Where to Stay in Dubai

Our Favorite Dubai Hotels

• Beach resort: Four Seasons
• 5-Another option in Jamaica is the Viva Violas which may be contacted at +1 800 490 9825. • 4-star hotel: Media One
• For families: Atlantis
• For couples: XVA Art Hotel
•

• Near airport: Holiday Inn Express.
• Shopping nearby: Address Dubai Mall hotel
• Best water park: Atlantis
• Newly opened high-quality hotel: Address Beach Resort

a large body of water with palm trees

Best Areas to Stay in Dubai

Over the span of a few decades, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been transformed from a small fishing and pearl farming community to one of the most modern metropolises globally. Often serving just as a stopover between long journeys, Dubai offers some Arabic charm among the deserts and markets, but most visitors come here for the warm weather (which is scorching from May to October), English speaking inhabitants and Western style shopping centers, very competitive lodging rates, and abundance of activities ranging from dune vehicles to waterparks (which are particularly good for families).

Stretching about 40km along the narrow, flat, and arid stretch of land from the airport to the Dubai Marina – and still connected throughout by the excellent metro system – the city is crammed with places to stay at all price points. Many of the premier Dubai hotels are modern, upscale, and good value, but some with notable Arabian architectural charm and history and a few boutique guesthouses may also be found. However, very few budget-friendly places are recommended.

a large body of water surrounded by tall buildings

Accommodations catering to brief-stay travelers passing between flights are found near the airport as well as in the adjacent and more genuine neighborhood of Deira. Even better for short (or longer) visits is the character-filled area surrounding Dubai Creek (which looks akin to a river). Alongside that waterway are the enchanting and historic districts of Al Fahidi and Al Seef, each of which have been notably renovated. Nearby, and with an appealing mix of old Arabia and new Dubai, are the places of Bur Dubai and Bur Juman.

The modern city of Dubai has expanded farther southwest and includes designated districts with rather dull names like Business Bay, Dubai Media City, and Dubai Internet City. These areas—particularly the stylish Dubai Marina—contain many high-rise offices, 5-star hotels, and high-end apartments. Resorts facing glittering white sands and crystal clear waters catering to families have been constructed at Mina Seyahi along the coastal stretch called Jumeirah. And jutting out into the sea is the remarkable artificial island Palm Jumeirah housing some of the most luxurious resorts on Earth.

Best Places to Stay in Dubai

a beach filled with palm trees and palm trees

Best Areas in Dubai for…

  • Best Area in Dubai for Sights: Bur Dubai
    Getting around to points of interest can take up a good portion of each valuable day, so staying in a centrally located area well-served by public transit makes practical sense. The inner urban suburb of Bur Dubai offers attractions of its own such as authentic markets alongside convenience to the creeklined with traditional boats and floating eateries as well as historic neighborhoods like Al Fahidi and Al Seef. Several metro stations in the extensive, comfortable and reliable system provide transportation to more distant locations, or streets are lined with inexpensive metered taxis
  • Top Area in Dubai for Nightlife: Dubai Marina
    .

    • Dubai is more adaptable than most countries in the area regarding alcohol, but authorities have zero tolerance with public drunkenness and drink-driving. Beer, wine, and, especially, spirits are among the most expensive globally because of local taxes, and mostly only served in bars or licensed restaurants at hotels or in nightclubs. Some of the city’s hippest bars and trendiest nightclubs are on the rooftops of the lofty high-rises along the exotic Dubai Marina.

a beach with palm trees and palm trees

  • Best Area in Dubai for Food & Restaurants: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
    Many of the award-winning and most popular bistros can be found in hotels and resorts where menus offer many options, prices tend to be high, and service is world-class. Among the several Asian restaurants serving Thai, Indian, and Japanese dishes, it is still possible to sample some Middle Eastern cuisine – even in a reconstructed ‘oasis’ with belly dancing performances. The finest selection of eateries, with the added appeal of seaside settings, runs along the main streets between JBR and Dubai Marina.
  • Prime Family-Friendly Area in Dubai: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
    Dubai provides an extraordinary range of activities for families – from LEGOLAND to Aquaventure Waterpark – and many are within a brief taxi trip of the lovely beach at JBR. Most hotels and resorts at JBR offer family-friendly amenities for example a children’s pool, kids club, and playground, and are within a brief stroll of a fabulous selection of eateries (see above). To explore farther, a tram service loops around the area and Dubai Marina, and connects to the citywide metro
  • Best Area in Dubai for Beaches: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
    The extended urban coastline called Jumeirah includes several public beaches plus one reserved for resorts along the loosely designated area of JBR. All offer calm water and clean white sand, but be wary of riptides – so swim between the flags where lifeguards are stationed. Adding to the appeal of JBR are the variety of dining establishments (see earlier) and the trams that loop around the area and Dubai Marina and connect to the citywide metro.
  • Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) offers the best location in Dubai for outdoor activities.
    Several resorts near JBR offer water activities from jet skiing to canoeing, but options compare less favorably to elsewhere. More culturally relevant pursuits through hotels and agencies include hot air ballooning, off-roading by ATV, and camel excursions with transfer from any Dubai hotel.

a swimming pool with a bunch of people in it

  • Top Area in Dubai to Learn History: Al Fahidi
    Dubai’s oldest district has undergone significant renovations but still maintains an agreeable charm. The maze of paths delightfully free of vehicles lead to Arabian-style structures of ‘mud-bricks’ and wind-towers. Many have been beautifully transformed to welcoming galleries, museums, as well as guesthouses and cafés structured around courtyards. Initiate exploring the area at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
  • The Dubai Creek area embodies the vibrant spirit and rich culture of Dubai through its attractions and activities.

