When we make the final decision to go on a foreign trip, the two most popular options for us Iranians are Istanbul and Dubai. The city of Istanbul has become two attractive international destinations by attracting 14 million tourists and Dubai with 18 million. These two cities give tourists a different feeling. In this comprehensive comparison of Tourism magazine Stay 24, we tried to put together different aspects of Dubai and Istanbul and say that in the end, which one is better to travel to and is Dubai or Istanbul better for you?
Index of this article
Introducing Dubai
Venice of the Gulf is the nickname given to Dubai. This city is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai. Hearing the name Dubai always reminds us of its tall towers and skyscrapers, especially the Burj Khalifa.
Dubai city It is very important in the field of tourism and global trade, and considering all aspects, it has been assigned the first rank in the region and the sixth rank in the world in terms of being the best. Also, with 16.8 million visitors per year, Dubai has been able to rank as the 4th most visited city in the world. With an area of 1,600 square kilometers and a population of 3,600,000 people, this city has become one of the best examples of progress and economic development.
Introducing Istanbul
On the border between Asia and Europe, there is a very big city called Istanbul, which is known as the city on seven hills. In ancient times, this city was also called Byzantium and Constantinople. The most populous European city with 15 million and 300 thousand citizens plays the role of the cultural, historical and economic capital of Turkey.
Istanbul is a more touristic city than Dubai, but it will never reach Dubai in terms of investment in technology and construction. The rank of this city is 19th among the best cities in the world. However, more natural and historical attractions have made Istanbul the first place of the most visited city in the world with 20.2 million tourists per year. Istanbul city During its thousand-year history, it has always been the center of attention and has been considered the capital of several powerful empires.
Is the weather better in Dubai or Istanbul?
Since these two cities are located in two different geographies, their weather is naturally different. Knowing the weather is one of the necessities of travel.
Weather in Istanbul
Istanbul is surrounded by water on three sides; For this reason, it sometimes experiences a Mediterranean climate, sometimes an oceanic one, and sometimes between the two. The moderate climate of this city is cool, rainy and slightly snowy in winters and dry and hot in summers.
The climate of Istanbul is heavily influenced by the Sea of Marmara in the south and the Black Sea in the north. Rain is an integral part of the city in all months of the year (about 800 mm); But only some days there is fog in the sky. The air temperature in Istanbul rarely goes higher than 33 and lower than -6 degrees Celsius. The wind also blows throughout the year.
The people of Türkiye’s largest city often witness a lot of rain in winter. Meanwhile, they are experiencing a dry summer with unexpected showers. The climate of Istanbul is rapidly changing due to climate change and the urban heat island phenomenon. when Travel to Istanbul You should pick the right clothes for each season.
Dubai weather
The port city of Dubai is located in a warm climate and geographically similar to most cities along the Persian Gulf. Dubai residents experience only two seasons, winter and summer, throughout the year. The annual rainfall of the city has reached more than 130 mm in the last decade.
The hot and humid summer in Dubai has started from the second week of May and continues until these days, that is, the second week of October. The proximity of the city to the sea has made it less hot compared to other cities around the Gulf such as Riyadh and Kuwait. Of course, this heat in combination with the humidity of the sea creates an unpleasant situation for people and tourists.
October brings winter to Dubai. In this season, which lasts until the end of April, there is not much news about widespread storms, and the temperature drops to 12 degrees Celsius in January. Most of Dubai’s fascinating exhibitions and programs take place in winter. The rate of trips to Dubai also increases significantly in this season. for Travel to Dubai Be aware that you do not need much warm and winter clothes.
Are the attractions of Dubai more beautiful or Istanbul?
When we look at the historical age of the two cities of Istanbul and Dubai, the difference in the sights of the two cities becomes more tangible for us. To know what you should see on your trip, read on.
Istanbul attractions
Istanbul, unlike Dubai, is one of those cities whose history and antiquity are mixed with new structures and modernity. Thousands of years of civilization and the rise and fall of different governments have shaped Istanbul in a way that dazzles the eyes of every tourist.
First, let’s start with the mosques, which mostly represent the glory of the Muslim empires of this region. Hagia Sophia Mosque With its nearly 1500 years old, it is considered the most important attraction of Istanbul. This mosque was built in ancient times for the worship of Christians; Then, it fell into the hands of the Muslims and took on the color and smell of the mosque. Now it is a place for tourists to visit. Blue Mosque and Sulaymaniyah Mosque They are among the other important mosques of Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern Under the streets of Istanbul is considered one of the most historical attractions from the time of the Byzantine Empire. A palace named Dolma Baghche It was built by the Ottoman Sultan in the 18th century, which consists of 16 separate buildings. Another one Sights of Istanbul, Topkapi Palace It is in the old neighborhood that has seen the rise and fall of more than 30 kings and represents a combination of European, Islamic and Ottoman architectural styles.
