A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jerusalem vs. Dubai for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Jerusalem or Dubai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Jerusalem or Dubai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Jerusalem or Dubai?

Jerusalem

Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel, as well as one of the most historically rich cities in the world. It is also the largest city in the country. While Tel Aviv holds many of the responsibilities of a capital city, officially, Jerusalem is still considered the capital. It is important to note that most countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, not in Jerusalem.

Dubai

Ever wonder what it would be like to see the lifestyles of the rich and famous up close. There's no more upscale destination than Dubai. It's by far and away the spot for shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining and the most luxurious of luxury. As the most modern and progressive of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, this area has experienced an unbelievable economic boom and tourism spike. It's a desert city with an amazing infrastructure.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Religious Tours in Israel, The Best Luxury Tours to Israel, The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates.


Which place is cheaper, Dubai or Jerusalem?

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

  • Jerusalem Prices
    Israel Prices
    Dubai Prices
    UAE Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jerusalem $162
    Dubai $289

The average daily cost (per person) in Jerusalem is $162, while the average daily cost in Dubai is $289. 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 Jerusalem and Dubai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jerusalem $79
    Dubai $170
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jerusalem $158
    Dubai $340
Compare Hotels in Jerusalem and Dubai

Looking for a hotel in Jerusalem or Dubai? 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 Jerusalem


Hotels in Dubai


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: Jerusalem Hotel Prices and Dubai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jerusalem $8.32
    Dubai $13
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jerusalem

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jerusalem are as follows:


  • Local Bus
    $3.92
  • Light Rail Jerusalem
    $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jerusalem

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Jerusalem:

  • Private Transfer from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv: $247
  • Secure Private Transfer: Jerusalem to Allenby Bridge Service: $228
  • Jerusalem Private Transfer To Amman: $195
  • Smooth Private Transfer: Jerusalem to Allenby Bridge: $180
  • Reliable Private Transfer: Allenby Bridge to Jerusalem / Tel Aviv: $170
  • Private Transfer from Jerusalem to Airport: $142
  • Jerusalem Private Transfer To Tel Aviv Airport: $130
  • Jerusalem Private Transfer to Allaenby Bridge: $130
  • Jerusalem Private Transfer To Dead Sea: $130
  • Private Transfer: From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv: $95
  • Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Airport (TLV) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Jerusalem to Tel Aviv Airport (TLV) - Departure Private Transfer: $86

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:

  • Miracle Garden and Global Village Entry Ticket with Transfer: $8.42
  • Global Village Dubai Ticket with Optional transfer: $9.50
  • Global Village Entry Ticket with Transfer Option: $10
  • Private Dubai Airport Arrival/Departure Transfer to Dubai City: $13
  • Dubai hotel or address to Dubai Airport (DXB) – Departure Private Transfer: $18
  • Dubai Airport (DXB) to Dubai hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $18
  • Dubai Airport to Hotel Private Transfer Round Trip: $18
  • Dubai Frame Entry Tickets With Transfer Option: $18
  • Dubai Private Airport Arrival & Departure To Hotel Transfer: $18
  • Dubai Airport (DXB) Private Transfer to Dubai/Jumeirah/Abu Dhabi: $18
  • Dubai Airport Private Departure and Arrival Airport Transfer: $19
  • Dubai Frame Tickets with Optional Transfer: $19

Is it cheaper to fly into Jerusalem or Dubai?

Prices for flights to both Dubai and Jerusalem 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
    Jerusalem $68
    Dubai $96
Typical Food Prices in Jerusalem

Some typical examples of dining costs in Jerusalem are as follows:


  • Orange Juice
    $3.32
  • Watermelon
    $4.98
  • Lunch
    $15
  • Food at Market
    $19
  • Juice
    $3.32
  • Bagels
    $9.96
  • Lunch for 2
    $18
  • Snacks
    $6.97

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jerusalem

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jerusalem.

  • Private Lunch or Dinner at a Local Traditional Restaurant from Dead Sea: $107
  • Private Madaba Haret Jdoudna Restaurant Lunch or Dinner from Dead Sea: $127
  • Christmas Eve Jerusalem and Bethlehem with Dinner from Jerusalem: $180
  • Experience Shabbat With Dinner In Jerusalem: $230
  • The Best Food Tour in Jerusalem-Perfect for Viral Travel Content: $237

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:

