Famous for its avant-garde architecture, luxury shopping and over-the-top way of life, Dubai has quickly become one of the most visited destinations in the world. In a few decades, Dubai went from a small fishing settlement to a cosmopolitan sprawling metropolis and a must-visit destination for leisure and business travellers from around the world. If you are looking for the best areas to stay in Dubai, you have come to the right place.
Located on the Persian Gulf, Dubai is the largest and most populated city in the United Arab Emirates and a world-leading financial and transport hub. From a tourist point of view, Dubai is famous for being home to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, as well as for its thriving shopping, restaurant and nightlife scenes. This Arab city is highly regarded as a luxury destination and it has the second-largest concentration of five-star hotels in the world with landmark properties including Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Armani Hotel Dubai.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s your first time visiting Dubai or if you’re looking for the best district for a business trip, keep reading to find out more about our selection of the best areas to stay in Dubai for every type of traveller.
Accommodation Options in Dubai
If you don’t have the time or the patience to read the full post, here is a quick summary of our recommended areas to stay in Dubai. Read on to discover more information about each of these neighbourhoods.
- Best area for sightseeing: Downtown Dubai
- Best area for beach lovers: Dubai Beaches & Coast
- Best area for business travellers: Dubai Business Bay
- Most exclusive area in Dubai: Palm Jumeirah
- Best areas for shopping: Dubai Mall | Mall of the Emirates | Mercato Mall
- Best area for families: Jumeirah | Downtown Dubai
- Cheap area to stay in Dubai: Deira
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Dubai?
The best area to stay in Dubai is Downtown Dubai, especially if you are a first-time visitor or a business traveller. The Downtown district is home to several of Dubai’s top attractions including Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall and the famous Dubai Fountain. While it is not the cheapest area in town, this centrally located neighbourhood offers some of the best hotels in the city and is relatively close to other must-see areas including Dubai Business Bay and Bur Dubai.
Find available accommodation in Downtown Dubai.
Best Hotels in Downtown Dubai
- Best five-star hotel: DAMAC Maison Distinction
- Best four-star hotel: Manzil Downtown
- Best three-star hotel: Rove Downtown
- Best budget hotel: ibis World Trade Centre
- What's the Best Area to Stay in Dubai?
- Where to Stay in Dubai for Sightseeing
- The Best Areas for Tourists in Dubai: District by District
- 1. Downtown Dubai: Best Location for Tourists in Dubai
- 2. Dubai Coast & Beaches: Best Location in Dubai for a Luxury Holiday
- 3. Old Dubai: Best Location in Dubai for History & Culture
- 4. Dubai Business Bay: Best Location in Dubai for Business Travellers
- 5. Bur Dubai: Best Location in Dubai for Budget Dining & Shopping
- 6. Deira: Cheapest Area to Stay in Dubai
- 7. Jumeirah: Best Location in Dubai With Children
- How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Dubai
- Best Location in Dubai: Useful Information
- Other Accommodation Guides
Where to Stay in Dubai for Sightseeing
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Dubai is packed with attractions and things to do. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Dubai for tourists:
- Downtown Dubai is, as mentioned above, the quintessential Dubai district for sightseeing and shopping. This massive skyscraper-clad area is home to the city’s modern attractions including Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, as well as Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain. Some of the best places to stay in Downtown Dubai for tourists include the Sofitel Downtown Dubai, Rove Downtown and Address Boulevard.
- Old Dubai, located on the western side of the Dubai Creek, is the best area for tourists interested in Dubai’s more traditional side. This district offers several cultural attractions including the Al-Fahidi Historical District, the Dubai Museum, the Old and Textile souks and the Wall of Old Dubai. Some of the best-rated hotels in Old Dubai include the Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Hyatt Place Dubai Wasl District and budget-oriented Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai.
