Dubai vs Shanghai - City Size Comparison

Is Dubai Bigger Than Shanghai?

Yes — Shanghai is 1.5x larger than Dubai by area. Shanghai spans 6,341 km² (2,448 mi²) while Dubai covers 4,114 km² (1,588 mi²) — a difference of 2,227 km².

About Dubai

A global city and business hub in the Middle East. Known as "City of Gold", Dubai covers 4,114 km² with a population of 3.3 million. The city was established in 1833. Dubai is known for Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Dubai Metro.

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

About Shanghai

China's largest city and a global financial hub. Nicknamed "The Pearl of the Orient", Shanghai has an area of 6,341 km² and is home to 24.9 million people. It was established in 1291. Visitors come for The Bund waterfront, Pudong skyline, Yuyuan Garden, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Shanghai Metro.

Shanghai's Maglev train reaches 431 km/h, the fastest commercial train in the world

Population Density

Dubai has a population density of 809 people per km² — a relatively spread-out city. Shanghai, with 3,922 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Shanghai is dramatically more crowded, with 4.8x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Dubai has a hot desert climate while Shanghai experiences humid subtropical conditions. When it's noon in Shanghai, it's 8:00 AM in Dubai — a 4-hour time difference.