The 8 Best Hostels in Dubai, UAE

Dubai is a dazzling city known for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife. But beyond the glitz, it’s also becoming a great destination for budget travelers, thanks to its growing selection of affordable hostels. Finding the best hostels in Dubai means enjoying comfort, social vibes, and prime locations without spending a fortune. Whether you're a solo backpacker or a group looking for adventure, these hostels offer a smart way to experience the city.

Hostels in Dubai provide more than just a cheap place to sleep. Many feature modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, rooftop lounges, and even pools. They also serve as hubs for meeting fellow travelers, with organized events like city tours and beach outings. Unlike expensive hotels, hostels keep costs low while still offering a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

Location is key in a city as spread out as Dubai. The best hostels are situated near major attractions, metro stations, or beaches, making it easy to explore. From the historic streets of Al Fahidi to the lively JBR Beach, there’s a hostel to match every traveler’s interests. You won’t have to sacrifice convenience just to stick to your budget.

Another advantage of staying in hostels is the local insight you gain. Staff often share tips on hidden gems, affordable eats, and the best ways to get around. Some hostels even offer free breakfast or bike rentals, adding extra value to your stay. It’s a great way to experience Dubai like a savvy traveler rather than a typical tourist.

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and want to save money without missing out, hostels are the perfect choice. With stylish dorms, social events, and unbeatable locations, they prove that budget travel in this glamorous city is not only possible but also enjoyable. The best hostels in Dubai make it easy to explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories.

Quick Introduction to Hostels in Dubai

Dubai might be famous for luxury hotels, but budget travelers will find a surprisingly good selection of hostels. Two standout hostel chains are Next’House (with 6 locations across the city) and Alphatel (with 2 properties). These hostels offer modern, social stays with great amenities, making them perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and convenience.

Here are some of the things you should consider before booking a hostel in Dubai:

• Price - Dorm beds in Dubai hostels typically cost €30 to €60 per night, depending on location and season. Private rooms (though rare in most hostels) range from €60 to €100, offering a bit more privacy without breaking the bank. Prices are higher than in some other cities, but you get good value for Dubai’s standards.
• Amenities & Services - Most hostels in Dubai include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and lockers, with some offering extras like breakfast, rooftop lounges, or even pools. Social hostels organize events like city tours or beach trips, while others cater to digital nomads with coworking spaces. It’s a great way to meet travelers while keeping costs low.
• Location - Dubai’s best hostels are well-placed near metro stations, beaches, or major attractions like Downtown Dubai or JBR. The city’s excellent metro system makes it easy to explore, even if your hostel isn’t right in the center. Whether you want a beachside stay or a downtown hub, there’s a hostel in a convenient spot.
• Staff - Friendly, multilingual staff are a highlight of Dubai’s hostels. Many go out of their way to help guests, whether recommending local eats, arranging tours, or just making sure you have a great stay. Their insider tips can make all the difference in a city as big and fast-paced as Dubai.

The Best Hostels in Dubai

Here’s my comprehensive guide to the 8 best hostels in Dubai:

1. Torch 77 - by Saffron House

Located in the heart of Dubai Marina, Torch 77 offers unbeatable views of the city’s glittering skyline and easy access to beachfront hotspots. The hostel has a sleek, modern vibe with a social atmosphere, making it perfect for travelers who want to explore Dubai’s vibrant nightlife and waterfront scene. Its standout feature? A stunning rooftop lounge where guests can relax with panoramic views of the Marina and beyond.

Rooms: The hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations only, with clean, capsule-style bunk beds for privacy. Each bed comes with personal reading lights, power outlets, and secure lockers, ensuring comfort and convenience. Shared bathrooms are kept spotless, and the air conditioning provides a cool escape from Dubai’s heat.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and 24-hour reception. The hostel also organizes group outings to nearby attractions and has a shared kitchen for budget-conscious travelers. The rooftop lounge doubles as a social hub, with regular events like movie nights and city skyline photo sessions.

Who it's for: Young travelers, solo backpackers, and groups looking for a lively, social stay near Dubai’s best nightlife and beaches.

A Quick Overview of Torch 77

• Prime Marina location – Steps away from JBR Beach, clubs, and waterfront dining.
• Rooftop lounge with skyline views – The perfect spot to unwind or meet fellow travelers.
• Capsule-style dorm beds – Designed for privacy and comfort with personal amenities.
• Free Wi-Fi and organized activities – Stay connected and explore Dubai with hostel-hosted events.
• 24-hour reception and security – Safe and convenient for late-night arrivals.
• Shared kitchen facilities – Save money by preparing your own meals.

