Where To Stay In Dubai: BEST Areas & Hotels For All Budgets

Dubai is one of the seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is one of the most modern, ultra-luxurious, and wealthy cities in the world.

A tourist hotspot, the city is known for its skyscrapers, luxury hotels, awe-inspiring man-made attractions, dazzling lights, waterfronts, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

With plenty of luxury accommodation options and attractions in the city, figuring out where to stay in Dubai as a tourist can be a bit of a challenge.

To help you make the right decisions, we have compiled a guide that goes over the best neighbourhoods in Dubai and the best hotels to stay within those locations.  

The Best Areas In Dubai

Dubai is famed for its futuristic and opulent high-rises and unique man-made attractions. It is also recognized as the most liberal of all the other Emirates, which makes it a popular tourist destination for those travelling to the Middle East.

The best areas to stay in Dubai boast incredible nightlife with plenty of upscale clubs, sheesha cafes, luxury waterfront accommodations, and a variety of fine-dining restaurants, shops, and supermarkets. They are also close to amazing attractions such as the world's largest shopping mall, Dubai Mall, and the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and the world's most luxurious hotel, Burj Al Arab.

Once just a small fishing village along the Arabian Gulf, today, the city is a booming metropolis that is still rapidly developing. As such, certain parts of Dubai are more developed than others and offer a lot more to do and experience.

Downtown Dubai

The area around Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa is considered Dubai's city centre and is referred to as Downtown Dubai. This area has some of the city's tallest buildings, most luxurious hotels, and top tourist attractions. It also offers easy access to Dubai's metro station.

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

JBR offers a completely different vibe from Downtown Dubai as it is located right by the beach and surrounded by chic luxurious high-rise hotels, residential apartments, and great spots for shopping, nightlife, and dining.

Jumeirah Beach

Not to be confused with JBR, Jumeirah Beach is a popular coastal neighbourhood known for its quiet atmosphere, upscale residential homes, luxurious resorts, and excellent beachfront activities.

Dubai Marina 

Right next door to the Jumeirah Beach Residence area lies the Dubai Marina area. Lined with plenty of luxurious waterfront properties and tall skyscrapers, this is a great place to stay within the heart of the city, surrounded by waterfront views.

Palm Jumeirah 

The largest man-made island in the world, Palm Jumeirah is a neighbourhood that feels more cut off from the rest of Dubai. Shaped like a palm tree, the island is home to extravagant hotels, theme parks, and exciting nightlife options.

Old Dubai/Bur Dubai

Travellers wanting to explore Dubai's history, culture, and heritage will find Old Dubai or Bur Dubai to their liking. Overlooking Dubai Creek, this is one of Dubai's oldest neighbourhoods and offers an excellent mix of old and new Dubai.

Al Barsha

This residential suburb is situated close to the Mall of the Emirates, right next to Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai Marina. Its proximity to many top attractions makes Al Barsha an excellent place to stay for budget travellers with families.

1. Where To Stay In Dubai For The First Time & Main Sights: Downtown Dubai

The best place to stay for first-time travellers to Dubai would be in its downtown area along Sheikh Zayed Road.

The beating heart of modern Dubai is where you will find all the tallest buildings, luxurious shopping malls, and fine dining restaurants, along with some of the city's top man-made attractions.

Downtown Dubai also offers plenty of amazing restaurants and upscale clubs for a vibrant nightlife experience and easy access to the Dubai metro station.

Things To See & Do In Downtown Dubai

Top attractions in Dubai Downtown include shopping at the Dubai Mall, the world's largest mall, which in itself contains infinite attractions, visiting the top of Burj Khalifa, and witnessing the water dance show at the Dubai Fountain.

The charming traditional Arabian-style bazaar, Souk Al Bahar, is also an excellent place to shop and get a taste of Arabian culture and heritage.

Other attractions include The Dubai Opera and the Dubai World Trade Centre or Dubai Financial Centre.

Daytime activities include visiting the Museum of the Future, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and the Glow Garden for some good old family fun.  

Best Area For:

• First-time visitors

• Proximity to the city’s main sights and attractions

• Luxury living

Best Hotels To Stay In Dubai For First-Time Visitors

Let’s take a look at the best hotels in Dubai that are located downtown and offer the best value for money. 

