Many people ask me, as I’ve been to both Dubai and Qatar, which city stands out as a better destination: Doha or Dubai? So, as a traveler, my immediate response is Doha, Qatar. But yes, this choice may surprise so many people, especially in comparison with the glamour and fame associated with Dubai. So why do I choose Doha? You will find the reasons below. And please note that this opinion is solely my own and anyone with different point of view is certainly valid as well. So let’s start with reason number one, which is why I prefer Doha over Dubai.
Doha is Cheap as compared to Dubai
As we know, both cities are gems of the Gulf, but the primary reason I choose Doha in contrast to Dubai is affordability. Dubai is famous for its super-expensive accommodations, dining, transportation, and entertainment. But in every aspect, Doha emerges as a more budget-friendly option than Dubai.
For instance, take the example of accommodation. During my visit to Dubai in last June, I stayed in Bur Dubai area (which is not very expensive). The hotel is equipped with all the basic facilities, such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa, which cost me 55 USD per night, excluding breakfast. On the other hand, a similar 4-star hotel in Doha booked last November offered the same amenities along with breakfast, which cost me 30 USD per night, located in the city center as well. So this is a major difference.
Secondly, transportation costs, whether local or public, prove to be more cheaper in Doha as compared to Dubai.
And if you compare meals or dining prices, there is a significant difference of around two-thirds between meals of the same standards in local restaurants in both cities, as Doha surely offered the more economical option.
Then, as a tourist, doing different activities is inevitable. take, for instance, visits to museums, Entry to the National Museum of Qatar cost me around 50 Qatari Riyals (approximately 13.75 USD), whereas a ticket to Dubai Museum of the Future costs me in 40 USD, You can see the differences
Doha is less Crowded as Compared to Dubai
Another major factor influencing my preference is the level of crowding. In Dubai, whether you are using public transport or visiting any major tourist destination, just take the example of a museum from the above heading. Crowds are an omnipresent reality. During my visit to the National Museum of Qatar, although there were a lot of visitors, the atmosphere allowed me to have a relatively calm and tranquil experience without enduring lines. But on my visit to the Museum of the Future in Dubai, even during the off-season in June, I had to wait in long lines. While you may find crowded places in Doha as well, you will find the difference in never-ending queues, particularly at touristic destinations, which makes it a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
Looking for Local Culture?
Another important aspect worth considering for travelers like me is to enjoy and see the local culture. In and around Doha, you will find plenty of places where you can experience Arab culture and lifestyle. On the other hand, Dubai’s cultural landscape is entirely different, with a predominant presence of individuals from the subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Africa. As a result, genuine encounters with Arab culture are scarce within Dubai’s bustling environment. To witness true Emirati tradition, one has to go to remote cities within the UAE. But in contrast, Doha offers travelers the chance to enjoy and engage with local culture and traditions, even within the heart of the city.
On Arrival Visa
Last but not least, my preference for Doha over Dubai is that Qatar offers visas on arrival to almost 101 countries, on the other hand, the UAE offers visas on arrival for only 87 countries, and more importantly, Qatar gives on-arrival visa facilities to countries like India, Pakistan, and Nepal. On the other hand, if you are a citizen of Pakistan or India, you have to apply for a visa to enter the UAE, so yes, it is definitely a plus point to choose between Doha and Dubai.
So these are the primary reasons behind my preference for Doha over Dubai. However, it is important to clarify that this comparison doesn’t mean Dubai is not good, rather, it is an answer to the question of which is better, based on personal experience and preference. It is worth acknowledging that every person has a different liking and dislike, as both cities possess their own unique pros and cons. At the end, I encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below, tell us your favorite city between these two, and also share the reason behind your choice. Thank you.