Are you a fan of shopping from old and memorable stores? Istanbul Grand Bazaar It allows you to disappear in the heart of the corridors and corners of its shops and enjoy seeing jewelry, antiques and rugs. The colorful spice market, which represents the culture of Türkiye and the Middle East, can convince you to use more spices in your dishes.
Dubai attractions
In the aerial photos taken from Dubai, it is clear that the towers are the main attraction of the city. Burj Khalifathe tallest structure in the world, is the flagship of all buildings in Dubai and attracts many tourists. Burj Al Arab is another attraction of Dubai that stands out among the waters.
from the other Sights of Dubai which are worth visiting, we can mention the old market with Aladdin theme, mosques and palaces, desert and different beaches. Dubai is a place where different cultures meet. Therefore, visiting the booth of other countries and seeing their customs in the Global Village is not without pleasure.
When we get out of the city a little bit, we will see more natural attractions like Alhir forest. Near Abu Dhabi, there is a salt lake called Al Wathbah which attracts many tourists. The artificial lakes of the crescent moon and love also come to life to take aerial photos!
Is there more and better entertainment in Dubai or Istanbul?
The older texture of Istanbul has made the type of entertainment in this city slightly different from Dubai. However, both cities live to explore and have fun!
Dubai entertainment
Apart from visiting the tower or visiting old places such as bazaar and mosque, there are many other entertainments in Dubai that will fill your time well. First of all, we go to water sports. When we say water fun, we mean any type of water fun you can think of.
Go to the creeks or dams and rent a boat; Then, launch it into the water and enjoy kayaking. Wear a wetsuit and search underwater. Don’t forget about water sports such as jet skiing, surfing on the back of a boat or jetpack. One of the largest water parks, Atlantis, is located in Dubai, which is a good place for family fun.
Driving in the desert, visiting a museum, visiting the aquarium of the lost halls or boarding a cruise ship are also among the most popular. Dubai entertainment is considered Also, as long as your heart desires, celebrations, concerts, festivals and musical and theatrical programs are held in Dubai so that no tourist gets bored of staying in the UAE.
Istanbul entertainment
Most of the entertainment that is available to tourists is based on various tours and exploring the streets of Istanbul. For example, walking tours in the traditional back alleys and discovering its secrets is one of the options. Also, since the nightlife in Istanbul is going strong, night walking tours have also become very popular. Food tasting tour, tour of the old parts of Istanbul, Taksim Street tour to Galata Tower and other Istanbul tour programs are among the most interesting. Istanbul entertainment is considered
Boarding a cruise ship at any hour of the day and night and crossing the Bosphorus Strait is also one of the entertainments that combine relaxation and amazing sea views. It may not seem like it, but night cruise also has its own flavor that you can try in Istanbul. If you have seen the series “Capital”, you must remember that hot air ballooning is one of Türkiye’s pastimes. You can also choose a hot air balloon ride in Istanbul and enjoy the scenery.
Should we go to Dubai or Istanbul for shopping?
Dubai and Istanbul have long been known as centers for individual and wholesale shopping. Join us to introduce some important shopping centers in these two cities to see where you should visit for shopping in Dubai or Istanbul.
Dubai shopping malls
Since we are embargoed, Dubai is located near us and all kinds of goods can be found there, so it is necessary for Iranians to shop in Dubai.
Dubai Mall It is the first shopping center that comes to every tour leader’s mind. This complex is located in the center of the city and houses the most luxurious shops. In the second place, we come to Global Village, which is considered a theme park, but you can find different products from 90 cultures around the world.
The huge Mall of Emirates complex is another one Dubai shopping malls It is where everything is found. Even Ski Dubai is located on artificial snow mountains in this building. Next, you can visit the old market, the souq of Medina Jumeirah, and don’t miss the privilege of going to an Arab market. For those women who love gold, the long-established Dubai Gold Market with more than 350 gold sellers can also be attractive.
Shopping malls in Istanbul
Istanbul Jewelry Mall and Grand Bazaar are among the places that have everything you want. Clothing, audio and visual equipment, carpets, rugs and everything you expect from large commercial complexes. Zorlo shopping center, Arasta market and Mall of Istanbul are among the other big shopping centers of the city. Even though Kadikovi is considered a tourist attraction, it is also a good place for shopping. However, shopping in Istanbul is not limited to this.
