Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which Is Right for You? — The Executive Thrillseeker (2024)

Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and are two of the greatest cities in the Middle East. Interestingly, these destinations are special in their own right and have something to appease every ability, preference and pocket. Now when it comes to answer the question “What is better, Abu Dhabi or Dubai?”, it’s subjective and largely depends on one’s unique interests. So if you’re here to know more about this topic and choose the perfect Emirate for your trip, here we’ve included everything that you should know about Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Table of Contents

Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which Is More Expensive?

Dress Code in the UAE

When To Visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai?

Shopping in Abu Dhabi vs Dubai

How To Get Around?

Overall: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai

Abu Dhabi vs Dubai

Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s capital as well as the largest city. Dubai may be second to Abu Dhabi only in terms of its size, but it grabs all attention for its glamorous sights of superlative stature. It is home to the world’s tallest building, the world’s only seven-star hotel, and the one-of-its-kind colossal palm-shaped human-made islands, among others. That said, Abu Dhabi too has everything in place to enthrall adventurous, curious, luxury seekers, and culture vultures alike.

The atmosphere in Abu Dhabi vs Dubai

While the two cities are located at a distance of just 1.5 hours to two hours’ drive away, they give out really unique vibes, but both definitely captivating. So let’s find out how different their ambiance is.

Abu Dhabi: The unequaled appeal of the capital city largely lies in its conservative yet extraordinarily charming cultural landscape that is draped in with the right amount of modernity. In fact, it’s the place to experience the best of both worlds.

Dubai: Dubai, on the other hand, is effortlessly cool. While it too has its fair share of historic and cultural sights, Dubai is more vibrant and especially goes well with people looking for a holiday with a mix of super eclectic and authentic cultural experiences.

Abu Dhabi Or Dubai: Which Is More Expensive?

Many people wonder if Dubai is expensive to visit….but what about Abu Dhabi? We think that both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are equally expensive, as they are the UAE’s most significant cities with the ever so stunning sights, top-notch leisure attractions, and endless shopping options. But, you can really make a difference in your holiday expenses by planning your Dubai vs Abu Dhabi vacation much in advance.

Just make sure that you pre-book your hotel, airline tickets, etc at least three months before your travel date. Moreover, to secure the best rates for your theme park tickets, desert safari, and cruises (among other excursions), be sure to check out discount coupon codes and exclusive promotion deals run by the reputable service providers.

Dress Code in the UAE

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are a part of Muslim country which means both cities require you to follow certain dress code. It, fortunately, is not as strict as most other countries on the Arabian Peninsula. While women traveling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi don’t have to cover their hair (unless visiting a mosque) or put on the region’s traditional wear, they are definitely expected to dress modestly in roads, malls, and other public places.

Avoid any attire that is revealing, transparent or discourteous; in fact, don’t think of wearing bikinis or going topless in the beach. Apart from these, be it men or women, it’s highly advisable to opt for clothing that is not only comfortable to wear but also well covers your arms, shoulders and knees.

When To Visit Abu Dhabi And Dubai?

The distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is approximately 150 kilometers. Apparently, the weather is almost the same for both the cities throughout the year. Well, when to visit these destinations largely depends on your personal preferences. If you’re a/an:

• Outdoor Enthusiast: The best time is November to March; the climate during these periods is super cool and pleasant. It’s also the most recommended time to experience the region’s top seasonal attractions such as Global Village, Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Garden Glow, and Dubai Dinosaur Park.

• Shopper: These cities are a shoppers’ paradise all through the year. The best time to visit Dubai for shopping is during the one-month long Dubai Shopping Festival (December – January).

• Newly Wed or Couples: Whether you’re looking for a perfect start to your married life or just want to rekindle your love for each, visit here from December to March. This allows for some unrivaled romantic experiences by way of hot air balloon ride and overnight desert safari.

• Culinary Aficionado: While these cities are culinary haven year-round, the hardcore foodies shouldn’t miss out special events and festivals which place special emphasis on food.

  The best time to visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai is from December to February, make sure not to miss the Global Village, special Christmas and New Year’s Eve feasts, and of course, the exclusive Dubai Food Festival.

• Budget Conscious: Come here from June to September; as the summer is at its peak during these months, Abu Dhabi or Dubai is not an obvious choice for most holiday makers. But surprisingly, these cities are endearing in summer as well, thanks to its tons of indoor attractions, particularly the snow-covered Ski Dubai (Mall of the Emirates). And the bonus is that you’ll be able to bag your favorite accommodation, airline services etc for the best ever rates.