  • Dubai Desert Safari with Dune Bashing, Camel Ride and BBQ Dinner: $11
  • VIP Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari 4x4, Camel Ride and BBQ Dinner: $14
  • Vip Red Dunes Safari with 4x4 Pick/Drop Camel Dinner Shows: $15
  • VIP Red Dune Safari Dubai,Pick/Drop,Camel Ride, Quad & BBQ Dinner: $15
  • VIP Red Dune Safari with Pick/Drop BBQ Dinner Camelride sandbord: $15
  • Dubai desert safari with BBQ dinner, camel ride & dune Bashing: $15
  • VIP Red Dune Safari Dubai,Pick/Drop,BBQ Dinner,Quad bike Optional: $15
  • VIP Red Dune Safari with Pick/Drop BBQ/Dinner Camelride Sandbord: $15
  • Desert Safari Dubai with BBQ Buffet Dinner: $16
  • Dubai Dhow Cruise Dinner in Creek with pickup drop option: $16
  • Dubai:VIP Desert Safari with Pick/Drop, Camel Ride, Dinner & Show: $16
  • Dubai Desert Safari | Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner: $16

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jerusalem $11
    Dubai $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Jerusalem

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Jerusalem are as follows:


  • Cooking Classes for 2
    $42

Tours and Activities in Jerusalem

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Jerusalem are as follows:

  • 1-Day : Jerusalem & Dead Sea Private Tour.      : $993
  • 2 Days Bethlehem, Herodion, Judean Desert Monasteries and Jericho Private Tour: $275
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jerusalem's Old City: $9.99
  • Best of Jerusalem Full-Day Tour from Jerusalem: $69
  • Bethlehem Alternative Tour: $90
  • Bethlehem Half Day Christian Guided Tour: $40
  • Bethlehem Half Day Guided Group Tour: $40
  • Bethlehem Tour from Jerusalem: $68
  • Bethlehem, Jericho, and Jordan River Day Tour from Jerusalem: $99
  • Caesarea, Haifa and Akko Tour from Jerusalem: $109
  • Christian Private tour in Jerusalem: $250
  • Classic Jerusalem Old City - Self Guiding Tour: $13

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.

  • Dubai's Hidden Gems: Self Guided City Tour: $3.49
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Dubai: $5.82
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Dubai’s Origins in Deira: $5.99
  • Dubai Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Burj Khalifa, Dubai Hidden Gems - Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.81
  • Dubai Walking Tour 1h00 and 9 audio reviews: $7.26
  • Miracle Garden and Global Village Entrance Ticket: $9.77
  • Dubai Butterfly Garden Tickets: $11
  • Al Shindagha Museum Tickets: $13
  • Al Shindagha Museum Ticket: $13
  • Dubai Butterfly Garden Ticket Deals: $14
  • Premium Dubai Property Investment Tour in Half-Day: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jerusalem $19
    Dubai $23
Typical Alcohol Prices in Jerusalem

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Jerusalem are as follows:


  • Beer
    $5.98

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: $42
  • Pub Crawl Private Events & Birthdays: $126


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

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


Which is Bigger, Jerusalem or Dubai?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Jerusalem. When comparing the sizes of Jerusalem and Dubai, 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 Jerusalem or Dubai?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Jerusalem or Dubai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jerusalem as well as Dubai. Jerusalem attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year.

Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season. Jerusalem usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dubai. Jerusalem gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Dubai receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. In July, Jerusalem is generally much colder than Dubai. Daily temperatures in Jerusalem average around 23°C (73°F), and Dubai fluctuates around 35°C (95°F).


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jerusalem 23°C (73°F) 
    Dubai 35°C (95°F)

Should I visit Jerusalem or Dubai in the Autumn?

Both Dubai and Jerusalem are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jerusalem throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Jerusalem usually receives more rain than Dubai. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Dubai receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Jerusalem is much colder than Dubai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jerusalem averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Dubai fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jerusalem 19°C (66°F) 
    Dubai 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Jerusalem or Dubai in the Winter?

Both Dubai and Jerusalem during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Jerusalem because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round.

January to March is the rainy season in Dubai. Jerusalem usually gets more rain in January than Dubai. Jerusalem gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dubai receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Jerusalem is much colder than Dubai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jerusalem in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Dubai averages at about 19°C (66°F).


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jerusalem 8°C (46°F) 
    Dubai 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Jerusalem or Dubai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jerusalem and Dubai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jerusalem year-round. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

June to August in Dubai is the dry season. In April, Jerusalem usually receives more rain than Dubai. Jerusalem gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Dubai receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Jerusalem is generally much colder than Dubai. Daily temperatures in Jerusalem average around 16°C (61°F), and Dubai fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jerusalem 16°C (61°F) 
    Dubai 26°C (79°F)

Typical Weather for Dubai and Jerusalem

Jerusalem Dubai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 50 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 31°C (88°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 35°C (95°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 36°C (97°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 33°C (91°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 29°C (84°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)