If you want to dress in authentic Turkish style, we recommend Fey. This store is exclusively dedicated to stylish Istanbul dresses, blouses and jackets. At Misela you will find colorful handbags that are sewn in the traditional Turkish way. Visit Atelier Rebul for perfume blends, Begum Khan for inspirational jewelry, Nackiye for printed women’s plates and clothing, and Wohha for handmade ceramics. Sometimes small shops in the outskirts of the city have better products than Istanbul shopping centers.
Is the food in Dubai or Istanbul better?
Istanbul and Dubai are considered to be Middle Eastern cities and it is natural that we Iranians like their food. It is not possible to accurately say that the food in Dubai or Istanbul is better; However, there are international menus from around the world in both cities that you can try.
Dubai cuisine
Rather than just looking for local Emirati food in the international city of Dubai, you should try everything. Because Dubai has everything! From European and fast food to high-calorie Middle Eastern plates and bowls full of East Asian vegetables.
However, every city has its own food culture; No matter how much international culture it has. Emirati cuisine is very similar to its neighboring countries, Saudi Arabia and Oman. The Bedouins of the UAE have shaped Emirati cuisine over the centuries. Dates and grains are the main ingredients of this cuisine.
We suggest that you try shawarma, fattoush and kebse when you are in Dubai. You may have heard the names of these foods in other Arab countries, which is not surprising. The food culture of Arab-speaking countries is closely related.
Shawarma is a type of sandwich that includes meat, vegetables and mayonnaise. You can also find lettuce, tomato, onion, mint, cucumber, garlic, olive oil and even bread inside the fattoush salad. Of course, if you can’t get enough of these two items, like any Middle Eastern, Kabse is the last option. A colorful mixture of rice, meat and vegetables that plays the role of the main meal in Dubai cuisine.
Istanbul cuisine
Turkish people have so much cultural affinity with us Iranians that their dishes have easily found their place in the hearts of Iranian people as well. Get from doner kebab sandwiches to mind-blowing baklava.
Although you can find a variety of foods from different nations in Istanbul, tasting the taste of local food has a different feeling. As you walk the streets of Istanbul, check out street food like kempir and kofte sandwiches. Campir is the same baked potato that is filled with all kinds of ingredients and flavorings, and it has no few fans in Iran.
If you like baklava, which represents the presence of everyone; Definitely try kanafa too. This sweet is made of thin strings of dough, which are filled with sour cream, cream, cheese or nuts.
The list of new foods you can see in Istanbul is too long to fit in this article. Some others Istanbul cuisine What can be mentioned are tandir queso made from lamb meat, tantoni sandwich and manti with an undeniable resemblance to Italian ravioli.
Are restaurants in Dubai or Istanbul better?
Dubai has more restaurants, especially Iranian restaurants. However, these two cities, i.e. Istanbul or Dubai, do not lack each other in terms of food quality.
Dubai restaurants
There are so many restaurants in the towers, neighborhoods and streets of Dubai that you will definitely have a hard time choosing the best. One of the attractive choices is the 43rd floor Sky Lounge restaurant, which is highly skilled in cooking Japanese food. The menu of this restaurant includes Japanese and international food and has special options for vegetarians, dieters and Muslims.
If you are looking for mixed dishes, it is unlikely that you will not hear the name of Orchid Restaurant. From steak and chicken to shrimp and crab, the menu of this restaurant can be seen. If you want to eat good European food, Ossiano restaurant is one of the most famous Dubai restaurants It is for eating.
There are no shortage of Iranian restaurants in Dubai. If you want to taste delicious Iranian vegetable Qorme or ghee in the heart of the UAE, the most famous Iranian restaurant in Dubai, Shabestan, is waiting for you. Among other Iranian restaurants, we can mention Daniel, Enigma and Anar.
Istanbul restaurants
To take the first step firmly, we suggest to go to Turk Faith Tutak. This restaurant combines Turkish cooking methods with modern techniques so artfully that you have to be careful not to bite your fingers. The owner of the restaurant is careful in preparing the raw materials so that he gets the best quality from local people and can preserve the Turkish roots in his dishes.
Have you ever seen a Turkish-Scandinavian menu? Mikla restaurant is located on the roof of Marmara Hotel and offers a view of Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Banyan Restaurant, with the motto “Food for the Soul”, skillfully blends Eastern and Western cuisines and offers a healthy menu.