Shopping in Dubai:

The city is unrivaled for its retail scene. More than 70 mega shopping malls, along with the traditional Arabian bazaars (known as souks), make Dubai the Middle East’s ultimate shopping destination. Malls in Dubai are colossal and the grandiose ever with almost everything imaginable available under one roof.

Speaking of souks, you’ll find them across Deira and Bur Dubai, and are a true sensory treat, with its distinctly live and packed scene. What’s more? Dubai even hosts Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), an event dedicated to shopping and entertainment.

Now even if shopping is not on your Dubai bucketlist, be sure not to miss its top shopping attractions such as Dubai Mall - the biggest of its kind with over 1200 outlets, and Gold Souk, which is definite to blow you away with its thousands of shops that specialize in nothing but pure gold.

Shopping in Abu Dhabi:

Shopping choices in Abu Dhabi may not be as extensive as that of Dubai, but it still has a vast array of malls, traditional bazaars etc. to delight any shopping enthusiast. Most popular among them are Abu Dhabi Mall, Yas Marina Mall, The Galleria, Souk Central Market, Madinat Zayed Gold Center and Date Souk.

That apart, did you know that Abu Dhabi has an exclusive place to explore new and up and coming global trends? You just have to head to the Paris Avenue at Zayed First Street (Al Khalidiya).

Iconic Sights & Experiences

Sightseeing in Dubai:

The place is easily recognizable for its wondrous architectural marvels. That said, it also has some quaint attractions among its iconic sights. Find the list to know more about Dubai’s top highlights.

Burj Khalifa

No intro is probably is required for this structure. At a height of 828 meters, it’s the world’s tallest building. People mainly come for the breathtaking, sky-high views from its observation decks on 124th level and 148th level (the highest of its kind in the world).

Dubai Mall

The ultimate shopping attraction in Downtown Dubai is right next to Burj Khalifa and is also famed for its tons of leisure, thrill, and edutainment attractions, mainly Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, VR Park, and Dubai Ice Rink.

Dubai Fountain Show

The 30-acre Burj Lake, outside of the Dubai Mall, hosts this one-of-its-kind extravaganza of light, water and sound. See water shooting up to a height of over 500 feet during this remarkably choreographed water show. You can watch this for free; but if you’re looking to catch it from an exquisite standpoint, a highly recommended way is to take an abra ride along the lake.

Palm Jumeirah

The picture of this palm-shaped island is probably the first thing that comes into mind when one thinks about Dubai. It’s one of the city’s posh areas and has some of Dubai’s most popular sights including Atlantis, The Palm.

Atlantis, The Palm

It’s more than a five-star resort; it not only boasts of one of the region’s favorite water parks (Aquaventure Water Park, but also Dolphin Bay and the Lost Chambers Aquarium which sheds light on the long lost Atlantean civilization.

Bluewaters Island

This is one of Dubai’s newest destinations, but it has already gained maximum attention for its Ain Dubai (the world’s highest Ferris Wheel), the Middle East’s first Madame Tussauds Museum, and the only Caesars Palace property outside of Las Vegas.

Burj Al Arab

No list of Dubai attractions is complete without mentioning this exquisite, sail-shaped structure. Being the opulent ever, a stay in this seven-star hotel may not be for all, but you can still manage to take in its luxurious interiors with a gastronomic tour to one of its dining venues.

Bastakiya Quarter

Alternatively known as Al Fahidi Neighbourhood, a trip here will transport you to Dubai’s pre-oil era. It once used to be the dwelling of affluent Persian merchants. Most of the structures seen here date back to those days and are still preserved in its original state.

Dubai Creek

This is one of Dubai’s most historic regions. This creek separates the city into Deira and Bur Dubai. Take a dinner dhow cruise or go for a super cheaper alternative in the form of abra ride to take in its unparalleled charm.

Dubai Marina

This man-made marina is one of Dubai’s most modern neighborhoods where you’ll get to see a wide spectrum of uber-contemporary structures and luxurious yachts, among others.

Sheik Zayed Road

A drive through this thoroughfare in the heart of the city gives you the chance to see some of Dubai’s glamorous structures, from the Dubai World Trade Centre to the captivating Emirates Tower and the upcoming Museum of the Future which is special both in terms of its concept and architecture.

Desert Safari

Be it for adventure, serenity or a slice of Bedouin culture and traditions, an excursion to Dubai’s desert assures you of an unforgettable outing. Choose from morning (sunrise) or evening desert safari with everything included, from dune bash and camel ride to BBQ dining and cultural activities like Shisha smoking, henna tattooing, falconry, and souvenir pictures in traditional Arabian outfits.

