Dubai is one of the top destinations in the Middle East, with a massive landmass and population of around 4 million. It’s more well known for its exuberant buildings and hot climate, which averages approximately 15 million visitors per year in non-pandemic times.
One of the defining features of Dubai is space and you’ll need a vehicle to traverse the cities, neighbourhoods and top destinations. Because of this, figuring out where to stay in Dubai is an important part of your planning! You’ll find vastly different areas when travelling to the different regions of Dubai, including many landmarks, activities and price points for accommodation.
Below, we talk about where to stay in Dubai, including the best areas to stay in and the top accommodation you could imagine!
The best areas to stay in Dubai
As we mentioned before, Dubai is quite a diverse city, and each district feels a bit like a different place! Luckily, the city’s skyline helps keep one grounded, no matter which area you choose to visit. Here are best areas to stay in Dubai with accommodation options in each.
Old Dubai
Areas like Al Seef and Al Fahidi represent traditional Dubai, with great museums, wind towers, colourful souks (markets) and the majestic Dubai creek.
Old Dubai is one of the best places to stay in Dubai for a glimpse into the tradition and culture of the city, which is sure to be one of the most exciting and unique parts of your trip.
Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Are you wondering where to stay in Dubai in the ‘old’ part of the city? Al Seef Heritage Hotel by Hilton is a great choice. Set overlooking the Dubai Creek (where you can join a Dubai dhow cruise) and located next to the Museum of Illusions, this four-star hotel offers a luxury visit. The Burj Khalifa is relatively close, with many malls, the Dubai International Airport, and the Dubai World Trade Centre not far behind.
Jumeirah Beach Residence
Many resorts around the Jumeirah Beach Residence area offer a fantastic array of watersport activities, including jet skis, parasailing, paddle boating, and kayaking (check out these crazy things to do in Dubai).
Other resort activities in the area include hot air balloons, quad biking and camel rides, which you can arrange before arriving in Dubai. This area is one of the best places to stay in Dubai if you are looking for family fun and water sports or other physical activities.
Additionally, you can find Jumeirah Beach (also known as JBR) in this region, making it a delightful holiday destination.
Beach Walk Hotel
Need to find where to stay in the Jumeirah Beach area? Beach Walk Hotel is a great choice! This four-star hotel offers an outdoor pool, modern design and clean furnishings and finishes. You’ll also get access to the fitness centre located within the hotel.
The Miraj Islamic Art Centre and Kite Beach are in the immediate area, a kitesurfer’s paradise.
Park Regis Boutique Hotel
Were you looking for something a bit different than your average hotel for your next trip to Dubai? You’ll enjoy the Park Regis Boutique Hotel in JBR. This unique hotel is near Umm Suqeim beach, Suqeim park and the Wild Wadi Waterpark.
We think active families would love this location for its hot tubs, water sports, babysitting services and dedicated family room.
Dubai Marina
The Dubai Marina is one of the best places to stay in Dubai for nightlife. Surprisingly, this city is one of the more relaxed Arab nations regarding drinking and alcohol. Still, you’ll find a strict zero-tolerance policy for public drunkenness, and alcohol is heavily taxed in the city.
Despite this, Dubai Marina is the best of all answers to the question ‘Where to stay in Dubai for the best nightlife?’ You will find alcohol in licensed restaurants, bars, hotels and nightclubs. In this area, you’ll find trendy nightclubs on the rooftops of high-rises in the city.
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa
Want one of the best places to stay in Dubai’s marina area? Look no further than Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa. This luxury resort includes spa access, three outdoor pools for guests, as well as a private beach complete with sun loungers and umbrellas. There’s even a children’s play area for families, as well as breathtaking decor throughout.
The hotel also offers 4 bars and seven restaurants for the most discerning guests.
Sparkle 405 – Merida
If you are a single traveller or perhaps a couple, you may enjoy Sparkle 405 – Merida, a studio apartment in the Dubai Marina district. You’ll indeed have a more cosy experience when staying at your apartment instead of a hotel!
Featuring an open-plan kitchen, this fully-equipped studio offers quick access to the Beach Mall, Bluewaters Island, Skydive Dubai and more.
Bur Dubai
Bur Dubai is arguably one of the best areas to stay in Dubai for sightseeing and shorter stays, as it offers a lot to see and do without travelling too far!
This area is one of the most central, meaning that you won’t spend hours travelling to and from your chosen destinations every day. Bur Dubai offers ample public transport and metro stations for more distant locations. You’ll also find many taxis in the streets and in proximity to authentic bazaars, traditional boats, floating restaurants, and historic neighbourhoods.
Green House Hotel Apartments
Are you wondering where to stay in Dubai that offers central access to the city, as well as a modern experience? Green House Hotel and Apartments might be the perfect choice for you!
The best part about this hotel is that it offers a choice between standard hotel rooms and apartments, with over 98 rooms. Secondly, a rooftop pool, gym, and breakfast buffet are included for every guest.
Additionally, features include a dedicated children’s pool and proximity to BurJuman Mall, Dubai Museum and Grand Mosque.
Downtown Dubai
Downtown Dubai is one of the best places to stay in Dubai for those visiting the city on a work trip. Downtown Dubai and Business Bay contain many office blocks, apartments and luxury hotels. It’s located about halfway between old and new Dubai, and the area is most well known for the Burj Khalifa, currently the tallest building in the world.
It’s also home to Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in the world. It’s also reasonably convenient to reach via metro or taxi services that connect to airport.
Vida Downtown
Do you want to discover the middle of the central district? We think you’ll love Vida Downtown, a 4-star hotel in Dubai’s Downtown district.
This hotel features over 150 guestrooms, an outdoor pool and lounge area, a business centre, modern lounges and gym and bicycle services for guests.
This beautiful hotel is close to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Ice Rink and Burj Park.
Dream Inn Apartments – Claren Downtown
Are you looking to have your apartment yet feel like you’re living in a hotel? Dream Inn Apartments is located in the heart of Dubai and offers bright, comfortable apartment stays for families of different sizes.
Here, you’ll find everything you could expect in your apartment – including a lounge, dining area, patio, modern kitchens, large bedrooms and sweeping views of the city.
These are the best places to stay in Dubai
Regardless of your personal favourite best areas to stay in Dubai, we know that you’ll find something you love in Dubai when it comes to your next trip. Whether travelling for work, family time or leisure, we think you’ll find your own best places to stay in Dubai when you visit next.
Choose from some of the most popular places in Dubai, such as Downtown Dubai, Bur Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach and Old Dubai. Of course, there are plenty of other places which we haven’t mentioned!
