information on travel to dubai

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

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Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the United Arab Emirates.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the United Arab Emirates. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the United Arab Emirates.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the United Arab Emirates. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the United Arab Emirates, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the United Arab Emirates. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the United Arab Emirates, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the United Arab Emirates. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the United Arab Emirates include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the United Arab Emirates’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the United Arab Emirates may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the United Arab Emirates, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for United Arab Emirates for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Dubai

By Melinda Healy

Contrary to what you might have heard, Dubai is not all malls and flashy hotels. This sprawling desert city is always adding notable cultural institutions , galleries, and design-focused shopping , all focused on luring in a new generation of visitors . If you prefer an adrenaline rush, though, there's always the thrill of sliding between the high floors of a glass skyscraper, or jumping into the world’s largest dive pool. Almost anything is possible in this city, and we have a list to prove it: Here are our picks for some of the best things to do in Dubai, both longstanding and new.

Read our full Dubai travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Aura Skypool Arrow

This is the planet's highest 360-degree infinity pool, perched 200 meters atop The Palm Tower. Aura Skypool offers not only uninterrupted views of the emirate, but also a unique pool day experience. From 50 floors up, the sweeping views of The Palm, the Burj Al Arab, and the gulf beyond are an incredible way to see Dubai from above and alter your perspective. Tickets cost from about $46 per person for one of three sessions, and are best pre-purchased online .

Jumeirah Mosque Arrow

As the only mosque in Dubai that's open to non-Muslim visitors, the Jumeirah Mosque is popular with a range of travelers—it's also the most photographed. Easily one of the most beautiful in the emirate, it's crafted entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style and particularly breathtaking at dusk. Visitors are allowed in six days a week (Fridays are for prayer), and tours are led by knowledgable guides who make the experience.

Deep Dive Dubai Arrow

This is the world's deepest pool with a depth of 60 meters. It boasts a sunken city for diving enthusiasts to explore and holds 14 million liters of water. Tailored entirely to water lovers, deep diving is for those with certifications only, while snorkeling on the surface and scuba-diving up to 12 meters can be undertaken by anyone over the age of 10. Given Deep Dive Dubai also acts as the region’s largest underwater film studio, packed with 56 cameras and the ability to create different moods, it is definitely a must-try experience. Tickets are required and can be pre-purchased or bought online.

Hatta Dome Park Arrow

Ideally positioned a walkable distance from the Hatta Wadi Hub, this is a desert glamping experience that immerses guests in nature, offering them dome-tented accommodation, incredible mountain views, and an abundance of outdoor activities at their doorsteps. Hatta is buzzing with nature lovers and active travelers seeking refuge from the city, and geared up to explore the mountain range. These luxe tents offer comfort and adventure in equal doses. Each has its own terrace, and there are fire pits, barbecues, and food vans just a short distance away. Stylishly furnished in desert-inspired tones, the dome suites have a minimalistic chic design and serve up not only starry evenings, but also panoramic views of the picturesque Hatta mountain range that surrounds them. Despite the reasonably remote location, each room has Wi-Fi and can comfortably sleep two adults and three children (under the age of 14).

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Al Marmoom Camel Race Track Arrow

A popular heritage destination, Al Marmoom draws camel racing enthusiasts of all stripes, local and otherwise. A day at the camel races is an experience that is nicely representative of Middle Eastern culture, one that dates back to the 7th century. The grandstands are often filled with camel owners, trainers, and handlers, and most seats offer good views of the action. Remember that races start early—between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.—and that commentary and announcements are made in Arabic.

Ain Dubai Arrow

Officially the world's largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai is 75 meters taller than the London Eye. Towering over Bluewaters Island, the wheel affords sweeping views from 250 meters in the air. Not only is it visible from so many of Dubai's vantage points, this attraction appeals to just about everyone—schools, businesses, families, tourists, and locals alike. Rides on the structure are ticketed, with passes sold at the venue or online .

Dubai Spice Souk Arrow

Dubai's sprawling spice market is arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks. It's bustling, with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors sell the same ingredients—Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes. Saffron, while still pricey, is more affordable here than elsewhere in Dubai. Part of a complex that features three Jumeirah hotels and an adjoining waterway, the souk has stalls selling everything from the spices, to handmade lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything in between. There are also two-dozen restaurants, indoor and out, not to mention some of the most spectacular views of the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel. It’s free to enter, but parking and abra-style water taxis cost extra.

The Dubai Fountain Arrow

The world's tallest fountain puts the ones in Vegas to shame. Multiple fountain shows are scheduled every day, shooting 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Plus, a new floating viewing platform means you can get much closer to the action than before. Even better, it's free. If you visit the Dubai Mall , you'll likely see the fountains while you're there, so pause for a moment and enjoy the show.

Flying with Falcons by Balloon Adventures Dubai Arrow

In this private adventure experience, the only other person in your balloon is the pilot, who is an expert balloonist and falcon handler. Guests are picked up from their hotels and driven out into the desert. The aerial views of the desert are some of the most spectacular you'll see. Not only is the rolling landscape incredible but it is possible to see Oryx and camels strolling the desert below. This tour is ideal for a special occasion with a loved one or for those looking to experience the culture in a totally different way. Bookings are required.

Global Village Arrow

Dubai's massive Global Village is essentially a theme park for all ages, though it's popular with families as the rides and attractions are kid-friendly. Open Late-October to mid-April, it features concerts, rides, dining, and attractions from around the world. It's on the outskirts of Dubai, so don't think you can pack it into a city-centric day, but if you have time and are interested in some global shopping and entertainment, it's worth a visit.

Sky Views Dubai Arrow

High above Downtown Dubai, 219 meters up, Sky Views serves up a series of adrenaline-inducing one-of-a-kind experiences. Like so many of the experiences offered in Dubai, this incredible attraction is not for the faint of heart. Tread the 25-meter glass-bottom podium that connects the Address Sky View's twin 50-story dual towers; ride the outdoor glass slide; or tackle the Edge Walk, which is exactly as it sounds. Tickets are required but you can buy them online or at the venue.

Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House Arrow

Positioned on the Dubai Creek within the recently renovated Al Shindagha neighborhood (once the traditional center of the emirate), the Perfume House offers the opportunity to travel back in time and discover the ages-old methods of Arabic perfume-making. You'll learn about the region’s perfume-trading route and explore the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents (including oud, saffron, and specific roses).

Kite Beach Arrow

Like a Miami beach with its wide stretch of sand, aquamarine water, beach chaises, and enough activities to make you feel like sunbathing isn't quite enough, Kite Beach is for beach lovers. Join a game of volleyball, give kite-surfing a try, or take a run around the soft running track—when it's not 106 degrees out.

Aquaventure Waterpark Arrow

Now considered the world’s largest waterpark thanks to its recent extension, the venue has expanded by a third. Trident Tower, its newest arm, features the largest kids-only waterparks in the Middle East—Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove. Aquaventure contains more than 30 slides and attractions, including the emirates' longest lazy river, some thrilling rides (including the Leap of Faith and Poseidon's Retreat), and a private beach. There are also record-breaking waterslides to get the adrenaline pumping; Splashers Park and the Lazy River for families; and opportunities that encourage up-close-and-personal interactions with stingrays, dolphins, and sea lions.

Legoland Dubai Arrow

Legos come to life at Legoland Dubai (sister to others across the world, including in Florida), where 60 interactive rides and 15,000 Lego models entrance the young and young-at-heart. Aimed at families with children between the ages of 2 and 12, the theme park was created from 60 million Legos and encompasses six lands, indoor and out. And now there is a Legoland Hotel that allows families to really immerse themselves in Lego for a weekend or overnight stay. In the heat of summer, the outdoor attractions can be a little too much to bear, but the indoor ones are just as good—and they're air-conditioned.

Skydive Dubai Arrow

If free-falling over Dubai at 120 miles per hour sounds like your idea of a good time, Skydive Dubai has you covered. Beginners are welcome to jump in tandem with the company's experienced guides, but licensed divers can take the plunge solo. A tandem flight from Skydive Dubai's location on The Palm costs nearly $600—but it's worth it if you're a thrill-seeker who's not afraid of heights.

