Wondering where to stay in Dubai on your next trip? No worries! I am here to help. I did the research for you and while I don’t promise that I stayed in every single place in Dubai, I stayed long enough to know my way around this amazing city.
Dubai is a real city of extremes, the hub of everything luxury and excess, but also featuring some tucked away historical areas that take you right back to mid-nineteenth century Arabia.
The super luxurious Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa (tallest in the world since 2009) are some of the best hotels in the world. Enjoy the finest of fine dining (bottomless brunch is a popular pastime in the UAE), relax on one of many private beaches, live it up on some of the most exciting party islands in the world, and shop in the world’s largest mall. Read about our 2-day trip to Dubai.
You might struggle to find authentic, local culture in Dubai, but some cultural activities include local markets, the must-try desert safari, and several museums. There are plenty of day trips to be had in the UAE, like the nearby capital city Abu Dhabi or mountainous region of Al Ain.
Dubai is truly a one-of-a-kind city to be in. I’ll show you each area of the city one by one, explain why stay there, and which are my recommended hotels.
Table of Contents
- Where To Stay In Dubai
- Al Fahidi – Historical Neighbourhood
- Why Stay In Al Fahidi
- Why Avoid Al Fahidi
- Where To Stay In Al Fahidi
- Deira – Affordable and lots to do
- Why Stay In Deira
- Why Avoid Deira
- Where To Stay In Deira
- Bur Dubai – Traditional Neighbourhood
- Why Stay In Bur Dubai
- Why Avoid Bur Dubai
- Where To Stay In Bur Dubai
- Jumeirah Beach – Luxury Getaway
- Why Stay On Jumeirah Beach
- Why Avoid Jumeirah Beach
- Where To Stay In Jumeirah Beach
- Sheikh Zayed Road – The Main Highway
- Why Stay Close To Sheikh Zayed Road
- Why Avoid
- Where To Stay Close To Sheikh Zayed Road
- Dubai Garden Glow – Theme Park
- Why Stay close to Dubai Garden Glow
- Why Avoid
- Where To Stay Close To Dubai Garden Glow
- Downtown Dubai
- Why Stay In Downtown Dubai
- Why Avoid Downtown Dubai
- Where To Stay In Downtown Dubai
- The Dubai Mall (Downtown)
- Why Stay In The Dubai Mall
- Why Avoid The Dubai Mall
- Where To Stay In The Dubai Mall
- Meena Bazaar – Bazaar shopping
- Why Stay In Meena Bazaar
- Why Avoid Meena Bazaar
- Where To Stay In Meena Bazaar
- Dubai Marina – Dubai Nightlife
- Why Stay In The Dubai Marina
- Why Avoid The Dubai Marina
- Where To Stay In The Dubai Marina
- Dubai Festival City
- Why Stay In Festival City
- Why Avoid Festival City
- Where To Stay In The Festival City
Where To Stay In Dubai
Dubai isn’t the most budget-friendly vacation spot, and there are a lot more mid-range to luxury hotels than budget.
Accommodation in Dubai ranges from the hyper-rich areas to the more cultural areas, which tend to be a little cheaper.
Dubai has an overground metro system, an excellent coach system for travelling to other cities in the UAE, and taxis are affordable compared to other major cities, so wherever you stay you won’t be too far from the action.
Walking between districts is a bit more difficult – it’s a city built for cars -, but there are plenty of dedicated parks and marina walks should you need to stretch your legs.
Al Fahidi – Historical Neighbourhood
Al Fahidi is one of the most authentic neighbourhoods you can stay in if you’re after the “old” Dubai. Representing the mid-nineteenth century, Al Fahidi is a restored heritage area that was once known as the Bastakiya Quarter.
Why Stay In Al Fahidi
Wander through the narrow alleys of sand coloured buildings which contain museums, local craft shops, art galleries, and some hotels.
There are also some lovely cafes and smaller restaurants here. Al Fahidi is a charming place to stay, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Why Avoid Al Fahidi
While it’s a pleasure to wander around this neighbourhood, once you have, there’s not a lot going on, and you will have to travel a fair way to see most of the sights of Dubai.
There’s also not a huge range of accommodation, so it does book up fast. The area is very traditional, so it’s not the place to be if you’re looking for that luxury Dubai experience.
