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

Should you visit Dubai or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tokyo travel costs.

Dubai and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Burj Khalifa
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Dubai or Tokyo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dubai than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dubai is very popular for its skiing, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Tokyo attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and food. Dubai is famous for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also well known for Burj Khalifa. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Skiing?

Dubai
Tokyo

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Tokyo 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.

Tokyo is not a skiing destination.


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

Dubai
Tokyo

Tokyo 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, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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 Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubai
Tokyo

Tokyo 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.

Tokyo has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

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 Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Dubai
Tokyo

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find world-class options in both Dubai and Tokyo.

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 Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.


Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Music?

Dubai
Tokyo

Dubai and Tokyo are both destinations where visitors can find world-class 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.

Tokyo is a world class music destination. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Resorts?

Dubai
Tokyo

Dubai is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Dubai is a great choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai
Tokyo

Dubai is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubai has a few good snorkeling spots. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Beaches?

Dubai
Tokyo

Dubai is a popular place for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Dubai is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Tokyo?

Dubai
Tokyo

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Tokyo both offer plenty of world-class 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.

Tokyo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Is Dubai or Tokyo More Beautiful?

Dubai
Tokyo

You'll find a similar quality of great scenery and beauty in both Dubai and Tokyo.

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

Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.


Is Dubai or Tokyo Better for Families?

Dubai
Tokyo

Tokyo 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.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

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 Tokyo Better for Couples?

Dubai
Tokyo

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

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

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 Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubai
Tokyo

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

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

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 Tokyo Better for Students?

Dubai
Tokyo

For students, both Dubai and Tokyo are world-class 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.

Tokyo is a great destination for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

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

Dubai
Tokyo

Tokyo 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 Tokyo can get you around easily. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

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 Tokyo a more walkable city?

Dubai
Tokyo

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Tokyo is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Tokyo?

Both Dubai and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Dubai. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Dubai or Tokyo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dubai 3-7 
    Tokyo 3-7

One day in Dubai or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cutting edge big city offers. 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 Tokyo?

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 Tokyo. 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 Tokyo?

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.

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. In Tokyo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Dubai or Tokyo?

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.

In Tokyo, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this cutting edge big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United Arab Emirates, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Arab Emirates, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Dubai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Dubai Prices
    UAE Prices
    Tokyo Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Dubai $289
    Tokyo $195

The average daily cost (per person) in Dubai is $289, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is $195. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Dubai and Tokyo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dubai $170
    Tokyo $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dubai $340
    Tokyo $164
Compare Hotels in Dubai and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Dubai or Tokyo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Dubai


Hotels in Tokyo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Dubai Hotel Prices and Tokyo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dubai $13
    Tokyo $18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dubai

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubai:


  • Taxi Ride
    $12
  • Airport Taxi
    $12
  • Sea Taxi
    $0.54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubai

Also for Dubai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Burj Khalifa VIP Lunch – Michelin Dining & Porsche Transfer: $799
  • From Private Van Transfer in Maybach: $735
  • BAPS Temple Visit with Private Transfer: $300
  • Guided Abu Dhabi City Tour Private Transfer: $300
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight with 4X4 Transfers: $299
  • Jet Car Ride for 2 Pax with Optional Transfer: $299
  • The Dubai Mall Tour with Private Transfers: $299
  • Fujairah Dam Tour with Private Transfers : $299
  • Jet Car Experience ( 60 Minutes ) in Dubai with Private transfer: $298
  • Dubai Afternoon High Tea in the Iconic Burj Al Arab with Transfer: $295
  • Al Rafisah Dam Tour near Dubai with Private Transfers : $295
  • XLine Dubai Marina Zipline Ride with Transfers Options: $293

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer between Tokyo and Hakuba or Nozawa: $1,243
  • Hakuba: Private transfer from/to Tokyo/HND by minibus max 9: $1,098
  • Narita To Nagano Private Airport Transfer / Green Number Car: $1,036
  • To/From Private Luxury Transfer to/from Kyoto (1 Way): $759
  • Private Luxury Transfer To/From Nagano (1 way): $759
  • Private Luxury Car Transfer To/From Osaka. (one way): $759
  • One Way Shuttle Van Transfer, Tokyo ⇔ Nagano: $746
  • Haneda airport to/from Naeba city Private Transfer: $711
  • Haneda airport to/from Karuizawa Town Private Transfer: $621
  • Haneda Airport to/from Kamakura City Private Transfer: $525
  • Private Customizable Tour with Transfer: $497
  • One Way Shuttle Van Transfer, Tokyo ⇔ Hakone: $414

Is it cheaper to fly into Dubai or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo and Dubai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Dubai $96
    Tokyo $68
Typical Food Prices in Dubai

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Dubai:


  • French bread
    $0.95
  • Sumo salad in Dubai Mall + Juice
    $10
  • Lemon Mint Tea
    $4.36
  • Coffee & Cake
    $6.54
  • Smoothie
    $5.45
  • Shawarma
    $1.91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubai

For Dubai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Old Town, Creek, Museums, Souks, & Street Food Tour: $8.98
  • Dhow Cruise With Dinner at Al Jaddaf Dubai: $14
  • Dhow Cruise with Dinner and Live Entertainment at Dubai Al Seef: $15
  • Dhow Cruise with Dinner at Dubai Al Seef: $16
  • Scenic Dhow Cruise with Buffet Dinner and Live Shows: $16
  • Sunrise 1 Night Cruise Buffet Dinner and Live Entertainment: $17
  • Catamaran Cruise with Dinner at Al Jaddaf Waterfront Dubai: $17
  • Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise Dinner: $18
  • Desert Safari with Dinner and Live Show: $18
  • Desert Safari With Camel Ride and Dinner: $19
  • Dhow Cruise Dinner Creek: $19
  • Deira Creek: Dhow Cruise Dinner: $20

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:


  • Late Night Noodles
    $5.52
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    $5.52
  • Meal at Airport
    $7.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shinjuku Local Bar Hopping and Food Tour : $24
  • Takoyaki cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $28
  • For First Time Visitor:Tsukiji Food Tour with Tokyo Travel Advice: $28
  • Easy Ramen Cooking Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $31
  • Guided Tsukiji’s Local Food Tour : $35
  • Tokyo : Vintage, Music & Food Tour in Shimokitazawa with a Local: $35
  • Hide's Table A Unique Dinner Gathering Every Wednesday Night: $35
  • Authentic Homestyle Japanese Cooking Class near Tokyo with Risa: $39
  • Japanese Style Variety Show with Dance,Magic & Dinner: $40
  • Ueno Private Walking Tour and Night Food Tour: $42
  • Toyosu Market Tuna Auction Gourmet and Food tour: $46
  • Tokyo Bay Yakatabune Dinner/Day Cruise with Japan Show & Drinks: $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dubai $19
    Tokyo $72
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dubai

For Dubai, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Visit to the Dubai Museum
    $0.82

Tours and Activities in Dubai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dubai.

  • Abu Dhabi Sightseeing City Tour including Grand Mosque: $48
  • Abu Dhabi Sightseeing Tour From Dubai : $142
  • Abu Dhabi Tour Grand Mosque Ferrari World Included : $185
  • Burj Khalifa Observation Deck Dubai Admission Ticket : $65
  • Burj Khalifa Tour - Top Sky Ticket 124, 125 & 148 Floor Level Access : $165
  • Combo : Dubai Desert Safari & Miracle Garden Tickets Only: $80
  • Desert Safari, City Tour & Dhow Cruise in Marina Enjoy In Dubai: $110
  • Discover Old Dubai Walking Tour With Food Tasting : $35
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Entrance Ticket: $48
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Explorer Tickets: $95
  • Dubai City Tour + Burj Khalifa + Dubai Frame + Desert Safari (one day tour): $271
  • Dubai City Tour Four Hours: $53

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

  • 4 Hours Shibuya - Shinjuku Night Tour: $106
  • Art Japanese Fan Painting Experience in Tokyo Asakusa: $25
  • Authentic Samurai Experience With Real Actors: $106
  • Explore Shibuya Crossing Car Tour: $212
  • Japan: Legoland Discovery Tokyo Theme Park Ticket: $18
  • Knife Sharpening Experience in Tokyo by Crafts Class Guided: $23
  • Kyu-Yasuda, Kiyosumi and Hama-Rikyu Tokyo Garden Tour: $163
  • Manga Artist Experience with Professional Guidance in Tokyo: $117
  • Mount Fuji Four Iconic Scenic Spots Day Tour from Tokyo: $116
  • Mt. Fuji Roundtrip Tours From Shinjuku, Japan: $84
  • Pick the Hours That Suit You In A Flexible Tokyo Guided Tour: $70
  • Private Walking Tour Tokyo's Fukagawa Edo Museum: $106

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dubai $23
    Tokyo $35
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dubai

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Dubai:


  • A Couple Drinks
    $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubai

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubai:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tours: $66
  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour: $67
  • Pub Crawl Private, Birthdays & Corporate Events: $110

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:


  • Sake
    $4.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

  • Shinjuku Bar Hopping and Pub Crawl: $18
  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: $26
  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: Unique Japanese Drinks in Shimokitazawa: $35
  • 3 Hours Pub Crawl Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $35
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $56
  • Shinjuku: Izakaya and Pub Crawl: $90
  • Toshimaya Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $97
  • Private Shinjuku Nightlife Walking Tour & Golden-Gai Bar Crawl: $117
  • Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and jump into historic town: $120
  • Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $134
  • Sake Brewery and Spiritual Nature Tour in Okutama Tokyo: $145
  • Mt. Fuji viewing & Suntory Hakushu Distillery Whisky Museum: $173


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dubai or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Tokyo, 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 Tokyo?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is a little warmer than Tokyo in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Tokyo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dubai 35°C (95°F) 
    Tokyo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Dubai or Tokyo in the Autumn?

Both Tokyo and Dubai during the autumn 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 city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

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

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Tokyo. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dubai 29°C (84°F) 
    Tokyo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Dubai or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Tokyo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Dubai is generally much warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dubai 19°C (66°F) 
    Tokyo 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Dubai or Tokyo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Tokyo. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Dubai is much warmer than Tokyo in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Tokyo. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dubai 26°C (79°F) 
    Tokyo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Dubai

Dubai Tokyo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 9°C (47°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
May 31°C (88°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Jun 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Jul 35°C (95°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Aug 36°C (97°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Sep 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 180 mm (7.1 in)
Oct 29°C (84°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 21°C (70°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)