The Dubai Mall Arrow

As the largest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year. It's easy to get lost—there are more than 1,200 shops, after all—but a great place to beat the Dubai heat and ogle at the luxury stores. The place draws in more tourists from around the world than both New York City and Los Angeles so it's safe to say, everyone comes here.

XLine Dubai Marina Arrow

Fly belly-down across highways, skyscrapers, and swimming pools through the city of Dubai with XLine Dubai, one of the longest, steepest, and fastest urban zip lines in the world. From a height of 560 feet with speeds up to 50 miles per hour, riders soar from the Jumeirah Beach Residence to Dubai Marina, passing once-in-a-lifetime views along the way. There's even an option to ride tandem with friends.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Arrow

This quaint neighborhood offers a glimpse into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were formed in 1971. Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, gypsum, and teak line the twisted alleys and pathways—history and architecture buffs will love getting lost here. The neighborhood is a quiet retreat from the traffic and skyscrapers of the city, and the labyrinth of lanes make this place feel like you're in a secluded village.

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek Arrow

Riding an abra, or traditional wooden boat, is one of the most low-key ways to get a feel for life in Dubai. The boats gather on either side of Dubai Creek—in Deira or Bur Dubai—and can carry about 20 people. Many locals use the boats to get across the creek quickly and to avoid traffic, but you'll also see lots of tourists, especially at dusk. Given that it's quick and cheap, an abra ride is a must if you plan on spending any time at all in Old Dubai or visiting the QE2 .

Al Seef Arrow

From its location within the emirate's cultural epicenter, Al Seef marries the city’s heritage with contemporary offerings. The 1.1-mile precinct that hugs the Dubai Creek is split into two areas: one dedicated to the past and another to the future. Meander through the charming laneways, stop and have a coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, or simply sit and watch the activity on the creek from one of the tranquil public spaces.

Ski Dubai Arrow

In the middle of a mall in the desert, the world's third-largest indoor ski slope is a sight to behold. A daily lift ticket will run you about $138 (excluding equipment rentals), while a Snow Daycation pass, which primarily provides access to the non-skiing parts of the mountain like tubing, costs $75 per person, and you should plan to get there early. The place is filled with families with kids, most of whom are taking part in various rides, penguin visits and the Snow Cinema instead of skiing. If you're here to shred, there are two runs and a dedicated freestyle area (but Vail this is not).

At the Top, Burj Khalifa Arrow

The world's tallest building is, unsurprisingly, visible from almost everywhere in Dubai. Taking in the site is thrilling enough from the street, but you can also visit the top of the 160-story behemoth—brace yourself for the thrill of the high-speed elevators, followed by complete awe the moment you step onto the observation deck. Buy tickets online in advance for a specific time slot. Most first-time visitors to Dubai go to the top.

Etihad Museum Arrow

This ultra-modern museum offers a comprehensive look at the formation of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. It draws a diverse crowd of UAE nationals and history-buff tourists. The museum lies on the site where the country's unification was signed in 1971. The Etihad Museum isn't overwhelming in size or content. Even non-museum lovers will find the exhibitions interesting and crucial to a well-rounded UAE visit.

Dinner in the Sky Arrow

Dinner in the Sky Dubai is no ordinary restaurant—even pulling up a seat at the table requires that you clip a seatbelt. The experience takes place nearly 165 feet in the air, at a table that rotates ever so slowly over the course of an hour. If you can stomach the altitude, you're in for impressive views of the Gulf—and maybe one of the most unusual dining experiences on the planet. Artful Dining by Le Meridien Mina Seyahi and The Westin Dubai are responsible for the menu, which ranges from burrata salads to Middle Eastern mezzes. It's ideal for a romantic evening or surprise celebration with a first date, long-time partner, or best friend.

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25 best things to do in Dubai

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Whether it's in a souk or a mall, shopping in Dubai is an essential experience © Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you'll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

You won't be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation and cultural dynamism, and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Here are some great things to do to make the most from your trip.

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa , shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 828m, the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1483ft) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for "At the Top Sky" on the 148th floor, which is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 1820ft.

Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District , many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

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 entering Dubai Miracle Garden . Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Shop 'til you drop

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1300 stores but also a giant aquarium, an indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each year, and there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km east of the city centre, and is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974, the park has plenty of manmade attractions as well, including walking trails and bicycle tracks, a large children's playground, a swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Read more: The 9 best parks 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 established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa , which was designed for superluxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, the third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operators, including Arabian Adventures , offering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world's largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, with more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion, and they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are available, which is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

For a dose of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq . Even if you don't have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you're buying, sharpen your haggling skills, no matter whether shopping for teensy earrings, an engagement ring or a dowry-worthy necklace.

White Dubai

Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, live-music venues – with such variety, finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. The mega-venue with its impressive light and sound systems sits smack dab on top of the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.

Desert escapes

The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes and wide open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, consider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort, so you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

Read more: Top 9 day trips from Dubai

Dubai Museum

Housed in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Fort, the city's oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum, provides a well-laid-out introduction to the history of the emirate. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from simple desert settlement to futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.

Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, eavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek cafés, checking out art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending free screenings and workshops. The week-long Dubai Design Week is held there in November, with an extensive offering of talks, workshops, masterclasses and kids' activities.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum , located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around nine indoor domed gardens, and you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, which features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

Museum of Illusions

It opened in 2018 and the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions, while parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekends if possible, as visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the United Arab Emirates open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , and while modest dress is preferred, traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage points, including a 272m-long floating boardwalk, which takes you just 9m away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Bahar , the bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall waterfront terrace, or aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The long-running annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors and thousands of book fans together to celebrate all things reading and writing. Held over nine days in March, the festival hosts talks, discussions, panels and a special program just for children, with many activities free to attend. It offers attendees a chance to meet local and world-famous authors, attend literary debates and workshops, participate in competitions and be inspired by their literary heroes.

Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a ‘world fair’ for shoppers, and you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shopping, there's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of rides from tame to terrifying.

Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a ship, floats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. The Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impact, drama and unapologetic bling, with dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagne if you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budget, you can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktails, afternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

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 both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, Al Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlife, more than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, off Jumeirah Road and next to a mosque, is superclean and has lots of activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking. There are showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing facilities on Kite Beach , plus lots of food trucks and cafés. It offers great views of the Burj Al Arab, and gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume 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 old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scent, smells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House .

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souk is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamom, saffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfare, tiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

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Dubai has never been a bargain destination, and although it’s possible to get by without spending huge amounts of money, unless you’re prepared to splash at least a certain amount of cash you’ll miss out on much of what the city has to offer. The biggest basic cost is accommodation . At the very bottom end of the scale it’s possible to find a double room for the night for around 250dh (£47/US$70), or sometimes even less. For more upmarket hotels you’re looking at 500dh and up (£95/US$140) per night, while you won’t usually get a bed in one of the city’s fancier five-stars for less than around 1000dh (£190/US$280) per night at the absolute minimum; room rates at the very best places can run into several thousands of dirhams.

Crime, safety and the law

Electricity, entry requirements, opening hours and public holidays, photography, prostitution, tourist information, travellers with disabilities, public holidays, 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.

Other costs are more fluid. Eating is very much a question of what you want to spend: you can eat well in the budget curry houses or shwarma cafés of Bur Dubai and Karama for as little as 15dh (£2.50/US$4) per head, although a meal (with drinks) in a more upmarket establishment is likely to set you back around 250dh (£47/US$70) per head, and the sky is the limit in the top restaurants. Tourist attractions are also likely to put a big dent in your wallet, especially if you’re travelling with children: the admission cost for a family of four to the Aquaventure water park, for example, is the best part of 1000dh (£100/US$280). On the plus side, transport costs are relatively modest, given the city’s inexpensive taxis and metro system.

