Essential Travel Tips for Dubai

Planning a trip to Dubai? This friendly guide covers all the essentials – from practical info to local customs, getting around, and must-see highlights – so you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to the “City of Gold.” Let’s dive in!

Practical Travel Tips

• Visas: Good news – most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival in Dubai. Just disembark at the airport and get your passport stamped (typically for 30 days, or 90 days for some nationalities). Always double-check the latest visa requirements for your country before you fly. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months past your trip dates.

• Currency: Dubai’s currency is the UAE dirham (AED), which is conveniently pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate (1 USD = 3.67 AED). There are 100 fils in a dirham. You’ll find ATMs and exchange bureaus easily at airports and malls. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to keep some cash for taxis, small shops, or souk markets.

• Weather: Dubai is warm year-round, with a mild “winter” from October to May (around 20–35°C / 68–95°F) and a very hot summer from June to September when daytime highs soar into the mid-40s °C (~110°F). If you visit in summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening, stay hydrated, and take advantage of the city’s abundant air-conditioning. In winter, the weather is perfect for beach days and al fresco dining.

• Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken everywhere – in hotels, restaurants, shops, and taxis. Dubai is very international, with residents from all over the world, so you’ll also hear Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, Russian, and other languages. Don’t worry if you only speak English; you’ll get by just fine. Learning a couple of Arabic greetings like marhaba (“hello”) or shukran (“thank you”) is always appreciated.

• Internet Access: Staying connected is easy. Dubai offers free SIM cards for tourists (from provider Du) upon arrival at the airport, which you can top up with data. Major providers (Etisalat, Du, Virgin) also have affordable tourist plans. Additionally, free public Wi-Fi is widely available in malls, hotels, cafes, and even on the Metro. You can expect high-speed internet in most places, so sharing your Dubai adventures on social media will be a breeze!

Local Customs and Etiquette

Dubai is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, but it’s rooted in Muslim culture and traditions. Visitors are warmly welcomed, as long as you respect the local customs. Here are some etiquette tips to keep in mind:

• Dress Code: There’s no need to be overly conservative, but dressing modestly in public areas is appreciated. In day-to-day tourist spots (malls, markets, etc.), both men and women should avoid extremely revealing clothing. Aim to cover your shoulders and knees in public places. Swimwear is fine at hotel pools, water parks, and beaches – just cover up when you leave those areas. If you visit a mosque or religious site, you’ll be required to dress conservatively (women need to cover hair and wear longs sleeves/trousers). Overall, Dubai’s dress code is fairly relaxed compared to some neighboring regions, but when in doubt, err on the side of modesty out of respect.

• Public Behavior: Emiratis are gracious and tolerant hosts, but certain behaviors can offend. Avoid public displays of affection beyond maybe holding hands – kissing or hugging in public is not allowed. It’s also illegal to swear, make rude gestures, or insult the royal family or Islam – doing so can land you in legal trouble. Smoking and vaping are not allowed in many public spaces; during the holy month of Ramadan you should never smoke, eat, or drink in public during daylight hours (more on Ramadan below). Finally, ask permission before photographing people (especially local women) and avoid taking photos of government buildings, military sites, or airports.

• Alcohol and Conduct: Dubai does allow alcohol in licensed venues (typically bars, restaurants, and nightclubs attached to hotels), and those 21+ can drink there. However, being drunk and disorderly in public is a criminal offense – so enjoy that champagne brunch, but make sure you act responsibly when you leave the venue. Never drink and drive (the UAE has zero tolerance for DUI). And absolutely no drugs – carrying or consuming illegal drugs (even residual amounts) can result in severe penalties, including jail.

• Ramadan Etiquette: If you visit during Ramadan (the holy month when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset), you’ll notice a few changes. Non-Muslim tourists are not required to fast, but you should not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours out of respect. Many restaurants (especially in hotels) do still serve food during the day, often behind screened-off areas – so you can find lunch, just do it discreetly. It’s polite to dress a bit more conservatively during Ramadan (e.g. cover shoulders and knees) as a sign of solidarity. After sunset, the city comes alive with iftar gatherings (the meal to break the fast) – feel free to join in! Hotels and restaurants offer extravagant iftar buffets, and you can even wish locals “Ramadan Kareem” (meaning “Have a generous Ramadan”). The festive evenings often include beautiful lantern displays and late-night shopping. Just be aware that no alcohol is served until sunset, and live music/dancing may be paused in respect of the month. Overall, visiting during Ramadan is a unique cultural experience if you’re mindful of the customs.

