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

Should you visit Dubai or Zurich?

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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dubai and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Zurich?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Zurich, 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, and big city activities, while Zurich is known for its historical sights. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Zurich 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 Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Dubai and Zurich 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, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Music?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

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.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Dubai is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a good destination for the beache. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Zurich is revered around the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Zurich?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Zurich both offer plenty of first-rate 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.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Dubai or Zurich.

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.

Zurich is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

Is Dubai or Zurich Better for Couples?

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

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Zurich is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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 Zurich Better for Students?

For students, both Dubai and Zurich are first-rate 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.

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Zurich 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.

Zurich offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich a more walkable city?

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

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Zurich?

In either Dubai or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Zurich because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Zurich?

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 Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich. 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 Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Zurich?

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 museums and nightlife around the liberal destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

When comparing the travel costs between Dubai and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Dubai is in Middle East and Zurich is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Zurich?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

Zurich 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 Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Dubai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Zurich. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Zurich. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zurich because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dubai is much warmer than Zurich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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

Should I visit Dubai or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Zurich. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zurich in the winter. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Zurich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Zurich averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Zurich. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March in Dubai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Dubai or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Zurich for the natural beauty.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Zurich. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Typical Weather for Zurich and Dubai