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

Should you visit Dubai or Washington?

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 Washington 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. Dubai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Dubai travel costs.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Washington travel costs.

Dubai and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Washington?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dubai than Washington. Dubai is bigger than Washington, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dubai is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Washington is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Dubai is well known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a skiing destination.

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

Washington 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, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Dubai or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Dubai is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Dubai is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington 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.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Music?

Dubai is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Beaches?

Dubai is very good for its beaches. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Dubai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Washington?

Dubai is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Dubai or Washington More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Dubai and Washington.

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

Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Washington.

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.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Dubai or Washington Better for Couples?

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

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington Better for Students?

For students, both Dubai and Washington are fantastic 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.

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington 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 Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington a more walkable city?

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

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Washington?

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

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

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

One day in Dubai or Washington?

When visiting Dubai, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Washington, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this international 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 Washington?

When visiting Dubai, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Dubai, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a fun place to experience. In Washington, many people enjoy the food and shopping 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 Washington?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Washington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this international 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Washington?

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

Washington 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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington 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 hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is a little warmer than Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Washington. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Should I visit Dubai or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington 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, many travelers come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Washington. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Washington in the Winter?

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

Washington can get quite cold in the winter. Dubai is much warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Washington. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Washington in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Washington and Dubai