• Other Do’s & Don’ts: It’s fine for couples to share hotel rooms – the old law against unmarried couples staying together is generally not enforced for tourists. LGBTQ travelers should be aware that homosexuality is technically illegal in the UAE, so discretion is advised. Tipping isn’t mandatory in Dubai, but it’s common to round up or add ~10% for good service (restaurants often include a service charge). When greeting Emiratis, a warm smile and “hello” goes a long way – many locals speak perfect English. If you are meeting someone traditional, note that a handshake should be initiated by them (some Muslim women may not shake hands with men). Lastly, respectful curiosity is welcome – Emiratis are proud of their culture and happy to answer questions about their customs, as long as you ask politely.

Getting Around Dubai (Transportation)

Dubai’s ultra-modern Metro is fully automated and offers a convenient, air-conditioned ride through the city. The city provides many transportation options – from efficient public transit to plentiful taxis – to suit every traveler’s needs.

Dubai may be known as a car-centric city, but it actually offers a variety of transportation options for visitors:

• Dubai Metro: The driverless Dubai Metro is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get around. Trains are clean, air-conditioned, and run every few minutes along two major lines. The Metro connects the airport with many key areas (Downtown/Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, etc.). Fares are inexpensive (just a few dirhams per trip), especially compared to covering the same distance by taxi. Grab a rechargeable Nol card from any station (a Red Nol card for tourists costs 2 AED) to pay for rides. Note that stations might be a bit of a walk from certain attractions, given Dubai’s sprawl. Also, avoid Metro travel during rush hours if you can – it gets very crowded! Overall, it’s a fantastic option for medium- to long-distance trips across the city, while enjoying skyline views from the elevated tracks.

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Taxis are abundant in Dubai, safe, and relatively affordable. The official cream-colored RTA taxis run on the meter and cost around 2 AED per kilometer (under 1 USD per mile), so fares are reasonable. For example, a taxi from Dubai Airport to Downtown (Dubai Mall area) costs about AED 50–60 (~USD $15). You can easily flag down taxis on the street, find them at ranks outside malls/hotels, or use the Careem app to book one (Careem’s “Hala” option calls an RTA taxi at no extra cost). Uber also operates in Dubai, but tends to be pricier than local taxis. Taxis are metered and drivers generally speak some English. Most taxis accept cash and credit, and tipping is not expected (round up to the next dirham if you like). Note: Many hotels offer private cars, but these are much more expensive than regular cabs. Stick to official taxis or ride-hailing apps for the best value.

• Walking: Dubai is a city of highways, and in the hotter months walking can be challenging. That said, Dubai is very safe for pedestrians, and there are areas perfect for a stroll – such as the Downtown Boulevard around Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina promenade, or the Palm Jumeirah boardwalk. During the winter months, walking tours of the Gold Souk or the historical Al Fahidi neighborhood are enjoyable. In summer, however, temperatures can exceed 45–50°C (113°F) with blazing sun, so daytime walking is nearly impossible (you’ll want to jump from one air-conditioned spot to another!). If you do walk, carry water, wear sunscreen, and a hat. At night, the city is well-lit and still very safe, but to be cautious avoid isolated areas or dimly lit underpasses if you’re alone late at night. Overall, don’t plan to rely on walking as transportation, but do venture out on foot to explore specific districts when the weather permits.

• Car Rental: For maximum freedom, you might consider renting a car. The UAE’s roads are modern and well-marked, and having your own vehicle lets you explore on your own schedule. Many visitors choose to hire Chevrolet in Dubai or other rental cars for the comfort of a private ride. Driving in Dubai is on the right-hand side (same as the US/Europe). Parking is plentiful in most areas (malls have free multi-level parking, street parking in some zones is metered). Do be prepared for heavy traffic on main roads during rush hours, and fast drivers on the multi-lane highways. But if you plan to do day trips (like to Abu Dhabi’s Louvre or the desert dunes), a rental car is invaluable. It allows you to visit places that aren’t easily reached by public transit and save time covering large distances. Having a car also means you can escape the city and discover hidden spots at your own pace – picture driving out to a quiet beach or a mountain enclave whenever you want. Prices for car rentals are reasonable (around $30–$40/day for an economy car). Just ensure you have an international driving permit (if required for your license) and insurance. Gasoline is much cheaper than in Europe, making driving an economical choice for longer stays. Tip: Traffic cameras are everywhere, so stick to speed limits to avoid fines. With a rental car, the whole UAE becomes accessible – you truly get comfort, flexibility, and adventure on demand!