- Dubai’s coastline is famous for its over-the-top developments, artificial islands and uber luxurious hotels. The Dubai Coast is home to the famous Palm Jumeirah Island, the Jumeirah Mosque, several high-end shopping centres and hotels that are an attraction in their own right like the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
The Best Areas for Tourists in Dubai: District by District
1. Downtown Dubai: Best Location for Tourists in Dubai
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- City centre
- Best area for sightseeing
- Best area for nightlife
- Close to the attractions
- Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain
- Burj Khalifa
- Great for business travellers
Although it is not Dubai’s historical centre, Downtown Dubai is considered the heart of the city. The Downtown district is the best area in Dubai for leisure travellers as it contains most of the modern attractions including the Burj Khalifa Tower, Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain.
This larger-than-life district is also the best choice for business travellers as it is home to the Dubai World Trade Centre, the largest event and exhibition centre in the country, as well as many of the city’s skyscrapers and office towers. Downtown is also a great district to stay in for nightlife. Since alcohol consumption is very regulated, only high-end hotels are allowed to serve alcoholic beverages.
As a rule of thumb, hotels in the Downtown district are among the most expensive in the city and some of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai, including uber-chic properties like the Armani Hotel, are located here. There are a handful of cheaper alternatives, but they still tend to be pricier than in the surrounding neighbourhood of Bur Dubai.
Best Hotels in Downtown Dubai
DAMAC Maison Distinction
Set in Dubai, DAMAC Maison Distinction offers accommodation with free WiFi. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a year-round outdoor pool.
Manzil Downtown
Located in Downtown Dubai, the 4-star Manzil Downtown is a 10-minute walk from Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa and combines traditional Arabesque architecture with contemporary design. It features an outdoor swimming pool with skyline views.
Rove Downtown
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a sundeck, Rove Downtown Dubai is conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, adjacent to Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall.
ibis World Trade Centre
Ibis World Trade Centre is a 2-minute walk from the World Trade Centre Metro Station (red line). It takes only 5 minutes to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame and Dubai Mall. A free shuttle service is provided to many attractions.
2. Dubai Coast & Beaches: Best Location in Dubai for a Luxury Holiday
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Luxurious hotels
- Exciting nightlife
- Public and private beaches
- Upscale shopping centres
- Great for leisure travellers
- Burj Al Arab
- Palm Islands
Dubai has a privileged location by the sea and, going to the beach is on the top of the list for many of the millions of travellers who visit it every year. If you’re one of them, then the Dubai Coast is the best area to stay in Dubai for you.
Bathed by the warm waters of the Persian Gulf and with temperatures that barely ever drop below 30ºC (86ºF), Dubai is a city where you can enjoy the beach any time of the year. The Dubai coastline is home to engineering wonders such as the world-renowned Palm Jumeirah.
Staying by the beach in Dubai is a great experience if you plan to visit the city for relaxation, or if you want to mix work with pleasure in one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.
Many coastal hotels in Dubai have private beaches and offer bar and restaurant services right on the beach.
Do keep in mind: You should always wear modest clothing at the public beaches and avoid thongs or bikinis. Topless sunbathing and swimming is prohibited in the United Arab Emirates.
Best hotels on the Dubai Coast
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Boasting 5 outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre and a shared lounge, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira offers direct access to the beach. Conveniently located in the Jumeirah district, the property features a 24-hour front desk.
Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, Zabeel House The Greens by Jumeirah is situated in The Greens district, this hotel provides a fitness centre. The property offers a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi is available.
Rove Dubai Marina
Located in one of Dubai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, Rove Dubai Marina is nearby the beach and barely a few minutes driving from The Palm. Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Mall are just 20 minutes away.
ibis Mall Of The Emirates
Ibis Mall of the Emirates is less than a 2-minute walk from the Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai. It has an Italian restaurant and offers air-conditioned guestrooms with satellite TV.
3. Old Dubai: Best Location in Dubai for History & Culture
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Budget hotels
- Traditional area
- Historical landmarks
- Souks & markets
- Dubai Museum
- Dubai Creek
Old Dubai is located on the west side of Dubai Creek, across from Deira.
