dubai travel hints

Middle East Chevron

United Arab Emirates Chevron

Dubai Chevron

Dubai Travel Guide

It’s hard to believe when confronting the sheer scale of Dubai, but most of the city was built in just the last 50 years. It makes the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and a host of ultra-luxurious hotels all the more bewildering. Still, amid all the glamor and superlatives, there are vestiges of a pre-skyscraper Dubai, in its winding souks and the vast empty desert that surrounds the city. Here’s how to navigate both sides of this always-growing metropolis.

Plan Your Dubai Trip

By Alice Holtham , Sarah Khan , and Isabella Sullivan

By Christine Ajudua

By Susan Hack

By Caitlin Morton

By Laura Ratliff and Melinda Healy

Editor Hotel Recommendations

The Best Things to Do in Dubai

By Melinda Healy

By Laura Ratliff

By Laura Ratliff and Maresa Manara

By Maresa Manara

The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Dubai

By Dylan Essertier

Editor Restaurant and Bar Recommendations

By Paul Brady

More from Dubai

By Natascha Hawke

By Claudia de Brito

By Laura Lai Coughlin

By Sophie Prideaux

By Antonia Windsor

By Blane Bachelor

By Jessica Puckett

By Rachel Chang

By Mercedes Bleth

By Alice Holtham

By Katherine LaGrave

By Sebastian Modak

By Ashley Mateo

By Bridget Hallinan

More Destinations

By Scott Bay and Megan Spurrell

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

©aiqingwang/Getty Images

Dubai is a stirring alchemy of profound traditions and ambitious futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendor.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab's graceful silhouette – meant to evoke the sail of a dhow (a traditional wooden cargo vessel) – is to Dubai what the Eiffel Tower is to…

Burj Khalifa

Downtown Dubai

The Burj Khalifa is a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, with two observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors and a restaurant-bar on the…

Madinat Jumeirah

One of Dubai’s most attractive developments, Madinat Jumeirah is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Arab village, complete with a souq (market…

All that glitters is gold (and occasionally silver) along this covered arcade where dozens of shops overflow with every kind of jewelry imaginable, from…

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, a little way north of Jumeirah Public Beach, is a major draw for sporty types, with a range of activities on…

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park. The US$1 billion…

Dubai Museum

The city's main historical museum charts Dubai's turbo-evolution from fishing and pearling village to global centre of commerce, finance and tourism. It…

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Anyone keen on delving deeper into Emirati culture and history should take advantage of the activities, Emirati meals and tours offered through this…

Top picks from our travel experts

25 best things to do in dubai.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah, the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was…

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, dating from 1974, Mushrif covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest, which is a haven for birds, including owls,…

With around 1300 shops, this isn't merely the world's largest shopping mall – it’s a small city, with a giant ice rink and aquarium, a dinosaur skeleton,…

Dubai Fountain

This dancing fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as…

In the early 1900s this historical area was Dubai's trading hub, during a period when the pearl diving industry was being developed. Stretching some 1.8km…

Arabian Adventures

This longstanding tour company has an excellent reputation and offers a wide range of tours, including sundowner tours, which include 4WD drives,…

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this small covered market as vendors work hard to…

Museum of Illusions

Opened in September 2018, this museum is fast becoming a favourite for families and Instagram fans, with several of the 'illusions' frankly looking a lot…

White Dubai

The Dubai spawn of the Beirut original did not need long to lure local socialites with high-energy rooftop parties under the stars. International…

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, this striking modern museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the UAE in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the…

Souk Al Bahar

Translated as 'market of the sailor', Souk Al Bahar is a small arabesque-style mall next to the Dubai Mall that sells mostly tourist-geared items. It's…

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

It may only be 65km southeast of Dubai, but Al Maha feels like an entirely different universe. Gone are the skyscrapers, traffic and go-go attitude. At…

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park, right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of…

Perfume House

This waterfront museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The…

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the UAE that are open to non-Muslims – one…

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around these beautifully styled indoor domed gardens. Visitors love to pose with them as they land on shoulders and…

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, this series of man-made lakes is in the middle of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Swap skyscrapers for…

Dubai Design District

Creative folks have a new HQ in Dubai. The fresh-off-the-drawing board Dubai Design District (d3) has drawn both regional and international talent and…

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when…

Top free things to do in Dubai: the City of Gold for next to nothing

XVA Gallery

Tucked into the Al Fahidi Historic District since 2003, XVA has a knack for ferreting out top-notch up-and-comers from around the Middle East and India…

Sheikh Zayed Bridge Waterfall

This illuminated and motion-operated waterfall cascades down both sides of Sheikh Zayed Bridge, stopping only for passing vessels. It's an impressive…

Coffee Museum

This cute private museum in a historic Emirati home offers an aromatic bean-based journey around the world and back in time. Learn about the importance of…

Cartoon Art Gallery

This bi-level space is the first gallery in the Middle East dedicated to cartoon and animation art from across the entire spectrum of media, from paint to…

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Incongruously framed by highways, this surprising sanctuary on Dubai Creek is an important stopover for migratory waterbirds on the east Africa–west Asian…

Alserkal Avenue

Edgy contemporary art from the Middle East and beyond has found a home in Dubai thanks to the vision of Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal. The local developer…

Al Fahidi Historic District

Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely restored heritage area formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Its narrow walking…

Coin Museum

This is a highly specialised museum which will appeal to anyone with an interest in rare and historic coins. Located near the Diwan Mosque in the Al…

Dubai Police Museum

You can't miss this place, mostly thanks to the plethora of super-car police vehicles parked outside. Part of Dubai Police Academy, this small and…

Movies Under the Stars

Every Sunday night during the cooler months, clued-in cinephiles invade the rooftop of the Pyramids Building, next to the Wafi Mall, to drop into a giant…

Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili

In 1923 this beautifully restored home tucked into the narrow lanes on the edge of the Spice Souq became the home of Saudi-born Mubarak Bin Al Oqaili …

Majlis Gallery

Dubai's oldest fine-art gallery was founded in 1989 by British expat Alison Collins and presents mainly paintings and sculpture by international artists…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

Dubai is a sprawling city, so it pays to plan your visit wisely. Instead of packing in too many sights, get to know the city's neighborhoods one at a time.

You’ll find everything from mosques and museums to mountain bike trails and ziplines within day-trip distance of Dubai. Here are the best spots to visit.

Transportation

Getting around Dubai requires some form of transport, whether that's taking a taxi, using rideshare apps, hopping on public transport or driving yourself.

Free Things to Do

Dubai might be known as the City of Gold, but that doesn't mean it has to cost the earth to visit. Here are the best things to do in Dubai for free.

Traveling with Kids

While Dubai might have a reputation as being a playground for the rich, this family-friendly city should be known as a playground for the little ones, too.

As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, the richness of Dubai’s diversity truly shines through in its contemporary shopping scene.

Latest stories from Dubai

Tips & Advice

Jan 30, 2024 • 17 min read

Your expert guide to finding all the perks and benefits of points and miles to get you to Dubai in 2024.

Dec 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 4, 2022 • 6 min read

May 11, 2022 • 9 min read

Mar 28, 2022 • 3 min read

Jan 13, 2022 • 6 min read

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Mar 31, 2021 • 7 min read

Mar 30, 2021 • 8 min read

Mar 29, 2021 • 8 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Dubai

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Dubai with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Dubai and beyond

Dubai Travel Guide // A First Timer’s Ultimate Cheat Sheet

In Dubai, police ride around in Bugattis and Lamborghinis, literally everything you look at is the recipient of a Guiness World Record, and there are ATMs that dispense gold. The city is extreme, which is exactly what drew me to it in the first place. But with that said, there is a lot of stuff I wish I would’ve known before traveling to the United Arab Emirates. Keep reading to discover my Dubai travel cheat sheet for everything you need to know as a first timer in this unique city.

THE DUBAI TRAVEL BASICS // KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

CURRENCY The currency of Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham.  1 AED = .27 USD 1 AED = .24 Euro 1 AED = .21 Pound Stirling 1 AED = .37 CAD 1 AED = .39 AUD  To convert AED for all currency, click here

The National language of the UAE is Arabic, but English is widely spoken as 85% of Dubai’s residents are expats from all over the world.

VOLTAGE & OUTLET TYPE

The voltage in Dubai is 220V/ 50HZ,  and G is most standard outlet type. 

DUBAI WEATHER // WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL 

Dubai is hot. Like, disgustingly hot. We traveled in April and temperatures were in the 90’s (even though it felt more miserable  than that). 

The best time to visit Dubai weather wise, is between November-March because the temperatures will be cooler. However, this is peak season so expect a ton of tourists and more expensive room rates.

If you visit during the Summer, you can find some great hotel deals but the extreme heat might make it difficult to sightsee.

HOTTEST/COLDEST MONTHS  August is the hottest month with an average temperature of 96F (36C). The coolest month to visit is January, when temperatures average 66F (19C). RAINFALL It only rains around 5 days a year in Dubai with February being the “wettest” month. DAYLIGHT HOURS June has the most daylight hours (13 hours 42 minutes) while December has the shortest days (10 hours 33 seconds).

TIPPING IN DUBAI

Tipping in Dubai is not generally expected, but it is always greatly appreciated. RESTAURANTS  It’s common for restaurants to charge a 10-15% service charge on the bill, but this does not go toward your server. A 10-15% tip for waitstaff is common. HOTELS 5-10 AED for the bellboys and 5-10 AED per night for the maids. TAXIS 5-10 AED or round up the fare.

THE TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI

From a beach bar with amazing views of the Burj Al Arab, to a glimpse into the trading markets of the past, click the related post below to discover my top 10 things to do in Dubai (and as a bonus, 1/2 of them are free!).

RELATED POST : THE TOP 10 THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI // A DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE

20 DUBAI TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

Familiarize yourself with the laws.

Despite being one of the most progressive cities in the Middle East, Dubai is still part of an Islamic country where Sharia Law is practiced. While you’ll likely not run into any problems during your visit, it’s smart to brush up on the laws and customs to keep yourself aware.

Yes, you can drink in Dubai.

Alcohol consumption is allowed for non-Muslims and is readily served in licensed hotels, hotel bars and restaurants. You cannot, however, purchase alcohol from stores and supermarkets as you need a special license for that.

It is highly illegal to drink or be drunk in public and the crime is punishable by up to 6 months in jail, plus fines. There is also a zero tolerance policy when it comes to drinking and driving.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and several arrests have been made in the past for kissing in public.

Hand holding is fine, but anything more than that might get you into some hot water. Use discretion and air on the side of caution.

UNMARRIED COUPLES

It is against the law for unmarried couples to share a hotel room. However, you should not have a problem at hotels as long as you are discreet.

Hotels are used to foreign visitors and it is extremely unlikely that you will be questioned. Also, it’s common for women in Dubai to keep their last name so having two different surnames is not a problem.

Nick and I are not married and we had zero issues.

LGBT TRAVELERS

Unfortunately, homosexuality is illegal in Dubai. Many hotels will require visitors of the same sex to book a room with twin beds, while some international chains won’t even question it.

In public, avoid public displays of affection and use discretion to stay safe.

Cross-dressing is also illegal.

ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

Electronic cigarettes are illegal and will most likely be confiscated at the airport.

There is a zero tolerance policy for drugs and even having trace amounts in your system counts as possession. Even the smallest amount can land you in jail for the standard 4 years.

NO FISH ON THE METRO

Haha. Apparently it’s a problem.

WHAT TO WEAR IN DUBAI // SIMPLIFYING THE DRESS CODE

As a female, I was a little nervous about what to wear in Dubai. The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country and modesty is both appreciated and, in some places, required. Here are a few suggestions and tips as far as what to wear in Dubai.

HEAD SCARFS Women do not have to cover their hair while traveling in Dubai unless you are visiting a mosque (a scarf will be provided).

SHOULDERS AND KNEES Men and women are asked to cover their shoulders and knees in public places.

PACK A SHAWL Some of the malls have a stricter dress code than other areas in the city. If your outfit is deemed inappropriate,  a security guard might ask you to cover up.. so it’s smart to pack a wrap or light sweater just in case.

BATHING SUITS Bathing suits and beachwear such as shorts and cover ups are fine, but only at the beach, pools and waterparks.

LOCAL AREAS Dubai is made up of mostly expats who do not care how you dress. However, a good rule of thumb would be, if you’re going to an area with more locals (ie malls, the souks, metro etc), it’s best to air on the side of modesty.

RAMADAN During Ramadan, the dress code is more heavily enforced. Keep scrolling to learn more about Dubai travel during Ramadan.

DRESS CODES Many of restaurants and clubs have dress codes. For men, sneakers and jeans are often not allowed. For women, the rules are a little more lenient, just be sure to wear a shawl or sweater when traveling to and from.

FASHION Dubai is a very fashionable and modern city. Just take a look at the locals’ beautiful designer handbags and you’ll see how much they appreciate fashion. You can have fun with your outfits while still showing respect for the culture.

WEATHER Keep the weather in mind. You’ll likely be fighting the heat and humidity so opt for light, breathable fabrics.

I was surprised to see a ton of tourists not abiding by the modesty rule at all . I always try and show respect to the culture of whatever country I’m visiting, and it’s also important for me to be a good representation of my own country.

Despite what I saw others doing, I did choose to cover my shoulders, cleavage and knees when I was in public.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT WHITE BODYSUIT , BLUE TOP , TAN TOP ,  WRAP SCARF , YELLOW PANTS , WHITE JEANS , STRIPED PANTS , STRIPED DRESS , PURSE ,  JUMPSUIT , SWIMSUIT ,  SANDALS ,  HEELS , MULES , EARRINGS , SUNGLASSES

THE EMIRATI NATIONAL DRESS

While you’re in Dubai, you might be curious about what the locals are wearing.

Women wear an abaya, which is a thin black gown worn over their clothing. On their heads, a hijab or black veil called a shayla is worn.