Where To Stay In Al Fahidi
Jacob’s Garden Hotel features a restaurant, a fitness centre, as well as a hot tub and a sauna. Grand Mosque is 1.4 miles from the property.
This 5-star hotel offers a rooftop pool with views of Dubai cityline and non-smoking rooms with an interactive flat-screen TV and designer bathrooms. It is located across from Burjuman Shopping Centre.
The 4-star Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai features a rooftop swimming pool and free Wi-Fi in all areas. Located on Mankhool Road, it is 1.2 miles from the World Trade Centre.
Click here for prices and book Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai
Deira – Affordable and lots to do
Deira is one of the more budget-friendly areas of Dubai and is situated on the northern side of Dubai Creek.
This is where you’ll find most of the city’s gold, spice, and seafood souqs (local markets) all filled with vendors and traditional items.
Why Stay In Deira
You can visit The Heritage House Museum and walk along the promenade that winds down to Maktoum Bridge and the Dubai Creek Golf Course, so there’s plenty to do right on your doorstep.
Take a water taxi to visit Bur Dubai which is the historical area of the city and very different in atmosphere to Deira.
There’s plenty of accommodation that’ll suit a wide range of budgets, and it’s easy to get to the main areas of Dubai. It’s easier to find budget hotels and the Dubai International Airport is right next door.
You can reach other parts of the city fairly quickly using the Gold Souq Metro Station 2 (green line) or the Union Metro Station (red line).
Why Avoid Deira
There are very few downsides to Deira as it’s one of those great all-rounders, but that does mean that it doesn’t offer the luxury experience you might get in some downtown areas.
It’s also very busy due to the sheer amount of things to do here and how popular it is with visitors to Dubai. Therefore, it’s not the most peaceful of areas to stay in and is somewhat geared towards tourism.
Where To Stay In Deira
Hyatt Regency Dubai is located in the heritage district, within a 5-minute walk from the popular gold, spice and textile souks. This luxury hotel offers a revolving restaurant, a private ice skating rink and free WiFi.
Click here for prices and book Hyatt Regency Dubai – Corniche
Hyatt Place Dubai/Baniyas Square is conveniently located in Nasser Square-Dubai’s historic district on the eastern side of Dubai Creek – and is famed for its accessibility and its provision of a wealth of enriching individual experiences to both business and leisure travellers alike.
Click here for prices and book Hyatt Place Dubai Baniyas Square
Overlooking Dubai Creek, this 4-star hotel is a 2-minute walk from transportation links offering service to Dubai Museum. Rooms at the Riviera Hotel feature balconies with city or creek views.
Bur Dubai – Traditional Neighbourhood
Bur Dubai is on the southern side of the Dubai Creek and highly contrasts Deira. Similar to the nearby Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, you’ll find traditional sand coloured architecture and wind towers.
Why Stay In Bur Dubai
Bur Dubai is perfect for people who like to see a more traditional lifestyle while in Dubai but still be relatively close to the action. There’s a lot more accommodation here than the historical neighbourhood, while still being budget-friendly.
There are plenty of nearby attractions like The Dubai Museum, the Heritage Village, and the Iranian Mosque, so it provides an excellent base for exploring all the cultural attractions of Dubai.
Many great restaurants offering local & traditional food and handmade crafts. Bud Dubai is a perfect spot for people wanting to see traditional life and architecture in the city.
Why Avoid Bur Dubai
It’s not as upmarket as other areas in Dubai and offers very few luxurious hotels or fine dining in the area.
You’re also not as well-connected with the Dubai metro as you are in Deira, so you may end up spending more money on taxis or time on the water taxi to Deira.
Where To Stay In Bur Dubai
Reminiscent of a 16th century Italian Palace, Palazzo Versace Dubai features a high ceiling entrance, landscaped gardens, and a range of well-crafted Italian furnishings. Every single piece of furniture and fabric that adorns the hotel’s 215 hotel rooms and suites, and 169 residences, is designed and tailor-made by the House of Versace exclusively for the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai.
Step inside the world’s most celebrated ocean liner afloat today – now one of Dubai’s iconic destinations. Docked permanently at the Mina Rashid marina, The Queen Elizabeth 2 is the Middle East’s first floating hotel – offering passengers a hub of culinary and nightlife experiences, a state-of-the-art events centre and a heritage attractive site showcasing a rare and fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
Featuring a fitness centre and a spa & wellness centre, Roda Links Al Nasr is situated in Dubai. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk. Guests can make use of a shared lounge.