Cultural Highlights: What to See and Do

Beyond its business reputation, Dubai is packed with cultural and leisure attractions. Here are some must-see highlights to add to your itinerary:

Traditional wooden abra boats ferry passengers across Dubai Creek in Old Dubai, offering a glimpse into the city’s humble beginnings. Old Dubai & the Creek: Step back in time by visiting the historic heart of Dubai along the Creek. In the Al Fahidi Historic District (also known as Bastakiya), wander through winding lanes of restored wind-tower houses, art galleries, and cozy courtyards that showcase life from a bygone era. Nearby, the Dubai Museum (currently under renovation in 2025, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort) presents the city’s history and pearl-diving heritage. Don’t miss the bustling souks on the Deira side of the Creek – the Gold Souk’s glittering displays of jewelry, the Spice Souk’s aromatic mounds of spices, and the Textile Souk across the water. To get between old town areas, hop on an abra boat for just 1 dirham (AED 1) – the best bargain in Dubai. These little wooden ferries shuttle locals and tourists across the Creek, providing gorgeous views of merchant dhows and the city skyline as backdrop. As you glide along the water, you’ll sense the echoes of Dubai’s trading past. Pro tip: Go in the early evening to catch the call to prayer echoing over the water for a truly magical atmosphere.

Modern Malls & Attractions: In Dubai, shopping malls are like mini-cities – even if you’re not a shopaholic, they’re worth a visit for their sheer scale and attractions. The Dubai Mall, next to Burj Khalifa, is one of the world’s largest malls with 1,200+ stores, an aquarium and underwater zoo, an Olympic-size ice rink, and the spectacular Dubai Fountain show outside (evenings, every 30 minutes, the fountains dance to music – a must-see!). At Mall of the Emirates, you can ski or snowboard at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski slope complete with real snow and penguins, while it’s 40°C outside. Malls also offer countless dining options from food courts to high-end restaurants. Beyond malls, don’t miss Dubai’s record-breaking landmarks: the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, has observation decks (At The Top) on the 124th/125th and 148th floors for jaw-dropping views – try to go around sunset for a magical view of city lights. The Palm Jumeirah, a man-made palm-shaped island, is iconic to drive along (or better, view from above by Palm Monorail or The View at The Palm observation deck). Out on the Palm’s crescent is Atlantis, The Palm resort, home to the Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium – fun if you have kids or enjoy water slides. And for a taste of future tech, check out the Museum of the Future, Dubai’s newest architectural marvel, featuring futuristic exhibits in an eye-catching torus-shaped building. Whether it’s ascending skyscrapers or watching a movie in a 4D IMAX cinema, Dubai’s modern attractions will surely wow you.

Sun, Sand & Beaches: Dubai’s beautiful beaches are a huge draw, especially in the cooler months. The city offers both public beaches and private beach clubs. JBR Open Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence) is a popular public beach with soft white sand and a lively boardwalk called The Beach – here you’ll find shops, restaurants, and even an outdoor cinema. It’s great for people-watching and water sports like jetskiing. Kite Beach (in Jumeirah) is another favorite, known for kitesurfing and activities like beach volleyball; it also has a jogging track and food trucks (don’t miss trying a kite-shaped kite at the famous Kite Beach Shack!). For a more tranquil vibe, Black Palace Beach (Al Sufouh) is a hidden gem with a stunning view of the Palm. Keep in mind, beach attire is fine on the sand (bikinis, one-pieces, swim shorts are all okay), but you should cover up when leaving the beach area – throwing on a t-shirt and shorts is sufficient. Many hotels have private beaches or beach clubs with pools, which you can often access via a day pass if you’re not a guest. The water of the Arabian Gulf is warm year-round – like a bath in the summer! – and generally calm, making it perfect for swimming. Most beaches have lifeguards on duty. Facilities like showers, changing rooms and sunbed rentals are available at major spots. Whether you want to soak up the sun, do water sports, or just enjoy a seaside sunset stroll, Dubai’s coastline won’t disappoint.

