Where to stay in Dubai? — 13+ best areas + hotels & best places to stay in Dubai

So, what is the best place to stay in Dubai, where should I stay in Dubai, where to stay in Dubai first time, what is the best area to stay in Dubai, where to stay in Dubai on a budget? These are probably the first questions you ask if you are planning a trip to Dubai. Let’s check out our suggested good places to stay in Dubai, top places to stay in Dubai including best areas to stay in Dubai, best place to stay in Dubai for first time, best places to stay in Dubai as follows!

Currently I live in Dubai and I also know the best places to stay in Dubai when traveling in this bustling emirate. So in this article, I will share the best areas, places and hotels to stay when in Dubai, suitable for all types of travel and your budget.

I hope you will find this article useful! Once you’ve booked your hotel in Dubai, check out our other Dubai travel guides for more ideas for planning the rest of your trip.

Where to stay in Dubai first time? The best areas & best places to stay in Dubai

When you come to Dubai, you can easily go to different areas by metro. Dubai neighborhoods are located on the main Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR) and the further you stay from SZR, the longer it will take you to move to famous places.

To make sure you will stay in the best area for your Dubai vacation, check out our four suggestions.

Dubai Marina / Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

This is the area furthest from the airport, but this place is a great choice for anyone who enjoys walking and luxury services. Actually there are not many pedestrian-friendly areas in Dubai, which is quite similar to Saigon. So I recommend staying in the Marina/JBR area if you want to be able to walk around.

I currently live in this area and I have nothing to complain about. Moreover, this area is very popular with Westerners, so familiar shops, food and entertainment services are all within reach.

If you stay around Dubai Marina, you’ll be close to Sky Dive Dubai – a one-of-a-kind experience for adventure enthusiasts. Dubai Marina is also famous for its super yachts and clubs. This place has Marina canal and you can walk along Marina Walk. The surroundings are especially romantic at night.

Moreover, Marina Walk connects Dubai Marina and JBR – where there is a free public beach with an extremely lively night atmosphere. If you stay in JBR (Agoda, Booking), you can enjoy beautiful sunsets over the sea from hotels in this area.

Jumeirah Lakes Tower (JLT) (#best places to stay in dubai)

Besides Dubai Marina and JBR, there is also Jumeirah Lakes Tower. This area is located on the opposite side of Dubai Marina/JBR. In my opinion, the price of accommodation here is a bit cheaper than the Marina / JBR side because it is farther from the beach and Marina Walk.

However, it is far away, but actually you are only about 5-10 minutes walk or taxi, depending on the specific location. I often walk to JLT to eat and drink because this place has a lot of good coffee and restaurants.

Downtown (#best areas to stay in dubai)

If Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera House and Dubai Mall are in the must-visit places in your Dubai travel itinerary, then Downtown Dubai will be the best place to stay in Dubai for first time during your vacation. Here, you are right in the heart of the city, with countless popular attractions just steps away.

To make it easier to visualize, imagine you are in the center point with Dubai Marina on your left and Dubai’s Old Town on your right. This allows you to easily move anywhere.

However, the minus point is that Downtown Dubai is the most expensive area to stay. But it’s worth it if you want to experience unforgettable luxury at least once in your life.

Moreover, if you come to Dubai in the summer, Downtown is a great choice because you won’t want to spend a lot of time outside. Simply because in the summer, the temperature ranges from 43 to 51 degrees Celsius. In return, a big plus point is that the price of the room is much cheaper than in the winter.

Bur Dubai

If you want to get to know the authentic side of Dubai before the oil industry boomed then Bur Dubai is the perfect place for you.

While staying in Bur Dubai, Downtown is still within easy reach, but it’s also far enough away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown to offer a different Dubai experience.

You will find great places to eat much cheaper than regular restaurants in Dubai. Most especially, you are free to explore the old town of Dubai, which brings you back to a beautiful Dubai of the past.

The best area you should choose to stay in is Al Fahidi – or anywhere in the ‘Old Dubai’ area. Unique places here can be mentioned as markets, Bastakiya, Dubai Creek, Dubai Frame. Please refer to my article ‘discovering old town Dubai’ for more information.

XVA Art Hotel

One hotel you should check out is the XVA Art Hotel. This hotel has a gallery of Arabic art and has only 13 rooms. However, each room is uniquely decorated.

This boutique hotel is nestled in the old town of Bastakiya. See more detailed information and booking on Agoda or Booking.

Where to stay in Dubai on a budget? (#best areas to stay in dubai)

Deira

Deira is one of the cheapest areas to stay in Dubai. Deira is located quite close to Bur Dubai, you can travel by metro for 10-15 minutes from Burjuman station to Deira area. Attractions in Deira are all on the blue metro line.

Deira is known as the native cultural neighborhood of Dubai. This place is popular with Asians and businesses and restaurants serving local dishes.