($$$) Armani Hotel Dubai

Designed and envisioned by legendary fashion icon Giorgio Armani, this 5-star luxury hotel is located on Sheikh Zayed Road within the world's most iconic building, The Burj Khalifa. The hotel features many ultra-luxurious amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, seven fine dining restaurants, bars, and a deluxe spa and fitness centre. Lavish rooms offer breathtaking city views, and guests can enjoy top-notch service and exclusive direct access to Dubai Mall.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Palace Downtown

There are plenty of 5-star hotels in Dubai, but few are as stunning as Palace Downtown. Overlooking the Dubai Fountain and built on the edge of Burj Khalifa's lake, the hotel offers a harmonious blend of Arabian-style architecture and décor mixed in with ultra-modern amenities and plenty of fine dining options. The hotel features four restaurants, a palm-fringed outdoor pool, a hammam, a deluxe spa, a fitness centre, bars, and luxurious guest rooms with lake views.  

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Address Downtown

Overlooking the Dubai Mall and connected to it via a pathway-bridge the Address Downtown is an iconic flagship hotel with 220 guest rooms equipped with all the luxuries, technology, and comforts you can come to expect from one of Dubai's most expensive hotels. The 63-floor building that makes up Address Downtown has many world-class amenities and nine unique restaurants for an unrivalled luxury living experience. Great place to stay while on a business trip.

Check availability & best rates

($$) DAMAC Maison Distinction

Just a couple of kilometres away from the more touristy downtown areas, the DAMAC Maison Distinction is a bespoke luxury hotel that features a rooftop patio and a rooftop infinity pool that offers panoramic views of the Dubai skyline. The hotel is tastefully decorated and offers luxury rooms with balconies and family-friendly amenities such as a children's play area, a gym, a hot tub, and a continental buffet breakfast served every morning.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Vida Downtown Residences

Just a short walking distance away from Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, the Vida Downtown Residence is arguably the best boutique hotel in Dubai thanks to its chic wooden interior, modern furnishing, and superb amenities that include an outdoor swimming pool and a fully-equipped gym.

Check availability & best rates

2. Where To Stay In Dubai Near The Beach & For Families: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

The highlight of staying in Jumeirah Beach Residence is its promenade and bustling beachside boulevard that is lined with restaurants, designer shops, cafes, hookah bars, and boutiques.

This affluent residential neighbourhood is adjacent to Dubai Marina and is known for its stunning beaches, luxurious hotel apartments, and fabulous dining and nightlife. If you are wondering “Where to stay in Dubai for a week?”, this is the spot to do it.

In many ways, JBR is similar to South Beach in Miami but with less partying and more exotic supercars.

Things To See & Do In JBR

Some of the top attractions in JBR include The Beach waterfront complex, which has plenty of retail stores, restaurants, and water sports activities to partake in.

The AquaFun Water Park is another fun attraction for the entire family and so is taking a ride on the Dubai Eye, or Ain Dubai, one of the world's largest Ferris wheels, located on Bluewaters Island, a short distance from JBR.

Best Area For:

• Families and children

• Beachside activities

• Upscale luxury living

Best Hotels & Resorts To Stay In Dubai Near The Beach

Let’s look at where to stay in Dubai with family near the beach.

($$$) Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

Located at The Walk in JBR, this 5-star hotel is just a few steps away from the Dubai Marina and The Beach Mall. Amenities include an outdoor pool with sea views, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a sauna chamber, and plenty of in-house restaurants and bars. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated and the staff is extremely hospitable and friendly.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

If you are wanting to stay in a resort while still being in the heart of the city, the Ritz Carlton is one of the most exclusive properties to stay in on your Dubai trip. The hotel features its own private beach, six outdoor swimming pools, world-class spa facilities, steam rooms, a fitness centre, a tennis court, workshops, and so much more.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Address Beach Residences

Overlooking the man-made island of Bluewaters, Address Beach Residences offers luxury apartments that are ideal for families and children. The apartments are fully decked out and the property has a private sandy beach, free private parking, and a rooftop infinity pool that offers panoramic aerial views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline.

Check availability & best rates

($) Lunar Hostel Plus

A rare budget option located on The Walk in JBR, the Lunar Hostel Plus is one of the best places to stay in Dubai for singles, backpackers, and solo travellers. The hostel offers shared dorms with bunk beds, free Wifi, private parking, a bar, a garden, and a shared lounge area for just US$30 a night!

Check availability & best rates

3. Where To Stay In Dubai For Ultimate Luxury: Jumeirah Beach

The Jumeirah Beach district is an 11-mile strip of coastline that makes for the ideal destination for beach lovers wanting to stay in ultimate luxury.

Some of Dubai's most popular public and private beaches can be found here and the area is packed full of restaurants, cafes, lounges, hotels and resorts.

