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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dubai and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

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 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

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 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?

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?

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?

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 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 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 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 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?

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 Better for Families?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

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 vibrant 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 eclectic 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 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Dubai