Deciding where to stay in Dubai can be overwhelming. Dubai is a huge city with an area of over 4,000 km², so walking from one area to another is not ideal and you will most likely have to use public transportation. To help you decide, I have compiled the following list of the best places to stay in Dubai.
Tourism is a big growth factor for Dubai, and the city is the most popular destination in the entire Middle East. However, be aware that Dubai is not necessarily the most backpacker-friendly city in the world.
There are not that many hostels or cheap accommodation here, and you have to pay a surcharge for almost everything. In short: Dubai is expensive.
Many tourists underestimate the total cost of accommodation, sightseeing, nightlife, cabs and restaurant visits and can be faced with a high bill at the end of their vacation.
However, there are many ways to limit your budget and plan ahead to get the most out of Dubai and save money in the process.
The best way to budget accordingly is to decide where to stay in Dubai. There are hundreds of luxury hotels and resorts with breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf near the water, but there are also budget and mid-range accommodation options throughout the city.
This guide presents the eight best places to stay in Dubai and explains the pros and cons of each.
Where to stay in Dubai: The 8 best neighborhoods
1. Downtown Dubai, where to stay for the first time in Dubai
A Dubai vacation is best started in Downtown Dubai, where traditional Arabic architecture meets futuristic buildings and the party lasts from sunrise to sunset.
Many who think of Downtown Dubai as a modern metropolis may be surprised to learn that it was once a small fishing village. Today, the area is one of the most famous (and prestigious) areas in the world, and USD 20 billion has been invested in the area to transform the city into the “center of now”.
If you just want to sit back and relax, Downtown Dubai might not be the best place to stay. There is so much to see and do in this area, and with warm, sunny weather all year round, Downtown Dubai is always buzzing with activity.
As a central meeting point for tourists, there is plenty to do in Downtown Dubai, but a good place to start is the Burj Khalifa. At 163 stories and over 1,800 feet tall, this building is the tallest in the world.
Visitors can buy tickets and go directly to the Observation Deck to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
Get back down to earth and visit the Dubai Mall Complex, the (you guessed it!) largest shopping mall in the world. With over 1,000 stores and luxury retailers, you can spend a whole day browsing everything this place has to offer.
The Dubai Fountain, an internationally recognized landmark, is also located here. This incredible music, light and water spectacle is the tallest fountain in the world and is located on the 30-hectare Burj Lake.
You can watch the spectacle from land as powerful jets shoot the water to dizzying heights, or experience the show from a traditional abra on the water. Children will be thrilled by the many colorful lights and be captivated by the powerful music.
If you would like to visit the sights of Downtown by car, drive along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.
As Dubai’s busiest and most exciting street, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is home to some of the newest and trendiest restaurants in Dubai. It’s a great place to people-watch and get up close to the landmarks mentioned above.
Last but not least, you should visit the Dubai Opera, one of the newest buildings in the city center. This architectural masterpiece is a celebration of art, music and design. Its hallowed halls regularly host Broadway shows, plays and operas.
As far as nightlife is concerned, Downtown Dubai lives up to its name as a party stronghold. There are several upscale nightclubs as well as smaller venues overlooking the water. The party lasts from dusk till dawn, so make sure you bring good dancing shoes.
The city center is an incredible place to visit, but if you want to stay in this area for the duration of your trip to Dubai, be prepared to spend a little more money. However, there is a wide range of hotels to choose from, so prices remain competitive.
Near the water and around Burj Park, you’ll find resorts of the highest luxury with incredible amenities. If you’re just looking for a budget boutique hotel with no extra frills, other areas on this list are better suited to you.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN DUBAI CITY CENTER
2. Trade Center, the financial center of Dubai
Also known as the Dubai Financial Centre, Dubai’s trade center has been compared to the famous World Trade Center in New York City. But unlike the stuffy reputation of Wall Street, the Dubai Trade Centre is futuristic, multicultural and luxurious, and it is where Dubai’s powerful make their moves.
The focal point is the Dubai World Trade Centre skyscraper, which towers over the area with its 38 floors and a height of 184 meters.
The tower regularly hosts international events, conferences, comedy performances and even concerts and welcomes around 3 million people every year.
If you want to see the latest in technology, luxury, music or cuisine, check out an event here during your stay in Dubai.