Studio M Arabian Plaza

The first hotel I recommend is Studio M Arabian Plaza. This is the hotel I used to stay at when I first came to Dubai in 2020. I rate its service 10/10, really nothing to complain. The hotel also serves food, the price is very reasonable. Until 2021, when I moved to Dubai, I stayed at this hotel for 3 weeks and I was also completely satisfied with the service.

Another plus point is that the hotel is located very close to Al Qiyadah metro station, only 1-2 minutes walk. Around there are full of good restaurants, supermarkets and walking distance to the pier to take the abra boat is also close. You can check rates and reviews on Agoda or Booking.

Novotel Dubai Deira City Center

Besides, Novotel Dubai Deira City Center is a hotel located right in the heart of Deira. This place has modern rooms, including meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, 24-hour gym, swimming pool, free parking. See room rates and reviews on Agoda or Booking.

Dream City Hotel Apartments

Alternatively, if you want to save money on your Dubai trip by cooking for yourself, choose self-catering accommodations like Dream City Hotel Apartments. You can also refer to this hotel in Deira on Agoda or Booking.

Al Barsha (#best areas to stay in dubai)

If you don’t want to stay in an old town like Deira but want to stay in a more modern area, Al Barsha is a good choice.

Al Barsha is located close to modern attractions, not too far from Dubai Marina and Downtown and very close to the large Mall of the Emirates. Personally, I like Mall of the Emirates more than Dubai Mall. The reason is because the Mall of the Emirates is moderately large, has all kinds of shopping, entertainment, including a ski field, but it does not overwhelm you.

In short, if you stay in Al Barsha, you can still enjoy a bustling Dubai life at an affordable price. Ibis Dubai Al Barsha Hotel (Agoda or Booking) is a hotel I recommend.

You can also see other hotels in this area on Agoda or Booking.

What is the best place to stay in Dubai when traveling with family?

Dubai has plenty of places suitable for the whole family. This has to do with the combination of renowned Middle Eastern hospitality and the safety of Dubai that make the emirate an attractive choice for families with young children.

Budget hotel in Dubai for family (#what is the best place to stay in dubai)

Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira (Agoda or Booking) features an indoor swimming pool and clean rooms. This hotel located in Bur Dubai is close to the beach and Etihad Museum.

Family-friendly mid-range hotel in Dubai (#where should i stay in dubai)

Jumeirah Beach Hotel (Agoda or Booking) is the ideal place for families who love to swim in Dubai. This hotel has 10 restaurants and bars in all, 5 swimming pools and an indoor climbing wall. In addition, you can see many other hotels in this area here.

Luxury hotels in Dubai for family vacation

The Palm is a great area to stay in if your family likes luxury places. This place in Dubai also has more beaches and is quieter than other areas. This place also has the famous Atlantis, The Palm areas. This iconic Dubai resort features a water park, aquarium and 12 restaurants.

You can see more prices and availability in the Atlantis The Palm on Agoda or Booking.

Besides Atlantis The Palm, a hotel in this area that is very popular with celebrities as well as youtubers and travel bloggers is Raffles The Palm (Agoda or Booking). The interior of Raffles The Palm brings a classic European luxury style, very suitable for families who want to have shimmering photos.

Where should I stay in Dubai when traveling with your lover?

Are you about to have a romantic vacation in Dubai with your lover? Then check out the following beautiful resorts where you can have a romantic and relaxing vacation with your other half.

Ritz-Carlton (#where to stay in dubai first time)

The Ritz-Carlton is a luxury hotel and resort that I certainly don’t need to introduce much. The Ritz-Carlton has two locations in Dubai: one located at the bustling JBR beach, the other right in the DIFC financial district.

No matter what location you choose, as a 5-star hotel, the Ritz-Carlton ensures that the two of you will have an unforgettable experience. Resort services, catering, spa, sports, etc. All are top-notch with industry-leading service.

In my opinion, if you prioritize convenient transportation and want to be near Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Downtown, then choose the Ritz-Carlton in DIFC area (Agoda or Booking). The Ritz-Carlton at DIFC is very close to the Emirates Tower metro station and the Financial Centre, less than 5 minutes’ walk away.

But if you don’t mind being far from the airport, like the beach, all kinds of marine entertainment and want to be near Dubai Marina, the Palm… then you should stay at the Ritz-Carlton in JBR (Agoda or Booking).

Rixos Premium

Rixos Premium is a luxury resort in JBR with views of the world’s biggest and tallest Ferris wheel Ain Dubai and direct beach access. There are 9 award-winning dining venues at Rixos and a very nice Turkish spa. You can refer to Rixos room rates on Agoda or Booking.