Men wear an ankle-length, white cotton garment called a kandura with a headscarf called a ghutra.

TRANSPORTATION

Dubai is not a very walkable city. Not only is everything super far from each other, but after 5 minutes outside in the heat you’ll probably be anxious to get back into the air conditioning.

Luckily, public transportation is simple and inexpensive. From the metro, to taxis and ride sharing apps, this is how to get around.

THE DUBAI METRO

The Dubai Metro is underused by tourists. It’s an easy way to get around, and it’s cheap.

The only issue we had with the metro is that certain stops are not always convenient to where you want to go, so it’s best to plan your trip out ahead of time.

Sometimes we relied on the metro to get us most of the way and then we grabbed a taxi to our final destination.

DUBAI METRO MAP

To ride on the Dubai Metro, you need a fare card which costs 2 AED (.54 cents USD). You can then purchase an all day pass for AED 20 ($5.45USD), or pay for individual rides which cost between 4-8 AED ($1-$2.50 USD) depending on the zone you’re traveling to.

There are ticket machines and windows in each metro station where you can buy both fare cards and rides.

GOLD CLASS AND WOMEN’S CARTS 

When you board the train, you might notice that some carts have gold and pink signage on the floor.

The gold carts are first class and reserved only for travelers who have paid extra for a Gold Fare Card.

The pink carts are reserved for women and children only (women can still ride in any cart they want though). You can be fined up to 100 AED for riding in the wrong cart.

METRO RULES 

Do not put your feet on the chairs, food & beverages are not allowed on the trains, and you are not allowed to chew gum.

Broken rules are subject to fines.

THE DUBAI MALL /BURJ KHALIFA METRO STATION 

If you take the red line to popular The Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa stop, know that the station is about a 10-15 minute walk from your destination.

If you have tickets to the Burj Khalifa or any time sensitive event, plan accordingly.

The walking path is indoor and air conditioned.

TAXIS ARE CHEAP

You’ll be surprised at how inexpensive taxi rides are Dubai. The base fare starts at 5 AED and all drivers use a meter (that you don’t have to beg them to use.. like you do in some countries).

You’ll also be surprised at how many taxi drivers don’t actually know where things are, as most are not from Dubai.

UBER AND CAREEM

Uber is available in Dubai, but your ride options start at Uber Select. That’s right, no UberPool or UberX. Luxury cars only. Still you’ll find them to be even cheaper than taxis.

Careem is another Dubai based ride sharing app, with similar rates to Uber.

HOW TO GET FROM THE DUBAI AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER

The Dubai Metro red line stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 and will take you directly into the city in about 40-50 minutes. The metro is one of the cheapest ways to get to the city center with ticket prices ranging from $1-$2.50 USD depending on the zone you’re traveling to.

If you’re taking a taxi from the airport, the base fare starts at AED 25 ($6.81 USD) .. as opposed to the normal 5 AED ($1.36 USD).

When traveling from the Dubai airport to the city center, Uber is a cheaper door to door option than taxis. For fare estimates, where to meet your driver at the airport and more click here.

THE BUS STOPS HAVE AIR CONDITIONING

I thought this was funny. And if I’m being honest I did capitalize on this a few times, despite never boarding an actual bus.

THE WEEKEND FALLS ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

In the United Arab Emirates, the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday. Friday is a holy day, which most people have off,  so some business hours may be different. Sunday is a regular weekday.

THE DUBAI MALL

IT’S COLD  While temperatures outside may be in the triple digits, expect the mall to be on the chilly side. If you’re prone to being cold, it’s smart to carry light cover up if you plan on spending a lot of time inside.

GET THE APP The Dubai Mall has an interactive app that can be downloaded to your phone. It reads your location and can point you in the right direction of wherever you want to go.

SLEEPING PODS  If you’ve shopped till you dropped, check out the sleeping pods where you can pay to nap by the hour.

RENT A PRIVATE DRIVER  You can hire a golf cart taxi to drive you around the mall while you shop. Rates start at 300 AED ($81USD) per hour.

THE DUBAI MALL TAXI SCAM  The taxi lines are long when leaving the Dubai Mall and it’s common for private taxi companies (namely,  Royal  Smart Limousine) to try and lure you into their cars by making you think they are local taxis. Then, when you arrive at your destination, the rate will much more than what you expected. Make sure the taxi you get into has a sign and a meter starting at 5 AED.

DUBAI IS EXPENSIVE

Before we embarked on our Dubai travel adventure, I thought I was prepared for the sticker shock that comes with just being in the city. Well, I wasn’t and honestly, it felt a little limiting.

The reason we had the opportunity to travel to Dubai was because Nick was playing a show here on his last Middle Eastern tour. We took advantage of the fact that his lodging was covered so I tagged along, but if we were planning this trip on our own, I would’ve probably postponed this particular destination in order to save up more money.

While we did splurge a little, we were in no place to fully partake in everything that makes Dubai, Dubai.

It is  possible to travel to Dubai on a budget but personally, I feel that by doing so, you end up missing out on the full experience of this extravagant place.

CHEAP THRILLS

One of the cheapest (and most authentic) things to do in Dubai is to take an abra ride across the Dubai Creek. Abras are small boats, and you’ll notice them all over the city. But in tourist areas, they are expensive and operate on manmade lakes.

At the Dubai Creek, an abra ride costs 1 AED (.27 cent USD). The whole purpose is to transport you across the creek from Deira to Bur Dubai and the ride only takes a few minutes, but it’s still fun and for 1 dirham, I was ready to park it on the boat for the entire day.

SAVE ROOM IN YOUR BUDGET FOR GOLD

Gold is one of Dubai’s largest imports and it happens to be one of the best places in the world to find excellent deals on this precious metal.

The most popular place in the city to buy gold is the Gold Souk in Old Dubai. The authenticity is heavily regulated by the government and prices are negotiable!

For more information about buying gold at the Gold Souk, plus information about how to visit these traditional Arabian markets, click the related post below.

RELATED POST : THE DUBAI SOUKS // SHOPPING FOR GOLD AND SPICES IN DUBAI

Speaking of the Dubai Souks, they are a great place to find unique souvenirs such as spices, textiles and perfumes. All of the prices at the souks are negotiable and haggling is a must.

A good rule of thumb is to take the initial price quoted to you and counter with half. Don’t act too interested and do not be afraid to walk away. Prices magically seem to lower as soon as you do.

If you’re haggling for gold, know that you’ll never be able to dip below market price, but the cost of workmanship on a piece is negotiable.

THE CHEAPEST WAY TO GET INTO THE BURJ AL ARAB

Known as the world’s only 7 star hotel (not by official standards though), the Burj Al Arab has been voted the most luxurious hotel in the world.

Accessible only by private bridge or helicopter, it’s impossible to go inside unless you’re a guest, or have a reservation at one of their restaurants/bars.

Considering that the cheapest room is $1,200 USD and Afternoon Tea can set you back 650 AED  ($178 USD), a visit to the Burj Al Arab not the most budget friendly thing to do in Dubai. However, there is one way you can get inside.. and it will cost you less than $30.

Make a reservation at their cocktail bar Gold on 27, it has a minimum spend of one drink or 100AED ($27 USD) per person. Reservations are a must as you will not be allowed on site without them.

RELATED POST: SHIMMERS DUBAI // BEACH COCKTAILS WITH THE BEST VIEW OF BURJ AL ARAB

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST VIEWS IN DUBAI

THE BEST VIEW OF DUBAI CITY At the Top of the Burj Khalifa THE BEST VIEW OF THE BURJ AL ARAB Shimmers Restaurant at Madinat Jumeirah Resort THE BEST VIEW OF THE MARINA  Shades Lounge / Rooftop Pool at the Address Marina Hotel THE BEST VIEW OF THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN SHOW  From the Apple Store Balcony in the Dubai Mall THE BEST VIEW OF SHEIK ZAYED ROAD   Level 43 Sky Lounge at the Sheraton Four Points Sheik Zayed Road.

LOCAL FOOD IN DUBAI

While there is no shortage of fine dining, celebrity chefs and unique culinary experiences in Dubai, I’m always drawn to more local spots.

While walking around on our first day, we weren’t thrilled with the choices .. I can eat Five Guys, Texas Roadhouse Grill and California Pizza Kitchen in Los Angeles.

So we decided to head a little outside of the main tourist hub in search of something different. Bur Dubai is where you can find cheap eats in a multitude of cuisines such Indian, Persian, Arabic and Pakistani. These were our two favorite restaurants in Bur Dubai:

SPECIAL OSTADI (AL USTAD SPECIAL KEBAB) 

The most memorable meal we had in Dubai was from the popular Persian restaurant, Special Ostadi.

Special Ostadi is a family run restaurant and for over 40 years, it has been one of the best places for cheap eats in Dubai.

When we walked in the door, every single table was full of Emiratis and we knew we had found the local spot we’d been searching for. As you wait for your food, take a look the hundreds of photos on the walls and see if you recognize their multitude of celebrity and royal customers.

We were squeezed into a table and a complimentary platter of veggies, herbs and yogurt was brought out to us. We weren’t that hungry, so we attempted to order 1 plate to share.

The man looked at us like we were the biggest idiots on the planet and put in two orders.. lol. The kabab koubideh was delicious, and after the meal, we were given mint tea and dates for dessert.

And for the cherry on top: on our way out, the owner chased after us letting us know we had tipped too much, and then returned a handful of dirhams.

Special Ostadi Al Mankhool Road, Bur Dubai

ARABIAN TEA HOUSE We stopped into the Arabian Tea House after a morning of shopping in the Souks.

Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood near the Textile Souk, the Arabian Tea House serves up Emirati specialities and over 150 types of tea. The beautiful outdoor garden location is decorated with sheer, flowy canopies and white wicker tables. It’s the perfect setting for breakfast or lunch.

Arabian Tea House Restaurant and Cafe   Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai

CULTURAL MEAL

We didn’t find out about this option until after we had left Dubai, but if you stop into the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in Bur Dubai, you can enjoy a traditional meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner or afternoon tea) while learning about the culture and traditions of the Emiratis.

At the end of the meal, there is a Q&A session where you can ask any question you want about their religion, culture and lifestyle. No question is considered taboo.

For more information about the Cultural Meal click here.

THE BURJ KHALIFA

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT If you’re in Dubai on a weekend (Friday/Saturday), I highly recommend a sunrise visit to the Burj Khalifa.

Not only is the lighting great, but it also happens to be the cheapest ticket. The second best time to visit is at sunset, and if you stay until 6pm you can watch the Dubai Fountain show from the top.

BOOK ONLINE AHEAD OF TIME  Not only does booking in advance secure your spot at the top, but it also saves you a ton of money compared to purchasing at the ticket window.

THE ENTRANCE  It can be a little tricky to find the entrance to the Burj Khalifa if you have tickets for At the Top. The entrance is inside of the Dubai Mall. If you are visiting At.Mosphere restaurant in the Burj Khalifa, you will enter through the Armani Hotel.

For more tips and photos from our Burj Khalifa At the Top experience click the related post below.

RELATED POST: BURJ KHALIFA AT THE TOP // WATCHING THE SUNRISE IN DUBAI

DUBAI TRAVEL DURING RAMADAN

Ramadan falls on the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and is a holy time of year for Muslims. If you will be traveling to Dubai during Ramadan, there are a few things you should be aware of in order plan accordingly and respect the local culture.

RESEARCH HOURS AHEAD OF TIME  Some shops, family owned businesses and attractions might have amended hours during Ramadan. Double check online as you plan your itinerary.

NO EATING AND DRINKING IN PUBLIC During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Tourists are asked to refrain from eating, smoking, drinking and even chewing gum in public during this time. Failure to follow this rule can result in penalties.

Most hotel restaurants and some food establishments do stay open, but they will curtain themselves off in respect. Your available food options change every year, so it’s best to research on local websites before your visit.

QUIET NIGHTLIFE SCENE Nightclubs and bars will be less busy and more muted, as listening to music in public is also not allowed during this time. Alcohol is still served after sundown.

BE CONSCIOUS OF YOUR CLOTHING  Modesty becomes even more important during Ramadan and visitors are asked to cover their shoulders and their knees.

IFTAR Every afternoon at sunset, Muslims break their fast with a meal called Iftar. Many hotels offer all you can eat iftar meals and you’ll also find iftar tents all over the city. Feel free to partake in the feasting!

DUBAI HOTELS // WHERE TO STAY

BURJ AL ARAB

Voted the world’s most luxurious hotel (rumored to be 7 stars) and located on it’s own private island, it does not get any fancier than the Burj al Arab. Guests have access to 5 swimming pools, a private beach and optional chauffeur driven Rolls Royces. Room rates start at $1,200 USD.

For more information, or to book the Burj Al Arab click here. 

JUMEIRAH AL QASR- MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Jumeirah Al Qasr is one of the hotels located on the enormous Madinat Jumeirah Resort. The decor is modeled after Ancient Arabia and you’ll find canals, a private beach, and gorgeous views of the gulf as well as the Burj al Arab. Rates start at $300 USD.

For more information, or to book the Jumeirah Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah click here. 

FIVE PALM JUMEIRAH 

Palm Jumeirah is the famous tree shaped island in Dubai. While it’s an interesting layout, I have heard complaints that getting to and from your room on the palm fronds can take a lot of time.

The Five Palm Jumeirah is located at the base of the tree’s trunk, making it much easier to come and go. The 5 star hotel offers 5 swimming pools, photo-worthy architecture and decor, a private beach and amazing views of the Gulf. Rates start at $167 USD.

For more information, or to book the Five Palm Jumeirah click here. 

ROVE DOWNTOWN

Rove Downtown is a boutique style, three star hotel located in Downtown Dubai (on Happiness Street!) near the Burj Khalifa. With a rooftop swimming pool, a 24 hour gym and excellent reviews, this is one of the best options for budget conscious travelers.  Rates start at $87 USD

For more information, or to book Rove Downtown Hotel click here. 