This ancient neighbourhood is the traditional heart and historic quarter of Dubai and holds most of the city’s historical buildings, markets and cultural attractions. Some of the most popular sights in Old Dubai include the Old Souk and Al-Fahidi Historical District.
The Dubai Museum, set in an 18th-century fort, has an interesting collection of local history focusing on life in the emirate before the oil industry boom, in addition to ancient artefacts.
Dubai’s Old Town has an old feel to it and it is home to some budget accommodations, as well as some luxury boutique Arab-style guesthouses and hotels.
Old Dubai is a good area to stay if you are interested in history and the more traditional aspect of this city beyond its skyscrapers and artificial glitz.
Best Hotels in Old Dubai
Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
Ideally set in Old Dubai, Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton boasts a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking.
Le Wana Hotel
Set in Dubai, Le Wana Hotel features views of the city. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel has family rooms.
Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai
Well located in Old Town Dubai, Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai offers a restaurant and free WiFi air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower.
Better Living Hotel Apartments
Better Living Hotel Apartments offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. It features a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange.
4. Dubai Business Bay: Best Location in Dubai for Business Travellers
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Modern area
- Skyscrapers & office buildings
- Shopping centres
- Luxury business-oriented hotels
- Close to Downtown Dubai
Dubai Business Bay is a recently created area that, like most of Dubai, is still being built. It is located directly southwest of Downtown Dubai.
This mega-complex will include over 240 buildings, from office skyscrapers to shopping centres and residential towers, all surrounded by a network of parks and canals. Many of the buildings are already finished and it is an especially attractive area for business travellers.
Being one of the most sought-after new neighbourhoods in Dubai, most of the hotels in Business Bay cater to an upscale clientele.
Best Hotels in Dubai Business Bay
Taj Dubai
Featuring panoramic views of Burj Khalifa, the luxurious Indian themed Taj Dubai is situated in the heart of the Business Bay area. It includes an outdoor pool, a spa and a wellness centre. Guests can enjoy free WiFi access in all areas.
DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Business Bay
Situated in Bay Square, just steps from downtown Dubai, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Business Bay offers a quirky home to discover this fascinating city. It offers a fitness centre and an outdoor pool.
SOL Living – SOL Avenue
Set in Dubai, with The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa nearby, SOL Living – SOL Avenue offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking, as well as access to a fitness room.
5. Bur Dubai: Best Location in Dubai for Budget Dining & Shopping
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Budget hotels
- Great food scene
- Commercial area
- Centrally located
Bustling Bur Dubai encompasses the Old Town and the city’s commercial heart. As such, it includes Dubai’s historical landmarks, as well as a busy shopping and dining centre, especially along Al Dhiyafah Road.
By and large, Bur Dubai is a far less luxurious area than the Downtown or beach districts, but it also has more of the local charm that those areas lack.
Hotels in this area tend to be cheap compared to those in neighbouring Downtown Dubai, and are, at the same time, more centrally located than those of Deira.
Best Hotels in Bur Dubai
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Reminiscent of a 16th century Italian Palace, Palazzo Versace Dubai features landscaped gardens and Italian furnishings. Set in the heart of the Culture Village, Palazzo Versace Dubai is conveniently located along the shores of the historic Dubai Creek.
Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai
This 4-star hotel in Bur Dubai city centre features elegant rooms with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, tea and coffee-making facilities.
Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef
Located on the Dubai Creek, Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef is playful, friendly and situated right in the heart of the hustle and bustle; perfect for eager explorers. Both free WiFi and private parking are available at the hotel.
Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai
Well located in Old Town Dubai, Al Khoory Inn Bur Dubai offers a restaurant and free WiFi air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower.
Rose Garden Hotel Apartments – Bur Dubai
Featuring a roof-top pool with city views, this hotel is located in Bur Dubai. It has a gym and offers studios and suites with free wireless internet and fully-equipped kitchens.