Jumeirah Al Qasr

Jumeirah Al Qasr is an Arabian night-inspired resort with private beach access. This resort is located near Dubai Marina. Here, you can relax at Talise spa, enjoy the view from your private balcony and enjoy hearty meals at the beachside restaurant – La Plage. Check Jumeirah Al Qasr room rates on Agoda or Booking.

Vida Downtown

Vida Downtown is located in Downtown, about a 10-minute walk from Dubai Mall. You can cycle around the property or relax in the cabanas by the pool. Check the room rates on Agoda or Booking.

One & Only Mirage

One & Only Mirage is a super romantic hotel with lush gardens and views of the Arabian Gulf. One & Only Mirage is located in JBR and has three zones: Palace, Arabian Court and Residence & Spa – each with unique rooms and themed restaurants. In addition, this is also the location of Drift Beach Club, a famous resort swimming pool in Dubai. You can check more room rates on Agoda or Booking.

Jumeirah Al Naseem

Jumeirah Al Naseem is an equally good choice for a romantic stay in Dubai. The two of you can dine in the restaurants of world-class chefs and enjoy a private space for two.

This luxury resort with rooms away from the rainforest is located in Madinat Jumeirah. The view around this area is very beautiful. Here you can overlook the famous sail hotel Burj Al Arab. See more room rates on Agoda or Booking.

Four Seasons Hotel

The Four Seasons Hotel is also a perfect accommodation for couples. Similar to the Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons Hotel also has two branches: one in DIFC financial center, the other in Jumeirah beach.

The popularity of the Four Seasons hotel chain is undisputed. You can refer to the room rates as follows.

• Four Seasons Hotel at the JBR beach (Agoda or Booking).
• Four Seasons Hotel in DIFC financial district (Agoda or Booking).

Personally, I prefer Four Seasons Hotel in DIFC because they have a rooftop pool. Swimming there at night, watching the city at night is very romantic. But if you go on the full moon, the view is even better. In addition, the hotel in DIFC, it will usually be cheaper than in JBR beach.

Where to stay in Dubai if you like beaches? (#where to stay in dubai first time)

Dubai has many free public beaches, but most of the best beaches are owned by luxury resorts. Here are the resorts with the most beautiful beach views.

Nikki Beach Resort & Spa (#top places to stay in dubai)

First of all, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa – a favorite place of “virtual living” believers. This property is located on white sand with Nikki Beach Club is great if you like sunbathing. But if you do not like noisy parties, there is still Nikki Spa to meet your needs for a quiet vacation. Check room rates on Agoda or Booking.

One & Only The Palms

One & Only The Palm is another luxury beach resort located in the famous palm island – Palm Jumeirah. It features a Guerlian spa with a fusion of Arabic rites and French beauty and a private palm-fringed beach. You can see room rates on Agoda or Booking.

Burj Al Arab

Finally, if you intend to enjoy all the high end that Dubai has to offer, there is no other hotel for you than the Burj Al Arab sail hotel. This is said to be the only “seven-star” hotel in the world! Check rates on Agoda or Booking.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Atlantis, The Palm, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $528/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
• FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $466/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
• Address Sky View, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $282/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
• Taj Dubai, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $152/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $328/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).
• Five Jumeirah Village Dubai, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $147/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com).

Summary

I hope with this article, you will be less confused when thinking about where to stay when traveling to Dubai. At the same time, I also hope you have more good suggestions on the best areas to stay for your upcoming vacation.

If you have been to Dubai and have an experience somewhere that you would recommend to others (especially for those who are about to make their first trip to Dubai), please leave a review in the comments section below.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Dubai you can refer to

• Dubai Fountain Lake Ride
• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck with Dubai Aquarium & More
• IMG Worlds of Adventure
• Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park
• Wild Wadi Water Park
• Bollywood, Motiongate And Legoland Tickets At Dubai Parks And Resorts
• [Sale] Ski Dubai Admission Ticket
• Dubai Garden Glow Ticket
• [Sale] Dubai Dolphinarium
• [Sale] Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo And Penguin Encounter At Dubai Mall
• Evening Desert Safari Tour with BBQ Dinner
• Shared Transfers between Dubai Hotel and Dubai Attractions
• Private Dubai International Airport (DXB) Transfers for UAE Emirates
• Global Village Ticket in Dubai
• Ain Dubai: World’s Largest Observation Wheel
• VR Park Dubai Ticket
• Dubai Frame Ticket
• Go Dubai Explorer Pass (3, 4, 5, or 7 Attractions)
• Dubai City Sightseeing Bus Pass
• Dubai Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Half Day Dubai City Tour
• Half Day City Tour in Dubai with Dubai Frame
• 4G WiFi (DXB Airport Pick Up) for Dubai
• 4G SIM Card (DXB Airport Pick Up) for Dubai

Are you looking for more top things to do in Dubai: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here. And My trip to Dubai — The memorable experiences in the mysterious city of Middle East.