Taxes and tipping

Room rates at most of the city’s more expensive hotels are subject to a ten percent service charge and an additional ten percent government tax ; these taxes are sometimes included in quoted prices, and sometimes not. Check beforehand, or you may find your bill has suddenly inflated by twenty percent. You’ll also have to pay a further modest tourist tax (the “Tourism Dirham” as it’s officially known) on all overnight stays, ranging from 7dh to 20dh per night depending on the star-rating of your accommodation. The prices in most restaurants automatically include all relevant taxes and a ten percent service charge (though this isn’t necessarily passed on to the waiters themselves); whether you wish to leave an additional tip is entirely your decision.

Dubai is an exceptionally safe city – although a surprising number of tourists and expats manage to get themselves arrested for various breaches of local law (see Culture and etiquette ) . Violent crime is virtually unknown, and even instances of petty theft, pickpocketing and the like are relatively uncommon. The only time you’re ever likely to be at risk is while driving or crossing the road. If you need to call the police in an emergency, dial t 999. You can also contact the police’s Tourist Security Department toll-free 24hr on t 800 423 if you have an enquiry or complaint which you think the police could help you with. For the latest information about safety issues it’s also worth having a look at the international government websites.

Illegal substances and prescription drugs

You should not on any account attempt to enter (or even transit through) Dubai while in possession of any form of illegal substance . The death penalty is imposed for drug trafficking, and there’s a mandatory four-year sentence for anyone caught in possession of drugs or other proscribed substances. It’s vital to note that this doesn’t just mean carrying drugs in a conventional sense, but also includes having an illegal substance in your bloodstream or urine , or being found in possession of even microscopic amounts of a banned substance, even if invisible to the naked eye. Previous visitors have been convicted on the basis of minute traces of cannabis and other substances found in the fluff of a pocket or suitcase lining, or even in chewing gum stuck to the sole of a shoe. Note that poppy seeds (even in bakery products) are also banned, since the authorities believe they can be used to grow narcotics.

Even more contentiously, Dubai’s hardline anti-drugs regime also extends to certain prescription drugs , including codeine and melatonin, which are also treated as illegal substances. If you’re on any form of prescription medicine you’re supposed to bring a doctor’s letter and the original prescription from home, and to bring no more than three months’ supply into the UAE. It’s also a good idea to keep any medicines in their original packaging and to carry them in your hand luggage. Lists of proscribed medicines are sometimes posted on various government and embassy websites – try searching online for "controlled medicines UAE".

As a general rule, the more respectably dressed and boring you look, the less likely you are to get stopped at customs. Wait to make your fashion statement until you’re safely inside the country.

UK-style sockets with three square pins are the norm (although you might occasionally encounter Indian-style round-pin sockets in budget hotels in Bur Dubai and Deira). The city’s current runs at 220–240 volts AC, meaning that UK appliances will work directly off the mains supply, although US appliances will probably require a transformer.

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).

Customs regulations allow visitors to bring in up to four hundred cigarettes (or fifty cigars or 500g of tobacco), four litres of alcohol (or two 24-can cases of beer), and cash and travellers’ cheques up to a value of 40,000dh. Prohibited items include drugs, pornographic material, material offensive to Islamic teachings, non-Islamic religious propaganda and evangelical literature and goods of Israeli origin or bearing Israeli trademarks or logos.

Foreign embassies are mainly located in the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, although many countries also maintain consulates in Dubai.

Dubai is one of the world’s less-friendly gay and lesbian destinations. Homosexuality is illegal under UAE law, with punishments of up to ten years in prison – a useful summary of the present legal situation and recent prosecutions can be found at

w en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_the_United_Arab_Emirates . Despite this, the city boasts a very clandestine gay scene, attracting both foreigners and Arabs from even less permissive cities around the Gulf, although you’ll need to hunt hard to find it without local contacts. Relevant websites are routinely censored within the UAE, so you’ll probably have to do your online research before you arrive. Useful resources include w facebook.com/LGBTRightsUAE and w gaysdubai.com .

There are virtually no serious health risks in Dubai (unless you include the traffic). The city is well equipped with modern hospitals, while all four- and five-star hotels have English-speaking doctors on call 24hr. Tap water is safe to drink, while even the city’s cheapest curry houses and shwarma cafés maintain good standards of food hygiene. The only possible health concern is the heat . Summer temperatures regularly climb into the mid-forties, making sunburn, heatstroke and acute dehydration a real possibility, especially if combined with excessive alcohol consumption. Stay in the shade, and drink lots of water.

There are pharmacies all over the city, including a number run by the BinSina chain which are open 24hr (there's a list at w dha.gov.ae ). These include branches on Mankhool Road just north of the Ramada hotel; on the Creek side of Baniyas Square (in the building on the east side of the Deira Tower); in southern Jumeirah at the turn-off to the Majlis Ghorfat um al Sheif; and opposite the Ibis Al Rigga hotel on Al Rigga Rd in Deira.

There are two main government hospitals and several private hospitals with emergency departments. You’ll need to pay for treatment, though costs should be recoverable through your travel insurance.

There aren’t many safety or health risks involved in a visit to Dubai, although it’s still strongly recommended that you take out some form of valid travel insurance before your trip. At its simplest, this offers some measure of protection against everyday mishaps like cancelled flights and mislaid baggage. More importantly, a valid insurance policy will cover your costs in the (admittedly unlikely) event that you fall ill in Dubai, since otherwise you’ll have to pay for all medical treatment. Most insurance policies routinely exclude various “adventure” activities. In Dubai this could mean things like off-road driving or tackling the black run at Ski Dubai. If in doubt, check with your insurer before you leave home.

Dubai is a very wired city, although getting online can sometimes prove trickier (and/or more expensive) than you'd expect. Wi-fi is available in pretty much every hotel in the city, usually in-room. It's generally free, although some places charge for it – often at extortionate rates. Check before you book. There are also loads of wi-fi hotspots around the city. Most cafés and restaurants claim to provide free wi-fi to customers, while there are also numerous wi-fi hotspots operated by the city’s two telecom companies, Etisalat ( w etisalat.ae ) and Du ( w du.ae ). Both offer access at various places around the city, including most of the city’s malls, with several pay-as-you-go packages starting from 10dh for an hour’s one-off surf time. See the websites for full details of charges and hotspot locations. You can also get online on the Dubai Metro for 10dh/hr.

There are frustratingly few internet cafés in the city. The best area to look is Bur Dubai, which boasts a scattering of small places, mostly catering to the area’s Indian population. Aimei internet café (daily 8am–midnight; 3dh/hr) on 13c Sikka, the small road behind the Time Palace hotel, is one reliable option; they also have a second outlet on Al Musalla Rd. Elsewhere in Bur Dubai, options include the well-equipped Mi Café in the Al Ain Centre (daily 10am–10.30pm; 10dh/hr) on Al Mankhool Rd, and Futurespeed (daily 8am–11pm; 10dh/hr) in BurJuman (just inside the front entrance by the Dôme café). In Deira, there are a few places dotted along Al Rigga Rd including the well set-up Frina internet (daily 10am–10pm; 10dh/hr, right next to Al Rigga metro station.

Internet access in Dubai is also subject to a certain modest amount of censorship – although this is now significantly less heavy-handed than in former years, during which mainstream sites such as Flickr, Myspace and Facebook were blocked (as was the website of the UK’s Middlesex University thanks to its inadvertently suggestive name). There’s a blanket ban on anything remotely pornographic, plus gambling and dating sites, and pages considered religiously or culturally offensive, although news pages (even those critical of the government) are generally left unblocked. The use of Skype and other types of VOIP software is technically illegal, although you might find it available in internet cafés.

For unlimited Wi-Fi on the go whilst travelling Dubai, buy a Skyroam Solis , which works in 130+ countries at one flat daily rate, paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. You can connect up to five devices at once. Prices start from as little as €5 a day.

All larger hotels have a laundry service (usually expensive) while holiday apartments generally come with a washing machine as standard. There are no self-service launderettes in Dubai, though there are a few rather grubby places offering overnight laundry services dotted around the backstreets of Bur Dubai; you might prefer to wash your clothes yourself, however.

