Cairo vs Dubai - City Size Comparison

Is Cairo Bigger Than Dubai?

In terms of area, Dubai is 1.3x the size of Cairo. Dubai spans 4,114 km² (1,588 mi²) while Cairo covers 3,085 km² (1,191 mi²) — a difference of 1,029 km².

About Cairo

Egypt's capital and the largest city in the Arab world. Known as "The City of a Thousand Minarets", Cairo covers 3,085 km² with a population of 10.1 million. The city was established in 969. Cairo is known for Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Cairo Metro.

Cairo is the only major city in the world where you can see ancient pyramids from the city center

About Dubai

A global city and business hub in the Middle East. Also known as "City of Gold", Dubai has an area of 4,114 km² and is home to 3.3 million people. Its history stretches back to 1833. Visitors come for Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Dubai Metro.

Dubai went from a small fishing village to a global metropolis in just 50 years

Population Density

Cairo has a population density of 3,274 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Dubai, with 809 people per km², is a relatively spread-out city. Cairo is dramatically more crowded, with 4.0x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Both cities share a hot desert climate, though local geography creates distinct microclimates in each. When it's noon in Dubai, it's 10:00 AM in Cairo — a 2-hour time difference.