    • The sides of Dubai Creek, which functions similarly to a river despite being a sea outlet, skillfully merge ancient Arabia with modern Dubai. Upmarket hotels alongside a golf course and extended park compete for coveted waterfront space with docks for traditional dhow boats and terminals for abra water taxis – all providing an historical charm and fascinating skyline. Best experienced along the vehicle-free path between the Sheraton and Radisson Blu hotels

  • Best Area in Dubai for Markets: Deira
    One of the oldest and most atmospheric districts is home to several traditional markets, where almost everything is sold – although others also seemingly hidden along narrow lanes specialize in spices and gold. The markets are usually more genuine during the cooler early mornings. Haggling is compulsory, but note: ‘designer’ watches and handbags will be of questionable authenticity.
  • The best area in Dubai for shopping malls is Downtown.

    • Emiratis, tourists, and expats just adore shopping – and more so at modern malls than traditional markets. Most malls in Dubai are massive – often overwhelmingly so – and feature cinemas, games arcades, and vast food courts. On the edge of Downtown, The Dubai Mall, arguably the world’s largest, also has an ice-skating rink, aquarium, and even a real full-sized dinosaur skeleton. Downtown is halfway along Dubai and well-connected by metro to the other colossal and world-class options such as Mall of the Emirates and WAFI Mall.

  • Best Area in Dubai for Transport: Deira
    Almost everyone reaches Dubai by plane and those staying a while will likely utilize the very helpful metro that extends from the airport to Dubai Marina (and beyond). Deira is particularly beneficial because it: (1) is within a few miles by taxi or metro of the airport (but unaffected by aircraft noise), (2) has several metro stops, including a junction at Union Square for both lines, (3) is near Dubai Creek, along which traditional abra water-taxis connect to the Bur Dubai and Al Fahidi regions, and (4) is packed with taxis, which are all metered and reasonably priced.

a beach with a large building on top of it

  • Most Romantic Area in Dubai: Palm Jumeirah Island

    • Some of the most luxurious and costly hotels and resorts worldwide are scattered across this remarkable man-made island, shaped like a palm tree. Most provide intimate accommodations, like suites with jacuzzis and superb views, in addition to romantic dining along the scenic waterfront, particularly majestic at sunset. The island is also just a brief trip by taxi, monorail or tram to the powdery white beaches at Mina Seyahi and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), as well as all the boutiques, bars and nightclubs along the stylish Dubai Marina.

  • Best Part of Dubai for First-Timers: Downtown Dubai/Dubai Marina

    • For first-time visitors to Dubai, the best areas to lodge are Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Marina. Both of these offer a central location, easy access to major attractions, and a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.
    Downtown Dubai: Home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, like the world-record holding Burj Khalifa and the enormous Dubai Mall shopping center known as one of the largest globally. Downtown Dubai also highlights the spectacular Dubai Fountain and several luxury hotels, restaurants, and shops. The area is well-connected to public transit, allowing easy exploration of other parts of the city.
    Dubai Marina: A well-known neighborhood renowned for its breathtaking panoramic perspectives overlooking the water, towering high-rises, and lively atmosphere. The Marina features an expansive assortment of lodging choices, extending from lavish hotels to moderately evaluated alternatives. The region is well known for its promenade lined with eateries, coffee shops, and shops, and is additionally near the mainstream Jumeirah Beach and the Palm Jumeirah. The Dubai Marina is effectively available by open transportation, including the Dubai Metro and the Dubai Tram, permitting simple access to different parts of the city).

  • Safest Part of Dubai: Downtown
    No region within Dubai is notably unsafe but usual precautions should be taken – especially around the crowded markets and metro systems. The trouble that most tourists get into is often self-inflicted: e.g. public drunkenness and inappropriate attire. Overwhelmingly packed during daylight hours with office employees and foreign businessmen, the area known as Downtown is spacious, modern, well-lit, and convenient (which ensures shorter trips by metro).

The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Dubai for Tourists

a living room filled with furniture next to a lake

1. Dubai Creek

Wide enough to seem similar to a major river rather than a creek, this waterway is actually neither: just an outlet of the sea. One of Dubai`s most historic and atmospheric districts, Dubai Creek is used by traditional water-taxis called abra and lined with floating dining establishments. A few hotels along the waterside offer some of the city’s more varied perspectives, while others may be simply across the main road from the dock containing traditional sailing boats called dhows. Less than a quarter of an hour from the airport, this is the best selection if staying a brief time between flights. Also connected by the excellent subway to the airport and all the beaches and shopping centers across Dubai.