The best general city maps are the pocket-sized Dubai Mini Map (around 15dh) and the larger Dubai Map (around 45dh) published by Explorer and widely available from bookshops around the city. Both combine a handy overview map of the city along with more detailed coverage of individual areas, with user-friendly cartography and all relevant tourist attractions and other local landmarks clearly marked. They’re also updated on a regular basis, and make a laudable effort to keep pace with the city’s constantly changing road layouts and other ongoing developments. Explorer also publish marvellously detailed A–Z-style street atlases of both Dubai (125dh) and Abu Dhabi (95dh).

The UAE’s currency is the dirham (abbreviated “dh” or “AED”), subdivided into 100 fils. The dirham is pegged against the US dollar at the rate of US$1=3.6725dh; other exchange rates at the time of writing were £1=5.5dh, €1=4dh. Notes come in 5dh, 10dh, 20dh, 50dh, 100dh, 200dh, 500dh and 1000dh denominations; there are also 2dh, 1dh, 50 fils and 25 fils coins. The 5dh, 50dh and 500dh notes are all a confusingly similar shade of brown; take care not to hand over the wrong sort (easily done if, say, you’re getting out of a darkened cab at night) – a potentially very expensive mistake.

There are plenty of ATMs all over the city which accept foreign Visa and MasterCards. All the big shopping malls have at least a few ATMs, as do some large hotels. There are banks everywhere, almost all of which have ATMs. The most common are Mashreqbank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, National Bank of Dubai, National Bank of Abu Dhabi and Emirates Bank. All will also change foreign cash , and there are also plenty of moneychangers , including the reputable Al Ansari Exchange, which has branches all over the city (see w alansariexchange.com/en/branches).

Dubai runs on an Islamic rather than a Western schedule, meaning that the city operates according to a basic five-day working week running Sunday to Thursday, with Friday as the Islamic holy day (equivalent to the Christian Sunday). Some offices also open on Saturday, while others close at noon on Thursday. When people talk about the weekend in Dubai they mean Friday and Saturday (and perhaps Thursday afternoon/evening as well). The most important fact to note is that many tourist sites are closed on Friday morning (and the metro doesn't start running until 10am), while banks usually open Saturday to Wednesday 8am–1pm and Thursday 8am–noon (some also reopen in the afternoon from 4.30 to 6.30pm).

Shops in malls generally open daily from 10am to 10pm, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday (and sometimes Thursday as well); shops in souks follow a similar pattern, though many places close for a siesta between around 1pm and 4pm depending on the whim of the owner. Most restaurants open daily for lunch and dinner (although some more upmarket hotel restaurants open for dinner only). Pubs tend to open daily from around noon until 2am; bars from around 6pm until 2/3am.

The country code for the UAE is 971. The city code for Dubai is 04; Abu Dhabi is 02; Sharjah is 06; Al Ain is 03. To call abroad from the UAE , dial 00, followed by your country code and the number itself (minus its initial zero). To call Dubai from abroad, dial your international access code, then 9714, followed by the local subscriber number (minus the 04 city code). Local mobile numbers begin with 050, 055 or 056 followed by a seven-digit number. If you’ve got a 04 number that’s not working, try prefixing it instead with the various mobile phone prefixes – mobiles are so widely used now that many people don’t specify whether a number is a landline or a mobile.

If you’re going to be using the phone a lot while you’re in Dubai, it might be worth acquiring a local SIM card , which will give you cheap local and international calls. The city’s two telecoms operators are Etisalat ( w etisalat.ae ) and Du ( w du.ae ). The cheapest options are currently the pay-as-you-go Du “Visitor Mobile Line” package (35dh, including 20min free calls) or the more expensive Etisalat’s Wasel package (55dh); see the websites for full details. Alternatively, you can pick up discounted SIM cards from phone shops around the city (particularly in Bur Dubai) for under 20dh. Either way, you’ll need to present your passport when buying a SIM card.

Dubai is a very photogenic city, although the often harsh desert light can play havoc with colour and contrast – for the best results head out between around 7am and 9am in the morning, or after 4pm.

It’s also worth noting that many upmarket hotels, restaurants and bars are extremely sniffy about people taking photographs of their establishments, particularly if other guests are likely to find their way into your shots – don’t be surprised if you’re asked to put your camera away. Outside of such establishments, things are more relaxed, although obviously it’s polite to ask before you take photographs of people, and you risk causing considerable offence (or worse) if you shove your lens in the face of local Emiratis – ladies in particular – without permission.

The two most convenient post offices for visitors are the Al Musalla Post Office (Sat–Thurs 7.30am–3pm) at Al Fahidi Roundabout, opposite the Arabian Tea House Café in Bur Dubai; and the Deira Post Office on Al Sabkha Road (Sat–Thurs 8am–8pm), near the intersection with Baniyas Road. Airmail letters to Europe, the US and Australia cost 5dh (postcards 3.50dh); airmail parcels cost 50dh to Europe and 80dh to the US and Australia for parcels weighing 500g to 1kg.

Dubai maintains a bizarrely inconsistent attitude to sexual matters. A couple kissing on the lips in public can potentially face jail, and homosexuality is also illegal. Yet despite this high-handed moral stance, prostitution is endemic throughout the city – you won’t get round many pubs or bars (particularly in the city centre) without seeing at least a few working girls perched at the bar in unusually short skirts and excessively bright lipstick. Prostitution is technically illegal, although arrests of male punters are virtually unheard of and the sex trade is tolerated by the city authorities, it is said, as part of the price to be paid in attracting expat professionals to the emirate, while it also reflects the city’s overwhelmingly male demographic. Dubai’s sex workers come from all over the globe, with a sliding scale of charges to match: Arab girls are the most expensive, followed by Westerners, with Asians and Africans at the bottom of the pile – a snapshot in miniature of the city’s traditional social and economic structure. The background of Dubai’s working girls is equally varied: many are simply visitors or residents looking to make a bit of extra cash; others are the victims of human trafficking, with girls responding to adverts for “housemaids” and suchlike being sold into the sex trade on arrival. The Dubai government is making efforts to eliminate this illegal trade, although the problem persists.

Smoking is banned in Dubai in the vast majority of indoor public places, including offices, malls, cafés and restaurants (although it’s permitted at most – but not all – outdoor venues). At the time of writing you could still smoke in bars and pubs , although there has also been talk of including these in the ban at a future date. You can still smoke in the majority of hotels , though many places now provide non-smoking rooms or non-smoking floors – and a few places have banned it completely. During Ramadan, never smoke in public places in daylight hours.

Dubai (and the rest of the UAE) runs on Gulf Standard Time . This is 4hr ahead of GMT, 3hr ahead of BST, 9hr ahead of North American Eastern Standard Time, 12hr ahead of North American Western Standard Time, 6hr behind Australian Eastern Standard Time, and 8hr behind New Zealand Standard Time. There is no daylight saving time in Dubai.

Given the importance of tourism to the Dubai economy, there’s a frustrating lack of on-the-ground visitor information – and not a single proper tourist office anywhere in the city. You could try ringing the head office of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing ( DTCM ; t 04 282 1111, w visitdubai.com/en ) or visiting one of their erratically manned information desks at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 in the airport (both 24hr), and at Deira City Centre, BurJuman, Wafi and Ibn Battuta malls (all daily 10am–10pm), although none is especially useful. Otherwise, the only real sources of local info are the city’s hotels and tour operators, although they can’t be counted on to give impartial or particularly informed advice.

The best local magazine is the lively Time Out Dubai (7dh; w timeoutdubai.com ), published weekly and available at bookshops all over the city, and carrying comprehensive listings about pretty much everything going on in Dubai. It’s particularly good for information about the constantly changing nightlife scene, including club, restaurant and bar promotions and new openings. The glossy What’s On (monthly; 10dh; w facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai ) is also worth a look, though the listings aren’t nearly as detailed.

Dubai has made considerable efforts to cater for visitors with disabilities, and ranks as probably the Middle East’s most accessible destination. Most of the city’s modern hotels now make at least some provision for guests with impaired mobility; many of the city’s four- and five-stars have specially adapted rooms, although there’s relatively little choice among three-star hotels and below. Quite a few of the city’s malls also have special facilities, including disabled parking spaces and specially equipped toilets. Inevitably, most of the city’s older heritage buildings are not accessible (although the Dubai Museum is).