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD 

I would stay at the Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road just to have nightly access to their amazing rooftop bar . They also have a rooftop swimming pool, 5 on-site restaurants and easy metro access. Rates start at $98 USD

For more information, or to book the Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road click here. 

Did I miss something? Leave your Dubai travel tips in the comments! 

Pin it: 20 dubai travel tips // a first timer’s guide.

8 thoughts on “Dubai Travel Guide // A First Timer’s Ultimate Cheat Sheet”

This was so incredibly helpful! Thanks so much 🙂

This is great insight to Dubai!! Very helpful! Thank you!

Of course! Thank you for reading and have fun in Dubai 🙂

I had been reading a lot of Dubai, but this was the best. I found it useful. Thnx a lot🙃

Hi Maria! Thank you so much for the kind words. Have fun in Dubai! Lindsey

Thank you for the short version😊 it gave plenty of useful information. Your the best.

Thank you for reading! have fun in Dubai!

Wow! Dubai looks amazing – the Miracle Gardens looks so pretty, and all that food looks so delicious Garnier

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Dubai International Airport Guide

Public Transit

Currency in Dubai

Safety & Laws in Dubai

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Dubai

Top Things to See & Do

Free Things to Do in Dubai

Things to Do at Palm Jumeirah

Best Museums

Best Beaches in Dubai

Dubai's Coolest Architecture

Adventure Activities

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Dubai

Your Trip to Dubai: The Complete Guide

LeoPatrizi/Getty Images

Dubai is renowned for having the tallest building in the world, amazing beaches, and fantastic shopping like the Dubai Mall . It is also home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the land and fun-filled adventures such as dune-bashing and Ski Dubai . Whatever your heart's content, it can be found in the City of Gold. Get lost zipping through the souks in Old Dubai or be stricken by the beautiful architecture and design throughout the city. Use this guide to lead you on your way exploring the enchanting city of Dubai.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dubai is from October through April. This is the most comfortable time to explore the city as the months are cooler and much more bearable. It’s the best time for enjoying outdoor activities and festivals.

Language: Arabic is the official language in Dubai. However, English is widely spoken throughout the UAE.

Currency: The Emirati dirham (DH) is the official currency of Dubai and the UAE.

Getting Around: Dubai has an extensive public transport system consisting of buses, monorail, tram, taxis, and the Dubai metro. The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) is the official operator of the public transport network.

Travel Tip: If you are a fan of ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft, make sure you download Dubai’s version Careem prior to your trip. The app also offers food delivery and access to bike-sharing services.

Things to Do

While most have a desire to visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, while visiting Dubai, there are plenty of other things to see and do. From visiting one of the museums to enjoying fine dining at the assortment of international restaurants and soaking up some rays at the public beaches, Dubai has even more experiences to enjoy.

• Visit one of the many theme parks available in Dubai such as the Dubai Parks and Resorts , which features Motiongate Dubai and 27 themed rides. If you desire to cool off instead, then consider exploring IMG Worlds of Adventure , which is the biggest indoor theme park in the world featuring the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure. The kids will rave for days from this action-packed experience!
• Dubai is home to the Guinness Book of World Records   largest structure made of flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden . It features a real life-sized Boeing A380 full of over 500,000 floral arrangements. The Miracle garden also offers the Dubai Butterfly Garden, which houses 15,000 butterflies of more than 26 species.
• Dubai also features the largest shopping mall in the world the Dubai Mall. Explore this feast on the eyes, which offers the Dubai Ice Rink and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The aquarium features more than 300 sharks and other species of fish, which can be seen for free from outside of the tank while walking by with friends and family.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the most adventurous activities to in Duba i, the 10 best day trips from Dubai , and Dubai’s top 10 beaches .

What to Eat and Drink

Dubai has an assorted food scene, considering that more than 80 percent of residents in Dubai are from various nationalities there is no wonder why. Whatever type of food that you desire, it can be found at one of the many fine-dining restaurants or street food stalls on Jumeriah beach.

Check out our complete guides to which foods to try, the best bars , and where to eat at the Dubai Marina .

Where to Stay

There are a host of hotel options in Dubai for the discerning traveler to the globetrotter willing to shell out the big bucks in the City of Gold. Many travelers enjoy staying closer to the southern end of the city in the Jumeriah Beach and Dubai Marina areas. Nevertheless, the Downtown Dubai and Business Bay area offers both high-end and affordable options as well such as Rove Downtown and the Palace Downtown , an Address hotel. 

Check out our recommendations for the 9 best Dubai hotels and a guide to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai .

Getting There

The main airport in the city is Dubai International Airport (DXB), which is a hub for many international destinations. It was operated with more than 86 million customers in 2019   , thus making it one of the world’s busiest airports for international passengers. Dubai also has the smaller Al Maktoum International airport at Dubai World Central (DWC), which is linked to the city and Dubai International airport by buses operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Culture and Customs

Some people may think of the Middle East and have concerns about safety there. Nevertheless, it is safe to travel to Dubai . The UAE actually is one of the safest countries in the world   . While Islamic culture may be different than what we are used to in Western cultures, as long as you respect the culture in Dubai, you will be respected as a tourist here.

It is advisable to dress conservatively in certain areas like visiting a mosque or traditional areas. This may include covering your arms past your elbows and legs past your knees. It’s a good idea for women to keep a scarf on them for visiting holy places so you can cover your hair. Again, respect is the key term here and better to err on the side of caution.

Money-Saving Tips

Many think that when you travel to Dubai you have to spend loads of money on entertainment, food, and shopping. You will more than likely pay for a tour for certain activities and will like to experience other unique activities popular in the city like Dinner in the Sky and more. However, there are some ways to stay on budget while in Dubai.

• The Entertainer is a booklet and app that many locals and visitors can use to get great discounts and deals at restaurants, activities, and hotels. It offers great two-for-one specials on various theme parks, attractions, clubs, restaurants, and more throughout the city. The booklet is available at bookstores and supermarkets, or you can download the app prior to your trip.
• Instead of paying for pricey taxis from one side of the city to the next, consider taking the Dubai Metro for a cheap ride across the city. It is available for transport from the airport to locations south of the city.
• Consider cutting back on those drink price by attending a happy hour at places like the famed McGettigan’s to Perry & Blackwelder’s, or one of the many other options.

Learn more about inexpensive ways to have fun by exploring 10 free things to do in Dubai .

Guinness World Records. " Largest Flower Arrangement/Structure ."

Reuters. " Dubai airport sees rare annual drop in passenger traffic in 2019 ."

Numbeo. " Safety Index by City 2020 ."

The Best Time to Visit Dubai

How to Use the Metro on Your Trip to Dubai

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Alaska: The Complete Guide

Nightlife in Dubai: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

The Top 20 Things to Do in Dubai

Your Trip to Universal Orlando: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Museums in Dubai

Your Trip to Rome: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Israel: The Complete Guide

Cairo Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Madrid: The Complete Guide

Washington, D.C. Guide: Planning Your Trip

48 Hours in Dubai: The Ultimate Itinerary

Your Trip to Buenos Aires: The Complete Guide

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

This Glamorous Middle Eastern City Has Luxury Hotels, Thrilling Desert Adventures, and Michelin-starred Dining

Here's how to plan the perfect visit to Dubai.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

Buena Vista Images/Getty Images

Dubai is full of contrasts. There's the glittering skyline of skyscrapers so tall they defy imagination. There is the modern collection of stores and eateries, offering every option a traveler could want. And then there are the luxurious hotels, ready to welcome even the most discerning traveler in style and excess. Then there's the desert with its rolling hills of sand stamped with the footprints of Arabian oryx and gazelles; the souks with their labyrinth of stalls, bins overflowing with a rainbow of spices; and the traditional abra boats ferrying riders across the Dubai Creek.

“Dubai is the ideal destination for tourists, and there are a number of reasons why,” Farida Ahmed, a guide and owner of Frying Pan Adventures , told Travel + Leisure . “It is safe, whether you are traveling solo or as a family. That, for me, is one of the most pivotal points on which tourism rests."

The city, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has sprouted up from its desert port beginnings to become a sprawling metropolis full of vibrant neighborhoods, record-setting buildings, and over-the-top shopping centers all in the last several decades. "There is something for everyone and everyone's pocket — if you’re looking for budget travel you can absolutely do it in Dubai," said Ahmed.

Today, Dubai can be fast and slow at the same time — a place to grab an avocado toast and relax on the beach, a place to appreciate a desert conservation reserve, and a place to shop 'til you drop, all in the same day. It's these contrasts that make Dubai one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Armani hotel dubai.

This luxurious hotel is located in one of the most famous buildings in Dubai and the world: the Burj Khalifa. Armani Hotel Dubai takes up the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th floors of the world's tallest tower, offering incredible views of the city and the Arabian Gulf below. Rooms are designed by the hotel's namesake, Giorgio Armani, and feature muted colors that will relax any guest after a long day of shopping at nearby The Dubai Mall.

Burj Al Arab

If the Burj Khalifa is the most recognizable building in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a close second. Inside this iconic sail-shaped building floating in the middle of The Gulf is one of the most stunning hotels in the city. Each colorful room comes with Hermes amenities and butler service as well as access to the hotel's private beach.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa

Set against rolling sand dunes and roaming oryx, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with 42 individual suites all with their own private pools overlooking unobstructed views of the pristine desert. During your stay, book a dune drive to get your heart pumping or go on a guided nature walk in the desert. In the morning, sit down to breakfast on the veranda and keep your eyes peeled for a few gazelles popping by to say hello over coffee.

Queen Elizabeth 2

This unique property was once a working cruise ship that has been converted into a hotel , permanently docked in Dubai. The 13-deck ship features 447 refurbished hotel rooms and suites — including the Royal Suite with a large wood-lined private deck — restaurants, a spa, and a theater. History buffs can tour the ship's bridge and see what the cabins looked like in the 1960s before settling in for a leisurely afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, traditional cakes, and warm scones with clotted cream.

XVA Art Hotel

XVA Art Hotel is a boutique hotel that feels like stepping back in time with its romantic shaded courtyards, dark wood, and rich textiles. The hotel, which was built in what used to be a home in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has 15 individually designed rooms all located around three courtyards. And don't miss a chance to walk through the hotel's art gallery, which features contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Frying Pan Adventures

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and these food tours offer to paint visitors a culinary map of Dubai, which Ahmed said has “now established itself as one of the culinary meccas of the world.” Try sweet milky tea in the back alleys of a souk, meat and rice pilaf , stuffed falafels, or learn about the custom of making Arabic coffee while also learning about the history of the city with one of the many female guides. 

Global Village

Dubai's Global Village is unlike anything else, showcasing more than 70 cultures at different country pavilions where visitors can shop, eat, and more. Bring a camera and capture a cool photo "for the 'gram" at one of the "selfie spots" or catch one of the many shows.

Skiing in the desert is possible at Ski Dubai where an indoor slope in the Mall of the Emirates allows ski and snowboard enthusiasts to clip or strap in and hone their skills. Playing in the snow more your thing? Try the twin-track bobsled experience or take some time to hang out with the resident gentoo and king penguins.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and the view from the top is rightfully spectacular. Take in Dubai's many neighborhoods with this bird's eye view from the 125th floor or book a spot on the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. The Burj Khalifa VIP experience includes access to the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. 

Ahmed recommended checking the weather forecast before you book a trip up the Burj Khalifa, noting that “if it's not a clear day you are not going to be seeing anything but haze.” For your best chance of a clear view, she noted that “the sky tends to be clearer before sunset.”

Royal Shaheen

Learn all about falconry from a team of professional falconers on a tour with Royal Shaheen — and get the chance to handle some of the magnificent animals yourself. These tours are interactive and family-friendly, and allow guests to learn both traditional and modern falconry training techniques.

The Dubai Mall holds the Guinness World Record for the largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's. It also has more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Basically, it's so big you could easily get lost for days. The mall even developed its own app with turn-by-turn navigation to help shoppers reach (and return from) their destination. Beyond shopping, the mall has an aquarium and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The vibe and decor change depending on which part of the mall you're in, so plan to spend some time exploring. An added bonus: it's air-conditioned.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall, but still features more than 630 brands and more than 100 places to grab a bite. Beyond the stores themselves, visitors will find the city's indoor ski slope and a bowling alley. (If your phone dies while you're shopping, you can borrow a portable charger for free.)

The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

This shopping destination stretches along more than one mile of beachfront and features both international designers and fun pop-up markets. Check out Sauce for beachy and boho-inspired dresses and cool rattan bags before grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants overlooking the gulf.

Textile and Gold Souks

Arnaud_Martinez/Getty Images

Dubai may be known for its modern skyscrapers, but there's another side to the city where traditional souks sell everything from souvenirs to beautiful scarves. Choose from towering racks of fabric at the Textile Souk in the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood or hop across the Dubai Creek to browse endless rows of jewelry stores selling gold bangles and sparkling gems in the Gold Souk . And remember: haggling is all part of the fun.

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is part museum and part eatery. The restaurant, which boasts a covered dining courtyard with a tree, has live music, and fresh-made bread, and the staff is dressed in traditional robes. “Do not leave the city without trying Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant," said Ahmed. "It is one of the few restaurants in Old Dubai that's been recognized. The food is great and I love the decor.” The restaurant has earned the Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation.

Al Farooj Al Shami Restaurant

The Syrian fare served at Al Farooj Al Shami is second to none. Grilled meats, fresh-made sauces, and a mouth-watering list of hot appetizers make this local spot one of Ahmed’s must-visits.

Comptoir 102

You'd be forgiven for thinking you were in California or Tulum when you settled into the shaded courtyard of Comptoir 102 . Order an avocado crostini, halloumi salad, or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes, and recharge with a chai latte made with homemade almond milk. After you're done eating at this organic cafe, pop over to the attached concept store where you'll find boho dresses, unique glassware, jewelry, and more.

Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams

Dinner at Al Hadheerah is more than just a meal, it's an experience. Ten live cooking stations delight guests as they feast under the stars in the middle of the desert, offering classic dishes like shawarma and lamb ouzi cooked underground as well as salads like hummus and tabbouleh. And don't forget dessert where you can sample favorites like kunafa and baklava. Reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter when the year-round hot weather starts to cool. In general, temperatures start to dip in October and it remains only moderately hot through May. While the hot season is from June to September, it's worth noting that air conditioning is plentiful across Dubai.

“The really amazing months for me are November to February,” said Ahmed, who noted that when winter arrives in Dubai, “we literally crawl out of our hibernation phase and it's all about spending time at the beach and desert BBQs.”

Winter is also when the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. It's a December and January event that is known for its great deals, live entertainment, and raffles.

nantonov/Getty Images

The best way to get into Dubai is by plane. Thousands of flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) each week, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located in the northern part of the city, making it the best option for travelers who will be staying and playing on the northern side of Dubai.

The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, started welcoming travelers in 2013 and is still under construction. The airport provides access to the growing southern end of the city. When it is completed, it will be the world’s largest airport.

Lara Antal/Travel + Leisure

This area is a collection of neighborhoods around Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai) , including Deira and the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood . A stroll through this area — lined with low-profile gypsum, sand, and coral buildings — will give visitors a small taste of what Dubai was like before the modern construction boom. Spend some time exploring the area's souks or hop on an abra for a boat ride along the creek, which used to be the entry to the pearl diving port.

Angelo Cavalli/Getty Images

Jumeirah Beach Residences and Dubai Marina

These neighborhoods, which sit next to each other, form one of the best places to go for a waterfront stroll. Grab a bite to eat with a view of the gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residences before getting ice cream and walking over to the marina to watch the sunset on the water, surrounded by towering modern skyscrapers.

Downtown Dubai

This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, home to the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain , which puts on a fantastic show every 30 minutes each night. Shop 'til you drop, head up to the top of the tallest tower in the world, or grab a seat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the fountain for dinner and a show.

Palm Jumeirah

This palm-shaped island is man-made and dotted with luxury hotels and beach clubs. Kids will love the over-the-top waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm , while adults will enjoy whiling away the day at one of the many pool decks. For a bird's eye view of the island itself, try skydiving — just remember to stop screaming long enough to take it all in.

kolderal/Getty Images

Taxis are the default way to get around Dubai, but if you want to really explore the city and the neighboring emirates, Ahmed recommended renting a car. “It will make your life easier plus it will open up the possibility for you to explore the other emirates in the UAE. If time is of the essence, get yourself a car,” she said.

She noted that the metro is great if you’re staying in and traveling around Old Dubai, but if you want to explore New Dubai or go further afield, taxi hires and car rentals are the easiest way to get around.

Taxis: Dubai has an extensive network of taxis that bring travelers throughout the city. It's easy to hail a taxi at popular attractions like the malls and the beach. For women who feel more comfortable with a female driver, the city even has " Ladies and Families " taxis, which are always driven by women. Those looking to schedule a taxi ride can use apps like Uber and Careem, which operate throughout the city.

Trains: The Dubai Metro is cooler than your average subway, featuring automated and sleek cars, WiFi, and even separate cars that women and children can use. (The Red Line even holds the Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro line at more than 32 miles long.) There are nearly 30 metro stations and a good amount of the track is outdoors, passing by iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and making it a great way to see the city and get from Point A to B. Passengers can purchase single, return, or day-pass tickets — or get a cashless smart card called Nol.

Buses: Dubai has more than 1,500 buses that cover a hefty majority of the city's urban areas.

Abra : Travelers can ride these traditional wooden boats between the Bur Dubai area and the Deira area where Dubai's Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk are located.

• PLAN YOUR TRIP
• OTHER EMIRATES

Dubai Travel Guide

The insiders' guide to discover all the wonders of dubai, top 3 unmissable attractions in dubai, burj khalifa: the highest skyscraper in the world, enjoy a memorable safari in the dubai desert, visit the incredible dubai aquarium, the best things to do and see in dubai, al bastakiya: the historical district of dubai, burj al arab: how to visit the iconic 7-star hotel, dubai creek: the most authentic side of dubai.

PALM JUMEIRAH

The most incredible island in the world

DUBAI MARINA

The heart of Dubai nightlife

DUBAI FRAME

A strange new tower in the Dubai skyline

Discover Deira: the Old Town of Dubai

The Deira district is one of the oldest and most authentic places in Dubai. Bustling with locals and tourists from sunrise to sunset, Deira is the ideal place for a stroll through the old souks of spices, essences and gold.  Read also: GUIDE TO DUBAI GOLD SOUK

Climb to the top of Burj Khalifa!

Discover the best tips and discounts for the most unmissable experience in dubai.

Much more than just a shopping center

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE

A dip into the local culture

DUBAI MUSEUM

Discover the origins of the city of Dubai

Top 10 Best Public Beaches in Dubai

In Dubai you can go to the beach almost all year round: not just resorts and luxurious beach clubs, but tens of kilometers of free public beaches, white sand and crystal clear water.

We have made our own ranking of the best public beaches in Dubai, based on the best tips from the locals.

DUBAI FOUNTAIN

The most famous show in the city

DUBAI OPERA

Home of the best international music

An incredible ancient oasis in the desert

Top 20 Museums to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is not just modernity, luxury and skyscrapers. In the city there are excellent museums that tell the incredible history of the United Arab Emirates and allow you to see exhibits featuring the best of world art.

In this guide you will find all the best museums to see in and around Dubai and tips on how to visit them on a budget.

The Best Theme Parks in Dubai

The ultimate guide to the best water parks in dubai, dubai parks and resorts: info, tickets & offers, dubai garden glow: useful tips, tickets & offers, outdoor activities in dubai, camping in dubai: best places to stay in the desert, ride a camel in dubai: 3 amazing safaris and trekking to do, practical information, best time to go.

The best time is from November to March, because the temperatures are milder (around 20-30 °C). The hottest month is August and temperatures can be higher than 40 °C.

Language and Religion

The official language is Arabic. However English is widely spoken in all tourist facilities, in shops, on transport and on guided tours. UAE is a Muslim country.

Electricity and Sockets

In Dubai the electrical voltage is 220 V AC at 50 Hz. British-style three-pin sockets (type G and D) are the standard. Remember to bring a universal travel adapter with you.

The official currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It is possible to withdraw directly from ATMs that are widespread in the major cities.

Day Trips from Dubai

The wonderful sheikh zayed white mosque, a day at the ferrari world theme park in abu dhabi, scuba diving o snorkeling experience in fujairah, hatta: mountains and lakes on the oman border, al ain: discover the most authentic side of the uae, liwa hotels & resorts: stay in a fabulous oasis in the desert, best places to stay in dubai, hotels with burj khalifa view, dubai airport hotels in & around dbx, villas with private pool in dubai, more things to do in dubai, visit dubai at night, dubai abra boat ride, dubai new year's eve, the green planet dubai, dubai spice souk, museum of the future dubai, camel races in dubai, aura skypool dubai, dubai quranic park, ski indoor at ski dubai, dubai hot air balloon, qe2 ship hotel in dubai, last exit dubai food trucks, time out market dubai, love lake dubai, trampoline parks in dubai, splash park & splash pad, deep dive dubai.

Like a local | 17 Dubai travel hacks for first-timers

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Travel Tips And Hacks Dubai

Not so long ago, UAE barely surfaced in bucket lists for globe trotters. Within a matter of decades, the middle-eastern country has given the world not one, but two of the most luxurious destinations for a vacation. Currently, Dubai happens to be one of the most popular haunts for all kinds of travelers. The city has done a commendable job in developing the city to fit the tastes and preferences of people belong to any demographic. As such, you may require a little help to curate your trip to your liking. Read our guide below find useful hacks and money-saving tips for your trip to Dubai.

Dubai Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Dubai.

Language Arabic

Time zone GMT+4

Country Code +971

Socket Type C, D and G

Currency AED

Best Time To Visit Dubai

There are a number of factors that need to be considered before deciding on a time to visit Dubai. If there is one thing that is not ideal in Dubai, it is the weather. Summer in Dubai spans from May to September and sees extremely hot weather. Winter sees better weather but also experiences a sharp spike in the tourist footfall. If you had to pin it down to specific months of the year, February and November are the best times to visit Dubai. However, it must be noted that Dubai is never completely devoid of tourists. Here is a complete guide on the Best Time to Visit Dubai .

Dubai Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank me later!

#1 Grab a Go Dubai Card with no second thoughts

The Go Dubai Card is the smartest investment you can make upon reaching Dubai. This card allows you to save on the admission rates to many of Dubai’s top attractions. The card currently includes access to the top of Burj Khalifa, Dubai sightseeing tours, and many other activities that would otherwise cost you dearly.

Read all about creating a money-saving itinerary using the Go Dubai Card

#2 Let your belongings be

Dubai is one of the safest cities to be in. The government administers the city with an iron fist and as such, the rate of crime is negligible. So you can stop worrying about your belongings and enjoy the sights and attractions of the city.

#3 Know the Dubai Airport well

Fittingly, the Dubai International Airport is huge in every sense of the term. It will take you quite some time to get from one part of the airport to the other. Do not plan any activities immediately after arriving. Also, leave for the airport well in advance to board your flight.

Here's all you need to know about Airport transfers in Dubai .

#4 Dubai's not as conservative as you think

You may have heard horrific stories of foreigners being locked up for PDA, public inebriation and homosexuality. All that said, Dubai is way more liberal than most Islamic countries. There are no concrete laws in Dubai that forbid anybody from wearing any kind of clothes but being a country with conservative values, it is preferable and respectful to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. The nightlife is quite happening and you'll find expats and tourists drinking and canoodling in the many bars and clubs in the city. There's even a healthy gay community in Dubai! As long as you steer clear of cultural insensitivities, you're good to go in Dubai.

The ONLY guide you need to explore the best of Dubai

#5 make inquiries about your medications.

There are some substances that may be legal in your country but are forbidden in the UAE. Most notable amongst them are medicines containing codeine or opiate ingredients. Visit your doctor beforehand to know the composition of your medications and change your prescription if required.

#6 Limit your liquor to bars & indoors

UAE being an Islamic nation follows the decrees dictated by the religion quite closely. Alcohol is not permitted outside the licensed restaurants and bars. You cannot be seen inebriated in public. A wide variety of drugs are also illegal in Dubai and their use is a punishable offense. Even electronic cigarettes are confiscated upon arrival.

#7 Check the calendar for Islamic events

During Islamic holidays like Eid, Ramazan etc, most happenings in the city are slim and limited. This may also affect the transport system within the city. In special cases, like during the holy month of Ramadan, food and beverage are not available before sunset. Plan your trip and daily sightseeing with these in mind.

#8 Don't forget to check out the Spas

Image Courtesy : Jumeirah

Not many people know Dubai for its spas, but once you go to one of the city’s spas, you will know why this point exists. The luxury hotels of Dubai have these spas that will change your opinion of spas forever. You can give the beauty clinics in the malls a miss.

Check out the top rated spas in Dubai

#9 Malls have a lot more than just shops in Dubai

While malls are mostly earmarked as a place to grab some food and shop, Dubai’s malls are way beyond this limited identity. Most malls have fun activities like gaming zones, ski slopes, aquariums or something that is definitely worth sticking around for. Moreover, if you thought that shopping at a Dubai mall would be a routine experience, you are wrong.

Here's all that you can do in Dubai Mall with this all access Dubai Big Ticket .

#10 Shed your inhibitions when eating out

Possibly the biggest issue that most people face when traveling to another country for the first time is getting accustomed to the food. In Dubai, being conservative when picking your food can only mean that you are losing out. Apart from the delicious local dishes, the city also serves Iranian, Filipino, Yemeni, Bangladeshi, Ethiopian, Pakistani, Afghan food to name a few.

Top 23 Instagrammable Places in Dubai

#11 here's one for the shopaholics.

If shopping is your primary agenda in Dubai, plan your visit during the Dubai Shopping Festival (January) or Dubai Summer Surprises (July) for the best deals and heftiest discounts. Name it and you'll find it on sale during these months.

Read our complete guide to Dubai Shopping Festival and plan your shopping expedition better!

#12 Weekends in Dubai start on Friday

While the rest of the world powers through Monday blues, those in Dubai have Sunday blues. This is because weekends in Dubai are Friday & Saturday, with the weekday resuming on Sunday. So shift your sunday brunch plans to Friday brunch plans because that is how this part of the world works.

#13 Dubai's not a city for walking

Those who love exploring a city on foot will be disappointed because this is one city that is explored better in a car. For starters, the heat is unbearable and secondly, the city is not designed for pedestrians. While it is pedestrian friendly, you probably won't feel safe walking on a footpath flanked by cars swooshing past 120km/hr. The only places you'll feel safe and comfortable walking are the malls which make up for the lack of footpaths!

#14 Should you tip?

Tipping isn’t norm in Dubai, but it is a common practice. Taxi drivers don’t expect to receive a tip, but luggage carriers and supermarket baggers are given a small tip for their services by most locals.

#15 Nightlife in Dubai is actually LIT

While most people may be apprehensive about Dubai's nightlife, you must know that Dubai's nightlife is vibrant and happening with a top-notch choice of bars, nightclubs and restaurants to lounge in and party. Parties often go on till 3:00 AM, so put on your best heels and party the night away while in Dubai. Yacht cruises in Dubai are also a great way to drink, dine and party; a common extravagance among locals.

Check out these clubs for the most happening nightlife in Dubai .

#16 Discover Dubai beyond the skyscrapers

Dubai has a rich history, and the city's culture is absolutely fascinating if you scratch beneath all that gold. Make your way to the spice and gold souqs that fringe the Dubai Creek and haggle your way through turquoise trinkets from Iran, spices from Morocco and silver from Oman. Gold prices in Dubai are relatively cheaper, hence the gold souq is a great place to spend some big money if you're interested in buying some.