Would you like to eat with a view of the Bosphorus in Istanbul? 16 Roof Restaurant is located on top of an old building and serves not only food but also delicious desserts. Be sure to try the caramelized banana and cinnamon tart with caramel ice cream. Golhane Sark Sofrasi is another restaurant that cooks a full menu of seafood, Middle Eastern, Turkish and Mediterranean dishes. If you like Iran, there are good Iranian options Istanbul restaurants is found Among them, we can mention Shamseh, Rehan and Gulab restaurants.
Are the beaches of Dubai or Istanbul better?
The beach is one of the elements of Dubai; Therefore, it has many facilities and they are fully taken care of. Istanbul also has good beaches, especially in its European part.
Dubai beaches
Jumeirah public beach with its clear water and clean sand is very suitable for spending your free time in peace with your family. If you get bored, you can also challenge your sports skills with surfing.
Kite Beach is the most sporty beach in Dubai. Those who are not looking for peace and want to release their excitement, should definitely include Kite Beach in their trip. A variety of sports such as kayaking, kite surfing, beach volleyball and trampoline await you on this beach.
Do you want to be a little more private than the sea? Dubai beaches do you enjoy Al Mamzar Beach Park in Deira Dubai can be a good option for you with the possibility of renting sunbeds and even private cottages. Areas for barbecue, spa spring and playground are other facilities of Al Mamzar. Also, this beach park is closed to women exclusively on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Istanbul beaches
In Istanbul, there are public beaches such as Florya Beach in the European part of the city and Kilyos Beach on the Black Sea. Since these two beaches are public, they have few facilities for visitors. You can spend your time free of charge on public beaches for sunbathing and relaxing.
Burc Beach is located on the Black Sea and belongs to Baghazi University. There are many facilities such as cafes, restaurants and water sports on the beach, and there are programs such as beach volleyball and parties. Another private beach called True Blue Beach is located in Istanbul, which is famous for its small sandy beach and swimming pool. Many concerts and live shows are held on this beach during the summer. Istanbul beaches They may not reach Dubai’s feet, but they are suitable for spending half a day.
Are hotels in Dubai or Istanbul better?
In terms of hotel and accommodation, Dubai is far better than Istanbul. Also, Dubai hotel prices are higher.
Dubai hotels
There are many towers and luxury areas in Dubai, among which we recommend One & Only Royal Mirage Hotel. One & Only is one of those hotels that pay a lot of attention to details and its crews reach their tasks without any disturbance. This palace-like hotel is built on the sands of Jumeirah Beach in the United Arab Emirates.
If you are a luxury player and want to stay in a hotel that has its own theme, Atlantis The Royal is a good option. This hotel has about 800 rooms, suites and penthouses, 17 restaurants and bars, a wide beach area and 90 swimming pools, and more importantly, Beyoncé sang at its opening ceremony! in general Dubai hotels They have a higher level than Istanbul and of course, they have a higher price tag.
Finally, we arrive at a hotel that is most consistent with Arabic architecture and its surroundings. Bab Al-Shams Hotel is located in a desert area and its green gardens create an environment of friends and family. Considering the Arabic roots of this hotel, tourists can find traditional elements in their modern redesign and feel closer to Arabic culture.
Istanbul hotels
Choose which palace hotel you go to in Istanbul like the four seasons! Four Seasons is one of the best hotel brands in Istanbul, located in the Sultanahmet and Bosphorus neighborhood. If you want another five-star hotel that is more modern and offers facilities on par with international hotels, our pick is Raffles in Istanbul. 181 rooms and penthouses are located in Raffles high towers to welcome you with the best view.
There is a small hotel near the Galata Tower called Ecole St Pierre Hotel, which has 17 compact and beautiful rooms. This hotel was built by the Italian architect, Gaspare Fossati, and the French Catholics turned it into a school. This school is one of the most different Istanbul hotels is considered
Istanbul is full of big hotels like palaces or huge towers. However, you may prefer to stay in a small hotel that feels like a real home. The Sumahan on the Water property has been in the family of Nadrat and Mark for years, and these two architects decided to transform the heritage house into a cozy and beautiful hotel.
Dubai tour or Istanbul is better?
Booking a tour for Dubai or Istanbul depends on what you expect from the trip. If you travel in style and want to stay in well-equipped hotels, Dubai is for you. Istanbul is also suitable for a more earthy and walking trip. We will try to determine whether the Dubai or Istanbul tour is better.