Transportation is fairly well set up. The Dubai Metro incorporates facilities to assist visually and mobility-impaired visitors, including tactile guide paths, lifts and ramps, as well as wheelchair spaces in all compartments, while accessible taxis can be booked on t 04 208 0808 (but best to give a couple of hours' notice). There are also dedicated facilities at the airport .

There are seven public holidays in Dubai: two have fixed dates, while the other five shift annually according to the Islamic calendar (falling around 11 days earlier from year to year).

New Year’s Day Jan 1.

Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Mohammed) Estimated dates: Jan 13, 2014; Jan 3, 2015; Dec 24, 2015; Dec 12, 2016.

Leilat al Meiraj (Ascent of the Prophet) Estimated dates: May 25, 2014; May 15, 2015; May 4, 2016; April 23, 2017.

Eid ul Fitr (the end of Ramadan) Estimated dates: July 28, 2014; July 17, 2015; July 5, 2016; June 25, 2017.

Eid al Adha (the Festival of the Sacrifice) Estimated dates: Oct 4, 2014; Sept 23, 2015; Sept 11, 2016; Sept 1, 2017.

Al Hijra (Islamic New Year) Estimated dates: Nov 5, 2013; Oct 25, 2014; Oct 14, 2015; Oct 2, 2016; Sept 21, 2017.

National Day Dec 2.

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11 Things To Know When Travelling to Dubai, UAE

For most travellers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, can provide the exotic escape we seek from life. Be it the city’s mystical beaches, the mesmerising nightlife or the materialistic indulgences, there’s undoubtedly something for everyone in this oasis of the desert. However, just like all oases, one must beware of the mirages. Like sirens, they lure you down the path to temptation, desire, risk, and tragedy. There are a lot of things to know when travelling to Dubai. Read below to learn more about when is the best time to travel to Dubai, what to wear, things you can do, and more importantly, things you can’t do in Dubai.

Table of Contents

Is dubai expensive keep reading….

• Public Transportation in Dubai. NOL means YES.

What to Wear in Dubai – Dressing Respectfully in a Muslim Country.

Alcohol in dubai – don’t booze ‘n’ cruise., public displays of affection – quell your passion for romance..

• Experiencing the Real Dubai.

Words matter in Dubai – Be mindful of your statements.

What, when, and how to eat during ramadan in dubai., in dubai, make sure you’re well-hydrated., sun safety in dubai. don’t forget the sunscreen..

• Desert Safari Safety when your name isn’t Indiana Jones.

Shop Wisely and Legally. Be careful of counterfeit items.

We hope you found these 11 things to know when travelling to dubai uae helpful when planning your adventure..

What’s the Best Time To Travel to Dubai? Timing is Everything .

The best time to travel to Dubai depends on the types of adventure you wish to take. I, personally, live for winter in Dubai. The best month to visit Dubai is definitely December. It’s when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold but just right. It’s the perfect time of year for you to take to the beach for pure relaxation as the cool breeze runs through your hair eroding away your worries. Most importantly, it’s Christmas in Dubai! Streets will be decked out with holiday decor. People will be jolly, and the weather will be forgiving. In my opinion, the winter season is, without a doubt, the best time to travel to Dubai.

Looking for other warm places for December travel ? Here’s a great list.

The problem with all this joy is that it comes with a high price tag. Airline prices to Dubai will be higher during the winter months. Hotel rooms will be more expensive, and shopping may leave a more significant dent in your wallet. Generally, items such as jewellery, souvenirs and clothing tend to be more costly during the winter season as that is the time when the tourism industry is at its highest. For you, that might mean it’s not the best time to travel to Dubai.

Since the summer months of May are scorching hot, people tend to stay within their homes for as long as possible. This leads to prices being lowered to entice shoppers into the malls. So, if you’re looking for a more affordable visit, the best time to travel to Dubai is during the summer when air tickets and hotels are more budget-friendly. Your visit will still be a pleasant experience but, due to the summer heat, a lot of your experience will be indoors in places such as malls, movie theatres, and restaurants. Of course, you can still spend your time in Dubai, exploring the splendid outdoors; you’ll have to remember to stay hydrated and pack some sunscreen.

Public Transportation in Dubai. NOL means YES .

Among things to know when travelling to Dubai, when it comes to the question of how to get around, there are a few options from renting a car, taking a taxi, to utilising Dubai’s public transportation.

The most popular mode of transportation that travellers think of are city taxis. And to be fair, taxis offer a pretty comfortable ride. In Dubai, the cars are in pristine condition, the drivers are quiet and friendly, and most importantly, the drivers take safety seriously.

As tempting as a taxi cab may appear to be, it isn’t ideal for daily exploration and commutes due to the excessive expense and dent on your travel budget. For this reason, I recommend purchasing an NOL transit card at your nearest petrol station. This rechargeable card will give you access to the city’s reliable metro system and extensive bus services. Before you go on a long and relentless tirade about how you detest the thought of utilising public transit in all its forms, allow me to tell you that Dubai ensures that their public transportation system is affordable, safe, and comfortable. Most importantly, the buses and metros are punctual. Those qualities are rare for a public transit system in most cities.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : You must have a NOL card in order to ride public transportation in Dubai. Drivers will not accept cash.

Deciding what to wear in Dubai can be a little challenging to explain especially if visiting Dubai as a woman. Now, Dubai loves to present itself as a diverse and westernised tourist hotspot in the Arab world, a region of the earth that isn’t reputed for its enthusiasm towards those very ideals. Although those adjectives can be attributed to Dubai in many respects, it is still a traditional Islamic nation at heart. A lot of tourists in Dubai find themselves summoned to the nearest police station as they have failed to keep this in mind.

When it comes to clothing, deciding what to wear in Dubai might be a little easier because the city is far more lenient than its regional neighbours in the Middle East. Women don’t necessarily have to wear the abaya (a long robe or cloak) at all times, and people are allowed to show a little more skin than they could if they were in say, Saudi Arabia. If you’re out in public, one good rule of thumb is to cover everything from shoulders to knees. Avoid accentuating cleavage or hips. Bikinis and swimsuits are permitted, if you’re in a beach or swimming pool that is. If you’re planning on exercising those travel-weary biceps, wear a track shirt and long pants.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : Should you find yourself face-to-face with an individual who sees your attire unsuitable (this rarely happens) , speak calmly and say you’re going back to your residence to change. Don’t escalate the situation further. Remember, even if what you’re wearing may not be illegal, a lot of people may not embody the same mentality as you.

When it comes to the topic of alcohol in Dubai, there are a few things you should know. The excellent news for visitors is that Dubai (unlike most Islamic countries) does permit the consumption of alcohol. In Dubai, the legal drinking age is 21. Only state-controlled stores such as MMI and African + Eastern are allowed to sell alcohol. If you intend on buying a bottle of liquor, then you’ll have to bring your passport and fill out a form. All this being said, it is illegal to drink in Dubai if you are a Muslim or don’t have a license. But to be honest, if you’re grabbing a drink at a bar, you needn’t worry about the bartender policing these rules.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : When travelling to Dubai, no matter how brave you may be feeling or how thirsty you are, it is imperative that you do not take your alcohol out in public! This rule includes drinking inside a parked car. Don’t drink and drive people!

Being intoxicated while in public will mean a world of trouble for you if caught. Especially if you’re seen vomiting or causing fights. You could be fined up to Dh5,000 ($U.S. 1361) and jailed for six months if you’re found drunk in public. So drink in moderation, keep a good hold on your senses, and you should be fine.

In addition to figuring out what to wear in Dubai, it’s best to be careful when it comes to public displays of affection in Dubai. Professing your love in an exotic locale for your one and only in the most dramatic of ways can feel euphoric. But you might want to suppress your inner Dicaprio when travelling to Dubai. The Dubai government has some pretty strict laws concerning public acts of intimacy.

Be mindful of how you conduct yourself with your romantic partner. While couples may occasionally hug in public, kissing is definitely outlawed. Stroking or petting your significant other is also prohibited. Married couples may hold hands but to be honest, no one’s going to come after you if you hold the hand of your girlfriend in The Dubai Mall.