Whether you’re in Dubai for adventure or relaxation, Torch 77 delivers a stylish, social, and well-located stay at an affordable price.

Dorm beds from €34
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2. Deluxe Hostel

Situated in Dubai's bustling Al Barsha district, Deluxe Hostel puts guests just minutes from the Mall of the Emirates and metro connections. This contemporary hostel radiates a friendly, energetic vibe with its bright common areas and international crowd. What sets it apart is its resort-style rooftop featuring a small pool and sun deck - a rare find among Dubai's hostels that adds serious value to your stay.

Rooms: The hostel offers mixed and female-only dorms with sturdy bunk beds featuring privacy curtains and individual charging stations. Rooms maintain a hotel-level of cleanliness with daily housekeeping, while blackout curtains ensure quality sleep. Shared bathrooms are modern and well-maintained, with complimentary toiletries provided.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, and luggage storage. The hostel boasts a co-working lounge perfect for digital nomads and organizes weekly desert safari trips. A 24/7 snack bar and laundry facilities add extra convenience for long-term stays.

Who it's for: Budget-conscious travelers who want resort-like amenities without sacrificing social connections.

A Quick Overview of Deluxe Hostel

• Prime Al Barsha location - Walking distance to Mall of the Emirates and metro station for easy city access
• Rooftop pool and sundeck - Unwind with skyline views and occasional poolside BBQs
• Premium dorm amenities - Privacy-focused bunks with hotel-quality linens and blackout curtains
• Daily breakfast (extra fee) - Start your day with continental options and Arabic coffee
• Digital nomad friendly - Fast Wi-Fi and dedicated co-working space with printing services
• Social event programming - Weekly activities from movie nights to organized desert adventures

With its unusual combination of resort features and authentic hostel atmosphere, Deluxe Hostel redefines budget accommodation in Dubai. Whether you're here to shop, work, or explore, this hostel delivers comfort and convenience at backpacker prices.

Dorm beds from €56
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3. Urban Panda Skyview Hostel JBR

Perched in the vibrant Jumeirah Beach Residence area, Urban Panda Skyview Hostel JBR gives guests front-row access to Dubai's famous beach scene and The Walk promenade. This design-forward hostel bursts with colorful street art and a playful urban jungle theme, creating one of Dubai's most Instagram-worthy budget stays. The standout? Its glass-fronted sky lounge offering unobstructed views of Ain Dubai and the Arabian Gulf - perfect for sunset watching.

Rooms: The hostel features creative pod-style dorms with ergonomic beds, individual reading lights, and privacy screens. Each pod includes USB ports, ventilation controls, and personal shelves, while soundproofing ensures peaceful rest. Female-only dorms offer added comfort with vanity areas and extra security features.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free beach gear rentals, including towels and umbrellas. The hostel provides daily city orientation talks, a 24-hour snack bar, and bike rentals to explore the coastline. A communal kitchen with premium appliances helps travelers save on meals.

Who it's for: Social media-savvy travelers and beach lovers wanting design-focused digs near the sand.

A Quick Overview of Urban Panda

• Prime JBR beachfront location - Just 300m from the shoreline and surrounded by trendy cafes
• Signature sky lounge - Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase Dubai's best coastal views
• Smart pod accommodations - Tech-friendly beds with climate control for personalized comfort
• Beach convenience program - Free essentials like towels, sunscreen, and cold water bottles
• Local experience focus - Neighborhood walking tours and hidden gem recommendations
• Creative coworking spaces - Laptop-friendly zones with charging stations and coffee service

Blending urban cool with beachside convenience, Urban Panda delivers Dubai's most photogenic hostel experience. Whether you're here to soak up the sun or the city's creative energy, this hostel makes every dirham count with thoughtful design and unbeatable location perks.

Dorm beds from €19
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4. Next'House - Sky View Hostel

Located in the dynamic Barsha Heights (Tecom) district, Next'House - Sky View Hostel offers budget travelers a prime spot between Dubai Marina and Downtown. This modern hostel features a bright, minimalist design with pops of color, creating a fresh and social atmosphere. The highlight? It's 360-degree rooftop terrace with unmatched views of Dubai's skyline, including the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah - perfect for socializing or solo reflection.

Rooms: The hostel offers contemporary dormitories with pod-style beds featuring memory foam mattresses, blackout curtains, and individual climate control. Each bunk comes equipped with USB ports, reading lights, and secure lockers, while soundproof walls ensure quality rest. Female-only dorms include additional vanity areas and enhanced privacy features.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, and weekly cultural events. The property features a fully-equipped coworking space, 24-hour reception, and free metro shuttle service. A communal kitchen with premium appliances helps travelers save on dining costs.