Jumeirah Beach – Luxury Getaway
Jumeirah Beach is absolutely for people looking for a luxurious getaway on one of the world’s most famous man-made islands.
If you love sunbathing on pristine, private beaches with plenty of nightlife to distract you, then Jumeirah Beach is for you.
Why Stay On Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah boasts a wide selection of local and international restaurants, beach clubs, and bars, so there’s really no need to leave the island if you don’t want to.
This is also ideal for visitors who love water sports as there’s no end to the activities you can enjoy including windsurfing, water-skiing, and a giant water park.
You can also book a helicopter or seaplane ride to see the island’s palm shape from above or skydive over it to make your stay in Dubai more memorable.
With the world’s most admired hotels to stay in, this is definitely an area that you can enjoy to the max in a way you probably couldn’t in most cities.
The monorail at Nakheel Mall connects you to main land, or you can catch a taxi if you want to visit other parts of Dubai.
Why Avoid Jumeirah Beach
This is a very commercialised area geared entirely towards tourism and resort style holidaying, so this may not be for you if you prefer a more realistic/traditional view of Dubai.
It’s also not ideal if you want to explore other tourist destinations, as it’s quite self-contained and could be a hassle if you’re looking to do more than a day trip.
As you might expect, this area is aimed at those wanting to spend money in Dubai, so not the place for anyone on a budget.
Where To Stay In Jumeirah Beach
Occupying a beachfront location, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is a luxurious 5-star resort featuring a private beach, 2 outdoor swimming pools and a lavish spa. An indoor pool and a state-of-the-art fitness centre are also available. Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain are a 15-minute drive away.
Click here for prices and book Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
The exquisite residential Roda Beach Hotel offers a chic address for your stay in Dubai with direct access to The Kite Beach. The resort is surrounded by a wide choice of dining, shopping and entertainment options and is a stone throw away from vibrant beach clubs and pristine public beaches.
Sheikh Zayed Road – The Main Highway
You’ll definitely have a lot of accommodation choice staying close to this multi-lane highway as it’s the main road that runs all the way through Dubai to the Abu Dhabi border.
Named after the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed, who ruled Abu Dhabi for more than 30 years.
Why Stay Close To Sheikh Zayed Road
Most addresses for cafes and restaurants you come across in Dubai are on this stretch, so you’ll have plenty to do, and you’ll never be waiting long for a taxi or a bus.
The monorail and the Dubai Metro both run along this road and there are plenty of stations to catch your next ride.
The road is split in the northern half (nearest to downtown Dubai) and the southern half (the half closest to Abu Dhabi).
Why Avoid
Although it’s very convenient for staying close to the main highway through the city and there are some excellent deals to be had, it can be noisy with cars.
There might not be a lot to do within walking distance depending on which part of the road you’re on, so you will mostly need a taxi or public transportation to get around.
Before you book a hotel somewhere close to the road, check whether your accommodation is in the north or south and what’s nearby. It’s also important to check if your windows face the road as the traffic rarely stops even at night.
Where To Stay Close To Sheikh Zayed Road
Dusit Thani Dubai is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, in the heart of Dubai’s financial district. The World Trade Centre and the International Convention Centre are within easy reach. The guest rooms are decorated in a contemporary Thai style, complemented by modern bathrooms. The luxury amenities include bath salts. The rooms on the upper floors offer panoramic views over Dubai.
Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, Zabeel House The Greens by Jumeirah is situated in Dubai and is 2.1 miles from Dubai Marina Mall. Attractively located in the Greens district, this hotel provides a fitness centre. The property offers a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi is available.
Click here for prices and book Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens
Located in Al Barsha just off Sheikh Zayed Road, the Cosmopolitan Hotel Dubai is a 10-minute walk from the Mall of the Emirates and a 2-minute walk from Sharaf DG Metro Station.
Click here for prices and book Cosmopolitan Hotel Dubai – Al Barsha
Dubai Garden Glow – Theme Park
Visit the rest of the world right where you stay. Dubai Garden Glow is the world’s largest theme park. It’s ideal for families travelling with children.
Why Stay close to Dubai Garden Glow
The park means to educate you about your carbon footprint and recycling and takes you on a journey across the globe.