As much as I support the cause of LGBTQ rights everywhere, one of the things to know when travelling to Dubai is that the nation of UAE does neither recognise nor respect the rights of LGBTQ individuals. Individuals can face deportation or imprisonment for ten years if the government perceives them to have committed inappropriate acts. In 2017, a Scottish man was faced with a three-year jail sentence after putting his hand on a man in a bar to not “bump and spill drinks”.

Experiencing the Real Dubai .

It’s easy to think of Dubai as a glistening, skyscraper-studded, newly-inaugurated city with little native culture. As such, tourists often ignore the more traditional experiences Dubai can offer in favour of more opulent ones. But make no mistake, Dubai is most certainly a land of rich and vibrant history. One that is still prevalent in the manner modern Dubai conducts itself.

To experience the real Dubai, I recommend you take a boat ride through Dubai Creek . Before the discovery of oil, pearl diving and fishing were the main occupations of the Emirati people. And so, to immerse yourself in the Emirati spirit, hop onboard one of the traditional wooden Dhow boats instead of the modern water taxi for a lovely tour.

Once the Emirati heritage starts flowing through your veins, take the time to visit the various souks of Dubai. “Souk” is an Arabic word for marketplace. If you ever find yourself longing for the Aladdin experience , I highly recommend taking the time to explore the numerous souks of Dubai. Soak up the atmosphere and be transported to ancient Arabia whilst browsing through the bazaar in search of fragrant spices, sparkling gold, or luxurious cloth.

Among the most important things to know when travelling to Dubai? Be careful about what you say. Despite being reputed for many things, the promise of free speech is not one of them. Just as you have to be careful about what to wear, while you do have access to popular social media sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Google, do think twice about what you post on these platforms while you are visiting Dubai. Speaking ill of the Emirati government is a very serious offence. Criticising Islam or the policies of the government is also severely punishable by imprisonment.

It’s not just the government you risk offending. If you find yourself in an online feud with an Emirati resident, it’s best to wait till you’re out of the country before you unleash the entirety of your internet wrath. Dubai has some pretty strict cyber laws and spares no expense enforcing them. An unfortunate example of this would be the case of British national Laleh Shahravresh, who was arrested for calling her ex-husband’s new wife a “horse” in a Facebook comment thereby violating the city’s strict cybercrime laws.

Long story short, avoid discussing religion or politics on any public platform while visiting Dubai.

Taking place on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the month that the Qu’ran was introduced to the Prophet Mohammed, Ramadan is a time of spiritual and mental enlightenment for many. For some, the holy month is the best time to travel to Dubai as it holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. 

Read the article: 6 Travel Tips While Visiting a Mosque

During the holy month, Muslims everywhere fast from sunrise to sunset. If you’re in Dubai during this time, you too can associate with the spirit of Ramadan.

As much as I despise being Captain Obvious, do not eat or drink in public from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. Apart from getting a hefty fine, you’ll also risk upsetting nearby locals. Even though there are designated areas where you can eat or drink, I recommend waiting until you get home.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : Chewing gum and eating inside your car is also prohibited during the hours of fasting. If you do get invited to an iftar dinner (breaking of the fast) , by all means, accept the invitation. It’s a great honour to be asked, and the food served will be heavenly.

Being in Dubai means drinking lots of water. Tourists often underestimate how much water they’ll need, especially in the middle of the desert. I cannot stress this enough – drink, drink and keep drinking water. Lack of adequate water increases your chances of heat stroke and dehydration. For your well-being, make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Eating plenty of hydrating foods such as watermelon, tomatoes, and radishes will also help in surviving the Arabian heat.

Although I’ve already told you what to wear in Dubai, one of the most important things to carry is sunscreen. I don’t mean to sound like a nagging mum but do put some on. One could say that we are in the midst of a skin-disease epidemic. If you’re out in the sweltering heat of Dubai, issues like dark spots and ageing can be disastrous.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : I recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Make that you reapply the sunscreen every two hours.

Desert Safari Safety when your name isn’t Indiana Jones .

While a desert safari can provide a memorable and enchanting experience, it’s essential to take precautions. Although a generally safe activity, there are a few tips you can keep in mind to make sure that you and your travel companions have a good time.

Don’t travel in the desert alone : The thought of exploring the desert while driving in your enormous four-wheel rental is enticing and may lead you to venture out into the sand alone. Exploring the desert alone is by far, the most foolish thing you can do. Always make sure that you travel in a group. Being in Dubai, you’ll find no shortage of tour groups willing to take you on a desert safari.

Pack a few essential items : Although the tour company you hire will have all the necessary things for your adventure, it’s always wise to carry a few essentials of your own. Items such as extra bottles of water, a small first aid kit, some food, and an extra can of petrol might end up saving you.

PRO TRAVEL TIP : It’s a good idea to carry a satellite-guided GPS in the desert as there may not be a robust cellular signal where you may be.

Be aware of your health conditions : Dune bashing is the practice of ramming your car against the sand dunes possibly terrifying the occupants inside! Always remember to wear your seat belt (take it from a guy who was almost knocked out for not doing so) . If you’re pregnant, then dune bashing is a terrible idea. If you’re a parent of little kids, you might want to leave them out of this one as well. End of the day, if you think embarking on this journey could put your life at risk in any way, skip it altogether.

If you need to stock up on a few clothing items after figuring out what to wear in Dubai, remember to be careful where you shop. Counterfeit items continue to hinder the Dubai market and economy till this date. In 2020, Dubai authorities destroyed nearly 48,000 counterfeit products. Some of the most counterfeited brands are Vogue, Apple and Chanel. If you’re keen on shopping in Dubai, I recommend buying from vendors situated in malls or at brand-name outlets to ensure you are purchasing legitimate goods. Do not risk buying from street vendors. Play it safe and purchase from a retailer you trust.

At the end of the day, Dubai is a fabulous place to visit and is one I recommend to everyone I meet. Dubai is a place like no other. You don’t have to spend every moment of your journey in excruciating angst or worrying about offending someone or being wronged. Figure out the best time to travel, make sure you know what to wear, and keep these things to know in mind. Join the 3 million of us who have had the privilege of calling this land our home.

Related adventures:

• Riad Dar Les Cigognes Marrakesh Morocco
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Sidharth Krishna

Sidharth Krishna writes as an intern at Calculated Traveller. An aficionado of travel and nature, Sidharth revels in manifesting his escapades in his articles. Growing up as a precocious child in Dubai, he’d constantly pester his parents to take him sightseeing. Be it arduous road trips or a quick stop at the beach, Sidharth cherishes every moment of whatever journey he’d embark on. If you ask him what his prized possessions are, he’ll most certainly mention his camera as seen by his Instagram profile. When not on the road, he spends his time reading, working on his blog and listening to music. As of now, he finds himself in the automotive capital of Canada, Windsor, Ontario as he educates himself on the finesses of the journalistic discipline.

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General Info

Dubai is the 2nd largest of the 7 emirates of the United Arab Emirates, with a population of over 3.56 million as of 2023. Dubai's cityscape is always transient and ever-changing, with its constant urge to construct better than before; Burj Al Arab was eclipsed when Burj Khalifa cropped up.

Dubai constantly competes with itself to magnetise tourists through its unique landmarks, shopping centres and hotels . Although it strictly safeguards its traditional Islamic roots, it also allows space for other religions, a rare quality in the conservative Arab world. It has successfully shielded itself from extremism, making it the safest place to visit.

Having expanded along both banks of the Dubai Creek, the city is divided into two parts - Deira on the northern side and Bur Dubai...

Since Dubai is a cultural and tourist hub, there are an endless amount of things to see and do and when it comes to entertainment...

Nightlife & Dining

Dubai has an excellent nightlife scene with a large choice of bars and nightclubs to be enjoyed. Most of the licensed pubs, bars...

The culture of Dubai is rooted in Islam, but globalisation and immigration have transformed it into a melting pot of diverse nationalities...

Dubai is known as the 'Shopping Capital of the Middle East'. With over a hundred malls, shopping centres and souks...

The Emirate of Dubai is the second largest of the seven emirates but has the largest population with over 3.33mn inhabitants...