Many say that the Dubai Trade Center is the gateway to the entire city of Dubai, and they are right. The area is the start of Sheikh Zayed Road, arguably the most photographed stretch of road in Dubai.
Today, the area is a multi-purpose city within the city, where young professionals, families and expatriates feel at home in newly renovated residential complexes.
If you want to have fun, visit Sports World and Modhesh World, two festive parks that are perfect for children.
Sports World is a huge indoor sports complex with basketballl, tennis, volleyball, rugby and soccer pitches. You can reserve a court to play on in advance or simply come and hire equipment for an afternoon.
Modhesh World, also indoor, is Dubai’s first amusement park spanning 8 floors at the Dubai Trade Center. Here you and your children can play interactive and educational games, climb, zip line, skate and even take part in live shows.
This is the perfect place to entertain the whole family, especially in the hot summer months.
As the World Trade Center in Dubai is such a popular location, there are at least 50 hotels in the surrounding area in various price ranges. The area can get particularly crowded on the nights of major trade fairs or exhibitions.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options for a casual lunch and dinner and several bars with live music to choose from.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE TRADE CENTER
3. Bur Dubai, history and tradition meet modern hustle and bustle
Bur Dubai is located just west of Dubai Creek and is often referred to as the “Old City“. As Dubai’s signature historic district, a visit to Bur Dubai feels like a trip back to ancient Arabian times, when wooden abras sailed on the sea and shady palm trees lined the houses.
This is where modern Dubai as we know it began and is still home to many culturally important sites, museums and artifacts.
Not only is there plenty to do in Bur Dubai, but it’s also a great and relatively inexpensive place to live in Dubai.
Less hectic than the city center, but still dynamic and busy, Bur Dubai is a must-see.
History buffs will love the historic Al Fahidi district, formerly known as Bastakiya Quarter. Here you will find a peaceful oasis, quite different from the chaos of Downtown Dubai.
This area was once a commercial district that has now been restored into a historic center. On your walk, you will discover craft stores, markets and quaint cafés that still reflect the culture of old Dubai.
Another historical landmark is the Dubai Museum, a one-stop shop for all things Dubai history. The museum shows how Dubai developed from a sandy spit of land into a world-famous metropolis and illustrates the development of trade, architecture and the economy on interactive displays.
Dubai was also once a hotspot for pearl divers and pearl collectors, and today you can learn how to collect pearls yourself by visiting the Heritage Village, a preserved traditional village at the mouth of the Khor Dubai.
There is also a real big bazaar and regular camel races.
For art lovers, the Majlis Gallery in the Al Fahidi district is an ideal place for a cultural excursion. Many well-known artists, photographers and sculptors have exhibited their works here, giving the otherwise small gallery an international flair.
If you want to buy some traditional souvenirs, you can find colorful textiles and fabrics as well as shoes, clothing and other trinkets at the Old Souk Market.
Artisans use high-quality materials to weave shimmering threads into their products, reflecting the old style of Dubai. Be sure to take several photos here, as the dynamic colors alone are worth a photo.
If you are looking for affordable electronic devices, Bur Dubai is known for selling these products at the most affordable prices.
End your day here with a relaxing river cruise on a traditional dhow. At dusk, you’ll sail across the blue waters of Dubai and see the twinkling lights of the skyscrapers in the distance. This is a truly magical experience and perfect for children of all ages.
Bur Dubai is an ideal place for fun, shopping, business and tourism. If you are interested in the history of Dubai, this is the perfect place to start.
There aren’t many big nightclubs here, but there are a few rather inconspicuous sports bars and lounges that are perfect for a relaxed evening.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BUR DUBAI
- DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai M Square Hotel & Residences 👈
- Grayton Hotel 👈
- Rove Healthcare City-Bur Dubai 👈
4. Deira, where to stay cheap in Dubai
While it may not have the same glamor as other areas on this list, Deira on the Persian Gulf is still deeply rooted in tradition and history and a great place to stay in Dubai.
It is essentially an extension of the old city and is close to Bur Dubai. Deira has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade, evolving from a historic business district to a booming tourist and economic hotspot.
While you can catch a glimpse of a bygone era at the old markets and landmarks, modern architecture and progressive cuisine have taken root. However, be prepared to immerse yourself in a crowded (and often chaotic) scene, where the charismatic residents of Deira will show you their multicultural and diverse world.
