Dubai Alternatives: 5 Places like Dubai in Africa

Published: May 29, 2024

While Dubai has evolved into a prominent global city with modern infrastructure and luxurious amenities, there are no exact replicas of it in Africa. 

But that does not take away from the beauty and appeal of African cities; each one has its own unique culture, experiences, and charm.

So, instead of spending a lot of money to travel to Dubai, you might want to check out some of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in Africa with modern infrastructure and high-end amenities. 

From busy metropolises to quiet coastal towns, African cities offer unforgettable experiences, a wealth of cultural history, friendly people, and the chance to fully experience the beauty of the continent. 

Start an exciting and new journey as you visit these amazing African places. Around every corner, you will find something amazing and new.

READ ALSO: Tired of Dubai? Try These 10 Alternative Destinations Instead

Cape Town, South Africa

I love Cape Town. The city is nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It captures hearts with its stunning beauty and wide range of attractions. 

From the lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront to the peaceful beaches of Camps Bay, the city’s beautiful scenery and rich cultural history draw people in. 

Every part of Cape Town is different and offers a memorable experience, whether you hike to the top of Table Mountain to see the view or walk around the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap.

Cape Town also has a lot of activities and sights that are just as popular in Dubai. People who want to experience the thrill of cage diving with great white sharks can do so, and wine lovers can enjoy world-class tastings in the nearby Cape Winelands. 

The city’s calendar is full of cultural events and festivals that give visitors the chance to really experience the city’s arts scene and other cultural offerings. 

With its mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural diversity, Cape Town is a must-see for anyone looking for an unforgettable trip in Africa.

Cape Town is one of the Dubai alternatives you should visit!

Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling economic hub, captivates visitors with its blend of modernity and traditional Moroccan charm. Every street in the city has beautiful modern architecture, like the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest and proudly facing the Atlantic Ocean.

With its bustling business district, fancy restaurants, and hip shops, Casablanca is a great place to experience Moroccan city life.

Casablanca has a modern look, but it also has parts of Morocco’s rich cultural history. With its winding streets and busy souks, the old medina is a great place to explore. Historic sites like the Casablanca Cathedral and the Mahkama du Pacha show the city’s colonial past. 

You can eat traditional Moroccan food and drink mint tea at a café, shop for souvenirs in the busy markets, and experience the local culture.

Casablanca’s mix of modernity and tradition shows Morocco’s past, present, and future.

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, Egypt, is a city with a lot of history and culture. It has a fascinating mix of ancient sites and modern life. 

With the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the ancient ruins of Memphis and Saqqara, Cairo is a treasure trove of great archaeological sites. 

There are sights, sounds, and smells of Egyptian life on the city’s streets, from Khan El Khalili’s markets to the Nile River cafes.

Cairo, Egypt’s capital, has a timeless charm with its rich history, lively culture, and friendly people.

Thus, Cairo is one of the Dubai alternatives you should add to your bucket list!

READ ALSO: 10 Dubai Alternative Destinations You’ll Absolutely Love

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya, is the beating heart of East Africa. It’s a vibrant, international city surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

The metropolis captivates with its diverse offerings, from the bustling city center to the tranquil national parks. 

Nairobi, like Dubai, has world-class shopping malls, luxury hotels, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Its vibrant markets, like the Maasai Market, offer traditional crafts and souvenirs. 

Nairobi has a lively nightlife like Dubai, with trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants and diverse entertainment.

The city has natural beauty that almost rivals Dubai’s desert. Safaris in Nairobi National Park allow visitors to see lions, giraffes, and zebras against the city skyline. 

The Nairobi Arboretum and Karura Forest offer hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in peaceful escapes from the city. 

Nairobi offers travelers the best of both worlds with its urban sophistication and natural wonders.

Nairobi is one of the Dubai alternatives you can visit in Africa!

Johannesburg, South Africa

If you are looking for Dubai alternatives to visit, you should probably consider Joburg. 

Johannesburg is a city of contrasts, with vibrant urban life and stunning natural beauty. Like Dubai, Johannesburg attracts visitors with its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. 

Modern skyscrapers, bustling markets, and world-class shopping malls give visitors a taste of urban sophistication. 

Like Dubai, Johannesburg’s restaurants offer international cuisine, and its nightlife keeps the city alive.

Johannesburg has stunning natural beauty that rivals Dubai’s deserts. Visitors can find fossils and archaeological treasures at the nearby Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Magaliesberg Mountains offer hiking, rock climbing, and hot air ballooning, a welcome escape from the city. 

For travelers seeking the best of both worlds, Johannesburg offers an unforgettable experience.


Which of these Dubai alternatives in Africa would you like to visit? Each destination has its own charm and experiences, whether it is Cairo’s bustling streets, Nairobi’s pristine parks, or Johannesburg’s energy. 

What do you look for when you visit these places? Share your preferences and interests, and start planning your next unforgettable adventure in Africa!

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