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

Should you visit Dubai or Zagreb?

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 Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is known for its historical sights. Dubai is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Zagreb 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 Zagreb can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Zagreb both to be high quality 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, Zagreb makes for a great culinary experience. The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Dubai is a world class party destination. 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 Zagreb has something for everybody. There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Music?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Dubai The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Dubai for its luxury resorts. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a good destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Dubai offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb 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 Zagreb. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Zagreb?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Zagreb. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Families?

Dubai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Zagreb offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with parks where kids can run around. There are also kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Illusions and markets that are fun for the whole family. While it doesn't have the coastal activities that many Croatian towns offer, this is a unique city in its own way.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Zagreb are good 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.

Zagreb is a nice destination for couples. Filled with history and beautiful parks, this often overlooked Croatian city actually has a lot that couples can enjoy. The historical monuments offer a glimpse into the country's past and the markets let you experience a more authentic side to what has become a very touristy country.

Is Dubai or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zagreb. Because it's not the most touristy city, prices are reasonable. There are also a wide range of hostels in town where you can meet other backpackers and enjoy the fun environment.

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 Zagreb Better for Students?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very popular place to visit for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Zagreb is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's an endless supply of bars and cafes where students hang out. This is a great student city that offers access to many beautiful parts of Croatia and Europe in general.

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

Zagreb is a great city 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.

Zagreb offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

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 Zagreb a more walkable city?

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

Zagreb is a very walkable destination. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

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 Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Dubai or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dubai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

Families should spend more time in Dubai than Zagreb. 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 Zagreb. 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.

One day in Dubai or Zagreb?

Dubai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic 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 Zagreb?

Dubai is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Dubai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Zagreb. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Zagreb?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Zagreb, 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 Zagreb?

Zagreb 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 Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Zagreb. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Dubai is much warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Dubai during the winter 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 museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zagreb in the winter. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Zagreb. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Zagreb. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Dubai