Things To See & Do In Jumeirah Beach

There is plenty to do at Jumeirah Beach, from the many watersport activities to sunbathing at some of its pristine sandy beaches, such as Jumeirah Beach itself and the neighbouring La Mer Beach and Mercato Beach.

Jumeirah Beach is also home to the world's most expensive and luxurious hotel, the Burj Al Arab, and offers a range of beachfront dining and lively nightlife options.

Theme parks like Wild Wadi Water Park, Laguna Waterpark, and the Jumeirah Open Beach Park also promise boatloads of fun for the entire family.

Best Area For:

• Luxury living

• Beaches and nightlife

• Watersport activities and theme parks

Best Hotels To Stay In Dubai In Jumeirah Beach

Let's look at where to stay in Dubai for beach lovers.

($$$$) Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most iconic luxury hotel and that is saying something! Considered the only 7-Star hotel in the world, this incredible hotel is built on its own island and offers a mind-blowing number of amenities, attractions, and dining options. In a game of Monopoly, Burj Al Arab would be Broadway.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Jumeirah Al Qasr

This 5-star resort is a hidden gem that resembles an Arabian palace and comes with all the amenities to match. Spread over an extensive landscape Jumeirah Al Qasr includes waterways, swimming pools, restaurants, bars, numerous luxury rooms, and a private golden sand beach. As a bonus, it also offers free shuttle service to many of Dubai's top attractions.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Bulgari Resort, Dubai

Located on another one of Dubai's many artificial islands, in this case, Jumeirah Bay, the Bulgari Hotel & Resort features its very own marina, yacht club, private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and numerous gourmet restaurants and bars.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach

The Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach is a world within itself and the epitome of beach vacation living. An oasis next to the beach, the resort offers many amenities and attractions to keep guests entertained and longing for more.

Check availability & best rates

4. Where To Stay In Dubai For Couples & Hip Nightlife: Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a modern residential area located in the heart of Dubai, just next to JBR. It is particularly popular amongst couples looking for a hip nightlife scene and is arguably the best area to stay in Dubai for those that like to work hard and play hard.

The views of the marina, both during the day and night, are spectacular. Accommodation in the Dubai Marina is affordable and there are plenty of stores and shopping areas. The location itself is superb, easily connecting you to the rest of Dubai.

Things To See & Do In Dubai Marina

Things to see and do in Dubai Marina include enjoying romantic walks around the Dubai Harbour and Dubai Marina Walk and shopping at the Dubai Marina Mall.

Other popular attractions include the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, Pier 7, Gallery One, Ain Dubai, and Skydive Dubai.

During the night, this area is specially lit! You can choose to charter a yacht and cruise the waters or join in on the fun at the many nightclubs in the area that can be found both on and off the water.

Best Area For:

• Couples

• First-time visitors

• Boating and nightlife enthusiast

Best Hotels To Stay in Dubai Marina

Here are some of the best places to stay in Dubai for nightlife and couples.

($$$) Address Dubai Marina

The Address Dubai Marina is yet another accommodation in Dubai that pampers its guests in luxury and comfort while offering top-notch service, hospitality, and delectable food and beverages served at its in-house restaurants and bars.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is situated in the cosmopolitan area of Dubai Marina and is conveniently located next to Dubai Marina Mall. Guests get direct access to the Marina pedestrian promenade, which features a waterfront lined with lively cafes and restaurants.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina

A rare mid-range hotel located in the heart of Dubai Marina offers luxury apartments for families that include amenities such as an outdoor pool overlooking the walk and Dubai Marina, a terrace, a fully-equipped kitchen, private washrooms, and lavishly furnished apartment units with balconies.

Check availability & best rates

5. Where To Stay For A Unique Stay, Private Beaches & Theme Parks: Palm Jumeirah

The largest man-made island archipelago in the world, Palm Jumeirah, is a modern marvel. This iconic palm-tree-shaped island has some of the world's most expensive private properties owned by mega-stars and billionaires and is a tourist hotspot and one of the most photographed areas of the city.

When you are in Palm Jumeirah, you feel cut out from the rest of Dubai as this island paradise offers everything you need for a utopian beach vacation, such as the best luxury hotels and resorts, world-class fine-dining restaurants, theme parks, and plenty of exciting nightlife options.

While Palm Jumeirah is a wondrous place to stay, it is more pricey than anywhere else in Dubai. If money is no object, then this is the best area to stay in Dubai.

Things To See & Do In Palm Jumeirah

The entire island archipelago can be viewed as one giant resort. However, one of its top attractions has to be the Atlantis The Palm, a luxury resort that offers a variety of entertaining attractions, water activities, and panoramic views of the island, Dubai's skyline, and the Persian Gulf.

