My Guide to Visiting Dubai: How to Get There, What to Wear, and Much More
Dubai is known as one of the world’s most exciting cities, where affluent luxury meets deep-rooted traditions. Dubai is a city that offers incredibly diverse attractions, from record-breaking sky scrapers to unrivaled shopping. My Dubai Travel Guide will provide you with essential information on Dubai’s culture, customs, laws, best times to visit, and tips on getting around and making the most of your stay.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Dubai’s Culture and Customs: Local Etiquette
Prepare for modest dress
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, but it is also part of a deeply traditional country where Islamic values play an important role. While Dubai is more liberal compared to other parts of the UAE, visitors should still be mindful of local customs, particularly in public spaces and religious or traditional areas.
There are three “tiers” to be aware of for dressing in Dubai.
When in areas that are casual or quite ‘touristy’ – like the beach, the mall, or the large tourist attractions – feel free to dress as you like. Clothes that are quite revealing might not be received well, but you’ll find internationals and expats wearing a wide variety of clothing.
In areas that are more conservative, including ‘old Dubai’, you may wish to be more covered up. As these areas are more traditional, both women and men may wish to keep shoulders and chests covered and keep shorts on the longer side.
When visiting mosques or other religious sites, both men and women should wear clothing that covers most of their body. Women should come prepared with a scarf to cover their hair when entering mosques, and both men and women should avoid wearing shorts or overly revealing or tight clothing. Some religious sites may offer abayas (traditional black robes) or scarves to female visitors, but it is best to carry your own modest attire.
Language & Behavior in Public
Arabic is the official language of Dubai, but English is widely spoken, especially in areas with tourist attractions as well as hotels and businesses. When interacting with locals, a friendly demeanor and respect for personal space are appreciated. Public displays of affection, even as innocent as kissing or hugging, are not acceptable in public spaces, and inappropriate behavior could lead to legal consequences. Always be polite and keep a respectful distance when engaging with locals.
Public swearing, gestures, or arguing can lead to fines or legal trouble. In general, maintaining a respectful and courteous attitude is key to navigating social interactions in Dubai.
2. Preparing for Dubai’s Weather
Best Times to Visit Dubai
Dubai has a desert climate including hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is during the cooler months between November and March. During this period, daytime temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The downside is that everyone else will have the same idea – this is peak tourist season, which means higher hotel rates and larger crowds.
The summer months, from June to September, can be extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C (104°F). While the city’s infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the heat (with air-conditioned malls, hotels, and transportation), it can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.
Clothing Tips
When packing for Dubai, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, especially if you are traveling during the hotter months. However, as mentioned earlier, modesty is key, so opt for clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Light cotton or linen fabrics are ideal, as they keep you cool and comfortable in the heat. A hat and sunglasses will also help protect you from the sun. If you’re visiting in the winter, pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.
3. Understanding Dubai’s Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
Dubai has strict laws governing the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, or private clubs. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces, including parks and beaches, and being caught intoxicated in public can lead to fines or even arrest. Visitors can only consume alcohol in places that have been authorized by the government. The legal drinking age in Dubai is 21.
Drugs and Medications
Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugs. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and even the death penalty in extreme cases. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications that are legal in other countries may be prohibited in the UAE, so it’s important to check if any of your medications are restricted before traveling.
You can check the UAE’s official list of prohibited substances at the embassy website or consult with your doctor to ensure that your prescription is in compliance with Dubai’s regulations. Always carry a doctor’s prescription for any medication you bring into the country, and keep it in its original packaging.
Photography
Taking photographs in public places is generally allowed, but there are restrictions to be aware of. It is illegal to take photos of government buildings, military installations, or certain private properties. Additionally, it is considered disrespectful to take photos of people, especially women, without their consent. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, always check if photography is allowed, as some places may have restrictions. As always, when traveling it’s important to remember that the local people are not there for your entertainment and deserve the same respect you would want from people traveling to where you live.
Driving and Traffic Laws
If you plan to drive in Dubai, you’ll need to be aware of the local traffic laws. Tourists can drive in Dubai with an international driving permit (IDP) or a valid driver’s license from their home country, provided that it is in English or Arabic.
Speeding is taken very seriously, and fines are imposed for even small violations. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you are using a hands-free device. Drunk driving is strictly prohibited, with severe penalties for offenders, including fines, license suspension, and jail time.
4. Visa and Entry Requirements
Most visitors to Dubai will need a visa to enter the UAE, though some countries’ nationals are granted visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival status. It’s important to check the specific requirements for your nationality before traveling. UAE visas are typically available for tourism, business, or transit, and they can be obtained online or through the UAE embassy in your country. Dubai Visa Guide is a great resource for quickly finding the visa requirements for your country. (As always, make sure to check with your country’s consulate to be sure.)
Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days, with the possibility to extend for an additional 30 days. If you’re traveling for business, the visa process may vary, and it’s recommended to work with your employer or the hosting company in Dubai to arrange your visa.
5. Currency and Tipping Culture
Currency
The official currency of Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED), which is pegged to the US Dollar (USD). It’s easy to exchange money at the airport, banks, or currency exchange offices throughout the city. Most hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard), but it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases or when visiting more traditional markets (souks).
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Dubai, but not obligatory. In most restaurants, a service charge of around 10-15% is included in the bill. If service has been exceptional, you can leave an additional tip of 5-10%. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides are also typically tipped, although the amount can vary depending on the service provided.
6. Getting Around in Dubai
Careem & Uber
Dubai’s public transportation system is modern, efficient, and relatively easy to navigate. The Dubai Metro, buses, and water taxis are affordable options for getting around the city. However, many visitors prefer using ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber, which operate extensively across Dubai.
Careem is a popular local ride-hailing service that operates similarly to Uber. It is often the preferred choice for many residents, and it’s easy to use through the Careem app. Uber is also widely available, and both services offer various vehicle options, including economy, business, and even luxury cars.
Taxis
Taxis are also readily available throughout the city. They are reasonably priced, and all taxis are metered, ensuring transparent pricing. You can hail a taxi from designated taxi stands or book one through a mobile app.
7. Accommodation Options
Dubai is known for its luxurious hotels and resorts, offering everything from budget-friendly options to 5-star accommodations. The city boasts a wide variety of places to stay, depending on your preferences, whether it’s near the beach, in the heart of the city, or close to cultural landmarks. Your trip to Dubai should include some research on how you want to spend your time: this will inform where you’ll stay. Here’s my Dubai Travel Guide for where to stay.
Popular Areas to Stay
– Downtown Dubai: This area is home to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain. If you want to be in the middle of the action, this is the perfect location.
– Jumeirah Beach: If you prefer staying near the beach, Jumeirah Beach offers a range of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels with views of the Arabian Gulf.
– Dubai Marina: This is a vibrant area with upscale hotels, dining, and shopping, with easy access to the beach.
– Deira: For those on a budget or interested in the more traditional side of Dubai, Deira offers affordable accommodation and is close to the historic Gold and Spice Souks.
8. Must-See Attractions and Activities
– Burj Khalifa: No visit to Dubai is complete without seeing the world’s tallest building. You can go to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city.
– Dubai Mall: More than just a shopping center, the Dubai Mall has an aquarium, an ice rink, and countless dining options.
– Desert Safari: Experience the stunning desert landscapes with a thrilling 4×4 ride, camel rides, sandboarding, and a traditional Arabic dinner under the stars.
– Dubai Creek: Take a traditional abra (boat) ride on Dubai Creek to experience the city’s rich history and see the contrast between old and new Dubai.
– Palm Jumeirah: Explore the man-made island and its luxury resorts, including Atlantis the Palm.
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