Think the ‘it’s a small world’ ride in Disneyland but on a much larger scale. You’ll be treated to live performances from international artists including singers, dancers, musicals, and acrobats.
It’s also a great way to see UAE art & culture in action. Not too far from Bur Dubai, you’ll be able to see the more traditional, authentic side of Dubai.
Why Avoid
If you don’t like theme park type stays, then this is not for you. The park is aimed at tourists and although it’s not in a bad location for exploring the rest of Dubai, the accommodation tends to be expensive simply because of the convenient access to the park.
Where To Stay Close To Dubai Garden Glow
Located at #1 Sheikh Zayed Road, The H Dubai location is ideal for getting out and about in Dubai. Renowned for its eclectic and vibrant selection of dining and nightlife experiences; the award-winning Mandara Spa; world-class rooms and suites, the property also boasts an outdoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre.
Strategically placed between new and old Dubai, Rove Trade Centre offers the perfect location for leisure and business guests alike. Rove Trade Centre is located adjacent to Dubai World Trade Centre, and just 15 mins walk from Dubai Garden Glow, 10 mins drive from Downtown Dubai with the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. Rove Trade centre offers an outdoor swimming pool and a 24 h fitness centre.
Novotel World Trade Centre is a 4-star luxury hotel less than 5 minutes’ walk from World Trade Centre Metro Station (red line). Situated in Sheihk Zayed Road, with 5 minutes to Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building), Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall (with Ski Dubai and shopping), Dubai Outlet Mall, Dubai Financial Centre and a few minutes to Jumeriah Beach and the Gold Souq. Free shuttle service is provided to many attractions.
Click here for prices and book Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai
Downtown Dubai
Nearly everything you picture about Dubai in terms of modern attractions is in the downtown area.
This is where the most impressive architecture, including the world’s tallest skyscraper the Burj Khalifa can be found.
The Dubai Mall, the world’ biggest shopping centre complete with ski slopes, an ice rink, the world’s tallest fountain, an aquarium, and every shop and restaurant you’ve ever heard of is also here.
Why Stay In Downtown Dubai
If you’ve got a family with you, then this is going to keep everyone happy. Nearby are nightclubs, many restaurants, large souks, and ongoing events throughout the year.
It’s impossible to be bored, but if you are, the downtown area is perfect to catch any public transport to other parts of the city. Or simply take a guided tour and discover this ultramodern capital of the Middle East.
Some of the best hotels with incredible views are right here.
Why Avoid Downtown Dubai
The downtown area is very commercial, so not ideal if you’re looking for culture/traditional Dubai.
Located inland, far from beaches, so if you’re looking to sunbathe every day you may find yourself in a taxi more than you’d like. The closest beaches are 15-20 mins taxi ride away.
Where To Stay In Downtown Dubai
The Hotel is in Dubai Mall and adjacent to Burj Khalifa, Address, Dubai Mall offers elegant and chic accommodations. This 5-star hotel features an outdoor infinity pool overlooking Burj Khalifa.
Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, connected to The Dubai Mall and 10 minutes away from City Walk, Sofitel Dubai Downtown is an idyllic oasis that blends urban sophistication with refined luxury, features air-conditioned rooms and free private parking. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and complimentary shuttle bus going to kite beach.
Five-star Roda Al Murooj Hotel is situated across from Dubai Mall and the famous Burj Khalifa. It features a lush garden with a large swimming pool and free WiFi in public areas. Dubai World Trade Centre is a 10-minute drive away.
The Dubai Mall (Downtown)
You can stay inside the actual Dubai Mall, in any of the six hotels that have a Dubai Mall postcode and are highly sought after.
Why Stay In The Dubai Mall
The advantages of staying here are the same as staying in Downtown Dubai. It’s the same area, but you also get to stay in the height of luxury within the world-famous mall.
If you’re looking for the best possible experience in terms of views, location, and luxury then this is ideal for you.
Why Avoid The Dubai Mall
This is more of a ‘say you’ve done it’ kind of stay, there aren’t many advantages over staying in the downtown area, apart from staying in some of the most exclusive hotels in the world (which is quite an experience).
Where To Stay In The Dubai Mall
Towering high at 350 yards across 63 levels, Address Downtown is a veritable landmark of luxury, situated in the very centre of Downtown Dubai. The hotel directly overlooks Burj Khalifa, offers uninterrupted views of the daily Dubai fountain show (the world’s tallest water-music spectacle) and is connected to The Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping mall) by a pathway-bridge.
