Hotels in United Arab Emirates

Hotels in the United Arab Emirates: your guide to where to stay

How much does a hotel in the UAE cost?

The price depends on the standard, the emirate and the dates. The table shows indicative nightly rates for a double room. Rates are lowest in summer, when the heat deters tourists, and highest in winter at the peak of the season. Booking ahead usually brings better rates.

Indicative rates, updated periodically. For exact prices and availability, select your dates in the search above.

Where to stay in the UAE: most popular cities

Each emirate has its own character, from buzzing cities to quieter resorts. These are the destinations travellers choose most often:

• Dubai. The widest choice of hotels, from budget to luxury resorts on Palm Jumeirah. The hub for shopping, beaches and entertainment.
• Abu Dhabi. The capital, quieter than Dubai, with resorts on Saadiyat and Yas Island. Good for a family break.
• Sharjah. A cheaper alternative right next to Dubai, valued for its museums and traditional feel.
• Ras Al Khaimah. An emirate with beaches, the Hajar Mountains and resorts on Al Marjan Island. A quieter destination.
• Ajman and Fujairah. Smaller emirates, often with better prices and beaches on the Gulf of Oman.

Nightly rates vary between emirates. Here are indicative prices per night for a double room:

What to see in the UAE

The UAE blends the modern with tradition and the desert, so it is easy to match a trip to your interests.

• Shopping. Dubai's huge malls with brands from around the world are one of the main draws.
• Beaches. The sandy coast is good for snorkelling, diving and relaxing in the sun.
• Desert safari. 4x4 trips over the dunes, a camel ride and a Bedouin-style dinner at sunset.
• Traditional souks. Markets full of the scent of incense, with gold, jewellery and regional crafts.
• Nature. The Hajar Mountains and the wadis in Ras Al Khaimah for those after the wilder side of the country.

How much does a trip to the UAE cost

Hotel stays can be pricey, as occupancy is high. A meal costs roughly 8 to 54 dollars depending on the restaurant. A bus ticket starts from about half a dollar, while a taxi ride in Abu Dhabi is around 20 dollars. Cards are widely accepted and ATMs are easy to find. When paying by card, watch out for the currency conversion option on the terminal, as it can cost more.

When is the best time to visit the UAE

The best time is October to April, when temperatures are milder and sightseeing is pleasant. In summer the heat often passes 45 degrees, which is why room prices drop then. If you want lower rates and do not mind the heat, summer can be the cheapest.

Getting to and around the UAE

The main airports are Dubai and Abu Dhabi, both with many international connections. You can drive in from Saudi Arabia or Oman. Cruise ships call at Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Within the country, Dubai has a metro and tram, while in the other emirates buses and taxis are the mainstay and usually inexpensive. An International Driving Permit is needed to drive, and the road network is modern with signs in English and Arabic.

Example hotels in the UAE

A few recognisable properties from different emirates for reference:

• Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites and Hotel Riu Dubai in Dubai (resorts, from approx. AED 650).
• Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island and Royal Rose Hotel in Abu Dhabi (from approx. AED 550).
• Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah and Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (from approx. AED 600).