Sightseeing in Abu Dhabi:

There is no shortage of attractions in Dubai, and it’s certain that you’ll find something exciting and unique at its every turn. This includes everything from museums, mosques and forts to the exhilarating theme parks and other leisure choices.

Sheik Zayed Mosque

This is a true architectural gem, reflecting the best elements of Islamic designs. It’s so enormous that it can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers at a time. And the best thing is that it’s open to non-Muslims as well. So don’t miss out this captivating white structure; it’s tranquil and absolutely gorgeous, with its attention to detail architectural features.

Yas Island

Yas Island is the one stop destination for adventurists, leisure seekers, and shoppers alike. You’ll find Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Beach, and Yas Waterworld, among others here.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The first of its Ferrari branded theme park is one of the star highlights of Yas Island. From fast fun and milder activities to kid-special attractions, this is a definite must-experience in Abu Dhabi. It also hosts the world’s fastest roller coaster ride (Formula Rossa).

Heritage Village

Modeled to resemble an authentic Bedouin village, this allows you to peep into the region’s ancient lifestyle before the discovery of oil.

Qasr Al Watan

This mindblowing structure is a part of Abu Dhabi’s presidential complex, making it ideal for anyone who wants to experience the traditional Emirati royalty.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

Most of you know that falcon is the UAE’s national bird, but little is known to many that the capital city has an exclusive facility to care and cure these birds. Visit here to know more about falcons and its interesting history as well as its role in the region’s culture and heritage.

Observatory Deck at 300

This observatory deck on 74th level of Jumeirah at Etihad Towers may not be as high as that of one at Burj Khalifa. But, it promises you a stunning vantage point to take in Abu Dhabi’s awe-inspiring city skyline.

Sir Bani Yas Island

If you’re wildlife enthusiasts, Abu Dhabi offers easy access to Sir Bani Yas Island, a place to experience the indigenous region’s wildlife.

Liwa Safari

This takes your desert adventure to a whole new level, as it leads you to the spectacular Liwa oasis, along the Empty Quarters (which is famed for having the world’s biggest sand dunes.)

Beaches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Lying along the Persian Gulf, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are blessed with pristine beaches and some even hold a Blue Flag status, indicating their excellence.

Beaches in Dubai:

Dubai’s beaches are strikingly relaxed and captivating. It’s a great place to be for adults and kids alike, being complete with pools, picnic and play areas plus BBQ facilities. And some of the most popular among them are:

• Jumeirah Beach

• Al Mamzar Beach Park

• Kite Beach (next to Burj Al Arab)

• Umm Suqeim Beach

• JBR Beach

• Al Sufouh Beach

• Mercato Beach

• La Mer

Beaches in Abu Dhabi:

Each of Abu Dhabi’s attractions and sights is marked by a unique appeal. Its beaches are not an exception. Here are some of Abu Dhabi’s must-visit beaches.

• The Corniche Beach

• Saadiyat Public Beach

• Yas Beach

• Al Bateen Beach

• The Emirates Palace Hotel Beach

• Al Mirfa Beach (the venue of Al Gharbia Watersports Festival)

• Al Sahil Beach

Whether you’re looking for ultimate clubbing/party venue or something like high-end dining or cool pubs or bars, nightlife in Dubai caters to all. The plus is that some of the world’s best night clubs are in Dubai. Most of them are attached to Dubai’s popular hotels and resorts. Besides great food and drinks, you’ll be able to go wild with the brilliant DJ performances. There are even exclusive Ladies nights in the majority of bars and clubs.

Nightlife in Abu Dhabi:

Abu Dhabi nightlife may not be as pulsating or diverse as that of Dubai. But, it still has some decent options to suit night owls and party animals. As with Dubai, the majority of its bars and nightclubs are within the region’s hotels or resorts and offer a variety of themes to choose from, such as pool parties, DJ nights, Jazz nights, Ladies’ Night Out, and Thursday nights.

How To Get Around?

Getting around Dubai: The city’s transport system is one of the best, with options including metro, buses, water taxis, and cabs. They are spotless plus air-conditioned and the best thing is that you can use all of them with a single NOL card (smart transport card). Of all the transport options, metro is the swiftest and the most popular too, as it’s fully automated and driverless.

Getting around Abu Dhabi: To get around in Abu Dhabi, there are public buses, cabs etc. They are well-maintained and super affordable too.

Overall: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai

Both cities are charming, stylish, unique and of course winners too! While where to spend more time depends on your mood and preferences, both these cities are definitely worth a visit during your holidays in the UAE.

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