Who it's for: Digital nomads and view-chasing travelers wanting modern comforts in a central location.

A Quick Overview of Next'House Sky View Hostel

• Strategic Tecom location - Midway between Dubai's top attractions with easy metro access
• Signature rooftop panorama - Uninterrupted views of Dubai's most iconic landmarks
• Ergonomic sleep pods - Designed for optimal rest with premium bedding and privacy
• Business traveler amenities - Professional coworking space with printing services
• Cultural events - Weekly Arabic coffee sessions and local artist showcases
• Smart transportation - Complimentary shuttle to key metro stations and attractions

Combining urban convenience with Instagram-worthy views, Next'House redefines budget accommodation in Dubai. Whether you're working remotely or exploring the city, this hostel delivers comfort, connectivity, and those picture-perfect Dubai moments without the luxury price tag.

Dorm beds from €42
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5. Grays Hostel

Tucked away in Dubai's up-and-coming Al Quoz creative district, Grays Hostel offers an artsy escape from the city's glitz while keeping key attractions within reach. This industrial-chic property blends exposed concrete with warm wood accents, creating a laid-back vibe that attracts creative travelers. The standout feature? Its in-house art gallery showcases rotating exhibitions from emerging UAE-based artists, making it Dubai's most culturally immersive hostel experience.

Rooms: The hostel features loft-style dormitories with custom-designed bunk beds featuring reading nooks and personal lockers. Rooms maintain an artist studio aesthetic with adjustable lighting and soundproof partitions. Female-only dorms include complimentary skincare amenities and extra privacy screens.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free artisan coffee mornings, a recording studio/podcast room, and weekly art workshops. The property offers bicycle rentals, a vinyl listening lounge, and 24-hour access to their collaborative maker space with 3D printers and design software.

Who it's for: Creative souls and culture seekers wanting an authentic Dubai experience off the tourist trail.

A Quick Overview of Grays Hostel

• Al Quoz arts district location - Surrounded by galleries and creative spaces, yet 15 minutes from Downtown
• Living art gallery - Regularly changing exhibitions and artist-in-residence program
• Designer dorm concepts - Thoughtfully crafted bunks with creative work surfaces
• Creative facilities - From recording studios to maker spaces with high-tech equipment
• Local cultural events - Weekly art jams, poetry nights, and underground music showcases
• Community-focused amenities - Shared kitchen with organic pantry and zero-waste initiatives

Grays Hostel breaks the mold with its unique fusion of arts community and traveler hospitality. More than just a place to sleep, it's a hub for creative exchange where guests leave inspired as much as rested - perfect for travelers who want to experience Dubai's burgeoning underground arts scene.

Dorm beds from €36, Private rooms from €60
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6. Alphatel Hostel - Dubai World Trade Centre

Located in the heart of Dubai's business district, Alphatel Hostel - Dubai World Trade Centre offers unbeatable access to the World Trade Centre and major metro connections. This modern hostel combines business-like efficiency with social hostel vibes, featuring sleek interiors and smart tech throughout. The standout feature? Its state-of-the-art business lounge with free printing and video conferencing facilities is a game-changer for working travelers in Dubai's commercial hub.

Rooms: The hostel offers pod-style dormitories with soundproof partitions, individual AC controls, and blackout curtains. Each pod includes built-in charging stations, personal safes, and fold-out work desks, blending hotel-like comforts with hostel affordability. Female-only dorms feature enhanced privacy with keycard access and vanity areas.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi, daily business breakfast options, and 24/7 access to co-working spaces. The hostel provides suit pressing services, same-day laundry, and organizes networking events for professional travelers.

Who it's for: Business travelers and convention attendees needing affordable comfort near Dubai's exhibition centers.

A Quick Overview of Alphatel Hostel - Dubai World Trade Centre

• Prime business district location - 5-minute walk to Dubai World Trade Centre and metro station
• Professional-grade business lounge - Equipped with meeting spaces and tech amenities
• Work-friendly dorm pods - Designed for productivity with built-in desks and ample power outlets
• Convention services - Special packages for trade show attendees, including shuttle service
• Efficient business amenities - From early breakfasts to late check-out options
• Professional networking events - Weekly meetups and industry-specific gatherings

Alphatel Hostel redefines budget business travel with its unique focus on professional needs without sacrificing social connections. Perfect for trade show visitors, entrepreneurs, and corporate travelers who want to stay productive while experiencing Dubai's dynamic energy - all at hostel prices.