No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari – a thrilling 4×4 ride over golden dunes, followed by an evening of cultural entertainment under the stars. Desert Safari Adventures: When you need a break from the glitz, venture out to the Arabian Desert that surrounds Dubai. The rolling sand dunes are an outdoor playground for adventure. A typical desert safari tour (usually a late afternoon into evening excursion) includes an adrenaline-pumping session of dune bashing – expert drivers take you in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, racing up and down dunes in a rollercoaster-like ride. You’ll also get to ride a camel, try sandboarding (like snowboarding on sand), and capture stunning photos of the desert sunset. After sunset, tours head to a Bedouin-style desert camp where a delicious BBQ dinner awaits, often with grilled meats and Arabic dishes under the open sky. You can relax on plush cushions, smoke shisha (hookah), get a henna tattoo on your hands, and even dress up in traditional Emirati attire for photos. The evening’s highlight is the live entertainment: typically a mesmerizing Tanoura dance (an Egyptian folk dance with whirling dervishes), an exotic belly dance performance, and sometimes a thrilling fire dance show. Under the starry desert sky, with gentle desert breeze, the atmosphere is magical. It’s a contrast to the city’s modernity – giving you a taste of life in the desert. Tip: bring a light jacket in winter as desert nights can be cool, and be ready for some sand in your shoes! If group tours aren’t your thing, you can also book private desert tours or even an overnight camping safari for a more intimate experience. No matter how you do it, experiencing the desert is a must – it’s the soul of Dubai.

Travel Safety and Health Tips

Dubai is consistently ranked among the world’s safest cities, and you’ll feel that as a traveler. Violent crime is extremely rare, and it’s generally safe to walk around even at night. The crime rate is very low, though of course you should exercise normal caution with your belongings as petty theft can occur in any big city (keep an eye on your phone and wallet in crowded areas). The biggest safety “risks” in Dubai are more likely to be jaywalking across a busy highway or getting a sunburn at the beach! Traffic is well-regulated, and emergency services are modern and responsive. For any emergency, dial 999 (Dubai’s all-purpose emergency number for police, ambulance, fire) – operators will usually have English speakers. It’s wise to carry a copy of your passport (or a photo on your phone) as ID, though you’ll rarely need it day-to-day. One thing to be mindful of is Dubai’s strict laws – they’re the underpinning of the city’s safety, but they apply to tourists too. As mentioned, avoid drugs entirely (the penalties are extremely harsh) and don’t get intoxicated in public. Also, chewing gum is fine (this isn’t Singapore!) but spitting or littering on the street can get you fined. If you rent a car, wear your seatbelt and follow speed limits; traffic cameras will ticket you if you don’t. Overall, use common sense and respect the local rules, and you’ll have no safety issues in Dubai.

On the health front, Dubai poses no major concerns, but a few tips: Travel insurance is highly recommended as medical care can be expensive for visitors. Dubai has world-class hospitals and clinics, but you might need to pay upfront if you don’t have insurance. No special vaccinations are required to enter the UAE (beyond standard ones you’d normally have). The tap water in Dubai is generally safe (it’s desalinated seawater) and meets international standards, but it may taste chlorinated – most tourists and locals opt for affordable bottled water. Heat exhaustion is the most common issue for newcomers – especially if you visit between May and September. Remember to stay hydrated, wear high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when under the sun. In extreme summer heat, try to limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening, and always have water on hand. If you start feeling dizzy or overly fatigued in the heat, get to an air-conditioned place and rehydrate (carry rehydration salts or drink a sports drink for electrolytes). Dubai is quite clean and has high food safety standards, so you can generally enjoy all the amazing food without worry. If you have any prescription medicines, it’s a good idea to carry them in original packaging along with a copy of the prescription. Note that some medications that are over-the-counter elsewhere (certain painkillers or cold medicines) may be controlled in the UAE, so check the UAE government health website if you’re unsure. Finally, during the cooler months, there are some mosquitoes but the risk of diseases like dengue is very low in the city (still, a bit of bug spray for evening outdoor excursions can be useful). Overall, Dubai is a very healthy environment for travelers – just protect yourself from that sun and you’ll be good to go!

Enjoy your time in Dubai! It’s a city of contrasts – ultra-modern skyscrapers and ancient traditions, desert tranquillity and bustling souks, five-star glamor and family-friendly fun. With these tips in mind, you’ll navigate it all with ease. Embrace the local culture, try something new (whether it’s a camel ride or a cup of Arabic coffee), and you’re sure to have an unforgettable Dubai adventure. Safe travels – ma’a salama! (go in peace)