To get here, take a cab to Abra Station Deira Old Souq and you will immediately be greeted by the scent of thousands of spices wafting over from the Spice Souq.
This decades-old covered market is home to lanes of spice vendors selling the world’s finest spices, from saffron to turmeric to cardamom. You’ll also find nuts, local produce, henna kits and other knick-knacks on every corner.
Nearby is also the Gold Souq, a glittering market full of gold jewelry and other items. As you walk through this famous covered passageway, you’ll see necklaces, bracelets, rings and other eye-catching items spilling over from the crowded stalls.
If you like an item but don’t like the price, you can try to bargain it down, as haggling is practically an art form in Dubai. If you just want to sit down and watch the incredible people, this area is a constant bustle of entertaining pedestrians.
There are several souqs in Deira, including perfume and clothing stores. So if you are looking for a souvenir, this is the place to go.
Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that flows through Deira and eventually flows into the Persian Gulf.
A trip to Deira is not complete without a stroll along the Creek, where you can see rows and rows of dhows or traditional sailing ships floating by near the Deira Souqs. These dhows were crucial to trade in Dubai, bringing goods from all over the world.
Normally at lunchtime you see hundreds of hard-working sailors and deckhands unloading these goods before they sail into town to dock in the harbor.
Nearby is the Al Mamzar Beach Park, where you can play on five sandy beaches, swim in the public swimming pool, picnic on the lawn or rent a parasol and sun lounger.
Those interested in history should visit the Heritage House Museum, a courtyard dating back to the late 1800s. The house once belonged to a wealthy sheikh and is now open to visitors all year round.
The Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili is also located in Deira and pays homage to one of the world’s most famous Arab poets. You can view his unique possessions in the ornately carved interiors, providing a quiet moment of peace amongst the chaos of the souqs.
Although this area is a little quieter due to its historic character, there is fortunately still plenty to do in terms of nightlife, with several good restaurants and lively bars and a well-functioning metro system.
There are several places to stay in Deira that fortunately don’t break the budget. And if you want to be close to the airport, Deira is easy to reach by car.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN DEIRA
5. Palm Jumeirah, a tropical man-made oasis with incredible luxury resorts
Palm Jumeirah is considered one of the most daring (and incredible!) construction projects in the world and is what many people imagine when they think of Dubai.
The Palm Jumeirah, shaped like a palm tree floating on the water, is an island known for pure luxury and glamor.
Palm Jumeirah consists of several artificial island groups and is unlike any other district in the world. It is home to some incredible luxury resorts as well as functioning roads and public transportation.
The best way to describe a visit here is surreal, and it’s an incredible (albeit expensive) place to stay in Dubai. As you admire this incredible architectural feat, you’ll see excited jet skiers and yachtsmen enjoying the blue waters and sunny skies of Dubai.
The famous Atlantis Resort is located here and sits proudly at the top of the palm tree. You don’t have to be a guest to experience everything this hotel has to offer either, including the Aquaventure Water Park, where children and adults alike can splash around in the water and fly through several waterslides.
For even more thrills, there is Aquaventure in Dolphin Bay, where visitors can swim and play with dolphins and even get up close to sea lions.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, also located in Atlantis, is an activity not to be missed. Here you have the opportunity to explore the lost city of Atlantis and see over 65,000 different species of sea creatures and plants, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, piranhas and thousands of fish.
In the Aquatheater Show you can watch divers perform live feedings – great fun for the whole family.
For further activities on the water, Palm Jumeirah offers several boat and tour companies that will accompany you safely on the water.
SeaYou is a company that offers guided kayak tours around the Palm, offering breathtaking views of Dubai Marina and the Burj Khalifa. The company also offers paddle boarding, windsurfing, yoga and Pilates classes for all levels.
Another crowd favorite is the Dubai Palm Cruise Tour, which starts in the West Marina. During this one-hour cruise, the history of Dubai’s architecture is explained in detail. You also have the opportunity to take family photos in front of the Atlantis.
There’s no getting around it: Palm Jumeirah is expensive. This island is not just a place to stay, but also a travel experience. So expect top prices if you want to stay directly on the island.