Dorm beds from €27
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7. Next'House - Business Bay Central Hostel

Situated in Dubai's prestigious Business Bay district, Next'House - Business Bay Central Hostel puts guests within walking distance of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. This contemporary hostel blends urban sophistication with social energy, featuring sleek design elements and panoramic city views. The standout feature? Its infinity-edge rooftop lounge that perfectly frames the Burj Khalifa, creating Dubai's most Instagrammable hostel sunset spot.

Rooms: The hostel offers premium capsule-style dorms with memory foam mattresses, blackout blinds, and individual climate control. Each pod includes USB charging stations, personal safes, and fold-down work tables, combining hotel-quality comfort with hostel affordability. Female-only dorms feature additional privacy screens and complimentary wellness kits.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free business-class Wi-Fi, daily professional networking breakfasts, and 24/7 access to co-working lounges. The property offers same-day dry cleaning, express check-in/out, and organizes weekly city discovery tours.

Who it's for: Ambitious travelers wanting luxury-adjacent stays at hostel prices near Downtown Dubai.

A Quick Overview of Next'House - Business Bay Central Hostel

• Prime Business Bay location - 10-minute stroll to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa metro station
• Signature infinity rooftop - Unparalleled Burj Khalifa views with nightly social events
• Executive pod living - Workspace-integrated capsules with hotel-grade amenities
• Business traveler services - From laptop rentals to last-minute printing facilities
• City immersion programs - Behind-the-scenes tours of Dubai's business landmarks
• Luxury convenience touches - Robe service, shoe shining stations, and premium toiletries

Next'House Business Bay delivers unmatched value for location-conscious travelers, merging the energy of a social hostel with the polish of a business hotel. Whether attending meetings or exploring Dubai's icons, guests enjoy five-star proximity at backpacker-friendly prices - complete with those million-dollar Burj views.

Dorm beds from €47
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8. Next'House - JBR Beach Hostel

Located just 200 meters from the golden sands of Jumeirah Beach Residence, Next'House - JBR Beach Hostel offers the ultimate beach-meets-city hostel experience. This vibrant property bursts with coastal-chic design, featuring breezy common areas and a playful, social atmosphere. The standout feature? Its beachfront rooftop deck with direct views of Ain Dubai and the Arabian Gulf - complete with sunset yoga sessions and weekly BBQ parties.

Rooms: The hostel features beach-themed dormitories with pod-style beds featuring cooling gel mattresses and blackout curtains. Each bunk includes USB charging ports, personal reading lights, and ventilated storage for sandy beach gear. Female-only dorms offer extra privacy with keycard access and complimentary beach totes.

Services/facilities: Guests enjoy free beach equipment rentals (towels, umbrellas, snorkel gear), daily sunrise breakfasts, and 24-hour concierge service. The property boasts a beach preparation station with showers, foot baths, and sunscreen dispensers.

Who it's for: Sun-seeking travelers who want beach access without sacrificing social vibes or city convenience.

A Quick Overview of Next'House - JBR Beach Hostel

• Unbeatable beach proximity - Just 2 minutes' walk to JBR's golden sands and The Walk promenade
• Signature rooftop beach club - Lounge chairs, sunset cocktails, and weekly themed parties
• Beach-ready dorm pods - Designed for sandy feet with easy-clean surfaces and gear storage
• Complimentary water sports - Includes stand-up paddleboard lessons twice weekly
• Beach concierge service - From reserved sun loungers to picnic basket prep
• Local experience programs - Guided beach cleanups and hidden cove discovery tours

Next'House JBR perfectly captures Dubai's beach lifestyle in hostel form, where flip-flops are the dress code and the sea is your backyard. Whether you're a solo sunbather or part of a beach-loving crew, this hostel delivers saltwater memories without blowing your budget.

Dorm beds from €58
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Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Dubai

Dubai may be known for its luxury, but the city also offers fantastic budget-friendly options for travelers. The best hostels in Dubai prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy this dazzling destination. With modern amenities, social atmospheres, and prime locations, these hostels make exploring the city both affordable and fun.

What makes Dubai’s hostels special is their ability to balance comfort and affordability. Many feature perks like free Wi-Fi, rooftop lounges, and organized activities, helping travelers connect while keeping costs low. Whether you want to stay near the beach, downtown, or historic districts, there’s a hostel to match your travel style.

Another advantage is the convenience. With Dubai’s efficient metro system, even hostels outside the city center provide easy access to top attractions. Friendly staff at these hostels often go the extra mile, offering local tips and helping guests make the most of their stay.

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, don’t overlook its hostel scene. The best hostels in Dubai offer more than just a cheap bed—they provide a welcoming base to experience the city’s energy without overspending. For budget-savvy travelers who still want comfort and adventure, these hostels are the perfect choice.

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