How to find the best hotel deal in Dubai
Love how effortless it is to book flights with us? The same clever search engine has a talent for hunting down deals on Dubai hotels too. Give these tips a go to snag a room at the best price.
Save on your Dubai hotel and get the room type you actually want when you book early. You'll also have more time to weigh up your options and choose the perfect place.
That being said, booking at the last minute can work to your advantage. Some places drop their rates a day or two before arrival to avoid letting rooms sit empty.
Another secret to scoring cheaper hotels? Stay flexible. If your plans aren't locked in, change up your travel dates and discover how much you can save.
Avoid the risk of extra fees by searching for stays that have free cancellation. If your travel dates shift or you spot a better offer, you can cancel or modify your booking without penalty.
Where to stay in Dubai
Central Dubai
Choose the city centre and you'll be surrounded by things to do. Take your pick of these stays that keep you close to the most-visited attractions in central Dubai.
If you're searching for hotels near Dubai Gold Souk, book a room at City Seasons Hotel Dubai. This 4-star Dubai hotel is around 3 kilometres from this leading sight and tends to attract business travellers.
When it comes to hotels near Grand Bur Dubai Masjid (Bur Dubai Grand Mosque), Raffles Dubai is hard to beat. Unpack your suitcase at this 5-star hotel in Dubai and you'll be roughly 5 kilometres away. While it suits most travellers, business travellers find it especially appealing.
Or check what deals are on offer for hotels near Wonderland Theme & Water Park. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Dubai is 5 kilometres or so from this leading sight. Families often choose this 5-star option as their base for exploring the city in general.
Za'abeel
If you need more inspiration on where to stay, consider Za'abeel. Here are a few places where you can rest your head near some leading sights.
Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre is one of the best hotels near Dubai World Trade Centre, a big attraction in this area. This hotel in Dubai has a 5-star rating and gets strong guest feedback for its cleanliness.
Search for hotels near Dubai World Trade Centre Tower - Sheikh Rashid Tower if this is on your list of must-visits. Rove Bur Dubai - Healthcare City is a 3-star option that's nearby. Travellers who have checked in to this Dubai hotel leave rave reviews about its cleanliness.
There's a lot to love about the range of hotels near Opera Gallery Dubai too. You'll be able to easily reach this attraction (and experience more of Za'abeel) from Vida Dubai Mall. One of the highlights for guests at this 4-star stay is its location.
That's just the beginning. Browse the complete lineup of hotels in Za'abeel and find a stay that brings the whole trip together.
When to go to Dubai
The travel season reaches its height in December. If you like to keep your trip action-packed, there's no better time to lock in a hotel in Dubai.
March is the best month to lock in your Dubai hotel for a calmer, quieter visit.
The weather is worth considering when choosing your travel dates. July brings the warmest conditions, with maximum temperatures of 42ºC.
January is the coolest month, with lows of 14ºC.
Want to visit when you're less likely to need an umbrella? Browse the list of Dubai hotels in June, which is the driest time to visit.
When a rare shower comes through, it's typically light and won't interrupt your plans. Clear skies and sunny conditions are standard here.
Best hotels in Dubai
Best budget hotels
A great trip doesn't have to mean paying more for your hotel. With at least 180 budget Dubai hotels available, you can spend more on what you came for and less on where you lay your head. Expect basic comforts like simple breakfasts, standard toiletries, and cosy beds at these affordable stays.
Al Khayma Camp 'Elite Glamping & Dining in Experience' is a 3-star option that delivers a no-fuss, no-frills stay. Wi-Fi and air conditioning are among its amenities.
With conveniences like a fitness centre and Wi-Fi, Ahmadia Heritage Hiba Guest House - Built in 1916 - Al Ras Metro Station delivers what you need, without overdoing it. This Dubai hotel is in Deira and holds a 3-star rating.
You'll also find great deals on rooms at Arabian Boutique Hotel, which is rated 3 stars. It's located in Bur Dubai and features Wi-Fi and shuttle services.
Best 4-star hotels in Dubai
When you're craving a little more from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Dubai deliver. With around 180 choices, they generally offer well-designed rooms, attentive service, and extras such as spas, gyms, and on-site dining. These hotels are upscale without going over-the-top.
Lusso Hometels J One offers the kind of stay that goes a step beyond the standard. A sauna and a golf course are included in the 4-star guest experience here.
Valet parking and room service are just some of the thoughtful amenities on offer at The Heritage Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott. This Dubai hotel gets the balance right between quality and value.
