dubai is cooler than Sukhothai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Sukhothai averages at about 32°C (89°F).

Typical Weather for Sukhothai and Dubai