#17 Camel Races are a treat

Image Courtesy : Timeout Dubai

Camel racing is not so common in most parts of the world, but it Dubai's favourite sport and a real treat for one who has never seen camels racing before. Did you know there are no actual jockeys on these camels, but rather small robots that sit on top of the animals and are controlled by someone nearby!!! The camel-racing tracks are massive that you can barely see the participants from your grandstand perch, but this one makes for a great experience.

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In Dubai

• Book your flight tickets to Dubai tickets well in advance to get the best prices. Not to forget, searching for flights on incognito is a good tactic to avoid cookies marking up prices based on your previous searches.
• Take a flight to Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai as the flight rates to Abu Dhabi are cheaper. Direct buses are available from Abu dhabi to Dubai and you'll reach in less than 1.5 hours.
• Grab a NOL Travel Card soon after reaching Dubai as cash is not accepted on most public transport modes, except cabs. NOL Card also saves some money as it is a unified payment mode valid over a long period of time. Check out this steal combo - Dubai NOL Metro Card + SIM Card
• Metro is the cheapest and the fastest way of traveling through the city with tickets starting from AED 4.
• Buses are pricier than metros and take longer, but they have better connectivity.
• Refrain from using cabs in Dubai as they are extremely expensive and can run up your costs.
• Use the ferries to traverse through the Dubai Marina. This mode of transport adds an element of sightseeing to the experience, especially after sundown.
• Taking an abra ride across the Dubai Creek is a great way to experience the city's historic mode of transport. A one-way ticket per person costs only AED 50, economical and exciting!

Tips for Saving Money on Food in Dubai

• After you've had your fill with the high-end bougie restaurants in Dubai, walk into the bustling alleys and devour a plate of shawarma and kebab. Not only is it cheaper, it promises an explosion of flavours and authenticity.
• Ordering takeout in Dubai is not an expensive affair. The online delivery market leaders are UberEats, Zomato delivery and Talabat so feel free to laze at home and order in food at no extra costs( except a nominal delivery fee)
• One of the cheapest and most delicious options for food available in Dubai is shawarma. It is available with different types of meat ( and vegetarian option of Falafel) and makes for a filling meal.
• Choose Dubai packaged tours from Headout that offer a bundled meal option to save some more money on your trip.

More Tips To Save Money In Dubai

• Use online coupons for meals and other deals to save a considerable amount on the actual rate. Zomato Gold, Groupon, Headout Offers are a few you must consider.
• Choose a hotel close to a metro stop so that you can avail the cheapest and the fastest mode of transport in Dubai.
• Use the city’s couch-surfing community to save on accommodations.
• Skip drinking at restaurants and bars outside the happy hours as the normal price of alcohol at bars and restaurants are exorbitantly higher than the actual selling price.
• If you're staying in Dubai for longer than 3 days, a service apartment or Airbnb works out to be cheaper than a hotel. That way you can even cook your own food and save the hefty service charges that hotels levy.
• Use the Smart Palms that can be found in the streets of Dubai. These artificial structures that look like palm trees have charging ports and provide free WiFi.

Top Things To Do in Dubai

With your itinerary all sorted, here are our top favourites in Dubai. If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in! There are a few recommended tours for each attraction, so if you haven't grabbed tickets as yet, now would be a great time.

1 Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, one of the most recognized sights in the world, is located in the center of Dubai. With a height of 2,717 feet and 162 floors, this architectural marvel holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest building in the world. Visitors may go all the way to the top of this engineering wonder and gaze upon the stunning views below.

2 Dubai Frame

The Frame of Dubai, a stunning architectural marvel with two towers and a 93m long bridge linking them at the top, contains a void in the center rising from Dubai's Zabeel Park. The Frame of Dubai was built to "frame" Dubai's transition from a simple fishing village to the gleaming cosmopolitan metropolis it is today.

3 Ski Dubai

Avoid the heat of Dubai by going skiing in UAE's winter wonderland, Ski Dubai! The first indoor ski resort in the Middle East is located at the Mall of the Emirates. Ski Dubai has a 22,500-square-meter covered area with real snow all year that may be visited.

4 Dubai Desert Safari

The most fascinating of these excursions is the Dubai desert safari. After all, what can be more thrilling than a 4x4 vehicle journey into the adjacent desert? Dune bashing, fat bike riding, four-wheeling, and sand boarding are just a few of the interesting activities that make up a typical Dubai desert safari.

5 Dubai Dhow Cruise

Dhow cruises are famous for their unusual sightseeing and dining experiences, as they cruise the waterways of Dubai Creek and the contemporary Dubai Marina. Sailing past prominent monuments while enjoying a delicious meal is an experience you will never forget.

6 Aquaventure Waterpark

The Atlantis, The Palm Resort is located on the outer ring of the famed Palm Islands. The Aquaventure Waterpark, which is located within its borders, is the largest waterpark in all of the Middle East and Europe. Experience record-breaking water rides and slides, swim with sharks and rays, or simply relax on beautiful beaches while visiting an underwater world.

7 Ferrari World

Ferrari World Dubai is an indoor theme park located in the United Arab Emirates. The park is operated by Meraas Holding and features rides, attractions and shows based on the Ferrari brand.The park opened to the public on 4 November 2016. It is located on Yas Island, which also houses Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Marina Circuit.

8 Wild Wadi Water Park

The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the world's best water parks, including thrilling slides, one-of-a-kind rides, and relaxing rivers. While selecting a favorite may be difficult, Wild Wadi stands out for many people.

9 Yas Waterworld

Yas Waterworld quickly rose to become one of the world's top 10 water parks. It is one of Abu Dhabi's favorite activities and serves as one of the Middle East's largest water parks with a 37-acre footprint.

10 XLine Dubai Marina

The Xline Dubai Marina Zip Line is a thrilling journey that combines speed with a breathtaking view. Get on board and enjoy the rush as you plummet over 80 feet from the Amwaj Towers, across the Marina, and straight into the Dubai Marina Mall. Ride alone or with someone special in this one-of-a-kind zip-line adventure.

How long should I stay in Dubai to make the best of my visit?

Depending on the kind of things you want to do and your budget, anywhere from 3 days to 7 days makes for an ideal time to explore the city. You can check out our carefully curated 3 day Dubai itinerary and 7 day Dubai itinerary .

What are the things I should avoid doing in Dubai?

Some of the things you must definitely avoid in Dubai are cross-dressing, drinking in public, bringing pork into the country, public display of affection and eating in public during the month of Ramadan. For a more exhaustive list of things that you must avoid in Dubai, head here .

Can I drink the tap water in Dubai?

Tap water in the UAE has been rated safe to drink but only as long as tanks and pipes storing and bringing water to the home are clean and in good condition. However, bottled mineral water is better preferred over tap water.

Is there anyway I can budget my Dubai trip?

You can foresee the average costs for your Dubai trip by using the budgetyourtrip tool.

How much is the customary tip in Dubai?

While most restaurants add service charge on the final bill, it is still common among most diners in Dubai to tip the service staff. A figure between 10 - 15% is customary, but this is dependent on the quality of service.

Can I hail an Uber in Dubai?

Yes! You can hail an Uber in Dubai or use the official city taxis (Dubai Taxis Corporation). Taxis fares in Dubai are cheap when compared to western cities and drivers are known to be courteous with reasonable English. The best way to know the fare for the official city taxis would be to download the DTC app and type in your origin and destination .

Is Dubai safe for solo women travelers?

Dubai is one of the safest places to travel in the world, and naturally safe for solo women travelers as well. A majority of the places are well lit after dark and police patrolling is well in place. Here's a quick guide to traveling solo in Dubai that will answer all your questions!

What are the video calling services allowed in Dubai?

All Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Whatsapp, Viber, Skype and FaceTime that allow free calling via an internet connection, are banned in the UAE. Note, their messaging platforms are permissible.

Botim is the only VoIP service that is legal in Dubai. It is a paid service and is integrated with your SIM card. It costs AED 50/Month and provides unlimited voice and video calls. To know more about Botim head here .

Do tourists need alcohol license Dubai? 

Tourists to Dubai can buy their liquor at any of the 17 designated outlets of Mercantile and Marketing International (MMI), an authorized retailer of alcohol and issuer of liquor licenses to residents as well. This 30-day license is issued to tourists free of cost and only requires one to sign a form affirming their tourist status and an acknowledgment undertaking of the rules and regulations with regards to purchasing, transporting and consumption of alcohol in Dubai.

Know more about the Tourist alcohol license here .

See more Dubai. Save more money.

Save AED 20 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code GODUBAI .

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

Dubai   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Basith Rahman Rahman | EyeEm

Why Go To Dubai

Dubai and  Las Vegas  have a lot in common. Both cities share a love for the fantastical, with skylines that shine like beacons against barren desert backdrops. People from all over the world flock to these shimmering oases with the same goal: to play hard. But as a vacation spot, Dubai easily trumps ol' Sin City thanks to its gorgeous cream-colored Persian Gulf shoreline, international culinary scene and larger-than-life attractions . And the city's still growing; plans are underway for something bigger and better. At one point, it was estimated that a quarter of the world's construction cranes could be found here. If that's any sign, even the sky may not be able to limit Dubai's growth. 

Dubai is a city of superlatives, home to the world's tallest tower, one of the world's largest shopping malls , and one of the world's largest man-made marinas… but on a smaller scale, this emirate is still tied to its days as a modest port town. Traditional wooden  abras  (boats) float past motorboats on Dubai Creek, the natural sands of  Jumeirah Public Beach  fringe the carefully sculpted Palm Islands, and the bustling  Gold and Spice Souks  (marketplaces) thrive amid the larger-than-life Dubai Mall. Despite constantly looking to the future, this city isn't quick to let go of its past. It's this dynamic that not only put Dubai on the tourist map but will also keep it there.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 10 in Best Places to Visit in January 2024
• # 18 in Best Cities in the World to Visit
• # 21 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

Best of Dubai

Best hotels in dubai.

• in Jumeirah Al Qasr - Madinat Jumeirah
• in Raffles Dubai
• in Jumeirah Mina A'Salam - Madinat Jumeirah

Best Things to Do in Dubai

• # 1 in Burj Al Arab
• # 2 in Dubai Mall
• # 3 in Jumeirah Mosque

Popular Tours

Burj Khalifa Ticket with The Cafe Treat

(46 reviews)

from $ 83.74

Dubai Red Dunes ATV, Camels, Stargazing & 5* BBQ Al Khayma Camp

(16357 reviews)

from $ 85.60

Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & BBQ Options

(6140 reviews)

from $ 40.84

Dubai Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. Weather-wise, Dubai really only experiences two seasons: hot and hotter. During the winter months, the city sees blue skies and primo beach weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect plenty of company on  Jumeirah Beach . You can escape the crowds if you visit during the summer months, but be prepared for triple-digit temps and high humidity levels

Weather in Dubai

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You'll feel safe here  Dubai is unaffected by the turmoil taking place in other parts of the Middle East. The city's population stems from countries across the globe, and everyone coexists peacefully.

What not to wear  Nearly 60 percent of Dubai's residents are practicing Muslims, which means that you'll find conservative attire to be the norm. Avoid wearing anything too revealing.

Too much sun can be a bad thing  Dubai's visitors often fall in love with the city's warm, sunny climate. However, it can get really hot, and there aren't a lot of shady places in the middle of the desert. Lather on sunscreen, drink plenty of water and wear a hat.

How to Save Money in Dubai

Plan in advance  A trip to Dubai will be expensive. But you'll have a better chance at snagging a lower room rate if you make your hotel reservations two to three months in advance.

Visit in the summer  Most travelers can't take the heat during this season, leaving little competition for desirable room rates.

Stay sober  Alcohol is rarely served outside of restaurants and bars, where prices are about as high as the  Burj Khalifa . You'll save big bucks if you skip the drinks.

Culture & Customs

Dubai stands as one of seven states (or "Emirates") that make up the United Arab Emirates; the other six are Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain. Each emirate is governed by a sheikh, or Arabic ruler. The sheikh of Abu Dhabi acts as president of the Federal Supreme Council (both the UAE's legislative and executive body), while the sheikh of Dubai fills the role of vice president. Although Abu Dhabi serves as the official capital of the UAE, Dubai has long been the emirates' commercial and financial hub.

But Dubai wasn't always the economic powerhouse it is today. Before oil was discovered in the mid-1960s, Dubai's economy relied solely on fishing and a moderately successful pearl industry. But once oil became a point of trade about 10 years after its discovery, the economy soared, and continues to do so. The current UAE vice president of and prime minister and Dubai Sheikh, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is strongly invested in the city's growth and status as a tourist hot spot.

The emirate's role as a commercial heavyweight attracts expats from around world. Dubai's population features citizens of 200 different nationalities, and each has left its own imprint on daily life. However, the dominant religion here is Islam, and Muslim culture greatly impacts Dubai's society. As a result, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly here – that means no exposed chests, thighs or midriffs – and alcohol is not commonly found outside of international hotels and restaurants. Those who visit during Ramadan (the Islamic month of fasting) are encouraged to refrain from eating or drinking in public places.

Despite its size, Dubai has earned a reputation as being one of the safest places in the Middle East. The UAE remains removed from the political and religious conflicts taking place in other parts of the Middle East. Women visiting Dubai should also feel safe to move about freely. However, women are often taken aback by Emiratis' tendency to stare; note that these gazes are most likely out of curiosity, not rudeness. 

Although the official language is Arabic, Dubai's trade history and booming tourism market means that almost everyone speaks English. American travelers can also rejoice in the fact that most major credit cards are accepted at stores, hotels and restaurants. For those paying in cash, the official currency here is the Emirati dirham (AED), which is equal to roughly $0.27. Check what the current exchange rate is before you arrive and have cash on hand when visiting Dubai's traditional  souks   (markets).

