Clicky

Where to Stay in Dubai - Best Areas & Hotels
Where to Stay in Dubai - Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Dubai: Best Areas & Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Dubai? From the glitz of Downtown and Palm Islands to budget-oriented Deira, these are the best districts and hotels in the city.

Wondering where to stay in Dubai? From the glitz of Downtown and Palm Islands to budget-oriented Deira, these are the best districts and hotels in the city.

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
Where to Stay in Dubai: A Summary

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.


What’s the Best Area to Stay in Dubai?

Best Areas to Stay in Dubai
Downtown Dubai is home to a large number of luxury accommodations and is arguably the best neighbourhood in Dubai for tourists. Our absolute favourite hotel is DAMAC Maison Distinction.

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



Where to Stay in Dubai for Sightseeing

Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
Old Dubai is a great district to base yourself to explore Dubai’s traditional side and there’s no better hotel in this area than the Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton.

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

Downtown Dubai is the best location in Dubai for first-time visitors
Downtown Dubai is the best location in Dubai for first-time visitors
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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
Best budget hotel
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

The Dubai Coast is the best area to stay in Dubai for a luxurious holiday
The Dubai Coast is the best area to stay in Dubai for a luxurious holiday
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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
Best budget hotel
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

Old Dubai is the perfect area for tourists interested in Dubai's traditional side
Old Dubai is the perfect area for tourists interested in Dubai’s traditional side
    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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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
Best budget 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.

Better Living Hotel Apartments
Best tourist apartments
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

Dubai Business Bay is a great location for business travellers
Dubai Business Bay is a great location for business travellers
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best tourist apartments
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

Bur Dubai is a busy commercial district and one of the cheapest areas to stay in Dubai
Bur Dubai is a busy commercial district and one of the cheapest areas to stay in Dubai
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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
Best budget 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
Best tourist apartments
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

Deira is the cheapest neighbourhood to stay in Dubai and is also close to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Deira is the cheapest neighbourhood to stay in Dubai and is also close to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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
Best budget 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

Jumeirah is a beachside district and a great location to stay in Dubai for families
Jumeirah is a beachside district and a great location to stay in Dubai for families
    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
Best 5-star hotel
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
Best 4-star hotel
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
Best 3-star hotel
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.

Read this post in other languages:

|ES|Dónde dormir en Dubái – Mejores zonas y hotels.