2. Al Fahidi and Al Seef

Within ultra-modern Dubai, it’s so lovely and infrequent to lodge somewhere historic – even if both of these areas have been substantially rebuilt and reconstructed. Still maintaining a lovable charm, Al Fahidi, the city’s oldest neighborhood, is filled with guesthouses, cafés, galleries, and museums within ‘mud-brick’ structures along meandering lanes nicely distant from traffic. Al Seef is an amazing rebuilt ‘old Arab village souk’ (market) congested with shops and cafés also crafted from ‘mud-brick’. Both areas are wonderfully positioned alongside Dubai Creek: close to genuine old-style markets, approximately 1km from the excellent metro with connections across Dubai and the airport, and handy to the bus station for services across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

3. Bur Dubai and Bur Juman

Moving away from the older parts of the city on either side of Dubai Creek, these two regions still maintain some history and character before Dubai transforms into dense clusters of skyscrapers farther down the coastline. Bur Dubai is home to numerous places of worship, several conventional markets, and the fascinating Dubai Museum within a 230-year-old fortress. Adjacent and regularly overlooked, Bur Juman provides a range of reasonably priced hotels and familiar fast-food outlets, as well as a superb shopping center. Both areas are connected by the useful subway that extends to the beaches, malls, and airport, and are within a brief taxi trip of the bus station for services across the country.

4. Downtown and Business Bay

a pool filled with lots of blue umbrellas

Business Bay is clustered with office buildings, apartment complexes, and luxury hotels within an area termed Downtown – likely because it’s about halfway along Dubai, although there is no real city center. Conveniently between old and new Dubai, Downtown is dominated by the world’s tallest construction (Burj Khalifa), walkable to The Dubai Mall (arguably the planet’s largest), and bisected by the new Dubai Canal which connects to Dubai Creek. Downtown is also particularly easy to reach by the metro service that connects to the rest of Dubai and the airport.

5. Mina Seyahi Beach and Dubai Media City

Near the upscale Dubai Marina and elevated pathway station for Palm Jumeirah Island, Mina Seyahi is a delightful expanse of calm waters and white sands lined with world-renowned accommodations. Also within the regions just inland with less exotic labels like Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City, this part of Dubai is less crowded and less excessively constructed than the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) area and Dubai Marina, but still connected to both localities by tramways. (These trams also interface with the handy metro that connects to the relaxation of Dubai and the air harbor.)

6. Dubai Marina

a large body of water filled with lots of boats

Between Mina Seyahi Beach (see above) and the area of Jumeirah Beach Residence (see below) is one of the urban center`s swankiest locations. Dubai Marina is loaded up with tall structures and lodgings confronting an unnatural reach of water lined with especially inviting bistros, nightclubs, and bars. Trams circle around the region interfacing all the coffeehouses and shops along the Jumeirah Beach Residence region and associating with the metro which extends crosswise over Dubai as far as the air terminal

7. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

a large palm tree in front of a large building

Jumeirah is the name of a lengthy coastal strip within the city that envelops the public Jumeirah Open Beach, striking Madinat Jumeirah `ancient Arab village`, and highly upscale Jumeirah Beach Residence region. (Adding to the perplexity, Jumeirah is also the name of a local chain of 5-star hotels.) Along an artificially created island formed by the Dubai Marina, JBR offers glittering white sands and crystalline blue waters, as well as water-sports, magnificent bistros and boutiques, and several top-class hotels and resorts – many ideal for families. Trams loop around the area, also connecting to Dubai Marina and the metro for the remainder of the city and the airport.

8. Palm Jumeirah Island

a row of beach chairs sitting on top of a beach

This famous manmade structure spreading across the waters in a distinctive palm tree design offers some lavish hotels and resorts, though little else. However, it may disappoint some visitors since much of the island consists of dense high-rise buildings amid ongoing construction sites and the unique layout is impossible to fully experience from ground level – only from helicopter tours and to a lesser extent via the monorail running along the `trunk` but not through the `fronds`.

9. Airport

Given its status as one of the planet`s major transportation hubs, many come to Dubai simply to make a connection elsewhere. Actually closer to Sharjah (another city in the United Arab Emirates) than most of Dubai, the airport takes less than a quarter hour by taxi or metro to the older and more fascinating districts of Deira and Dubai Creek. For early departures and late arrivals, however, there is no shortage of airport hotels. All are wonderfully soundproofed and some provide free transfers daily, but very few locations to eat, drink, or shop are within walking distance, so hotels provide everything needed. (The airport is also well-connected to the rest of Dubai by the excellent metro.)

10. Deira

a swimming pool filled with lots of blue umbrellas

This congenial and convenient residential district is near the Dubai airport and suitably removed from the more tourist-centric areas farther along the coastline. It offers ample enough amenities for visitors – often more likely to be locally-operated supermarkets than shopping centers – as well as markets committed to gold and spices. Mostly populated by Emiratis and resident employees from other countries rather than tourists and western expats, Deira has several stations for both lines of the excellent subway stretching the length of Dubai and connecting to the airport. With numerous modest lodging options, and a few higher-end selections, all the hotels listed below are less than 15 minutes from the airport, so it’s superb for brief stays between flights.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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