When it comes to nightlife, Palm Jumeirah is a party-goer’s paradise on earth. Within one night you can visit over 10 bars and clubs, some of which are right on the waterfront.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PALM JUMEIRAH
6. Dubai Marina, where to stay in Dubai for nightlife
The glitzerning, glamorous and waterfront district of Dubai Marina is both cozy and luxurious. Dubai Marina is an artificial canal city that stretches along the shores of the Persian Gulf and is home to some of Dubai’s wealthiest residents.
The pristine sand and clean atmosphere give this area an exclusive aura, but visitors from all walks of life are welcome here.
As you stroll along the promenade under the shade of palm trees, you will see shiny yachts, towering skyscrapers and perhaps even the odd celebrity in the distance.
In fact, Dubai Marina is known as the “tallest block in the world” because of its gleaming skyscrapers. It is also home to many expats who have moved into the spacious residences that are built every year.
The district is located in close proximity to Jumeirah Beach, and several pedestrian bridges connect the two areas.
Start with a stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk and enjoy the upscale restaurants and cafés as well as the pop-up artisan markets. This walk stretches for 7 km and is lined with shady palm trees and perfectly manicured landscapes.
In the distance, you can see the Dubai Marina Walk Fountai shooting water and yachts cruising by. For a little retail therapy, visit the Dubai Marina Mall.
There’s an incredible old-style cinema, luxurious shops and retail outlets, excellent restaurants and international food chains, as well as regular festivals and events throughout the year.
If you are looking for adventure and want to experience the water up close, you can rent jet skis and boats at several locations along the marina. At Dubai Marina Yacht Club, you can even rent a party yacht if you want to spend a little more money with a group of friends.
Speaking of spending: If you’re looking for an incredible dinner you won’t find anywhere else, head to Pier 7 for a fine dining experience. With seven different restaurants on each floor, Pier 7 offers an incredible ambience and stunning views of the water.
You can dine indoors or outdoors and be surprised by the presentation and quality of the food. Thrill-seekers can try a parachute jump at SkyDive Dubai – an incredible adrenaline rush in the open air.
The skydivers plummet at over 120 miles per hour over the beautiful Palm Jumeirah and can see all the important sights of Dubai from the air.
For budget-conscious travelers, there is a new youth hostel here that offers unbeatable prices and a great view.
But you also get what you pay for: refinement, sophisticated living and the best water view in the city.
There are also great bars and clubs near the water, but fortunately the hotels are relatively quiet at night.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN DUBAI MARINA
7. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), accommodation in Dubai for families
Warm, sandy and relaxing – Jumeirah Beach Residence is Dubai’s number one beach destination and one of the newest developments in Dubai. This area is located right next to Dubai Marina.
There are several large hotels and resorts along the promenade as well as a variety of restaurants and shopping facilities nearby.
The Jumeirah Beach Residence area is a luxurious, eclectic neighborhood with public and residential accommodation and a wide range of entertainment.
Access to the Jumeirah Beach Residence is possible from early morning until dusk, and you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers on the beach. It can get very crowded, but if you arrive early, you’re sure to get a spot.
In terms of attractions, Jumeirah Beach Residence offers several landmarks in the immediate vicinity. Don’t miss The Walk at JBR, Dubai Marina, The Palm Jumeirah, Madame Tussauds Dubai or the Ain Dubai, the largest and tallest Ferris wheel in the world.
The Burj Al Arab, one of Dubai’s most famous hotels, is just a few kilometers away and rises almost 700 feet above the clouds. The hotel’s design is shaped like a ship’s sail and reflects Dubai’s famous maritime history.
If you are interested in water sports, Jumeirah Beach is the perfect place to start. Here you can rent jet skis, go parasailing and boating or hire a yacht for the day.
Those who want to sit back and relax can enjoy a spa treatment in one of the many rejuvenating spas along the water.
Or simply go bar hopping in one of the bars on the Strip, which offer a festive atmosphere and live music.
Many of the luxury hotels here have private beach access and pools and offer spacious accommodation for travelers with children. As this area is right on the water, the prices are quite high even for an overnight stay.
Nevertheless, the Jumeirah Beach Residence is definitely worth a day trip for its ocean-green waters and incredible views.
THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DUBAI IN JBR
8. Al Barsha, family-friendly fun and affordable accommodation
Al Barsha, affectionately known as “Barsha” by the locals, is not only a quiet residential district, but also a dynamic and exciting place for visitors.
