Main Difference – Dubai vs Abu Dhabi
The United Arab Emirates is divided into seven emirates. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the capitals of the Emirate of Dubai and Emirate of Abu Dhabi, respectively. They are also the only two emirates to have veto power over critical matters of national importance in the country’s legislature. Dubai is a well-known tourist destination and one of the most cosmopolitan areas in the region. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates although it less known internationally. This is the main difference between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Dubai
Dubai, located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf, is the most populous city the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai is also the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, which is one of the seven emirates that make up UAE.
Dubai is a well-known city since it is the business hub of the Middle East. It is also a major transport hub for cargo and passengers. It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the areas and has one of the world’s fastest growing economies. The main revenue of Dubai comes from tourism, real estate, aviation, and financial services. It is the most expensive city in the Middle East.
The buildings and structures in the city are built in various architectural styles. The city is well known for its iconic skyscrapers and high-rise buildings; the tallest man-made structure in the world is in Dubai.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and also the capital of Abu Dhabi emirate, the largest of the UAE’s seven emirates. It is also the second most populous city in UAE.
This city is located on a T-shaped island jutting into the Persian Gulf from the central western coast. The total land area is 972 km2. According to 2014 census, the city has a population of 1.5 million. The city has a hot desert climate.
This city is the seat of the President of the UAE and the seat for the United Arab Emirates Government. It is also the home of the Emirati Royal Family.
Even though Abu Dhabi’s wealth is mainly derived from oil revenues, tourism is becoming a main income source since Abu Dhabi is steadily improving its reputation as a holiday and business travel destination. Due to its position as the capital, the city has become a major cultural, commercial and political center.
It is also one of the most expensive big cities in the world. However, when compared to Dubai, Abu Dhabi has a lower cost of living.
Difference Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Location
Dubai is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf.
Abu Dhabi is located on a T-shaped island jutting into the Persian Gulf.
Capital of the Country
Dubai is not the capital of United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of United Arab Emirates.
Capital of Emirate
Dubai is the capital of Emirate of Dubai.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of Abu Dhabi emirate.
Population
Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi is the second most populous city in the United Arab Emirates.
Main Revenue
Dubai gets its main revenue from tourism, real estate, and aviation.
Abu Dhabi gets its main revenue from oil.
Center
Dubai is a major hub of business, transport and tourism.
Abu Dhabi is becoming a major cultural, commercial and political center.
Cost of Living
Dubai is the 22nd most expensive city in the world. (as of 2002)
Abu Dhabi is the 68th most expensive city in the world.(as of 2014)
Image Courtesy:
“Abu Dhabi Corniche Skyline” By LConstantino – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
“Downtown Dubai by Emaar Properties” By BDS2006 at English Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