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United Arab Emirates Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, united arab emirates - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Arab Emirates due to   the threat of missile or drone attacks and terrorism.

Country Summary:  The possibility of attacks affecting U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains an ongoing, serious concern.  Militant groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and drones.  Missile and drone attacks in early 2022 targeted populated areas and civilian infrastructure.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

While residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE, the country continues to face the threat of terrorism.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Arab Emirates.

If you decide to travel to the United Arab Emirates:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Arab Emirates.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Is it safe to visit Dubai? Latest UAE travel advice

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, attracts more than a million heat-seeking British holidaymakers every year.

However, following the outbreak of war in Israel and Gaza, the recent drone attack carried out by Iran on Israel and tensions with Houthi rebels in the southern Red Sea, some people may be concerned about the safety of travelling to the Middle East right now.

Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Dubai and the rest of the UAE, whether it is safe to visit, and your rights if you do decide to cancel your upcoming holiday.

What does the FCDO say about travel to the UAE?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued any blanket advisories against travel to the UAE. This means that travel insurance will be valid when visiting the country.

The FCDO has recently updated its advice to say: “On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.”

You can see its full UAE travel advice here .

Has the UAE been affected by the conflicts in the Middle East?

To date, the UAE has not been directly impacted by the conflicts in the Middle East. As the crow flies, Dubai is more than 1,200 miles from Israel. To put that into perspective, parts of Italy are closer to Gaza than Dubai.

However, the FCDO has issued a warning regarding the conflict with Houthi rebels in the south Red Sea: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea.

“While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

Is there a risk of terrorist attacks in the UAE?

The FCDO warns: “Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on western interests, including against UK citizens. Maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places and at public events.”

Are flights still operating as usual to the UAE?

Yes, although some airlines have adjusted their flight routes to avoid flying over Iran and Israel as a result of recent tensions. This means that some flights may take longer than usual – something to be aware of, given that the UAE is home to some of the world’s major airport transit hubs.

Is it safe to visit the UAE after the recent storms?

On April 16, Dubai was hit by heavy storms that caused widespread flooding around the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain . Shopping centres including the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates suffered flooding, and water was ankle-deep at least one Dubai Metro station. Dubai Airport closed and cancelled more than 50 flights due to the weather. Normal service has now resumed.

What if I want to cancel my holiday?

If you have booked a package holiday to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or anywhere else in the UAE and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates.

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any formal advice against travel to the UAE, there is no guarantee you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

This story was first published in October 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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Can I travel to Dubai right now? Travel safety and consumer rights explained

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Holidaymakers have been warned of travel chaos in Dubai , with heavy downpours causing delays and cancellations throughout United Arab Emirates airports.

The UK Foreign Office has told tourists heading to Dubai to be aware of ‘severe disruption’ due to the extreme weather, which saw the country battered by the most rain it has recorded in 75 years.

Over 142mm of rain fell on Dubai International Airport – the second busiest in the world – over the last 24 hours, more than the average annual amount of 94.7mm – and flooding in the transport have left thousands of Brits struggling to get home .

Some airlines have diverted flights or cancelled them altogether, while authorities have urged anyone planning to travel to Dubai to exercise caution.

If you’re heading to the UAE destination, here’s what you need to know.

Can I travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice after airport floods

Whether you can get to Dubai at the moment will depend on your airline, but even if your flight is still running, it’s likely your travel plans will face disruption.

In a statement, Dubai Airports explained: ‘It’s challenging for departing guests to reach the airport and arrival guests to leave the terminals due to the significant flooding and road blockages, resulting in limited available transport options.

The authority claims recovery will ‘take some time’ but urges guests to check the status of their flight directly with the airline before heading to the airport, and to allow ‘significant extra travel time’.

A further announcement on X made last night (April 17) read: ‘We advise you not to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary. Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline.

‘We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions.’

This morning, check-in for Emirates and flydubai has reopened at Terminal 3, and Terminal 1 arrivals have restarted. However, it’s still being stressed that only those with confirmed bookings or departure confirmations from their airline should go to the airport.

⚠️We advise you NOT to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary. Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline. We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions. — DXB (@DXB) April 17, 2024

Access roads around the airport are still being cleared too, so although availability of taxis is improving, it’s likely it’ll take longer than usual to get to and from the airport.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advised British travellers: ‘Check with your airline before traveling. Contact FCDO if you are in the UAE and in need of emergency support.’

Your rights if Dubai flights are cancelled or changed

If you’re already at the airport, restaurants are open and accepting meal vouchers (which will be issued to those experiencing delays of more than four hours). You may also be provided with accommodation or transport if you’re re-routed to the next day.

Due to the major disruption, this may not have been possible, so the CAA recommends passengers keep the receipt for ‘reasonable’ costs (like food and accommodation) they pay for themselves and claim for reimbursement later.

If you have been delayed for more than five hours and no longer wish to travel then you’re entitled to a refund from the airline, and if you missed your connection flight because your first flight was delayed, you are also entitled to a flight back to your original departure point.

However, once you take a refund or choose to travel later than the first available flight, the airline no longer has any obligation to provide you with food, drink or accommodation.

Under UK law, airlines sometimes have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late, but this depends on what caused the delay. Since these disruptions aren’t the airline’s fault, they fall under  ‘extraordinary circumstances’, meaning you aren’t eligible for compensation.

Your Daily Horoscope

Daily horoscope today: April 29, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

Check your travel insurance policy, though, as some insurers offer cover in the form of a fixed cash sum if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to bad weather.

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Everything you need to know about travelling to Dubai as it's submerged by freak weather

Even the airport is warning people to stay away from the popular holiday spot if they can manage it.

Dubai has been submerged by serious floods after the city received around two years worth of rain in the span of one day.

It's not the rainiest place at the best of times as it only receives around 3.7 inches of rain per year, and given the torrential downpour it experienced, it has now ended up 'underwater'.

Flights to Dubai have been diverted, others have been cancelled altogether and roads were flooded with cars still on them.

Social media has been filled with images of roads and buildings, which are now immersed in water and flooded cars stuck in the floods.

Others shared that they were having to wade through the water after becoming trapped on trains.

Understandably, travel to Dubai would be inadvisable at this moment in time, with Dubai International Airport this morning (17 April) saying: "We are currently experiencing significant disruption due to the weather and are continuously working with our emergency response teams and service partners to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.

"Flooding and road blockages have left limited transport options for arriving and departing guests.

"Flights are delayed/diverted and impacted by displaced crew. Recovery will take some time.

"We thank you for your patience and understanding while we work through these challenges."

Later on, they posted a more direct warning on social media telling travellers to stay away unless they really had to make the journey.

"We advise you NOT to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary," they wrote on Facebook .

"Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline.

"We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions."

Some people are finding that their holidays to Dubai have been cancelled, though whether you'll be compensated is between you and your airline . Travel insurance ought to cover it if your journey was cancelled but it might be a matter of working things out with them if your flight is still on but you don't want to journey to a flooded city.

People in Dubai have died due to the flooding, making it a dangerous place to visit at the moment.

A Merseyside man who travelled to Dubai told PA he had been stuck at an airport there for seven hours and said his journey was a 'disaster'.

At present, the Foreign Office advice about travel to Dubai does not mention the flooding, but has a warning about conflict in the region posted on 13 April about drones and missiles launched from Iran towards Israel.

All in all, it sounds like you'd be better off not going right now.

Topics:  World News , Travel , Weather

Joe graduated from the University of Salford with a degree in Journalism and worked for Reach before joining the LADbible Group. When not writing he enjoys the nerdier things in life like painting wargaming miniatures and chatting with other nerds on the internet. He's also spent a few years coaching fencing. Contact him via [email protected]

@ MrJoeHarker

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Dubai plans to move busy international airport to a $35B new facility within 10 years

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion

Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state's second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom's 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak, nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates' double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai's plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai's ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai's 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE, which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

• Share full article

By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong

Before you fly

UAE Visa Information

There may still be COVID-19 travel restrictions in some countries. Check our COVID-19 hub before you travel.

Do I need a visa for the UAE?