Dubai tour
Dubai is one of the cities that has prospered with huge government and foreign investment and has become the tourism center of the Persian Gulf. Tall towers and huge commercial complexes, well-equipped beaches and entertainment centers, and high-end cars on the streets of the city show the height of modernity.
Dubai tour There is nothing lacking in terms of entertainment. Any entertainment you can think of can be found in this city. The beaches of Dubai are at the top of the Persian Gulf beaches in terms of facilities. Skiing on artificial snow mountains, various water parks, various water sports such as diving and jetpack are among the popular entertainments in Dubai.
If you want to stay in high-end resorts and enjoy beach nightlife, Dubai is a better option than Istanbul. Also, up-to-date exhibitions of the latest technological innovations and extensive entertainment programs are held in the city, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world to the UAE.
Istanbul tour
Istanbul is one of the old cities that has seen the rise and fall of different empires. Palaces, mosques and buildings from the Birans, Seljuk and Ottoman eras show that you are in a traditional and beautiful city.
Türkiye’s largest city is an attractive option for backpackers; Because there are beautiful alleys and streets in the old fabric of the city. Islamic, Turkish and European architecture has caused wide urban diversity in Istanbul and is one of its attractions.
Those who want to walk the streets, see amazing historical monuments or taste traditional Turkish food and buy handicrafts, must include Istanbul in their travel plan. Istanbul tour The best option for you.
Traveling to Dubai is cheaper or Istanbul?
It all depends on how you travel and how lucky you are to find a cheap flight. In general, traveling to Dubai will cost you more. However, the details can change so that a trip to Dubai or Istanbul will cost differently.
The cost of traveling to Dubai
UAE is more expensive than Türkiye The cost of traveling to Dubai It will be more for you. Considering the presence of the main branch of major brands of clothing, mobile phones and laptops, household appliances and perfumes and colognes, it is not surprising that shopping in Dubai is expensive. The promenades of the city are also built with high cost and quality and have expensive tickets. Dubai hotels are more expensive, but it is possible to travel to Dubai by flight. If you are looking for stylish and modern buildings, exciting entertainment and shopping for the latest products of different brands in your trip, Dubai is the best option for you.
The cost of traveling to Istanbul
Istanbul is a traditional city with a long history and many traditional shops and eateries. Also, most of the entertainment activities in Istanbul include sightseeing and walking, which are not expensive. Cheap and cozy accommodations are also found in abundance in Istanbul. If you want to pay less for your trip and visit a more touristy city than Dubai, Istanbul is a good offer. Therefore The cost of traveling to Istanbul will be less.
Summary of contents
In the above article, we compared the two cities of Dubai and Istanbul from all aspects. Istanbul has a milder climate than Dubai, but the beaches of the Emirati city are more spacious. Dubai’s attractions are mostly new, modern and advanced, but Istanbul has extensive historical attractions such as palaces and cellars. Hotels, restaurants and travel to Dubai are also more expensive than the biggest city of Istanbul.
Frequently asked questions
Dubai or Istanbul for all couples?
Istanbul is a popular city for young couples; But Dubai, although it lacks nothing, is not well known for this purpose. Couples who enjoy history, culture and lively neighborhoods and want to touch the old historical city with their flesh and skin choose Istanbul for their trip.
Dubai is also suitable for young couples to make love. The city’s stunning views and high-end resorts are an attractive opportunity for a romantic recovery.
Is Dubai or Istanbul better for a family trip?
Many kid-oriented activities can be found in both Dubai and Istanbul.
There are various fun resorts, amusement rides and theme parks in Dubai that are suitable for the whole family to enjoy. Children can play in water parks and fountains.
Museums, aquariums and theme parks in Istanbul are very useful for families with children. They can spend their day at Vialand theme park or Legoland Discovery Center Istanbul to get away from the city atmosphere.
Is Dubai safer for travel or Istanbul?
Dubai is much safer than Istanbul. In Dubai, there is much less to worry about being robbed, carjacked, robbed, insulted or physically assaulted than in Istanbul.
In general, is Dubai or Istanbul better for travel?
In general, both cities are great options for travel. We recommend Istanbul to those who are fascinated by diverse historical cultures, walking on the streets, seeing old palaces and tasting traditional food. The cost of traveling to this city is also cheaper.
If you have a more modern spirit and want to see the most advanced man-made works, huge and modern buildings and technology exhibitions, then Dubai is definitely a more suitable option. The cost of tour and travel to this modern city is more expensive.
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