The Best Hostels to Book in Dubai, UAE

Close to the surreal, palm-shaped island housing the Palm Jumeirah complex, this agreeable hostel pairs simply furnished but bright and uncluttered dorm rooms with air conditioning, fast wifi and other travel essentials. It’s set in a Barsha Heights tower, and there are loads of Dubai sights just a short cab ride away. Beaches sprawl all around the Palm Jumeirah, and you’re well located for trips to Ski Dubai, the Burj al Arab Tower and edge-of-town sights such as Legoland Dubai. It’s a good choice for a calm, pocket-friendly stay, close to big-hitting Dubai attractions and with a view out over the skyscrapers.

The windows of this popular high-rise hostel look towards the Persian Gulf, the towering Ain Dubai Observation Wheel and busy Marina Beach, which sits just 0.5km (0.3mi) away. With the bright lights of Dubai on your doorstep, you can’t fault the location. There’s also al fresco dining within easy walking distance by the Marina, so you can enjoy Dubai’s welcome drop in temperatures after dark. The mixed or women-only dorms are simple but comfortable, with spotless tiled floors, bunk beds, air conditioning and wifi, and there’s an astroturf-covered balcony and a lounge with a foosball table, which you don’t get with every Dubai hostel.

Part of a vast student complex at Dubai International Academic City, KSK Homes is part halls of residence for global students studying in Dubai and part hostel for those just passing through. Guests get access to an open-all-hours gym, pool tables, a computer gaming room, a pool terrace, complimentary shuttle buses and a handy kitchen and restaurant. Rooms have more character than the average Dubai hostel, too, with bright, friendly colours, pot plants, art prints, spotless bathrooms, efficient air conditioning and fast wifi. You’re a bus or taxi ride from the seafront and downtown, but not too far from Dubai Creek and Dubai International Airport.

Simple, cheerful and inviting, Kaya Hostel brings in a surprising amount of luxe features, including access to a pool, gym and kitchen, making for an easy, self-contained stay. Set in a modern high-rise, it’s clean and uncluttered, with well-spaced beds in single-sex dorms sleeping six or eight. The Barsha Heights location puts you within easy striking distance of Dubai Marina, Marina Beach and the sands around the Palm Jumeirah complex, and there’s decent eating just a short walk away. Ski Dubai and Mall of the Emirates are a short cab ride north, and the E11 highway will zip you out to Legoland Dubai.