What to Eat

Emirati food, the principal cuisine in Dubai, is all about one thing: spice. Put down the salt and pepper; in Dubai, all the flavor you'll ever need is already sprinkled into the dish from a wider variety of seasonings, few of which you may not be familiar (Is za'atar in your spice cabinet? What about cardamom?). There are so many interesting and exotic dishes to sample in Dubai, the best way to navigate its rich culinary landscape is by starting with the basics.  

Al machboos is the Emirati's staple dish – think what red beans and rice are to New Orleans – and something you can't skip on your tasting tour of the Emirates. A favorite in the home and at restaurants, al machboos appears to be a simple dish – your choice of meat topped with rice – but packs a big punch flavor-wise, because it's seasoned with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, dried lemon and yellow raisins. Thanks to Dubai's location along the coast, fish is plentiful and widely used as the choice of meat in hardy dishes. M'hammar will satisfy any seafood lover's craving for the taste of the Arabian Peninsula, prepared with locally caught fish and served with sweet yellow rice, caramelized onions and of course, a host of spices. Believe it or not, camel is widely available throughout Dubai, but is typically served on special occasions and often considered a food eaten among VIPs. 

Other traditional fare to look out for are chebab, Emirati pancakes infused with saffron and cardamom and topped with yogurt and date syrup; khameer bread, which is stuffed with sweet or savory fillings, and kunafa, the Middle Eastern take on a cheese Danish. Arabic coffee is an experience in itself, especially for those who often take theirs with only cream and sugar. This coffee features regional lightly roasted beans mixed with saffron and cardamom. The ingredients are ground, boiled then strained and served in small cups. Don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth here either. Emiratis love their desserts. The most traditional is luqaimat, which is batter deep fried in ghee and served with local date syrup (think doughnut holes with a Middle Eastern twist). Another classic dish is balaleet, which features sweet vermicelli noodles with raisins, saffron, cardamom and other spices. And if you're visiting during Ramadan, try Assidat al-Boubar, a pumpkin pudding made with rosewater that's widely served after the fast is broken. 

A huge part of what has shaped Dubai's food landscape is the melting pot of cultures (more than 200 nationalities) that share the city. Aside from Emirati establishments, you'll find restaurants serving everything from classic French fare to dim sum. If you want flash, definitely go to one of the Burj Al Arab 's restaurants. There's also  La Petite Maison , a Michelin star-rated French import that sits near the Four Seasons. For beloved (and cheaper) casual eateries, head over to Al Samadi Sweets for Lebanese and Arabic dessert, or kick back and relax at  Seven Sands, the oceanfront restaurant at Jumeirah Beach Residence. For more information about where to eat, check out the Dubai tourism board's  website.

Getting Around Dubai

The best way to get around Dubai is by taxi or by metro. Although prices are high across the board in Dubai, a taxi here or there won't break the bank. Plus, they provide the freedom to move at your own pace without the hassle of navigating traffic. Dubai's metro system transports passengers to major areas of interest, including  Burj Khalifa  and the Dubai International Airport (DXB). The airport is about 10 miles from downtown Dubai. You can also rent a car at the airport, but be forewarned: driving here is not for the faint-hearted.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans visiting the United Arab Emirates must have an official U.S. passport that is valid for at least six months following your arrival date. Travelers must also possess a return ticket or other proof that they will be leaving the UAE within that 30-day timeframe. For visits exceeding 30 days, travelers must obtain a tourist visa prior to departure. Americans exiting the UAE by land transportation will be subject to departure fee of 35 dirhams (about $9.60), payable only in local currency. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website .

Once a small fishing town, Dubai has developed significantly since it struck gold in the oil business. Today, the city is dotted with impressive skyscrapers but still features old towns throughout. 

Explore More of Dubai

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 1 in  Best Party Cities in the U.S.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

• Attractions and Landmarks
• Food and Wine
• Restaurants

Dreaming of your next trip?

I agree to the Forbes Travel Guide Privacy Policy , Terms , and Cookie Policy . I understand I can withdraw my consent at any time.

Sign up for our newsletter

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Middle East
• United Arab Emirates
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Brigitte – Netherlands

The tour was fantastic. Especially the mosque was the big highlighter of the tour.Our tourguide Ashraf did a great job.

Dubai is like nowhere else on the planet and is a fascinating place to visit. Often claimed to be the world’s fastest-growing city, over the past four decades it has metamorphosed from a small Gulf trading centre to become one of the world’s most glamorous, spectacular and futuristic urban destinations, fuelled by a heady cocktail of petrodollars, visionary commercial acumen and naked ambition. Visit Dubai for a week or just a short stopover, and you’ll be blown away by the clash of cultures, extreme luxury and world famous architecture. Find out what this unique city has to offer with the best travel guide to Dubai.

Things to see in Dubai

Where to stay in dubai, 7 best places in dubai, best time to travel to dubai, how to get to dubai, entry requirements, the inner suburbs, the arabian dhow, construction, festival city, ras al khor, tailor-made travel itineraries for united arab emirates, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1138 USD

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: a Glimpse of the Future

As the fastest-growing city in the world, Dubai is always looking towards the future. Even for those who have visited before, this unique trip will reveal something new about this vast megacity.

10 days  / from 3087 USD

Magnificent Emirates

Experience the best of the UAE, from unexpected cultural discoveries to modern high-rises and mega malls. Be surprised by spectacular mountain scenery, vast, rolling dunes, desert oases and a sparkling Arabian Sea. Then simply tie it all in with laid-back beaches, fine dining and world-class hotels.

4 days  / from 990 USD

Dubai Family Stopover

Make a luxury stopover with all the family in gorgeous, glam Dubai for a spot of lazing on the beach and luxurious relaxation. Get the adrenaline racing in Wild Wadi Water Park and on an action-packed desert safari, boat rides along the creek and more.

Dubai’s ability to dream (and then achieve) the impossible has ripped up expectations and rewritten the record books, as evidenced by stunning developments such as the soaring Burj Khalifa , the beautiful Burj al Arab and the vast Palm Jumeirah island – a testament to the ruling sheikhs’ determination to make the city one of the world’s essential travel destinations for the twenty-first century. Yellow boats will take you to see the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj al Arab and the Marina on a single trip.

Modern Dubai is frequently seen as a panegyric to consumerist luxury: a self-indulgent haven of magical hotels, superlative restaurants and extravagantly themed shopping malls. Perhaps not surprisingly, the city is often stereotyped as a vacuous consumerist fleshpot, appealing only to those with more cash than culture, although this one-eyed cliché does absolutely no justice to Dubai’s beguiling contrasts and rich cultural make-up. The city’s headline-grabbing mega-projects have also deflected attention from Dubai’s role in providing the Islamic world with a model of political stability and religious tolerance, showing what can be achieved by a peaceful and progressive regime in one of the planet’s most troubled regions.

For the visitor, there’s far more to Dubai than designer boutiques and five-star hotels – although of course if all you’re looking for is a luxurious dose of sun, sand and shopping , the city takes some beating. If you want to step beyond the tourist clichés, however, you’ll find that Dubai has much more to offer than you might think, ranging from the fascinating old city centre, with its higgledy-piggledy labyrinth of bustling souks interspersed with fine old traditional Arabian houses, to the memorably quirky postmodern architectural skylines of the southern parts of the city. There's a vast array of diversions for children, too. Dubai Ice Rink offers a range of open-to-all public sessions, the aquarium is wonderful and iFly Dubai allows you to don a flying suit and take to the air.

Dubai’s human geography is no less memorable, featuring a cosmopolitan assortment of Emiratis, Arabs, Iranians, Indians, Filipinos and Europeans – a fascinating patchwork of peoples and languages that gives the city its uniquely varied cultural appeal. The credit crunch may have pushed Dubai to the verge of bankruptcy but pronouncements of its imminent demise proved wildly premature, and the city remains one of the twenty-first century’s most fascinating and vibrant urban experiments in progress. Visit Dubai now to see history, literally, in the making.

Beyond Dubai, there's endless expanses of desert to explore. Go dune-bashing in an off-road vehicle, or try your hand at sand-skiing. You can even book onto a Desert Safari , with BBQ, falconry, a camel ride and sandboarding all included.

Dubai has a vast range of accommodation, much of it aimed squarely at big spenders. There's also a decent selection of mid-range places, although nothing for real budget travellers.

At the top end of the market, the city has some of the most stunning hotels on the planet, from the futuristic Burj al Arab to traditional Arabian-themed palaces such as Al Qasr and the One&Only Royal Mirage. When it comes to creature comforts, all of Dubai’s top hotels do outrageous luxury as standard, with sumptuous suites, indulgent spa treatments, spectacular bars and gorgeous private beaches. The size and style of the very best places makes them virtually tourist attractions in their own right – self-contained islands of indulgence in which it’s possible to spend day after day without ever feeling the need to leave.

Madinat Jumeirah

Astounding mock-Arabian city, home to a string of lavish hotels and leisure facilities – the quintessential Dubaian example of opulent kitsch on an epic scale.

Deira Souks

At the heart of old Dubai, the district of Deira comprises an atmospheric tangle of bazaars, ranging from the Gold Souk’s glittering shop windows to the aromatic alleyways of the Spice Souk.

Dhow Wharfage

Home to hundreds of superb Arabian dhows moored up along the Deira creekside – one of central Dubai’s most incongruous but magical sights.

Al Ain Oasis

An idyllic retreat from the heat and dust of contemporary Al Ain, with peaceful little pedestrianized lanes running through shady plantations of luxuriant date palms.

Jumeirah Mosque

Dubai’s most beautiful mosque – open to visitors during informative guided tours.

One of the city’s best-preserved heritage areas, with a fascinating little labyrinth of old houses topped by innumerable wind towers.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Kitsch and eye-poppingly extravagant, this mile-long mall takes its inspiration from the journeys of Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta.

The best time to visit Dubai is in the cooler winter months from December through to February, when the city enjoys a pleasantly Mediterranean climate, with average daily temperatures in the mid-20s °C. Not surprisingly, room rates (and demand) are at their peak during these months, though skies in January and February can sometimes be rather overcast, and it can even be surprisingly wet at times. Temperatures rise significantly from March through to April and in October and November, when the thermometer regularly nudges up into the 30s, though the heat is still relatively bearable, and shouldn’t stop you getting out and about.

During the summer months from May to September the city boils – July and August are especially suffocating – with average temperatures in the high 30s to low 40s (and frequently higher). Although the heat is intense (even after dark), room rates at most of the top hotels plummet by as much as 75 percent, making this an excellent time to enjoy some authentic Dubaian luxury at relatively affordable prices, so long as you don’t mind spending most of your time hopping between air-conditioned hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and clubs.

Dubai is the Middle East’s largest airline hub, boasting excellent connections worldwide with the city’s own Emirates airline and other international carriers. These include numerous direct flights to various destinations in the UK, plus a number of places in the US and Australia.

Other options for getting to Dubai are contrastingly limited (for Western visitors, at least). It’s possible to travel overland into the UAE from several points in neighbouring Oman, but not Saudi Arabia. There are no regular ferry services to Dubai, although the city is a popular stop on many cruise itineraries. Click here to read more about how to get to Dubai.

Nationals of the UK, Ireland and most other Western European countries, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are issued a free thirty-day visa on arrival. Always check visa requirements direct with your UAE embassy or consulate as this information is subject to change. You’ll need a passport that will be valid for at least six months after the date of entry. Having an Israeli stamp in your passport shouldn’t be a problem. This visa can be extended for a further thirty days at a cost of 620dh by visiting the Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (DNRD), next to Bur Dubai Police Station, close to Al Jafiliya metro station (Sun–Wed 7.30am–7.30pm; T 04 313 9999 or T 800 5111, W dnrd.ae ). Click here for more Dubai travel essentials.

This page contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image © Shutterstock

Fringing the southern and eastern edges of the city centre – and separating it from the more modern areas beyond – is a necklace of low-key suburbs: Garhoud, Oud Metha, Karama and Satwa. Southeast of Deira, workaday Garhoud is home to the Dubai Creek Golf Club , with its famously futuristic clubhouse, and the adjacent yacht club, where you’ll find a string of attractive waterside restaurants alongside the lovely Park Hyatt hotel. Directly over the Creek, Oud Metha is home to the quirky Wafi complex and the lavish Khan Murjan Souk , while west of here the enjoyably downmarket suburbs of Karama and Satwa are both interesting places to get off the tourist trail and see something of local life among the city’s Indian and Filipino expats, with plenty of cheap curry houses and shops selling designer fakes.

A handful of additional attractions can be found slightly further afield. Just beyond Oud Metha the suburb of Jaddaf is home to the city’s last surviving traditional dhow-building yard , while over the Creek rises the shiny new Festival City development. A few kilometres further along the Creek, the Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary protects a rare surviving patch of undeveloped wetland, home to colourful flocks of flamingo, while a short drive southwest from here brings you to the spectacular Meydan Racecourse , home to the Dubai Cup, the world’s richest horse race.

The inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula were among the greatest seafarers of medieval times, using innovative shipbuilding techniques and navigational instruments to establish extensive maritime trading connections. Early Arab traders established outposts as far afield as India, Sri Lanka and East Africa, and the legacy of these early adventurers can still be seen in the religious and cultural heritage of places like Lamu in Kenya and Zanzibar in Tanzania, where the distinctive form of the lateen-sailed Arabian dhow survives to this day.

The word “dhow” itself is simply a generic name used to apply to all boats of Arabian design. Classic designs include the sambuq , a sizeable ocean-going vessel incorporating Indian and European features, including a square stern which is thought to have been influenced by old Portuguese galleons (traditional Arabian dhows are tapered at both ends), and the boom , another large seafaring dhow. Other smaller dhows still in use around the Gulf include the shu’ai and the jalibut , both formerly used for trading, pearling and fishing, as well as the abra , hundreds of which still ply the Creek today.