The accommodation at the Address boasts a balcony with a panoramic view over Dubai, some of which overlook Burj Khalifa. Alfresco dining experience is available to guests at CABANA, with a selection of grills and exotic cocktails. KARAT, the lobby lounge, serves snacks and sandwiches.
Meena Bazaar – Bazaar shopping
An area within the Bur Dubai district, this is a haven for shoppers. Be transported to the past and have one of the world’s biggest bazaars on your doorstep.
Why Stay In Meena Bazaar
The Meena Bazaar itself is brimming with thousands of stalls that sell local crafts, clothes, pottery, and food.
Staying in a hotel in the Meena Bazaar is an ideal way to spend your holiday.
The Bur Dubai district is well-suited to budget travellers and is one of the most authentic areas to stay in Dubai.
Why Avoid Meena Bazaar
Meena Bazaar is a very busy area as it’s one of the most popular shopping areas in Dubai and stays open late, so it’s always buzzing.
If you’re looking for a peaceful holiday, then this might be a bit bustling for you.
Where To Stay In Meena Bazaar
Centrally located opposite Dubai Museum, the peaceful Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa is ideally positioned for sightseeing, shopping and business. The spacious guest rooms are comfortable and decorated in an Arabian style.
Click here for prices and book Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa
XVA Art hotel is situated within the heart of historic Al Bastakiya. It offers elegant rooms featuring art by well-established designers and artists from the region, including Zayan Ghandour and Numa.
Dubai Marina – Dubai Nightlife
This man-made marina is a wonderful place to walk around and enjoy the upscale atmosphere of Dubai, with some of the best restaurants and bars at your fingertips.
Experience your dinner on a luxury cruise around the Dubai Marina or enjoy the ‘Dubai marina walk’ which leads along the marina and gives you access to many cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Why Stay In The Dubai Marina
There are plenty of open spaces and festival areas where music and dance performance are commonly held.
You can enjoy the views of the Dubai skyline from here. The marina is more peaceful than other areas of Dubai despite how popular it is.
If you like being by the water, like a youthful, vibrant ambience, and a touch of luxury then this is ideal for you.
Why Avoid The Dubai Marina
While there’s a wide range of mid-range to luxury accommodations here, it does tend to book up fast, so make sure you book early if you’d like to stay here.
It can get quite noisy at night due to the nightlife scene, but that’s easily avoided by staying off the main strip.
It’s also quite far from the more authentic areas of Dubai so if you’d like to spend lots of time exploring those areas, maybe pick the Meena Bazaar as your base.
Where To Stay In The Dubai Marina
Located on Dubai Marina promenade, the 5-star Grosvenor House offers panoramic views of Dubai Marina, personalised butler service, an outdoor pool and an extensive range of culinary experiences. Mall of The Emirates is 10 minutes away by car.
Click here for prices and book Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments
Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is located in The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence. This luxury 5-star hotel is steps away from The Beach Mall, Dubai’s prime destination for seafront dining and entertainment.
Dubai Festival City
Like a city within the city, this self-contained space in Dubai is made up of the newest malls, residential apartments and hotels, shopping, leisure facilities even schools.
Why Stay In Festival City
Everything you could possibly need is in this one area in a pristine compound where residents of Dubai live.
If you’re looking for a hyper-modern home away from home, or you’re working online and would like access to co-working spaces and homely facilities, then this is perfect.
There are a variety of accommodation options to suit most budgets.
Why Avoid Festival City
It’s ideal if you’re staying long term in Dubai but isn’t particularly geared towards tourism as it’s a residential area and not ideally located for the various attractions in Dubai.
Where To Stay In The Festival City
Adjacent to Festival City Mall, InterContinental Dubai Festival City boasts a 30 yards outdoor pool that extends onto a balcony with panoramic views of Dubai Creek. A full-service spa with aromatherapy is offered.
Click here for prices and book InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Directly connected to the Dubai Festival City Mall home to 500 retail stores, restaurants and kids/family entertainment, Holiday Inn – Dubai Festival City is a 4-star property perfect for families with its Family Suites.
Click here for prices and book Holiday Inn – Dubai Festival City
What do you think? Did I cover all the important areas of Dubai? Did you find the location you will stay during your next visit?
Let me know if you have any questions in the comments section below and I will be happy to help.
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