Dubai Travel Guide

1. Welcome

Welcome to Dubai! Dubai is a city of contrasts — futuristic architecture beside traditional souks, desert landscapes next to pristine beaches, and cultures from around the world living side by side. This guide will help you navigate the essentials and inspire you to explore if you choose to extend your trip.

2. Travel Essentials

Entry Requirements & Visas

  • Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please check Dubai entry requirements here.
  • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates.

Airports & Arrival

  • Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main hub. Efficient but often busy.
  • Taxis are safe, metered, and well-marked. Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) are also available.
  • Airport is ~20–30 minutes from Downtown Dubai depending on traffic.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Readily available; credit cards usually accepted.
  • Ride-hailing: Careem is local and widely used.
    • What it is: Dubai’s version of Uber — use it for rides, food, and even groceries.
    • Download: Free on iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play). Look for the green logo.
    • How it works:
      • Sign up with your phone number + SMS code.
      • Add a card (or choose cash).
      • Enter your pickup and drop-off, then pick car type (Go = cheapest, Business = nicer, Max = bigger cars).
    • Prices are similar to taxis, often more convenient, and English-friendly.
    • Download & set up before you travel (while you still have access to your usual phone number for SMS verification).
    • Add your payment method in advance so it’s ready to use.
    • Once in Dubai, you can connect to airport Wi-Fi or your hotel’s Wi-Fi and start booking rides immediately — no local number required.

Currency & Payments

  • Currency: UAE Dirham (AED).
  • Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED. / 1 EUR ≈ 4.31 AED
  • Cards widely accepted, but cash useful for markets, taxis, and tips.

Connectivity

  • Free Wi-Fi in most hotels, malls, and restaurants.
  • Local SIMs/eSIMs available at the airport or for purchase online (Airalo, Holafly, du).

Weather in February

  • Pleasant: 24–27°C (75–80°F) by day, 15–18°C (59–65°F) in evenings.
  • Pack light clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a jacket for evenings.

3. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

Dress Code

  • Dubai is cosmopolitan, but modest dress is appreciated in public.
  • Swimwear only at beaches, pools, or resorts.
  • When visiting mosques or traditional areas, cover shoulders and knees.

Behavior & Respect

  • Public displays of affection should be minimal.
  • Alcohol only in licensed venues (restaurants, bars, hotels). Drinking in public is not allowed.
  • Be cautious with photography — avoid taking photos of people without permission, especially women and families.

What to Know about Ramadan

  • Fasting: Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking from sunrise to sunset.
  • City rhythm: Days are quieter; evenings come alive after the fast is broken at iftar (sunset meal).
  • Restaurants: Many operate normal hours inside hotels; public cafés and venues may open only after sunset.
  • Hotel dining: Private areas and room service remain available for non-fasting guests.
  • Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
  • Dress modestly in public spaces (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Keep music, language, and behavior considerate of the reflective spirit of Ramadan.

Religion & Prayer Times

  • The call to prayer happens five times daily. Shops and restaurants remain open, but be respectful of those observing.

Local Laws & Rules

  • Drugs are strictly prohibited (even small amounts of CBD or medical marijuana).
  • Avoid aggressive gestures, swearing in public, or disrespectful behavior.
  • Chewing gum and eating on the metro are not allowed.

4. Food & Dining

Local Emirati Cuisine

  • Try traditional dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat), harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings).

International Dining

  • Dubai is home to Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chefs. Options span from French fine dining to Japanese sushi to modern Middle Eastern.

Casual Eats

  • Don’t miss shawarma, manakish (flatbread with cheese or za’atar), or karak chai (spiced tea).
  • Street food is safe and delicious, especially in Old Dubai.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

  • Widely available in most restaurants, with dedicated spots in neighborhoods like Jumeirah and Marina.

Dining Customs

  • Reservations are recommended at popular venues.
  • Tipping is customary: 10–15% at restaurants if service charge not included.
  • Alcohol only in licensed venues.

5. Neighborhoods & Areas to Explore

Downtown Dubai

  • Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building).
  • Dubai Mall with aquarium, ice rink, and endless shopping.
  • Dubai Fountain evening show.

Dubai Marina & JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)

  • Beachfront dining and bars.
  • The Walk and The Beach promenade.
  • Vibrant nightlife.

Deira & Old Dubai

  • Traditional souks (gold, spice, textiles).
  • Abra (water taxi) across Dubai Creek.
  • Al Fahidi Historical District.

Alserkal Avenue

  • Contemporary art galleries, creative spaces, and trendy cafes.

Palm Jumeirah

  • Iconic man-made island.
  • Luxury resorts and beach clubs.

6. Experiences & Recommendations

Must-See Attractions

  • Burj Khalifa observation decks.
  • Desert safari with dune bashing and camel rides.
  • Dubai Frame for panoramic city views.

Cultural Spots

  • Jumeirah Mosque (open to non-Muslims for tours).
  • Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Historical District.
  • Global Village (international pavilions and performances).

Day Trips

  • Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi.
  • Ras Al Khaimah: mountains, hiking, world’s longest zipline.

Shopping

  • Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
  • Souks for gold, spices, and textiles.

7. Practical Information

Safety & Emergency

  • Dubai is one of the safest cities globally.
  • Emergency number: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance).

Health & Medical

  • Pharmacies are common and well-stocked.
  • Tap water is safe, though many prefer bottled water.
  • Carry travel insurance.

Local SIM & eSIM Providers