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the traditional dhow was its so-called stitched construction – planks, usually of teak, were literally “sewn” together using coconut rope. Nails were increasingly used after European ships began to visit the region, although stitched boats were made right up until World War II. Traditional dhows are also unusual in being built “outside-in”, with exterior planking being nailed together before the internal framework is added (the exact opposite of European boat-building techniques).

The traditional dhow’s most visually notable feature was its distinctive triangular lateen sails, which allows boats to sail closer to the wind when travelling against the monsoon breezes. These have now disappeared on commercial vessels around the Gulf following the introduction of engines, though they can still be seen on local racing dhows.

Traditional wooden dhows still play an important part in the local economy, and continue to prove an efficient and cost-effective way of shipping goods around the Gulf and, particularly, over to Iran – as well as finding a new lease of life as tourist pleasure boats. There are still a number of traditional dhow-building yards around the UAE: in Dubai at Jaddaf, and in the neighbouring emirates of Ajman, Umm al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah, although the incredibly labour-intensive production costs and a gradual loss of the traditional skills required in dhow-construction (local boat-builders are famed for their ability to work without plans, building entirely by eye and experience) may eventually drive old-style dhow-building into extinction.

Facing Jaddaf on the opposite side of the Creek, Festival City is one of Dubai’s newest and largest purpose-built neighbourhoods – a self-contained city within a city, complete with villas and apartments, offices, golf course, marina, shopping mall and a pair of swanky five-star hotels.

Centrepiece of the development is the bright Festival Centre shopping mall. There’s nothing here that you won’t find (and generally done better) at other malls around the city, although the canalside cafés at the Creek end of the centre are pleasant enough, and there are also “sofa boats” for rent if you fancy a sedate turn around the waterways. Best of all are the sweeping views from the waterfront promenade (next to the mall and the adjacent Crowne Plaza and InterContinental hotels) over the Creek to the dhow-building yard at Jaddaf and the long line of skyscrapers beyond. The panorama is particularly fine towards dusk, when the sun sets behind the Burj Khalifa and towers along Sheikh Zayed Road, turning them a smoky grey, like the outline of some kind of surreal bar chart.

Covering the area between the airport and the Creek, the suburb of Garhoud is an interesting mishmash of up- and downmarket attractions. The Deira City Centre mall is the main draw for locals, eternally popular with an eclectic crowd running the gamut from Gulf Arabs and Russian bargain-hunters through to the many expat Indians and Filipinos who live in the down-at-heel suburbs on the far side of the airport.

On the southern edge of Oud Metha, the district of Jaddaf is home to the very last of Dubai’s traditional dhow-building yards , where you may be lucky enough to see craftsmen at work constructing these magnificent ocean-going vessels using carpentry skills which appear not to have changed for generations. The yards aren’t really set up for visitors and are essentially places of work, rather than tourist attractions, while there’s also a certain degree of pot luck involved depending on how many vessels are under construction at any given time – although the mainly Indian workforce are usually happy to chat to visitors and the yard owners don’t generally mind visitors having a look around.

Karama is the classic Dubai inner-city suburb, home to some of the legions of Indian, Pakistani and Filipino expatriate workers – waitresses, taxi drivers, builders and shopkeepers – who supply so much of the city’s labour. The district is centred on Kuwait Street and the bustling little Karama Centre , one of the city’s pokiest malls, with colourful little shops selling shalwar kameez and flouncy Indian-style jewellery. At the end of Kuwait Street lies the lively Karama Park , surrounded by cheap and cheery Indian restaurants and usually busy with a dozen simultaneous cricket matches after dark.

Just south of Karama Park is the district’s main tourist attraction, the Karama Souk , an unprepossessing concrete mall of hundreds of small shops stuffed full of fake designer clothes, watches, glasses, DVDs and other items (or “copy watches” and “copy bags” as the souk’s enthusiastic touts euphemistically describe them).

Around 4km south of Ras al Khor, the vast Meydan complex provides conclusive proof of the ruling Maktoum family’s passion – bordering on obsession – for all things equine. Centrepiece of the complex is the superb racecourse , opened in 2010 to replace the old track at nearby Nad al Sheba and provide a new and more fitting venue for the Dubai World Cup , the world’s richest horse race with a massive US$10 million in prize money. The complex also contains the usual fancy five-star hotel along with a few other buildings in a mixed residential and business development which is eventually intended to form a self-contained “city” along the lines of Festival City down the road.

Godolphin and the racing Maktoums

Ruler and architect of contemporary Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum is also celebrated in racing circles as one of today’s leading owners and breeders of thoroughbreds in his role as the founder of Godolphin , established in 1994 and now one of the world’s largest and most successful racing stables. Sheikh Mohammed’s love of horses runs deep: he is said to have shared his breakfast with his horse en route to school as a boy, to have competed in his first horse race aged 12, and to have been able to tame wild horses considered unrideable by others. His love of the turf dates back to his time as a student at Cambridge in England in the 1960s, and within a decade he and his brothers Hamdan and Ahmed all had horses in training at nearby Newmarket. The first of many Maktoum family triumphs came in 1982, when Hamdan’s Touching Wood won that year’s St Leger classic at Doncaster, followed up by Derby wins in 1989 and 1994.

Godolphin now have over 1500 horses in training across the globe and have won more than three thousand races in fourteen different countries, becoming one of the biggest buyers and breeders of racehorses on the planet, with a total investment in bloodstock, stud farms and various related properties now worth over US$2.45 billion. In 2013, they also had the less enviable distinction of finding themselves at the centre of what The Economist described as "the biggest doping scandal in racing history" when it was discovered that 22 horses at their Newmarket stables had been dosed with anabolic steroids by their head trainer, Mahmood al Zarooni. Al Zarooni was immediately dismissed and prompt action was taken to clear Godolphin's global reputation, and in 2014 the stables went on to enjoy easily their most successful year ever, with a staggering 361 wins worldwide.

Across the Creek from Garhoud, the rather formless suburb of Oud Metha is home to assorted malls, hotels and lowbrow leisure attractions, including the old-fashioned Lamcy Plaza and the even more old-fashioned Al Nasr Leisureland amusement park. Nearby, the serene Ismaili Centre sits amid attractive gardens on land donated by Sheikh Rashid in 1982. It’s one of Dubai’s most beautiful places of worship, combining hints of Morocco and Egypt in its elegantly understated architecture, although sadly entry is restricted to Ismaili–Muslims, so most visitors will be able to see only those parts of the building visible from the street.

Khan Murjan Souk

Hidden away between Wafi and Raffles , Khan Murjan Souk is one of Dubai’s finest “traditional” developments, allegedly modelled after the fabled fourteenth-century Khan Murjan Souk in Baghdad. The souk is divided into four sections – Egyptian, Syrian, Moroccan and Turkish (not that you can really tell the difference) – spread over two underground levels with a lovely outdoor restaurant at its centre and some 125 shops selling all manner of traditional wares. It’s a great (albeit pricey) place to shop, while the faux-Arabian decor is impressively done, with lavish detailing ranging from intricately carved wooden balconies to enormous Moroccan lanterns and colourful tilework. Of course, it’s all about as authentic as a Mulberry bag from Karama – indeed, if the city authorities are serious about clamping down on the local trade in fakes and forgeries, they could do worse than start here. Still, the whole thing has been done with such enormous panache and at, presumably, such enormous expense that it’s hard not to be at least a little bit impressed.

Wafi and Raffles

Oud Metha's leading attraction is the wacky Egyptian-themed Wafi complex, a little slice of Vegas in Dubai, dotted with assorted random obelisks, Pharaonic statues, random hieroglyphs and miniature pyramids, and with a good selection of shops and restaurants inside. The Egyptian theme is continued in the opulent Raffles hotel next door, built in the form of a vast pyramid complete with glass-capped summit – particularly spectacular when lit up after dark. The hotel is also exactly the same height (139m) as the Great Pyramid of Cheops at Giza in Egypt, which puts the incredible size of that ancient wonder of the world into remarkable perspective.

Some 5km southwest of Festival City, the Dubai Creek flows into Ras al Khor , an extensive inland lagoon dotted with mangroves and surrounded by intertidal salt and mud flats – a unique area of unspoilt nature close to the city centre. As its name, "Head of the Creek", suggests, Ras al Khor originally marked the end of Dubai's principal waterway, although the Creek has now been extended a further 7km or so all the way to Business Bay, with further works planned as part of the Dubai Canal project which will eventually take it all the way back to the sea at Jumeirah – meaning that by 2017 Ras al Khor will no longer be anywhere near the head of the Creek, but more like about halfway round.

Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

The southern end of the lagoon provides, for now at least, a home for the low-key Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, best known for its aquatic birdlife. The sanctuary is an important stopover on winter migratory routes from East Africa to West Asia, and almost seventy different species have been spotted here. It’s best known for the colourful flocks of bright pink flamingoes which nest here – one of Dubai’s most surreal sights when seen perched against the smoggy outlines of the city skyscrapers beyond. You can’t actually go into the sanctuary, but you can birdwatch from one of two hides on its edge. Signage for the hides is minimal and you’ll need a car to reach them, but don’t expect taxi drivers to know where they are. Free binoculars are provided, although the roar of the nearby motorways isn’t particularly conducive to the relaxed contemplation of nature. The two hides are Fantir (“Flamingo”) hide on the west side of the sanctuary, beside the Oud Metha road (E66) just north of the junction with the Hatta road (E44); and Gum (“Mangrove”) hide on the south side of the sanctuary, on the north side of the Hatta road – although to reach it from central Dubai you’ll need to do an annoying 8km loop to get back on the correct side of the highway.

The unpretentious district of Satwa is the southernmost of Dubai’s predominantly low-rise, low-income inner suburbs before you reach the giant skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road and the beginnings of the supersized modern city beyond. It’s also one of the few places in Dubai where the city’s different ethnic groups really rub shoulders, with its mix of Arab, Indian, Filipino and even a few European residents reflected in an unusually eclectic selection of places to eat, from cheap-and-cheerful curry houses to Lebanese shwarma cafés and Western fast-food joints.

At the centre of the district lies Satwa Roundabout , overlooked by the Chelsea Plaza hotel. The streets south of here are mainly occupied by Indian and Pakistani shops and cafés, including the well-known Ravi’s . West from the roundabout stretches Satwa’s principal thoroughfare, the tree-lined 2nd December Street (still widely referred to by its old name, Al Diyafah Street), one of the nicest in Dubai – and one of the few outside the city centre with any real street life – with wide pavements, dozens of cafés and restaurants and an interestingly cosmopolitan atmosphere. It all feels rather Mediterranean, especially after dark, when the cafés get going, the crowds come out, and young men in expensive cars start driving round and round the block in a vain effort to impress.

Discover more places in United Arab Emirates

The Rough Guides to United Arab Emirates and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover United Arab Emirates?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice
• Where to stay

• Dubai Downtown Hotels
• Jumeirah Beach Hotels
• Palm Jumeirah Hotels
• Dubai Marina Hotels
• La Mer Beach Hotels
• Dubai Airport Hotels
• Bur Dubai Hotels
• Deira Hotels

DubaI Activities

• Dubai Boat Tours
• City Tours & Safari
• Amusement Parks
• Water Activities
• Burj Khalifa
• Dubai Museum
• Global Village
• Miracle Garden
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
• Dubai Gold Souk
• Travel Guide

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

Go Wander Dubai Travel Guide

50% off (limited time offer).

Discover the best tips for travelling to Dubai.

Explore Dubai with our comprehensive travel guide, meticulously curated with categorized lists and must-see attractions. Our travel guide provides essential details on transportation, pre-travel preparations, and invaluable tips.

✅ FAST & INSTANT PDF DOWNLOAD TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE

✅ RECEIVE FREE LIFETIME UPDATES FOR THE TRAVEL GUIDE

Inside our travel guide you’ll find:

📝 Planning Your Trip – Practical travel tips

🚕 Getting Around Dubai – Best ways get around the city

🏙 Dubai Area Guide – Detailed coverage of the most popular areas

🛏 Accommodation – Breakdown of the best hotels by each area

🥙 Food & Drink – Best restaurants, bars and cafes in Dubai

🕌 Sightseeing – Highlights of things not to miss on your trip

🎡 Activities – An array of must things to do whilst in Dubai

🛍 Shopping – Best malls/areas where you can splash the cash

🏜 Out Of The City Trips – Bonus trips you can do outside Dubai

🚁 Recommended Itineraries – Time saving itinerary suggestions

SNIPPETS FROM THE DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE

✅ FAST & INSTANT PDF DOWNLOAD TO YOUR DEVICE

DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE SNIPPETS

• Hot Air Balloon Rides Dubai
• Helicopter Rides Dubai
• Ziplining Dubai
• Day Cruises Dubai
• Sightseeing Cruises Dubai
• Night Cruises Dubai
• Dinner Cruises Dubai
• Dhow Cruises Dubai
• City Tours Dubai
• Safaris Dubai
• Water Parks Dubai
• Theme Parks Dubai
• Jetpack Dubai
• Flyboarding Dubai
• Jet Ski Rental Dubai
• Scuba Diving Dubai
• Parasailing Dubai
• Hydrofoil Dubai
• Search for:

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Please enter an answer in digits:

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Email address  *

A link to set a new password will be sent to your email address.

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy .

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Become an FT subscriber

Try unlimited access Only $1 for 4 weeks

Then $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

• Global news & analysis
• Expert opinion
• Special features
• FirstFT newsletter
• Videos & Podcasts
• Android & iOS app
• FT Edit app
• 10 gift articles per month

Explore more offers.

Standard digital.

• FT Digital Edition

Premium Digital

Print + premium digital, weekend print + standard digital, weekend print + premium digital.

Today's FT newspaper for easy reading on any device. This does not include ft.com or FT App access.