Theme parks in Palm Jumeirah include the Aquaventure Waterpark, Dolphin Bay and The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where one can explore underwater worlds teeming with marine life.

West Beach and The Pointe are popular waterfront destinations that offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options for travellers. In the evenings, the Palm Fountain also features a spectacular water and light show. 

For shopping, pay a visit to Nakheel Mall, which is home to high-end designer shops and exquisite fine-dining restaurants. On your way out, don't forget to stop at Dubai Media City.

Best Area For:

• Luxury living

• Smaller crowds and fresher air

• Theme Parks and private beaches

Best Hotels To Stay In Dubai On Palm Jumeirah

Let's look at some of the most unique places to stay in Dubai.

($$$) Atlantis, The Palm

The ultimate luxury resort in Dubai, Atlantis The Palm is a vacation destination unlike any other in the world. The resort has so much to do that you could easily spend days and even weeks here without ever wanting to leave. Guests that stay here get complimentary access to Aquaventure Waterpark and more amenities and attractions than we can even list here.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) One&Only The Palm Dubai

Located on the west crescent of Palm Jumeirah the One&Only The Palm truly lives up to its name. The exquisitely styled resort pampers its guests with multiple spas, swimming pools, palm-shaded terraces, mouth-watering culinary delights, and a range of recreational activities, all while staying in spacious luxury rooms, suites, and villas.

Check availability & best rates

($$$) Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah

There are plenty of luxurious hotels in Dubai, but few look as incredible as the Kempinski Hotel & Residences. At first glance, this place looks less like a resort and more like a palace with incredible architecture, palm tree gardens, multiple pools, and a private beach.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Radisson Beach Resort Palm Jumeirah

The Radisson Beach Resort can be considered a mid-range hotel option for those wanting to stay in the island's popular Palm West Beach area. The resort isn't as extravagant as some of the others on this list. Still, it has all the amenities available to make for a luxurious and enjoyable stay, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, comfortable rooms, free WIFI, and a private beachfront.

Check availability & best rates

($$) VOCO Dubai The Palm

Another mid-range option that offers superb value for money is VOCO, also located on Palm Beach West. This 4-star hotel is clean, comfortable, and affordable. Amenities include a swimming pool, free WIFI and parking, a fitness centre, a terrace, and a daily breakfast buffet.

Check availability & best rates

6. Where To Stay In Dubai For Culture & History: Old Dubai/Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is also called Old Dubai and is one of the oldest and most historic neighbourhoods in Dubai. Overlooking Dubai Creek is the best location to stay in Dubai for cheap accommodation and proximity to heritage sites and the Dubai International Airport.

Things To See & Do In Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai's top attractions include the famous Dubai Frame monument in Zabeel Park and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, which features old-world architecture such as wind-tower houses mixed in with modern art galleries and museums.

To the west of Bur Dubai is also Dubai Creek, where you can catch taxi rides across the creek on traditional dhows taking in views of the stunning Dubai skyline.

The nearby districts of Al Seef and Deira also offer a blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, while the Meena Bazars and Souks, such as the Spice Souk, Gold Souk, and Perfume Souk, are considered the best marketplaces for shopping in the city.

Best Area For:

• Shopping

• Budget hotels

• Closeness to Dubai Airport

Best Hotels To Stay In Old Dubai

Let's look at where to stay in Dubai on a budget and some of the cheapest hotels in Dubai.

($$$) Palazzo Versace Dubai

The Palazzo Versace Dubai is another property that looks more like a royal palace than a vacation hotel. The building is reminiscent of 16th-century Italian architecture and décor as everything you see here is designed by the House of Versace exclusively for the hotel. Manicured gardens, Dubai Creek views, fantastic amenities, and proximity to Dubai International Airport, Burj Khalifa, and downtown Dubai make this a great place to stay.  

Check availability & best rates

($$) Al Seef Heritage Hotel

Travellers wanting to experience quintessential Emirati hospitality will simply love staying at Al Seef Heritage Hotel. Located in Bur Dubai, just steps away from the famous spice and gold Souk, this traditional artisan-design hotel offers a unique mid-range accommodation option that celebrates Middle Eastern culture, food, and history.

Check availability & best rates

($$) The Canvas Dubai – MGallery Hotel Collection

Located in the centre of Bur Dubai, this 5-star hotel is just a stone's throw away from the Dubai Museum, Dubai Creek, and other top historic attractions. Clean and spacious rooms, plenty of amenities and the fact that Al Maktoum International Airport is close by make The Canvas Dubai an excellent choice for short stays.

