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Where to Stay in Dubai: Area Quiz
Five quick questions about your trip. We'll suggest the three areas that suit you best, with links to our hotel guides.
For most first-time visitors the best area to stay in Dubai is Downtown, next to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Metro. Pick Dubai Marina for beach and nightlife, the Palm for a resort holiday, Jumeirah for families, and Old Dubai for souks and the lowest prices. Take the quiz for your match.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best area to stay in Dubai for first-timers?
Downtown Dubai, next to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Fountain, with the Metro nearby. Dubai Marina is the best alternative if you want the beach and nightlife on your doorstep.
Where should I stay in Dubai for the beach?
The Palm Jumeirah for resort hotels with private beaches, Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim for low-rise beach neighborhoods and families, or Dubai Marina and JBR for a public beach with restaurants and nightlife.
Where is the cheapest place to stay in Dubai?
Deira and Bur Dubai in Old Dubai have the lowest hotel prices, near the Creek, the souks and the airport, with good Metro connections.
Should I stay in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Dubai for a first trip: more sights, beaches and nightlife. Abu Dhabi is calmer and better for the Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Yas Island's theme parks; many visitors do it as a day trip.
How does the quiz decide?
Each answer adds points to the areas that suit it, based on our editors' judgment and our UAE guides; the three highest-scoring areas are shown. Read the hotel guides before you book.
Found your area? Pick the hotel
Our hotel guides give the neighborhood, price band and a practical tip for every entry.
See the best hotels in Dubai