You’ll find information about visas below. Use our quick visa search tool to see if you need a visa and the passport requirements for visiting the UAE.

UAE visa on arrival

Preapproved uae visas, prearranged uae visas, sponsoring someone to visit the uae, contact information, 30-day visit eligibility.

If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.

90-day visit eligibility

If you are a passport holder of one of the below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre-arranged visit visa if their 90-day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

180-day visit eligibility

If you hold a Mexican passport you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Dubai immigration procedures

As an added security measure, Immigration Authorities at Dubai International are now conducting random eye screening for visitors to Dubai.

Visitors asked to proceed for eye screening are required to present a hard copy of their visa or a printed version of the visa number confirmation page at the screening counter. If you do not have a copy with you, a charge of AED 30 per copy applies - payable only in AED.

Important information

Before you travel to the UAE, please check your visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed, or if your passport needs to be valid for a minimum period. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

As of 29 April 2016, GCC residence permit holders will need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

New visit entry permit to the UAE for Indian nationals

From 7 January 2024, eligible Indian nationals with a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a single entry, 14-day visa on arrival. A fee of USD 63 applies.

Eligibility

• Indian passport holder with USA visa valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with USA green card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with UK residence card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with EU residence card from the following countries valid for a minimum of six months

How and where to apply for a pre-approved UAE visa

Eligible Indian nationals can apply for their UAE entry permit on emirates.com through Manage your booking .

* Extensions can be made at the airport office only.

Required documents

• Colour photograph of applicant
• Colour copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months
• The original application form (available at all Emirates ticketing offices) can be accessed in Arabic or English, depending on the applicant’s nationality. Download the English  or Arabic  application form
• Copy of the Emirates ticket
• Proof of relationship if applying for family member - birth certificate, marriage certificate and family book
• All Documents to be submitted as hard copy

Additional documents are required for visitors of some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence. Please use our visa search tool above or visit our visa requirements page for more information.

Rules and conditions

• Visa fees must be paid upon application.
• Additional visa processing fees apply.
• The passenger must travel to and from Dubai on Emirates or codeshare flights only.
• Visa fees are non-refundable.
• The ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
• Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
• Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
• All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How and where to apply for your prearranged UAE visa

• Apply online through Manage your booking
• 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are valid for travel with Emirates tickets outbound from Dubai. You can only apply for a transit visa online or at the Emirates Commercial Visa APT office at Dubai International airport Terminal 3.

Apply online

Nationals of countries requiring a prearranged UAE visa can now apply and pay for their visas online through emirates.com.

If you are travelling to or stopping over in Dubai with Emirates, you can submit an application and receive your UAE visa entirely online – without having to submit your passport for stamping. You can apply for your UAE visa through our Manage your booking after you book your Emirates flight. VFS processing fees apply. For more information please visit VFS Global.

The online visa application service is available for residents and nationals of many countries around the world. Find out if you can apply for a UAE visa. Applicants' passports must have at least six months' validity as of their date of travel to Dubai, and must be machine readable passports – handwritten passports are not accepted.

This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued and the flight itinerary already includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), and these flights must be Emirates flights. Note that any itineraries including any flights to or from Dubai on other carriers are not eligible for the online visa service.

A minimum of four international working days prior to arrival in Dubai is required, however Emirates does recommend that online applications are made as early as possible.

Apply in the UAE

If you have a family member or near relative who is a UAE resident, they can apply for a visa on your behalf at any of our ticketing offices in the UAE. Please note that this service is only available to residents of the UAE.

Download the prearranged visa application form

Get started on your prearranged visa application by downloading and filling out the form.

Required applicant documents:

• A colour passport photograph
• A colour copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
• A copy of your Emirates flight ticket, or your flight ticket from our codeshare partner
• The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Minimum salary required, download the sponsorship application form.

Get started on your sponsorship application by downloading and filling out the form.

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8:30am to 6pm) Saturday (8:30am to 5:30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays.

Ajman Emirates Ticketing Office Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 6pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Al Ain Emirates Ticketing Office Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8:30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8:30am to 5:30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Dubai International: Terminal 3 Arrivals Phone: 04 504 7300 E-mail: [email protected] Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) and Saturday (9am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Town Centre, Jumeirah Visa Services: Daily from (10am to 4pm)

VFS Global Services GCC VASCO Worldwide 2nd floor, WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah Emirates Ticketing Office: Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 7pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays Umm Al Quwain Emirates Ticketing Office: King Faisal Road, Jameiya area, near FEWA Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 8pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

• Before You Fly
• Visa and Passport
• UAE visa information

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• Visit Dubai

Guide to public transport in Dubai

Essential Information

Thu, March 23, 2023

Navigate Dubai's major hotspots conveniently with this comprehensive guide.

Dubai’s road network has significantly evolved over many decades to provide a seamless travelling experience for visitors and residents alike. The city’s main artery, Sheikh Zayed Road, connects a number of neighbourhoods  and must-visit spots. With stunning buildings, hotels and malls  on either side of this highway, take a long drive and admire the glittering skyline.

You can grab a taxi from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) from almost any corner in the city – whether pre-booked or hailed at a roadside curb. Dubai also offers a special taxi service for ladies operated by female drivers, as well as accessible ones for people of determination . You can book a ride today by dialling +971 4 208 0808. Private taxi booking services like Uber or Careem allow you to make a taxi booking using a mobile application – the latter also allows you to book an RTA taxi. Choose to pay using cash or card, and your taxi will be at your doorstep in no time.

If you own a valid licence, you can easily rent a car  at a reasonable cost from any of the local car hire service providers. Or enjoy a self-driving experience in the city by downloading  the UDrive or ekar applications. Find a car closest to you, hop in and pay-as-you-go. Drive down the fascinating streets of Jumeirah or simply  stop by the beach  with your loved ones. However, take note of speed limits and traffic rules before you start driving. When travelling by road, it is also advisable to factor in travel time. If you plan to leave during rush hour, ensure that you leave a little ahead of time in case of any delays due to traffic.

There are more than 1,500 air-conditioned buses in Dubai that make travelling on a budget possible. Air-conditioned shelters are located at most bus stops and departures are scheduled at frequent intervals to make commuting hassle-free. Why not take a bus to any of the prime bus stations located in Old Dubai  and embark on a fascinating walk through Dubai’s storied streets filled with history  and culture? You can also choose to book a tour on any of the hop-on, hop-off tours  for a quick and fun-filled tourist experience. These can be booked online or at any of the major malls  in the city.

Remember, you can plan your journey in advance using the RTA Wojhati application. Make sure you purchase a Nol card , the city’s travel companion that gets you almost anywhere you wish to be in the city with a simple tap, as buses do not accept cash payments.

Dubai’s world-class metro  has been functioning since September 2009, and this economical , safe and reliable mode of travel connects you to the main sights of the city. All metro stations are equipped with designated areas for women, the elderly and the disabled. For any questions before or during your commute, download the RTA Dubai app, which has all the information you need. The Dubai Metro also offers an exceptional travelling experience to its Gold Nol card holders with a separate cabin with better seats and more space. Dubai also has two other rail options: the Dubai Tram which operates from The Walk at JBR to Al Sufouh, and the Palm Jumeirah monorail  which runs along the trunk of the manmade island until Al Sufouh.

When travelling by any form of rail transport in Dubai , ensure you carry your Nol card which enables you to skip the queues for a ticket. You can recharge this using the RTA Dubai application or at any of the designated recharge machines available at metro and bus stations.

Commuting by sea allows you to experience one of the oldest modes of travel in the city. The abra  is a wooden boat that can be accessed from any of its designated creekside stations in Bur Dubai or Deira. Hire a private one for a flat fee starting at AED60 for half an hour for sightseeing. Inspired by the abra, the modern Dubai water taxi provides waterfront views  and faster access to more than 40 stops across the city. You can also book a dhow dinner cruise to experience traditional hospitality while out at sea. There's also the Dubai Ferry, which connects Dubai Marina to Al Shindagha.

For special occasions, secure a private yacht service  online with providers like Dubai’s Xclusive Yachts. When travelling in hot weather, remember to carry a hat and enough water to keep you hydrated.

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