Check availability & best rates

7. Where To Stay In Dubai Without The Crowds & More Affordable Hotels: Al Barsha

Situated close to Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and JBR, this residential neighbourhood has some of the best family-oriented attractions and mid-range Dubai accommodations.

Al Barsha neighbourhood is right next to the famous Mall of the Emirates and it's here where you can experience what daily life is like for most middle-class families in Dubai.

Things To See & Do In Al Barsha

The neighborhood has plenty of things to see and do, including a trip to the fabulous Dubai Miracle Garden and a shopping spree at the Mall of Emirates, which is most famous for its indoor ski slope, the Ski Dubai.

Al Barsha also has the largest cinema theatre in Dubai, VOX Cinemas, and is nearby other popular tourist hotspots such as Dubai Media City and Wild Wadi Waterpark.

Best Area For:

• Families and children

• Affordable accommodation

• Smaller crowds and open green spaces

Best Hotels To Stay In Al Barsha

Some of the most affordable and value-for-money Dubai hotels are located in Al Barsha. Let's look at the top three choices.

($$) Courtyard By Marriott Dubai

A boutique hotel located right behind the Mall of Emirates, Courtyard by Marriott features a rooftop pool, fitness centre, bar, restaurant, and spa for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Check availability & best rates

($$) TIME Asma Hotel

This 4-star hotel is another excellent mid-range option for those wanting to stay in the best location and have the best amenities but pay a fraction of the cost.

Check availability & best rates

($$) Rose Park Hotel

Looking for a luxury hotel experience that is affordable and fun for the entire family? Rose Park Hotel offers plenty of amazing world-class amenities for all its guests and is located just steps away from the Mashreq metro station, providing convenient and easy access to the rest of Dubai.

Check availability & best rates

Where To Stay in Dubai – Frequently Asked Questions

⭐ Is Dubai worth visiting?

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and for good reason. It has some of the world's most iconic attractions, the most luxurious resorts and hotels, and is a playground for the ultra-wealthy. It is unlike any other city in the world and therefore definitely worth visiting.

📅 How many days do I need in Dubai?

You can stay in Dubai for months, even years and never get bored. However, for travellers coming to Dubai, a week's stay will allow for enough time to experience the city's top attractions and popular tourist hotspots. If you are short on time, you can also enjoy the main sights in 2 to 4 days. Read my full 4-day itinerary to Dubai with everything there's to see and do.

📍 What’s the best area to stay in Dubai?

The best area to stay in Dubai has to be Downtown Dubai, as it has some of the city's tallest skyscrapers, attractions, and nightlife. The downtown area is always teaming with tourists and has plenty of malls, fancy shops, fine-dining restaurants, and upscale clubs within close proximity to one another.

✔️ Is Dubai safe?

Dubai is considered one of the safest cities to stay in, in the world. The crime rate in Dubai is almost non-existent thanks to its strict laws and heavy surveillance. While petty crime may still exist, violent crime in the city is unheard of. The city is safe for Westerners, tourists, and residents alike and unlike some other Islamic countries, it is safe for solo female travellers as well.

💃 Where do I find the best nightlife in Dubai?

The best nightlife in Dubai can be experienced in Downtown Dubai as it is home to some of the city's most glamorous clubs, such as the 10AK, BLU Dubai, Ole Dubai, and Vice Nightclub, to name but a few. There are also plenty of restaurants, hookah bars, lounges, and cafes open until the wee hours of the morning.

❓ Is it better to stay in Marina or Downtown Dubai?

Both locations are off Sheikh Zayed Road and offer similar attractions and benefits. However, the Dubai Marina is a cheaper place to stay, has amazing waterfront activities and views and has some world-class restaurants and clubs to boot. Choosing between the two is tough, but if this isn't your first time in Dubai, I would prefer the Marina over Downtown.  

Where To Stay in Dubai – Final Words

When choosing where to stay in Dubai, it’s important to consider that the city is large in size and offers A LOT! Decide what you'd like to see and if you fancy staying in a luxurious beachfront resort or a modern city-center hotel.

Dubai serves as a common stopover for travelers flying between Asia/Australia and Europe, making it a convenient destination for a few nights. For those looking to explore further in the region, cities like Doha could be another stopover choice with a blend of tradition and modernity.

Instead of Dubai, I have also chosen Bahrain as a stopover previously, which provides a mix of historical attractions and contemporary comforts. Initially, I was slightly hesitant, however, you'll find that Bahrain is more liberal compared to many other countries in the region, though it still maintains some conservative social views.