6. Deira: Cheapest Area to Stay in Dubai
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Budget hotels
- Cheap food
- Commercial areas
- Near the airport
Deira is located on the east side of Dubai Creek, across from Bur Dubai. It is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai and where the old port area was located.
Deira was one of the first business areas in town and still today it hosts the Deira Business Centre. It’s the closest district to the airport and here we can find most of the cheap accommodation in Dubai.
The modern part of Deira is known as Al Rigga, a district with lots of dining and shopping options and some cheap hotels (for Dubai standards, that is).
It is by no means the most luxurious area in town, but if it’s cheap accommodation you’re after, then this is probably the top area to stay in Dubai.
Dubai Creek is one of the most important natural features of the city, and several landmarks, like the Deira Twin Towers or the Sheraton Dubai Creek, are located on both sides of it.
Best Hotels in Deira
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
Set in extensive landscaped gardens, this 5-star retreat is just 2 km from Deira City. It has 4 swimming pools and 18 restaurants and bars for guests to choose from.
Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga
Just a 15-minute drive from Al Mamzar Beach, Hyatt Place Dubai/Al Rigga is conveniently located in the heart of Deira. It offers free WiFi in all areas, an outdoor pool and 2 restaurants.
ibis Al Rigga
Conveniently located in Dubai’s Al Rigga neighbourhood, this Ibis Hotel offers value-for-money accommodation, a fitness centre and free parking. Al Rigga Metro Station is a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira
Featuring a restaurant, the 2-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange for guests.
7. Jumeirah: Best Location in Dubai With Children
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Why is this the best area to stay in Dubai:
- Access to public & private beaches
- Resorts & luxury hotels
- Parks and attractions for kids
- Malls and commercial areas
Jumeirah is an affluent area located directly on the beach. It is an upmarket district packed with art galleries, boutiques and beautiful parks.
There are also a lot of nice shopping centres and chic cafés and restaurants.
Jumeirah Beach Park is the best place to catch a tan and, if you’re into sports, the whole area is surrounded by bike lanes.
If you’re travelling to Dubai with children, Jumeirah offers sandy public beaches and is very close to the Mall of the Emirates, with dozens of kid-friendly attractions including an indoor ski centre.
Best Hotels in Jumeirah
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and only a short walk to JBR, this 5-star resort boasts 14 international restaurants and bars. Its Roman-themed spa has saunas and 5 Hammam pools. Free WiFi is available.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
Ideally located between The Walk and Dubai Marina, Delta by Marriott Jumeirah Beach Residence offers modern accommodation with views. It has a gym, an outdoor pool and complimentary WiFi is available in the rooms.
Park Regis Boutique Hotel Jumeirah
Park Regis Boutique Hotel Jumeirah offers a tour desk and luggage storage space. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service and currency exchange for guests.
How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Dubai
Accommodation in Dubai is usually very expensive, both for Middle Eastern and Western standards.
The cost of high-end hotels in Dubai is rarely below USD 150 per night and, although it is possible to find mid-range accommodation from USD 50, it is extremely difficult to find cheap hotels in the city and backpacker hostels are practically non-existent.
You will find cheaper rates during the months of July and August, but these months are not the best for a visit to Dubai due to its suffocating temperatures that can reach 48ºC.
The cheapest hotels in Dubai are mostly located in the areas of Bur Dubai and Deira, and the fares increase dramatically as you get closer to Downtown Dubai and the beach districts.
Best-Rated Budget Hotels in Dubai
Best Location in Dubai: Useful Information
Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest air terminals in the world and the main hub of Emirates Airlines, with connections to the six continents.
Staying near Dubai airport is a good idea for those who have little time to get to know the city or must take an early flight. See accommodation near Dubai International Airport (DXB).
When moving through the different areas, Dubai has a large transportation system that includes metro, tram, buses, water taxis, boats and rental cars.
The best time to travel to Dubai is in the winter, with mild temperatures that allow you to explore its attractions and attend the numerous events of the city.
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