Luxe Avenue Hotel is one more to bookmark. It's in Bur Dubai and comes with a pool and an outdoor swimming pool, among other things.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
You could just find somewhere to crash. Or you could book one of the 120 or so 5-star hotels in Dubai and get the VIP treatment. Think things like luxe spa services, gourmet dining experiences, and top-tier locations. (And maybe even a personal concierge on speed dial.) The majority of these next-level stays are in Jumeirah.
Step into sophistication at Phoenix Retreat Deira By Dancenter. A fireplace and concierge assistance help bring extra indulgence to this Deira hotel.
Featuring concierge assistance, room service and more, Royal Tulip Dancenter Suites Sharjah is another Dubai hotel that perfects the 5-star experience.
Best hotels in Dubai for families
Heading away with the kids? This trip calls for a hotel that has more. Activity centres, childcare services, kitchenettes, and laundry facilities make family stays easier. You'll find roughly 320 family-friendly hotels in Dubai ready to welcome your crew.
Save more for making memories with the kids by choosing Florida Al Souq Hotel (Previously Known Flora Al Souq Hotel). This affordable 2-star option has amenities like a fitness centre and baby-sitting.
Turn your family escape into a luxurious one at City Seasons Hotel Dubai. Rated 4 stars, this Dubai hotel is located in Deira and features an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant.
Another one to check out is Studio M Arabian Plaza Hotel & Hotel Apartments. This option comes with a laundry and air conditioning.
Best hotels with a spa
Swap your walking shoes for some fluffy slippers at a Dubai hotel with a spa. With roughly 420 to choose from, they're all about helping you relax. Many offer features like steam rooms, saunas, beauty salons, and plunge pools. You'll find most of these stays in Deira.
In need of a reset? Come rest at Leva Hotel and Suites, Mazaya Centre. This 4-star option has a lobby bar and a spa.
Relaxation also comes easy at Asiana Grand Hotel. This 5-star hotel in Dubai offers concierge assistance, a fitness centre and loads more. It's located in Deira.
Once you've checked in to Ibis Styles Dragon Mart Dubai, you'll wonder why you didn't come sooner. This Warsan accommodation option has a 3-star rating and features amenities like a spa and a fitness centre.
Best hotels with a pool
A pool adds another element of fun to a trip. Book a resort and you'll likely find multiple swimming areas and maybe even a lazy river. At city hotels, indoor and rooftop pools are more typical. Choose from at least 510 pool hotels in Dubai and get set to dive right in.
Unwinding by the water is part of the experience at Vida Dubai Mall. With an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk and a shop, this Dubai hotel makes it easy to recharge your batteries.
Pack your swimsuit and head for Lusso Hometels J One. An indoor swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk and a fitness centre are just a taste of what's included.
Or make time for a little fun at InterContinental Residences Dubai Business BAY by IHG. An outdoor swimming pool, this hotel has valet parking and Wi-Fi.
Flying to Dubai
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
A flight to Dubai usually means touching down at Dubai International Airport (DXB), this city's main airport. From there, the centre is around 10 kilometres away.
Reaching central Dubai takes roughly 35 minutes on public transport. When driving, it's about 20 minutes.
Hyatt Regency Creek Heights Residences is the perfect base for the night if you have a late flight in. Within easy reach of the airport, guests are often impressed by this 5-star option's value.
Also close to DXB, Royal Continental Hotel is a hit with guests. This 4-star stay has been rated a solid 4-plus out of 5 overall based on traveller feedback.
Often chosen by business travellers, Al Bandar Rotana – Dubai Creek is another recommendation. This 5-star hotel is a welcome pause before your next connection.
Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
You can also fly into Dubai through Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which is around 40 kilometres from the centre.
Travelling by public transport into the city will take roughly 1 hour 20 minutes. The journey by car is usually 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Alternatively, make yourself comfortable at Staybridge Suites Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport by IHG. This 4-star option is a favourite with couples in particular.
Jebel Ali SPB Airport (DJH)
Flights to Dubai are available through Jebel Ali SPB Airport (DJH) as well. DJH is roughly 40 kilometres from the city centre.
Enjoy a relaxing night at JA Lake View Hotel, Dubai before making your way into the city. Close to DJH, this Dubai hotel has a 5-star rating. Guest reviews often point to its cleanliness as a highlight of the stay.
With a 5-star rating, JA Palm Tree Court, Dubai delivers on convenience too. Ironing services and air conditioning are just a couple of its amenities.