Although it doesn’t have the same vibrant lifestyle as Downtown Dubai, Al Barsha has really changed in recent years due to major real estate developments.
Al Barsha used to be a huge area with sloping sand dunes, a single large road network and hardly any residential or commercial buildings.
Today you will find all the modern luxury of an urban environment, including hotels, restaurants and a large shopping center as well as local markets and a public transport system.
Fortunately for tourists, the housing market has remained relatively affordable, so the cost of temporary accommodation is also quite low. Due to the well-regarded school system, this area is ideal for children and you are likely to see many young families living here.
Al Barsha is perhaps best known for the Mall of Emirates, a large shopping complex that completely transformed the area after its construction in 2005.
The multi-storey shopping center, which features unique Arabic and Mediterranean details, is currently home to over 630 retailers, over 100 restaurants and 80 luxury stores.
It’s no surprise that the Mall of Emirates is on the lists of the best shopping centers in the world year after year. And this magical complex comprises more than just stores.
Probably the most famous attraction is Ski Dubai, a 22,500 square meter indoor ski area. The ski resort has an 85-metre-high indoor mountain and 5 slopes, including the world’s first black slope.
Children will be absolutely thrilled by the numerous activities in the ski area. In the 3000 square meter snow park, there are sledging and toboggan runs, ice caves to explore and ice-cold slides to play on.
If you want to interact a little with animals, you should be in Ski Dubai when the resident penguins are let out of their enclosure for the day.
The mall is also home to Magic Planet, the largest indoor activity center in Dubai. Here you can ride rides, play video arcade games or bowl on a 12-lane bowling alley.
If you’ve worn yourself out for the day and want to see something other than a screen, visit Al Barsha Pond Park, a quiet and serene place.
This perfectly maintained park has extensive cycle paths and a 1500-meter-long circular running track as well as lush green grass for picnics.
The park is a true oasis in the otherwise sandy Al Barsha community and also has a multi-purpose sports field with tennis, volleyball and basketball courts to play on.
There is also a playground for children and plenty of benches for tired adults. The Dubai Miracle Garden is also located here and lives up to its name.
Al Barsha consists of five sub-areas, with the largest concentration of hotels, shops and restaurants in Al Barsha 1.
Here you will find many luxury hotels (as in most other parts of Dubai), but as this area is mainly residential, there are also some cheaper accommodations with smaller rooms.
There are also several spacious villas for rent, as well as smaller studios if you are planning to stay in Dubai for a longer period of time.
Al Barsha is ideal for young children due to the many family-friendly activities. But surprisingly, there are also a large number of nightclubs and bars with fun drinks and music, making this area really diverse and exciting.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN DUBAI IN AL BARSHA
Wherever you are in Dubai, each area on this list offers a unique and exciting experience. Be aware that Dubai can reach extremely high temperatures in summer.
If you are looking for a cooler and slower change of pace, visit the city in the winter months when many tourists have left for other cities.
As always, plan your trip accordingly and ensure your safety and that of your group wherever possible. Visit Dubai today!
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions :
Where is the best place to stay in Dubai if you are coming to Dubai for the first time?
Downtown Dubai is a popular choice for first-time visitors to Dubai. It is considered a modern metropolis and is home to many tourist attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain. Downtown Dubai is also known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping opportunities.
What is the best hotel in Jumeirah, Dubai?
AnswerThePublic does not provide information on the best hotel in Jumeirah, Dubai. However, it lists several questions related to Jumeirah, such as “which Jumeirah hotel in Dubai is the best” and “what is Jumeirah”.
What is the best area in Dubai for travelers on a budget?
Bur Dubai is a relatively inexpensive area to stay in Dubai. It is less hectic than Downtown Dubai, but still offers a variety of attractions and activities.
What is the best way to plan a budget for accommodation in Dubai?
The best way to estimate the cost of accommodation in Dubai is to decide where to stay. There are a range of accommodation options in Dubai, from luxury hotels to budget options. It’s important to plan ahead and factor in the cost of sightseeing, nightlife, cabs and dining out.
What is the best area in Dubai for luxury travelers?
Dubai is home to many luxury hotels and resorts with breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf. Some of the best areas for luxury travelers in Dubai are Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah and Palm Jumeirah.
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