A refundable rate lets you cancel free of charge up to a clearly shown deadline and get your money back to your original card; a non-refundable rate is usually cheaper but cannot be cancelled or refunded once confirmed. Every rate on our site is clearly labelled with either its free-cancellation deadline or a non-refundable badge before you pay.
How the two rates are labelled
On the room page and again at checkout, each rate shows its policy up front. A refundable rate displays the exact date and time until which you can cancel free of charge; a non-refundable rate carries a clear non-refundable badge. There is no small print to hunt for — what you see on the rate is what applies.
Why non-refundable is cheaper
Non-refundable rates are typically 5–15% cheaper for the same room. You take on the cancellation risk, and the hotel rewards you with a lower price. Both rate types are paid in full online at booking time — the difference is only what happens if you cancel.
Which one should you pick?
- Firm plans — fixed dates, booked flights, no doubts: the non-refundable saving is usually worth taking.
- Plans that might change — waiting on leave approval, flexible dates, travelling with others: pay the small premium for free cancellation.
- Booking far ahead — a refundable rate lets you rebook later if prices drop.
Where your booking's exact policy lives
The cancellation policy for your specific booking is repeated in your confirmation email and on your booking in My Trips, including the precise deadline in Dubai time. If you cancel a refundable rate before that deadline, the full amount returns to your original card, typically within 5–10 business days.
Ready to compare both rate types side by side? Search Dubai hotels or browse more answers in hotels help.