• 10 additional gift articles per month
• Global news & analysis
• Exclusive FT analysis
• Videos & Podcasts
• FT App on Android & iOS
• Everything in Standard Digital
• Premium newsletters
• Weekday Print Edition
• FT Weekend Print delivery
• Everything in Premium Digital

Essential digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

• Everything in Print

Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

Terms & Conditions apply

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

United Arab Emirates struggles to recover after heaviest recorded rainfall ever hits desert nation

The United Arab Emirates is struggled to recover from the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation, as its main airport worked to restore normal operations even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and roads. (AP video/Malak Harb)

A man walks along a road barrier among floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

• Copy Link copied

A man carries luggage through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation amidst floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man carries a child through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on an onramp to Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People walk through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Abandoned vehicles stand in floodwater caused by heavy rain along Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A flooded street by heavy rain is seen, with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A group of people work to recover an abandoned vehicle taken by floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Civil defense officials bring water on a raft to a family in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Dubai civil defense officials drive through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United Arab Emirates tried to wring itself out Thursday after the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation , with its main airport allowing more flights even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and communities.

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel , allowed global carriers on Thursday morning to again fly into Terminal 1 at the airfield. And long-haul carrier Emirates, crucial to East-West travel, began allowing local passengers to arrive at Terminal 3, their base of operations.

However, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said in an interview with The Associated Press that the airfield needed at least another 24 hours to resume operations close to its usual schedule. Meanwhile, one desert community in Dubai saw floodwaters continue to rise Thursday to as much as 1 meter (3 feet) as civil defense officials struggled to pump out the water.

“We were looking at the radar thinking, ‘Goodness, if this hits, then it’s going to be cataclysmic,’” Griffiths said of the storm. “And indeed it was.”

The airport ended up needing 22 tankers with vacuum pumps to get water off its grounds. Griffiths acknowledged that taxiways flooded during the rains, though the airport’s runways remained free of water to safely operate. Online videos of a FlyDubai flight landing with its reverse thrust spraying out water caught the world’s attention.

“It looks dramatic, but it actually isn’t that dramatic,” Griffiths said.

Emirates, whose operations had been struggling since the storm Tuesday, had stopped travelers flying out of the UAE from checking into their flights as they tried to move out connecting passengers. Pilots and flight crews also had a hard time reaching the airport given the water on roadways.

But on Thursday, Emirates lifted that order to allow customers into the airport. That saw some 2,000 people come into Terminal 3, again sparking long lines, Griffiths said.

Others who arrived at the airport described hourslong waits to get their baggage, with some just giving up to head home or to whatever hotel would have them.

Two men walk through floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

The UAE, a hereditarily ruled, autocratic nation on the Arabian Peninsula, typically sees little rainfall in its arid desert climate. However, a massive storm forecasters had been warning about for days blew through the country’s seven sheikhdoms.

By the end of Tuesday, more than 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees 94.7 millimeters (3.73 inches) of rain at Dubai International Airport. Other areas of the country saw even more precipitation.

Meanwhile, intense floods also have struck neighboring Oman in recent days. Authorities on Thursday raised the death toll from those storms to at least 21 killed.

The UAE’s drainage systems quickly became overwhelmed Tuesday, flooding out neighborhoods, business districts and even portions of the 12-lane Sheikh Zayed Road highway running through Dubai.

The state-run WAM news agency called the rain “a historic weather event” that surpassed “anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949.”

In a message to the nation late Wednesday, Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, said authorities would “quickly work on studying the condition of infrastructure throughout the UAE and to limit the damage caused.”

On Thursday, people waded through oil-slicked floodwater to reach cars earlier abandoned, checking to see if their engines still ran. Tanker trucks with vacuums began reaching some areas outside of Dubai’s downtown core for the first time as well. Schools remain closed until next week.

Vehicles sit abandoned in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Authorities have offered no overall damage or injury information from the floods, which killed at least one person.

However, at least one community saw the effects of the rainfall only get worse Thursday. Mudon, a development by the state-owned Dubai Properties, saw flooding in one neighborhood reach as much as 1 meter. Civil defense workers tried to pump the water out, but it was a struggle as people waded through the floodwater.

Residents of Mudon, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity given the UAE’s strict laws governing speech, described putting together the equivalent of nearly $2,000 to get a tanker to the community Wednesday. They alleged the developers did nothing to help prior to that, even as they called and emailed. They also said a nearby sewage processing facility failed, bringing more water into their homes.

“A lot of people were in denial of how bad it was,” one homeowner said as civil defense officials waded through the water, bringing bottled water on a raft.

Dubai Holding, a state-owned company that has Dubai Properties as an arm, did not respond to questions. It’s part of a wider nexus that U.S. diplomats have called “Dubai Inc.” — all properties overseen by the city-state’s ruling family.

The flooding sparked speculation that the UAE’s aggressive campaign of cloud seeding — flying small planes through clouds dispersing chemicals aimed at getting rain to fall — may have contributed to the deluge. But experts said the storm systems that produced the rain were forecast well in advance and that cloud seeding alone would not have caused such flooding.

Scientists also say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme storms, droughts, floods and wildfires around the world. Dubai hosted the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks just last year.

Abu Dhabi’s state-linked newspaper The National in an editorial Thursday described the heavy rains as a warning to countries in the wider Persian Gulf region to “climate-proof their futures.”

“The scale of this task is more daunting than it appears even at first glance, because such changes involve changing the urban environment of a region that for as long as it has been inhabited, has experienced little but heat and sand,” the newspaper said.

Emirates is dealing with a 30,000 bag backlog as it grovels to customers about its handling of Dubai floods

• Severe flooding caused by the heaviest rain in 75 years brought travel chaos to Dubai Airport last week.
• The ongoing fallout has prompted Emirates boss Tim Clark to issue an apology to customers. 
• 30,000 bags still need to be returned to customers, he said.

Emirates, the Middle East's largest airline, is still trying to return 30,000 leftover bags to customers affected by the torrential rains and flooding that brought Dubai Airport to a standstill last week.

Over the weekend, the airline's president, Tim Clark, acknowledged that Emirates' response to the disruption had been "far from perfect" and apologized to customers.

"I would like to offer our most sincere apologies to every customer who has had their travel plans disrupted during this time," Clark wrote in an open letter posted online on Saturday.

Calling the previous week "one of the toughest for Emirates operationally," he said that the airline had been forced to cancel nearly 400 flights and delay many more after storms brought the region's highest rainfall in 75 years.

"Flooded roads impeded the ability of our customers, pilots, cabin crew, and airport employees to reach the airport, and also the movement of essential supplies like meals and other flight amenities," Clark wrote.

In total, 1,478 flights had been canceled at the world's second busiest airport by Friday morning, according to Reuters.

While planes remained stuck on flooded taxiways, submerged roads surrounding the airport left some passengers stranded in the airport.

Related stories

To accommodate disrupted passengers, Emirates said it had secured 12,000 hotel rooms and issued 250,000 meal vouchers.

Despite the chaos and a government warning telling people to stay at home, Emirates flight attendants in Dubai were also told to report for duty.

However, Clark acknowledged that many passengers had been frustrated by the congestion, lack of information, and confusion at terminals.

In an effort to handle the ongoing fallout, he said that a task force had been created to sort and return 30,000 pieces of left-over luggage to its owners.

The airline officially resumed regular flight operations at Dubai Airport on Saturday, but warned it would still take several days to clear the backlog.

Non-UAE-based carriers were still facing restrictions over the weekend. Foreign airlines with more than two flights in 24 hours were issued with a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) instructing them to reduce operations by 50%, Indian news agency PTI reported.

According to FlightRadar 24's data , all arrivals and departures were largely running to schedule again on Monday morning.

The oil-rich United Arab Emirates has become one of the most attractive economic hubs in the Gulf region.

Its efforts to diversify its economy away from oil, centered on Dubai as a tourism hot spot, have helped the country position itself as a major player on the world stage. In a sign of its growing popularity, the number of passengers traveling to Dubai Airport increased by 31.7% in the last year.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

• Main content

Guide to Dubai Metro's Red and Green Line After Heavy Rain

Dubai Metro was also severely impacted by the heavy rains on Tuesday, Apr. 16, which disrupted operations. 

Read More: UAE Records Historic Rainfall, Breaking 75-Year Record

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is conducting maintenance work at stations along the Red and Green lines on Wednesday, Apr. 17.

The maintenance work will affect operations at certain stations as well as metro timings. 

Free bus shuttle services are being provided at affected stations to help passengers reach their destinations.

Read More: Emirati Man Dies After Being Swept Away by Flooded Wadi

The following stations are operating for the Red Line:

Read More: Abu Dhabi and Dubai Lashed by Heavy Rain and Thunder

The following stations are operating for the Green Line:

Operations of Dubai International Airport (DXB) were affected as well and all flights have been delayed and diverted until further notice. 

RTA has advised motorists and commuters to be cautious during their travel. 

Join our FREE  WhatsApp  news channel and stay up to date about events happening in the GCC.

This article was posted on UAEMoments

Welcome to a sun-soaked metropolis like no other

Plan your dream wedding in an unforgettable destination

Discover the city's insiders, influencers and innovators

Every district in Dubai tells its own unique story

Admire the city's traditional arts, crafts and cultural gems

Get more out of your holiday with these guides

Escape to the hills and explore nature

Answer the call of the wild and experience desert thrills

Uncover the city’s rich heritage and vibrant arts scene

Embark on thrilling new adventures for all ages

Taste award-winning world flavours and local cuisine

Visit the latest hotspots, openings and attractions

Find new surprises at modern malls and traditional souks

Marvel at record-breaking venues and iconic landmarks

Unwind at Dubai's luxury spas and wellbeing havens

What do you travel for? Find inspiration with our itineraries

Book a table at these fresh hotspots

Taste a deliciously different side of Dubai

Discover our homegrown culinary heroes

See all the restaurants unveiled in the Dubai selection

Weekends in Dubai are for feasting

Explore Dubai's plant-based concepts that impress

Reserve a table at top restaurants for incredible prices

Browse through our listing of restaurants

Don't miss a beat – live concerts, festivals, activities and more

Follow the flavours to the city's most-awaited feast, featuring your foodie favourites

Keep your controllers ready for the ultimate gaming festival

Plan ahead for a hassle-free travel experience

From etiquette to currency, we answer all your questions

Use our tool to book flight tickets to Dubai and plan your trip to the city

Dubai has an incredible range of stay options for every budget

From take-off to touchdown, navigating Dubai is a breeze

Your complete guide to enjoying one of the world's safest cities to the fullest

Find out all about Dubai’s climate throughout the year with our weather guide

All you need to know about the dirham, from exchange rates to helpful tips

Helpful information for travellers with special needs

Unlock huge savings with pre-paid access to top spots

Get our apps for the latest attractions, events & itineraries

Save big with great offers on Dubai's top sights and activities

Indulge in retail therapy for less with big discounts

Enjoy a trip to Dubai with incredible accommodation offers

Sign up for kid-friendly activities or attend a live show with the entire family

Get tickets to the best concerts featuring A-list artists at world-class venues

Join Dubai's community sporting activities and race to the finish line

See the maestro perform his hits live at the Coca-Cola Arena

Make way for the region's largest affordable retail art fair

Related Sites

Add items to your Top Picks by clicking the heart icon as you navigate through the website

This is now in your Top Picks!

Login or create an account to save your favourites and receive personalised recommendations.

Login to like

Sign in or register to like this content

• Visit Dubai
• Plan your trip

Practical information

Plan your trip, find advice on how to prepare, and get all the information you need before your Dubai holiday.

Quick tips Follow these essentials

Arriving in dubai, the weather, wi-fi in dubai, embassies & consulates, emergency numbers.

The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.

Small bottle of water: AED1.5 (50 cents) Big Mac: AED16.75 (USD4.5) Biryani: AED13 (USD3.5) Shawarma wrap: AED5 (USD1.4) Short taxi ride: AED12 (USD3.3) Dubai Metro (3 zones): AED5.8 (USD1.6) Cinema ticket (standard): AED35 (USD9.6) Abra ride across Dubai Creek: AED1 (USD27 cents)

With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F).

The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.

In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:

• 911 for Police
• 998 for Ambulance
• 997 for Fire Department
• 996 for Coastguard 

Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:

• +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
• +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
• +971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns

Frequently asked questions

Where can I take the metro in Dubai?

When is it cold in Dubai?

What is the official language in Dubai?

Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?

Are public displays of affection allowed in Dubai?

Is there anything prohibited in Dubai?

Fly with Emirates

What you need to know your questions, answered, greetings & etiquette.

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls.

Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.

Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women.

Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted.

Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct and drunk driving are not acceptable. Use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.

Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city. Learning a few Arabic words can certainly make the trip more memorable! As you explore the city you're very likely to hear Russian, Tagalog, Hindi, Urdu, Portuguese and many other languages. Follow our detailed guide for a list of handy phrases.

Many medicines used worldwide are readily available in pharmacies and hospitals across Dubai, but as in most countries, there are some medications which are restricted or prohibited for use in the UAE.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has full details of controlled or prohibited medications, plus information on what documents you need to carry with you if you need to bring a controlled medication into Dubai. MOHAP also issues a permit to import medicines into the UAE, which you can apply for on their website .

While the permit is optional, it is strongly recommended to obtain it prior to your trip as it will help ensure you have all the correct information and documents. You must also bring your official prescription from the issuing authority of where you are receiving treatment. Please note you can carry medicines for a maximum period of three months. If you have any questions, or want to check the status of a particular medication, contact your local UAE embassy, or get in touch with MOHAP .

To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession, and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory. Everyone arrives in Dubai with their own customs and expectations, but one thing that's always consistent is the high level of service.

Do you have a question? Get in touch with us directly and we'll be glad to help.

Department of Economy and Tourism

Office hours:

+971 600 55 55 59

[email protected]

Whatsapp Chat (Live 08:00 - 20:00):

Use a contact form

Write to us

Start planning

Find a range of essential information – from basic customs to hotels, restaurants, public transport and discounts.