United Arab Emirates · Middle East · City planning guideWhere to stay in Dubai depends on what you want to do. I’d first choose between a Dubai Mall trip, a beach trip and a creek trip. After all, those plans pull you in different directions, even when the hotel map makes them look deceptively close.
Rob’s quick picks
- First visits and the Dubai Mall areaDowntown Dubai
- Waterfront walks and beach timeDubai Marina and JBR
- Creek history and value comparisonsAl Fahidi and Bur Dubai
Four Dubai neighbourhoods compared
Downtown Dubai
Best forFirst visits and the Dubai Mall area
Why I’d stay hereStart here if the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are the main items on a short itinerary.
Worth knowingCheck the exact walk to the Metro and compare total room prices with other districts.
Dubai Marina and JBR
Best forWaterfront walks and beach time
Why I’d stay hereI’d stay here if I wanted the waterfront within walking distance. For example, you could spend the afternoon at the beach and have dinner by the marina.
Worth knowingCheck travel time to Downtown and decide which side of the marina you’ll use most.
Al Fahidi and Bur Dubai
Best forCreek history and value comparisons
Why I’d stay hereIf the creek and museums are your priority, start with Al Fahidi and Bur Dubai.
Worth knowingBuild in travel time for the marina and beach, especially if you plan to go more than once.
Al Barsha
Best forHotel value and Metro access
Why I’d stay hereIf you’re splitting your time between several parts of Dubai, compare hotels near Mall of the Emirates.
Worth knowingA hotel advertised as being in Al Barsha may still be far from the station. So map the walk to the station before you book.
Before you book
First, check the door-to-door journey at the time you expect to travel. Then, if you plan to use the Metro, map the actual walk from the station to the hotel.
More Dubai planning tips
Planning a wider trip? Explore the United Arab Emirates travel guide.
Planning reference · Dubai neighborhood information